he will be on business trip

LESSON PLAN FOR ENGLISH TEACHERS

Going on a business trip.

Level: Intermediate (B1-B2)

Type of English: Business English

Tags: business travel conferences, exhibitions and trade fairs travel and leisure Vocabulary lesson

Publication date: 08/02/2018

In this business vocabulary lesson, students will learn words and phrases to talk about business trips. There are exercises on preparing for business trips, reasons to go and ways to talk about a business trip. The lesson ends with a speaking activity for students to talk about their personal experiences of business trips.

This is an excellent lesson that address grammar, speaking and reading comprehension. Writing activities can easily be developed, from the lesson, for students. The colour and layout is attractive. The level is correctly set at intermediate.

Great activity! It can tackle useful vocabulary, speaking practice, and grammar! I love it!

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In this business vocabulary lesson, students will learn words and phrases to talk about business trips. There are exercises on preparing for business trips, reasons to go, and ways to talk about a business trip. The lesson ends with a speaking activity for students to talk about their personal experiences of business trips.

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"i am currently on business trip" vs "i am currently in business trip"

Last Updated: April 01, 2024

i am currently on business trip

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

• I am currently on a business trip to New York.
• She is on a business trip to Tokyo.
• He will be on a business trip next week.
• They are on a business trip to Europe.
• We were on a business trip last month.

i am currently in business trip

This phrase is not correct in English. 'In a business trip' is not a standard or commonly used preposition in this context.

Alternatives:

• I am currently on a business trip.
• I am currently away on a business trip.
• I am currently traveling for business.
• I am currently on a work trip.
• I am currently on a business journey.

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Top tips on how to plan a business trip

Follow these 6 steps for an effective business trip:

• Make your travel arrangements well in advance
• Select your accommodation based on both price and convenience
• Create an itinerary

Research your destination

• Remember your electronics, accessories and travel documents
• Prepare for your meeting

In today’s digital world, we can communicate across different time zones at a moment’s notice. However, when it comes to brokering a big deal or fostering a solid and long-lasting business relationship, nothing beats face-to-face interaction.  

Corporate travel is still so important, and it’s equally important for anyone making a business trip to prepare thoroughly. When you arrive at your destination relaxed and well-prepared, you’re better equipped to make a good impression and focus on the purpose of your meeting. Preparation lets your mind focus on the here and now, making sure you stay on the ball in that all-important meeting. If you’d like to fine-tune how you get ready for your next excursion, follow these essential tips to become an effective business trip planner.

Make travel arrangements

Whether it’s your name on the travel documents or you’re a travel manager, planning business travel thoroughly is important. Your first step should always be to familiarize yourself with your company’s corporate travel policy . You’re making travel arrangements for a business trip, not planning a personal or a short break, so being compliant with your company policy is essential.

Next, it’s time to book your travel. This may involve traveling by air, rail, car hire or even boat. Think about the journey door-to-door, balancing travel times against cost and convenience. Visualize the various steps of the trip from A to B. Consider details like how long it will take to move between airport and railway station, the time it takes to fill out paperwork at the vehicle hire company, and whether luggage storage might be useful. Use multiple sources and different comparison sites, researching which companies are offering the best deals. Again, be aware of any budget restraints in your company’s travel policy.

Don’t forget the small details. Does the airplane have Wi-Fi so you can work on the move? Would leaving a day earlier allow you to arrive at your first meeting better rested and prepared? At this stage, the more carefully you prepare, the more confident and relaxed you’ll be when you depart.

Select your accommodation

Preparing business travel is, of course, only half the job. Choosing the best accommodation for your requirements is also essential. If you’ve only got one meeting place to reach, make sure you book a hotel that’s nearby – rather than be swayed by a more luxurious option that might be a stressful 45 minute trip away. Use maps on your smartphone to measure distances from the station or airport to your hotel – and remember the roads and transport networks will be busier at certain times of day.

Check your company’s hotel policies to see if there are any preferred hotels - you might be able to get a good deal too. When considering the cost, make sure you compare rates for similar types of accommodation and make sure you select something that’s fairly priced – some companies even stipulate a cost per day that would limit the choice of hotels.

