Business travelers need to save money, too. Just like when we’re on vacation, in the business world money can be tight. In today’s economy, every Dollar (or Euro, or Yen) counts towards the bottom line. It’s still possible to be a budget conscious business traveler while still making a good impression on your clients. The following tips will help keep your company’s business travel budget out of the red.

1. Consolidate spending to one credit card. By limiting expenses to one card your business may more efficiently acquire frequent flier miles and other benefits such as spending discounts, reward points, or free stuff.
2. Use internet resources to find local tips. Travel resources geared toward budget conscious vacationers often list affordable restaurants, bars, or sources of entertainment. Consider searching online forums such as LonelyPlanet.com. Local resources like yelp.com also give excellent insider tips.
3. Ask for recommendations from your clients. Many clients will be eager to tell you about their home town, and inform you of their favorite affordable restaurant or venue that’s away from tourist trail.
4. Use public transportation. Many cities (yes, even in the U.S.) have some form of public transportation. Research your options ahead of time before you decide to reserve a rental car.
5. Limit the luggage employees may carry. For short trips, limiting luggage to carry-ons will not only save you money, but it will save your employees time.
6. Look into extended stay hotels in the area. If the trip is longer, you’ll not only benefit from discount rates, but also enjoy a kitchen for cooking. This will limit travel expenses from eating out.
7. Understand where your travel expenses are going. Use our business expense reporting tool (currently free in beta) to manage, coordinate, or understand the travel expenses of your employees and projects.

Laurie is happiest on the road and has visited over 40 countries. She dreams about meeting tribal people, hiking through rice paddies, and driving longtail boats. She enjoys photography, social activism, and helping others quit their jobs to travel. Laurie co-founded Budget Your Trip and Collective Lens.

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