How can you save money on corporate travel bookings?

1 Plan ahead

One of the simplest ways to save money on corporate travel is to plan ahead and book flights, hotels, and car rentals as early as possible. This can help you avoid peak prices, last-minute fees, and limited availability. You can also use tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Kayak to compare prices and find the best deals across different airlines and travel sites. Planning ahead also gives you more time to research the destination, find out about visa requirements, local transportation, and safety tips.

2 Use corporate discounts

Another way to save money on corporate travel is to use corporate discounts and loyalty programs that your company may have with certain travel providers. For example, you may be able to get lower rates, free upgrades, or extra perks with preferred hotels, airlines, or car rental companies. You can also sign up for rewards programs that offer points, miles, or cash back for every booking. These can add up over time and help you reduce travel costs or redeem them for future trips.

3 Set a budget

Setting a budget for each trip is a smart way to control travel expenses and avoid overspending. You can use a spreadsheet or a travel expense app to track and categorize all the costs associated with each trip, such as airfare, accommodation, meals, transportation, and entertainment. You can also set limits and guidelines for each category and communicate them clearly to the travelers. For example, you can specify the maximum amount they can spend on a hotel room, a taxi ride, or a dinner.

4 Be flexible

Being flexible with your travel plans can help you save money and find better options. For example, you can consider alternative dates, times, or routes for your flights, as these can affect the price significantly. You can also look for cheaper or more convenient alternatives for your accommodation, such as Airbnb, co-working spaces, or shared apartments. You can also use tools like Hopper, TripIt, or Expedia to monitor price changes and get alerts for the best time to book or change your reservations.

5 Go green

Going green is not only good for the environment, but also for your wallet. You can save money on corporate travel by choosing eco-friendly options and reducing your carbon footprint. For example, you can opt for direct flights, public transportation, or bike rentals instead of connecting flights, car rentals, or taxis. You can also choose hotels that have green certifications, energy-efficient appliances, or recycling programs. You can also pack light, reuse towels, and avoid disposable items.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?