It’s also a good idea to pay close attention to the amenities at the hotel. Some tourist-focused hotels may serve breakfast too late for your early starts, and as a business traveler you’re likely to want free Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service, plenty of power points for charging your devices. CWT Hotel Intel gives travelers access to trusted peer hotel reviews and can be a handy tool for business trip planners.

Create a detailed itinerary

Your itinerary is your blueprint for a successful business trip. Use it to stay in control of every detail – from transport times and the names of those you’re meeting, to your travel reservations and hotel address. Be sure to allow yourself extra time on your itinerary for relaxing, meetings that have been delayed or overrun, and busy traffic. Consider using a specially designed tool like the myCWT app , which syncs your itinerary with work calendars, and allows travelers to share this with colleagues. This is handy from a communication and efficiency perspective, and as a safety measure if you’re travelling to an unfamiliar destination.

It may be that you’re traveling to a destination you are familiar with and feel comfortable in. Or, you may be entering unchartered territory. If that’s the case, research is essential to avoid unnecessary risk. For example, some cities are well known for pick pockets, so you’ll need to be extra careful when storing important and expensive items like phones in your pockets. Depending on where you’re going, reading up on the current political situation at your destination could also be prudent.

Perhaps you’re traveling to a city or country with a different culture and customs to your own. Avoid looking foolish or, worse, causing offence, by researching the differences in behavior and manners before you arrive. For example, if you’re taking potential clients for a meal, do you know the etiquette on tipping, or when to give people your business cards? Or, if you’re visiting a country where English isn’t the common language, you could even learn a few basic phrases, such as greetings and “thank you”, which could make all the difference when making a good first impression.

Prepare your travel documents

Hours of careful preparation and research will all be wasted if you forget vital travel documents. Traveling between countries requires a current, valid passport, travel tickets and sometimes a visa. It’s key to research whether or not you need a visa as soon as possible, even if you are just transiting through a country, without stepping foot outside the airport. Some embassies can take a number of days or even weeks to issue visas. Even if you’re not traveling to a different country, you may need photo ID to clarify that your name corresponds to the one on the ticket - your passport or driving license are the best options so keep them safe at all times.

Remember your electronic accessories

Stay as productive as possible on your trip by taking a laptop or tablet – it’ll make your travel time really count. Remember to pack the relevant chargers and adapters, too. You can usually pick these up at the airport when you’re passing through, but being prepared is key and will save you time and money in the long run.

Get ready for your meeting

So you’ve followed all the right steps for planning a business trip, but what about your business objectives and the meeting itself? Making a note of what you hope to achieve on the trip can help improve your focus - even if you simply want to reach out to new contacts or gain a general overview of potential new client. Arm yourself with as much information as possible about the people you’ll meet, as well as the places they’ll be. What’s the dress code? If you’re visiting an industrial site, for example, will you need sturdy shoes? If you’re going to be giving a presentation, what format will it take and will your host have the equipment you need? Simply emailing ahead to check if they have suitable screens and cables can ensure you avoid embarrassing delays or confusion that would get your meeting off to an awkward start. That first impression counts so give yourself the best chance of making a good one.

By setting aside the time to prepare, conducting some detailed research and following these business travel tips, you can optimize your chances of a productive and enjoyable trip.

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40+ Expert Business Travel Tips for a Smooth Business Trip

This article was originally published on our site Nomad Paradise. As part of a rebrand, we are publishing all our travel packing and tips content in one place for you to enjoy - The Travel Method. For world cuisine and recipes, you can keep visiting Nomad Paradise.

Business travel is a necessity. Whether you’re an intern or a CEO, the world of work is global. But where those traveling for leisure can afford the luxury of slipping into bed after a long flight, business travelers simply cannot. Important meetings will not be rescheduled because you made it in at 2 a.m. Conferences still expect you to speak, no matter how tired you are.

But in today’s age, business travel does not have to derail you. As travel has evolved, so have our methods of dealing with it. With the input of seventeen professionals who frequently travel for work, we’ve compiled a must-read list of over forty essential tips to help make your next work trip run smoothly.

