Tips for Business Travel During the Holiday Season

With the festive season just around the corner, many of us are thinking about our holiday plans and what gifts to buy. However, this doesn't mean that traveling for business gets put on hold. For the frequent business traveler, heading into a more-chaotic-than-normal airport filled with new travelers, can cause added stress.

Here are some tips to help you survive traveling during the peak of the holiday season.

How early should I arrive?

If you don’t have TSA Pre-check or CLEAR then plan to arrive at least two hours, or more, prior to your flight during peak travel times. If you do have Pre-check then 90 minutes should be enough time. If your airport is known for backed up security lines you may want to add even more time to those estimates.

Should I check my bag?

If you can avoid checking a bag that will save you time and the potential for headaches. It reduces the chances of lost luggage and makes clearing security much smoother. Only bring a carry-on bag and if you opt to have two carry-on items, place your valuables and medications in the smaller piece. This will help avoid the last minute shuffle of contents should you be faced with no overhead bin space and be forced to gate check you larger carry-on bag.

Is there anything I can do to make security move more quickly?

The best thing to do to ensure a quick airport security experience is to sign up for TSA Pre-check or a service like CLEAR.

If you don’t have access to either of those options (and at this point it’s likely too late for approval prior to any travel this year) the best way to promote a speedy security line is to be prepared every step of the way. Have your ID and boarding pass ready, have everything out of your pockets and your belt off. Ensure  your laptop and other items are removed or easily accessible. Wear shoes that are quick to slip off and back on again.

What should I do if my flight is delayed?

If it looks like the delayed flight will cause you to miss your connection then call your UNIGLOBE Travel Agent. If you’re at the airport, also get in line to speak to an airline representative. The airline is obligated to re-accommodate you, but depending on the situation, your agent may be able to offer you additional options.

If your flight time gets pushed back several times, try tracking the incoming plane. This may give you insight into when your flight will actually leave. Many airline apps do this, but you can also use an app like FlightAware.

Build in time for the unknown or unpredictable 

Travel at this time of year is tricky with higher chances of inclement weather, larger volumes of people traveling and the potential for delays and cancellations. If you schedule allows you to arrive at your destination the day prior to your first meeting, this will build in some buffer time that could come in useful. At the very least it will ensure you can work through any stress accumulated during your travels and arrive at your meeting fresh.