Most small business travelers don’t globetrot in the high style favored by corporate executives, and are always looking for ways to hold down costs while increasing productivity away from the office. Following are a couple suggestions on how to save on some key business travel expenses:
Currently, the fastest-growing segment of the lodging industry is extended-stay lodging. This option may fit nicely into a small business budget. Nightly rates start at $35, and offer everything the serious small business traveler needs without some of the frills expensive hotels charge so much for.
They’re designed for (as they say) extended stays of a week or longer. Most have full kitchens, two-line phones (often with free local calling), modem jacks and personalized voice mail in a comfortable, ample workspace. Few offer such amenities as room service – that’s what the kitchen is for – and maid service is usually weekly instead of daily.
Still, they make a lot of sense for budget-conscious business people. Marriott’s low-end entry into the business is its TownePlace Suites, which start at $55 a night. Its Residence Inns, at $75 a night, offer wood-burning fireplaces, exercise spas and meeting rooms. Other names to look for are Extended StayAmerica Inc., which will have hundreds of locations nationwide by the year 2000. Holiday Inn’s extended stay option is Staybridge Suites, and if you don’t like the floor plan in your room, simply diagram how you would like it to look on interactive TV, and when you’re out they’ll rearrange the furniture. Homewood Suites is test marketing express checkout and Internet access via in-room TV.
It’s possible to hold down costs on car rentals, as well. Start by checking around for frequent-renter programs from the leading rental agencies. Smaller companies will often be aggressive in offering discounts, as well. Some perks to ask for are “preferred” rates for holders of certain credit cards and one day free with a three- or four-day paid rental, which many companies offer if you ask.
Start your search online – many companies offer Web specials that last a limited time, and aren’t widely advertised.
Seek out other options in the phone book under “Car Rental,” instead of automatically going with Hertz, Avis, Budget, National or Alamo. Firms that operate away from airports often have great rates, and a cab ride from the airport to a slightly less convenient location can end up saving you money on a multiple-day rental. The company may even have a courtesy shuttle to the airport.
Watch out for hidden costs. Your current insurance most likely covers you in a rental car, so you may not need the extra rental insurance. Also ask before you rent if your contract includes mileage caps or other restrictions.
Content copyright Enterprise Interactive