Booking Tips

1. Dress for upgrades.  

Katherine Rothman, CEO of  KMR Communications , says it’s much easier to get upgrades when you board a plane or arrive at a hotel if you’re dressed smartly and look the part.

2. Always make sure you have an assigned seat. 

Katherine also says it is much harder for an airline to ‘bump’ you with an assigned seat, which could potentially be disastrous for your business trip.

3. Scan your accommodation’s Twitter posts. 

Nick Gray, founder of  Museum Hack , says it’s wise to scan your hotel’s Twitter posts before arriving. Many hotels run social media promotions that allow you to feel like a VIP without spending like one.

For example, sometimes, Kimpton Hotels post a social password on their Twitter account. When you say the social password at check-in, you’ll get a surprise, which could include a free bottle of wine, parking, a coffee mug, drinks at the bar, a room upgrade, dining vouchers, a hot chocolate kit, or an in-room movie.

4. Book your flight in incognito mode on your browser. 

Founder of  Talk Travel , Saurabh Jindal, always books flights through a new incognito window. Incognito mode does not store cookies (served by the website) on your system. Thus, it cannot track you.

Therefore, the website you are booking through cannot raise the price, which could be triggered when a user searches for the same thing more than once.

5. Check fares with Skiplagged.  

David Pike, founder of the  New York Trolley Company and advisor for startups at Founder Institute, always checks the Skiplagged app before booking. It shows you hidden fares to cities by missing the second leg of a flight.

For example, if you want to fly from New York to Nashville, Skipplagged might find a cheaper flight from New York to Chicago with a layover in Nashville. You wouldn’t board the second flight, hence saving money. You won’t, however, be able to check a bag.

Packing Tips

6. Pack as light as possible. 

Everything In Its Place  founder Eileen Roth packs skirts and dresses, as they are thinner than slacks. Blouses are also a good choice, as they are thinner than sweaters. Less weight means you can pack more.

If it’s cooler in conference rooms, add a sweater and suit jacket in a basic black to top off the outfit and change that every other day.

7. Wear the only pairs of shoes you bring. 

Frequent traveler Carmella says if you do, your shoes should be waterproof, airport-sensible, and business-appropriate everywhere from Canada down to Texas. Short black leather boots with the lowest heel are a sensible choice.

8. Even with TSA precheck, liquids are a gamble.  

Between reusable water bottles, mouth rinse bites, and solid shampoo bars, there is no need to carry liquids. Pare down the toiletries and replace them with dry products.

9. Leave your designer luggage at home.  

If you are traveling abroad, as much as you might treasure your designer luggage, leave it at home, says Katherine Rothman. Why advertise to thieves that you have money or make yourself more noticeable? This is not a time you want to stand out.

10. Keep a pre-packed travel bag at home. 

Emily Mandagie, photographer and one half of travel blog  The Mandagies , has a dedicated business travel bag on hand, pre-packed with travel essentials before any trip. Although you’ll need to pack certain things on-demand, like clothes and shoes, some items like toiletries, cosmetics, and other travel products will generally stay the same. This way, you can unpack quickly after a trip and repack, knowing you have exactly what you need for the next trip cycle.

These pre-packed items include a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, lotion, and even a small container of shampoo and conditioner. When it comes to tech, Emily will also stow away a phone charger, extra batteries, and headphones.

Time-Saving Tips

11. Book non-stop flights.

Katherine Rothman recommends that you try booking non-stop flights whenever possible, even if it costs more.

If you are on a business trip where you may be meeting with prospective clients or partners, saving yourself the stress of potentially missing your layover if the flight is delayed pays off in the long run.

12. Sign up for TSA pre-check .

If you’re a United cardmember, you can have global reentry and TSA precheck reimbursed, Carmella says. Skip lines and rack up miles!

13. Utilize ‘priority luggage.’ 

This means your luggage will be the first to come off the plane. When you check your bags outside, you can usually tip $5.00 and say, “will you ticket me for priority baggage” and 99% of the time it works – people just don’t know it can be done. Katherine Rothman has used this time-saving technique many times.

