Eight Habits to Make Business Travel More Productive and Less Annoying

The American business traveler is in search of better and more innovative services according to a March 2008 Orbitz and Travelport survey conducted by Harris Interactive. In fact, 56 percent of respondents noted that logistical challenges (like knowing where to go upon arriving and changing travel plans on the road) were the most difficult to manage while on a business trip, while 27 percent preferred a one-stop-shop for booking travel services beyond air, hotel, and car (like event tickets and dinner reservations).

Since we're always on the lookout for ways to make business travel more productive and less annoying, we've come up with eight habits you may want to develop.

Use a Travel Agent

If you want to make business travel virtually painless, use a travel agent to book your flight, hotel and rental car. Then if you need to make changes while you're on the road, you can have them handle it while you relax. On top of that, once your travel agent gets to know your travel preferences, he or she will be able to get you the best deals and take advantage of benefits like frequent-flyer miles.

Try E-Ticketing

If you're not going to use a travel agent, one of the fastest growing trends at airports is e-ticketing, which allows you to purchase your ticket on line, select a seat, and check in anywhere from three days to one hour prior to departure depending on the airline. You can then pick up your boarding pass at the airport self-check kiosk.

Dress for Comfort

Yes, you are traveling on business, but it doesn't make sense to be constrained by the clothes you wear. You'll be more inclined to relax, stretch out and make your trip a more pleasant one if you wear clothing that is business appropriate, yet casual. Wearing slip on shoes will make going through airport security just that much easier. Speaking of airline security...

Know the Rules of the Road

To make your business trip easier for you and your fellow flyers, know the rules of flight before your take to the skies. That means things like knowing what you can take in your carry on, the cost of checking your bags, and other information that you can find online at the Transportation Security Administration or on the specific airline's website.

Create a Travel Wardrobe

If you travel often, you need to create a wardrobe meant for travel. That means clothing that resists wrinkles and interchangeable pieces that create several outfits from only a few items. In addition, have travel size toiletries (toothpaste, lotion, shampoo, etc.) ready to go or opt to use what the hotel provides. The fewer bags you carry, the fewer bags you worry about.

Know Your Technology Options

While many airports have Internet kiosks which allow you to connect or recharge batteries along with expanded Wi-Fi access, there are also those that offer business centers - typically loaded with work stations, telephone service, computer ports and Internet access - and/or lounges. Many offer day passes. Find out what your airline has to offer before your next flight.

Ask About a Hotel Business Traveler Floor

Some hotels actually have floors reserved just for business travelers, where you'll be able to find all the phone lines and fax machines you need along with a quieter stay away from vacationing families. Some hotels, including Courtyard by Marriott and Hilton, even have special sleep rooms designed specifically to keep out light and noise.

Track Business Expenses

The easiest way to lose your business receipts is to toss them aside without thinking. Make it easy on yourself by taking an envelope or small bag and placing every receipt inside regardless of what it is. You can sort out those that can be expensed versus those that might ultimately wind up in the trash when you get home. And if you really want to streamline the process, download your company's travel expense form onto your laptop and end your business day in your hotel room entering your business expenses.

It's all about preparation. And once you get the hang of business travel, you'll learn better what tricks work for you. In the meantime, if you have any additional ideas of how to make business travel more productive and less annoying, please let us know.