Consultants are a very special kind of traveler. In fact, I’d venture to guess that they find themselves onboard an airplane more often than any other line of work (other than being part of the airline crew itself!). They truly are certified frequent flyers!
This video is the first in a series I plan to start on my YouTube channel where I interview frequent flyers to learn their tips and tricks for achieving the easiest and most budget-friendly travel experiences!
In this video, I interview my dear friend Brenna, who has become an expert traveler as part of her role as a consultant. She works at a Big Four consulting firm, and travels from Monday through Friday each week for work in order to service her clients in-person.
Her job’s four-days-away/three-days-home scheduling is par for the course in the consulting field, which has resulted in Brenna earning some top statuses at her chosen airlines and hotel chains.
All this to say, I find her to be a wealth of knowledge when it comes to traveling! For this reason, I was thrilled to have her help me launch the interview series on my channel, and share her top travel tips with our Means To Travel community!
Can’t watch a video right now? Bummer, but I get it. 🙂 Never fear, I’ve listed her tips below!
- Buy two of all of your lifestyle NECESSITIES –
When you travel A LOT, it’s a pain to constantly take things in and out of your suitcase. Reduce your stress and strive to have what you need always waiting for you in your bag for your next trip. - Be strategic about buying or sourcing refillable containers for your toiletries –
As discussed in the movie Up In The Air, it takes up a lot of time for business travelers to check their bags so most pack in carry-on only. Buying refillable containers can save a ton of money in the long run compared to constantly purchasing travel-sized versions of your favorite items. - Ask for small sample size containers at stores like Sephora and Blue Mercury when you’re purchasing new beauty items –
Most will gladly give you some sample size containers, especially to someone who is definitely a paying customer. You can use them as refillable containers when you travel! - If you travel often, it’s worth it to invest in a high quality carry-on! –
Read reviews. Ask coworkers. Do anything you can to make sure you have a durable international size bag that will last for years. - Use packing cubes –
They help you stay organized while you’re in transit within your suitcase, as well as when you’ve reached your hotel! Plus, they help save space in your bag so you can bring more with you!
Eliz’s Favorite Packing Cubes:
Eagle Creek Compression Packing Cubes: https://amzn.to/2BRtRE
Brenna’s Favorite Packing Cubes:
Eagle Creek Pack Half Set of 3: https://amzn.to/2JzggWt
Eagle Creek Pack-It Spector Set of 3: https://amzn.to/2WpdhoA - Try rolling your clothes within your packing cubes –
Using both the rolling method as well as packing cubes can help you fit so much in your bag, you’ll be amazed! - Bring a refillable water bottle on the plane –
You never know if you have to wait for hours on the plane without beverage service as they work on a mechanical issue. Having your own water with you can be a lifesaver! - Pack your own snacks for the plane –
It also generally helps to have your own snacks with you throughout the entire business trip so you can feel more at home while you’re away. It’s great to have healthy snacks that feel familiar and comforting! - Request a room with two beds –
The extra surface space is great for being able to see everything at once, so you can grab and go! - Look up which radio stations to play in your rental car before you arrive in a new city –
It’s fun to know which stations will play your favorite songs as soon as you pick up your “wheels.” - Sign up for EVERY loyalty program, they’re free! –
You’d be surprised how fast your points can add up so you can earn a perk like a free night or upgrade. - Connect your Lyft ride share account with Delta so you can earn airline miles every time you ride –
It’s such a great free perk – everyone should use it!
I absolutely loved learning new tips from her, especially about booking a room with two beds for airline travel!
In fact, I’ve had several other consultant friends of mine reach out to me since I’ve set this video live and tell me how happy they were to watch it. If you’re a frequent traveler, or even just a travel fanatic, feel free to let me know if you have any other tips, and if you agree with the twelve above!
Happy Travels!
-Eliz
Thanks Eliz your blog is superb. much appreciated!!
Thank you, Saad!