14. Save all appointments (including addresses, names, and phone numbers) on your agenda. 

Local Insiders  founder, Silke Wolf, says this will save you time and make your trip so much more worry-free. The same applies to the information you need to prepare for your appointments.

To travel light and paper-free, save all documents to a specific folder on your Google Drive. (Don’t forget to make it available offline). This way, you’ll stay organized, and you can access all the information you need on the go.

Pre-Flight Tips

15. Before leaving, download important maps offline. 

Make sure directions, itineraries, and maps are downloaded to your phone offline, along with some music and podcasts for potentially bad service areas and the plane ride.

16. Take photos of receipts with an app. 

Alternatively, save the photos of receipts to Google Drive. Being prepared pays off when you least expect, as you never know when you’ll need to show proof of purchase.

17. Keep a Xerox copy of your passport.  

Katherine recommends keeping a copy of your passport in a separate place from your actual passport. If you lose your passport, this makes things much easier.

18. Never board a plane without two bottles of water and snacks.

Katherine also recommends buying two bottles of water and snacks before boarding the plane. You never know when your plane can be held on the ground for hours or diverted to another airport, and the airline crew may run out of food and drinks or not be allowed to serve.

19. Get organized with a list. 

Monica Kang, founder of  Innovators Box,  says that when you travel for work, you have to think about your dress code, what you bring, and, in her case, also a lot of materials she uses for workshops. It’s not fun when you bring the wrong outfit or not enough materials.

Monica recommends piling a list of things you want to bring in a room at home over a few days. That way, when you pack things last minute, you already have the core things you need to take with you readily available and won’t have a chance of forgetting them.

20. Don’t plan too much.

Silke points out that planning too many activities is one of the biggest mistakes business travelers make. Always consider travel times. And add some extra time in between meetings to accommodate factors beyond your control (traffic jams, late arrivals, etc.).

This will make your business travels so much more relaxed as you won’t have to rush around to be on time. This will give you peace of mind.

Essential Gear

21. Buy a lightweight suitcase.

Carmella says to find a lightweight, durable suitcase. Keep it extra small to fit in an overhead compartment on the express planes. If you have to check luggage, you can’t change flights to get home faster or to avoid bad weather.

Many flight attendants seem to use TravelPro, but there are also other quality brands on the market.

22. Use a 4-wheel carry-on case.

Management consultant Layton Cox says he lives and dies with three travel bags. The first is a simple four-wheel hard-case carry-on. In a perfect world, don’t get black. Everyone has black.

It also doesn’t have to be a huge brand name. Ninety percent of your clients will never see your luggage. He also suggests you find a bag with cloth or leather around the zippers, as the plastic and rubber tend to break after a while.

23. Use a briefcase with a slide.

Layton says the second bag every business traveler needs is a simple briefcase that fits over the handles of your carry-on. If you get a normal briefcase that does not fit over the handles of your carry-on, it becomes nearly impossible to operate your cell phone as you walk through the airport since both your hands are busy.

Make sure it has a laptop pocket. Your client will see this briefcase, so get black or brown leather. Nothing else.

24. Buy an anti-theft backpack.

If you’re worried about expensive and essential items being stolen, such as your trusted laptop, an anti-theft backpack is definitely worth looking into.

25. Travel with an electronics holder.

Layton’s third and final bag he always travels with is a simple electronics holder. It can be a packing cube filled with electronics and cords or a simple wallet-esque item that can hold a cellphone charger, headphones, and various other cords.

By having just one item with all of your electronics in it, you don’t have to worry if you packed your charger or that HDMI converter, as it’s always in the bag.

26. Use a rolling computer bag.

Eileen suggests that if you carry a laptop, you should use a rolling computer bag to carry papers, files, conference info/workbook, a pad of paper, and even snacks.

You probably will have extra room to add your makeup, hairbrush, and maybe a third pair of shoes or an extra purse.

27. Pack a travel adapter.

Victoria Thompson, Social Media Manager at Haystack Digital, says to always plan ahead and have a spare adaptor depending on which country you are visiting.

