9 Smart Tips for Frequent Business Travelers

In this global economy, despite the growing presence of connective technologies, business travel is still a necessary evil.  When you're young the idea of a fancy hotel room in another city or country seems  glamorous. But once you've been in the business world for some time, even the fluffy robes can't get you excited about another trip. 

Here are nine tips that can reinvigorate your business travel:

1. Hydration

As simple as it sounds, you would be shocked at how few people are actually properly hydrated when they travel, especially by air. The plane cabin's humidity is much lower than what you typically encounter on a daily basis, and can lead to dehydration which can cause fatigue, headaches and even worse symptoms.

Make sure you chug a bottle of water before, during and after you're on a plane to offset some of these negative side effects.

2. Love Notes

In relationships it's all about the little things.  This is easy to forget when you're rushing from city to city.  Nothing makes you feel more connected to home than a love note to or from your partner. 

Make it a point to leave a note on a pillow, in a shoe or on the mirror for them to find after you embark.  It's a great practice to show how much you appreciate how forgiving your partner is about your constant absence.  The smile on their face when they find a hidden note means you'll hopefully have your partner jump on you when you get back.

3. Grease the Wheels

Yes it sounds a little old school, but you'd be amazed at how much you can get by just asking. 

Recently I tried this at a 5 star hotel.  I checked in and gave the desk clerk a $20.  I asked if there were any upgrades based on hotel capacity.  I was instantly upgraded from a room to a private bungalow. 

This wont work every time, but you don't make 100% of the shots you don't take.  To me that's worth the $20.

This post was originally published for INC. Magazine, to see the remaining travel tips read the rest of the article here.

Stay tuned for more from Laurel through her Inc. column 'On Brand'. 

IMAGE: Getty Images