by Wendy

Part of the reason I haven’t posted as much is due to being almost overwhelmingly busy at work, including frequent trips for various meetings. It has been interesting, and a year of flying nearly every month for a 2-3 day business trip has probably helped me become a more efficient traveler. We love sharing travel tips on the blog, so here are a few more to consider.

Global Entry, which includes TSA Pre-check, has been a game changer for me. The application process is detailed and includes a background check, interview and fingerprint, but personally I’m glad I took the time to do it, and conclude $100 for the 5 year enrollment is well worth it. Some credit cards are now offering to reimburse the fee, which is even better. I’m still not over the novelty of how quick I can move through security. Generally, you can leave your shoes and light jackets on, and do not have to remove either quart size bag of liquids or laptop from your carry-on. I love the convenience and reassurance that if a meeting runs a little long the day I’m flying home, odds are I will save time with Pre-check.

I’m already pretty good at packing light, but have made improvements to the routine. I bought a mini travel flat iron that saves more space then you might think. I’ve taken to storing it permanently in my carry-on suitcase, along with a lint brush, extra plastic bags, band-aids and case with basic jewelry I switch out as needed. I also keep most of my tolietries in a travel case ready to go. Clothes are more of a challenge, but I try to keep a running list in my head of go-to outfits that are professional and require minimal or no ironing. I’d rather err on the boring side than deal with anything requiring too much fuss. If I’m flying one day, then going to meetings the next day, then more meetings and flying home the third day, I’ll plan outfits for day 1 and 3 that are comfortable enough for the plane. I’ll make sure my shoes are suitable as well, or bring a pair of ballet flats to switch at the airport. As a side note, I can’t believe Payless is closing and I did not realize it in time to buy 25 pairs of my favorite Dexflex ballet flats. This is a bummer and if anyone has recommendations for inexpensive ballet flats please let me know.

My employer gives us some flexibility to choose our own flights, which is nice. When you’re not on a direct flight, consider the connections very carefully. If I’m flying through large hubs like Chicago or Dallas, I might opt for a 2 hour connection over 45 minutes, for example, because these airports are huge. Yes, It might take me longer to get home, but there’s a cushion if the first flight is delayed – which happens all the time. Hedge your bets. If there’s a chance you’ll be sprinting for the connecting gate (never fun), try to get a seat close to the front of the plane so you can disembark first. You can also ask a flight attendant to request that passengers let folks with a connection off the plane first (I’ve seen people oblige so don’t be afraid to ask nicely).

My husband Jack and I often leave notes for each other when one of us has to travel for work. I love finding a note from my best travel buddy as I unpack in the hotel room. It makes you feel less lonely, as does a compelling or favorite book. I always bring a book, as well as queue up good music on my phone – both great for de-stressing after mentally draining meetings, or crucial coping mechanisms when you’re on a crowded plane in the middle seat and the chance of opening your laptop and getting any work done is slim.

It looks like I’ll have a break in business travel ahead, though I’m sure that’s subject to change. The heavy workload continues, but it isn’t the only distraction keeping me from posting regularly. Jack and I adopted one of the cutest cats in the galaxy and have been preoccupied with taking care of Ginepro, shopping for Ginepro, cleaning up after Ginepro, playing with Ginepro. He’s awesome and totally spoiled but don’t worry – this will not turn into a cat blog. It’s still primarily a travel blog, but our pet is another thing to look forward to when the plane touches ground, another reason to be happy with time at home.