This will save you time and money in the long run, as adaptors at the airport always cost a fortune.

28. Bring a travel pillow.

Victoria also says packing items that are going to help you sleep is a must. Invest in a travel pillow that will help you sleep either in the hotel or on the airplane.

29. Use packing envelopes.

Nifty garment folders can help keep blouses, shirts, skirts, and slacks more wrinkle-free than trying to roll things or pack them in packing bags. Instead, use packing bags only for underwear and sleepwear.

30. Travel with a micro-router.

Team Building CEO, Michael Alexis, says the most useful item he travels with is a micro-router. You can connect a router to a wifi connection, for example, at a hotel or on a flight or cruise, and then connect all of your other devices to the router.

This setup has two major benefits. First, in cases where you pay for a connection, you only need one connection to service several devices. Secondly, you save time. Once set up, your devices connect to the router automatically, so you are entering login information only once.

Programs & Loyalty Schemes

31. Get a Rewards Credit Card.

Nicole Sutherland, travel photographer and writer at  Eat Live Travel Drink,  recommends the American Express Platinum. This gives her access to a bevy of perks that include airport lounges around the world, including their own private Centurion ones, Priority Pass, and Delta lounges.

32. Companion Pass Hack on Southwest Airlines. 

Nicole also recommends applying for both the Southwest Airlines personal and business cards if you run a small business. Each card gives you bonus miles when you spend a certain amount of money.

And, if you earn a certain number of miles in a year, you earn the companion pass, allowing a companion to fly free with you every time.

33. Get TSA Pre-Check, Clear, and Global Entry. 

Dave Pike says TSA Pre-Check, Clear, and Global Entry can save you hours every time you fly. The $85-$110 investment is well worth it and is deductible if your employer requires it.

34. Score free upgrades using airline loyalty programs. 

Torben Lonne, diving enthusiast and founder of  Dive In,  says one of his favorite travel hacks is getting a free upgrade to business class. Your chances are lower than scoring a last-minute seat change in the same class, but it’s still possible.

If you have air miles or loyalty points with your preferred airline, this increases your chances of getting upgraded to business class in the event of an overbooking. The passenger with the highest loyalty points gets automatically upgraded when this happens.

If there are more overbookings on the same flight, they will choose the passenger with the second most loyalty points and move down the list accordingly.

35. Get a co-working space membership.  

Upflex  CEO and co-founder, Christophe Garnier, says the last thing you want to think about is being confined to a coffee shop or hotel room for work.

When it comes to business travel hacks, the ability to easily find and book a good co-working space is paramount. It will help you save time and money while making local connections and making you more productive.

This is why co-working booking platforms are becoming business travelers’ new best friend – they aggregate available workspaces from around the world and let professionals book them on an as-needed basis.

In-Flight and Transport Tips

36. Make your final seat selection at the last moment.  

Torben recommends waiting until the last moment before making your final seat selection. You can do this through your smartphone via the web or the airline’s app and guarantee a window seat with a little patience.

Every flight has cancellations and last-minute seat changes, so all you need to do is wait until 30 minutes before boarding to book your final seat.

This is perfect when you’re stuck with a bad seat from when you booked the flight initially as a zero-cost ‘upgrade.’

37. Book your parking beforehand.

Head of Digital Marketing at YourParkingSpace , Gregory Golinski, says one of the worst challenges faced by business travelers is finding a parking space. You don’t want to be late for a meeting with a client because you’ve been circling around for an hour looking for a parking space.

He suggests pre-booking a parking space via online parking marketplaces such as Spothero in the US, YourParkingSpace in the UK, or Parkhound in Australia.

These platforms can help you book a private driveway or garage in advance so that you don’t have to look for a parking space for hours and can be on time. This can help you save time, money, and your sanity while on a business trip.

Safety Tips

38. If you are a woman traveling alone, ask for a room closer to the elevator in your hotel.

A safety tip for solo female travelers from Katherine is that you book a hotel room closer to the elevator. This way, you are not walking through long hallway mazes at night.

39. Make sure you get enough sleep and downtime.

Monica is extra mindful of where she spends her time, how much she sleeps, and what she eats. If she’s booking her time to meet other people and socialize, she will be too tired to deliver her work.

She also recommends downloading a few shows to binge-watch to decompress and rest. At the end of the day, if you show up feeling tired to do your work, why would they want to invite you back?

40. Be careful with the hotel wifi.

Ben Sadeghipour of Hackerone says it’s so easy to make fake wifi networks to track everything you’re doing online. At a hotel, you might see “Hotel Wifi” and “Hotel Free Wifi” and not know which one to pick.

Pick wrong, and a criminal will be able to track when you’re on their network or out of your hotel room. Also, never trust something that requires software to be installed. This is a sure sign of malicious activity.

41. Don’t post your boarding pass on social media.

Even if you cross out the numbers, you’re still at risk. There’s information hidden in QR codes that can be used to steal your personal data.

42. Be wary of public charging stations.

Public charging stations are a godsend when you are constantly on the go or your flight is canceled. However, anyone can steal information from your phone via USB. Always make sure you bring your own charger to plug into outlets or use a USB data blocker.

Essential Business Travel Tips Summary

No matter how important or time-sensitive your business trip may be, don’t let the stresses and strains of travel get in the way of your success. Use these expert tips from successful business travelers to plan a trip that runs smoothly, allowing you to deliver your world-class presentation or land that lucrative client.

We’d love to continue adding to this list. If you have a little-known expert tip, feel free to reach out to us and share your words of wisdom.

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How to Make the Most of a Solo Business Trip

By Suzanne Rowan Kelleher

No matter how glamorous the job or how exciting the destination, business travel can be challenging. The airport-to-plane-to-office-to-hotel slog can wear you down, and it isn’t always easy to navigate a strange city, live out of a suitcase, or get plugged into the local scene when you’re on your own. No wonder so many road warriors end up retreating to their hotel rooms every evening for cable TV and overpriced room service.

But it doesn’t have to be that way. Business travel presents an enviable opportunity to see different places on the company dime. With an enthusiastic mindset and some pre-planning, you might be amazed what you can discover with a few hours between meetings or at the front or tail end of a business trip. For a truly rewarding experience, it’s crucial that you find ways to engage with your destination so you don’t feel like an outsider. But how? We asked a group of peripatetic business travelers for their best nuggets of wisdom.

Don't be afraid to make a plan

The first step is to assess your available downtime. “If I'm traveling someplace for a few weeks, I want to give myself a schedule of how I'm going to spend my time, especially on the weekends, so I don't end up sitting in the hotel working—because that can easily happen,” says Martha Embrey, whose work for an international health non-profit organization takes her on multi-week trips to Africa.

Don't think you have to start small when traveling for business. When Embrey visited Kampala , Uganda, she made a point of getting to the Owino Market, the largest second-hand clothing market in the world. “It is totally crazy place. You can't be concerned about personal space because people are grabbing your arm and saying, ‘come look at this.’ You're just packed in with people,” she says. “When I was in Nairobi , I did a day-long safari. Nairobi has a national park right outside the city and I thought it would be crazy to be [all the way over] there and not see some animals if I had the opportunity.”

What if you don’t have the luxury of an entire free day? “Time is what distinguishes the business traveler from another traveler,” says Romain Aubanel, the co-founder of Jack and Ferdi , a new app that provides business travelers with personalized recommendations based on their likes and dislikes, where they are, and how much time they have. “On a business trip, you tend to have strange pockets of time. Your availability is scattered,” he says. “You might have an hour between two meetings, or you might have some time before your last meeting and your plane back home.”

If you're looking for dining and sightseeing recommendations, be specific. “A lot of people—and particularly women—don’t feel comfortable articulating what they really want,” says Pam Alvord, an Atlanta-based advertising executive. “Think of it like this: There's this little window in your trip that you have that can make you happy. Figure out what's going to make you happy, and articulate what that is, and then go do it.”

Gather all of your pre-planning in one place with the tried-and-true Google Maps , which lets you hone in on different types of businesses and attractions within a specific area. “I tag locations with stars and then try to hit up as many things I want to do in a starred area at one time,” says Stephanie Janes, a classical music publicist. “It is very time efficient if I only have a few hours in a place.”

A consistent hotel experience (and a check-in gift) makes all the difference for certain business travelers, like at the Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs Hotel.

The neighborhood matters as much as the hotel

Location is a top priority for most solo business travelers, who typically need to be based near their business meetings. “Especially traveling in Africa and the capital cities, traffic is so incredible that if you are across town it could take you three hours to go 20 miles in a taxi. You can't work around that, so you have to stay close to where you're going to be for work,” says Embrey. And if you end up in a neighborhood that’s not ideal? The quick-and-easy solution is probably already on your phone. “I'm more likely to jump into an Uber than anything else,” says Alvord.

Brand loyalty can also be a factor for travelers looking to stockpile rewards for future personal vacations. “I make a conscious effort to max my hotel points. I sometimes even swap hotels to get extra check-in bonus points, rather than stay at a single hotel for an entire stay,” says Steve Fry, a sales rep for an IT company, who favors Hyatt and Southwest Airlines .

Alvord prefers the intimacy of a neighborhood boutique hotel and is fond of the welcome amenity at Kimpton Hotels. “When I check in—sometimes it can be at a crazy time of the day or night—I know I'm going to have an ice bucket with bottled water, a small bottle of wine, and usually some fresh fruit. Sometimes there's a chocolate thrown in,” she says. “That puts a smile on my face.”

Bigger is not better for Sara Berks, founder of MINNA, a socially responsible textile brand. “I usually like to stay in smaller guest houses and inns instead of large hotels. That way, I can meet the owners and people who work there, and they will give me an inside look at the city instead of the typical tourist-type places,” she says of her frequent trips to South America.

Explore on foot

Natalie MacLees, founder of a Los Angeles-based interactive agency, swears by GPS-enabled walking tour apps like Cities Talking and GPSmyCity , which provide guided tours of cities and point out local points of interest. “You don't have to walk around holding a map and looking like a tourist,” she says. “I've discovered all sorts of gems and hidden neighborhoods in cities all over the world this way.”

Jessica Puckett

Anna Borges

Karthika Gupta

And if you can't find the time (or energy) after a day of work to explore, combine a morning, pre-meeting workout with a self-guided orientation tour. “Have your hotel concierge map out a route for you and go for a run,” says Jeffrey Dallal, who works for a financial technology company and splits his time between New York City and the West Coast. “You get to check out the area on foot and make note of places you might want to circle back to later in the day.”

Skip room service

Food can be a huge part of the travel experience and Alvord encourages pushing out of your comfort zone. “I grew up traveling as a little kid and my parents’ rule was always that no matter what country you're in, you try the local food first. And I always loved that. Sometimes it's a hit, and sometimes it's a miss, but I'm always looking for what is the best—the fresh catch of the day or the local specialty,” she says.

Dread sitting on your own ? For many solo travelers, their go-to coping strategy is a seat at the bar. “If you feel like chatting, there are always other people at the bar, whether they're traveling or dropping in after work for a beer,” says Embrey. If you'd like to savor the alone time, bring a book or magazine along. Otherwise, ask for a prime people-watching seat to keep yourself entertained: “A window table is the best because I can watch people in the restaurant as well as the street,” says Alvord.

If you don't have the time or energy for a full, seated meal, head to a local grocery store, bakery, or to-go spot and pick up something specific to your destination. “I've been known to travel with a spoon and a fork in my bag,” says Alvord. “So even if all I've got in my hotel room is a mini fridge, I still can go get some fresh berries or some basics for the room, and not have to eat a big, heavy, formal meal for all three meals a day.”

Make a long weekend out of it

If your schedule allows, tacking on an extra day or two to a business trip is an economical way to give yourself a mini vacation. “I probably over-plan that day or extra weekend because I am trying to see friends or connect with people I haven't seen in a while. Usually my meals are the social part of the day,” says Alvord. “And then, I usually try to find an art fair or museum exhibition or something cultural. But I really want to do that alone because I just want to see what I want to see at the pace I want to go. I just want that to be 'me' time.”

A healthy dose of self-indulgence might be just what you need to decide that traveling alone is the best way to see the world.

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How To Create Professional Business Trip Out Of Office Messages

Home » B2B » How To Create Professional Business Trip Out Of Office Messages

Employees with a remarkable ability to communicate are valuable assets to any organization. However, they should know how to prevent communication blackouts when they are out of the office. The Business trip out-of-office message or vacation out-of-office message is necessary to maintain seamless communication with those who may try communicating with you via email. In addition, arranging an out-of-office message is a proactive strategy to inform your contacts, who may email you requesting a response.

Informing your colleagues, associates, and other contacts about your absence from the office is a basic courtesy. It can help strengthen your rapport with people who will appreciate your thoughtfulness in providing an alternate contact number. Setting up an auto-response for an out of office message in outlook for business travel is crucial to avoid the unpleasant situation of keeping the senders guessing about your whereabouts.

How to write a good out-of-office message

There are a few standard requirements for creating a business trip out-of-office message.

1. Begin with greetings

Start the auto message by mentioning something like Hi there, Hello dear sender, or Dear sender to address the person before sharing more details of the message.

2. Mention the reason

Briefly describe the reason, which may be a business trip, work travel, or event participation.

People must know when they may expect a proper reply to their mail from you. Inform the period by mentioning dates when you will be away from the office in the DD/MM/YYYY format.

4. Optional contact

Provide the number of a responsible person who may offer help if the sender requires urgent assistance.

Close the mail by saying Yours truly, Best regards, or Cheers, and mention your name

What not to include in out of office messages

Remember, the business trip out-of-office message is a courteous gesture to help people know about your absence from the office. Therefore, do not include the following in the professional out of office message.

1. Trip details

Out of Office on a Business Trip suffices to mention the reason, like a business trip, without describing the trip destination, goal, and other graphic details.

2. Standard phrases

Avoid using ‘limited access to email’, which makes little sense. Mention the date when you will respond to the communication. Let the people know that there will be no response from your side before a specific date.

3. Errors and typos

Check the message for grammatical or spelling mistakes because the reply is an official response to the emails.

Examples of out of office messages

There are a few scenarios for out-of-office messages. The message can be different depending on the reason. Including the date when you expect to be back and reply to their communication is a common requirement of all out-of-office messages. Check all emails and send an appropriate response after joining the office.

1. Auto-responder out-of-office mail

This is an auto-response to your mail.

Please note that I am out of the office. I will respond to your mail after returning to the office.

You may contact (name and number) if anything is urgent.

Thanks and regards, (Your name)

2. General purpose

The following example can be a standard all-purpose reply.

Dear sender,

Thanks for your mail.

I am out of the office from DD/MM/YY to DD/MM/YYYY because of (mention reason). Communicate with (provide name and contact details) during my absence from the office for any urgent requirement.

In case of an emergency, you may contact me on my number (provide your cell number).

3. Business trip or out of office attending a conference

The out of office message business trip delayed response should be a small description of your business trip without mentioning the destination of the business trip. Consider the following example for auto reply messages for business travel.

Thanks for your email communication.

Presently, I am out of the office on a business trip. I will return on DD/MM/YY. I will respond to your message as soon as I join the office.

With regards, (Your name)

4. In-transit message

The following is an example of an out-of-office message if you are en route to a business meeting and the response may take longer.

Sincere thanks for your mail.

Just a quick note to inform you I am in transit for the (mentioned business event) from DD/MM/YYYY to DD/MM/YYYY. I may take longer to respond to your mail. Contact me on my phone if it is urgent. (mention cell number)

You need not write an essay while creating a business trip out-of-office message. It should be a brief and simple message to make the person aware that you are aware of their communication and will act after resuming office work. Do not include your contact number if you do not wish to receive calls. Providing your subordinate’s or colleague’s contact number may be enough. Additionally, to book a corporate travel using easy and quick self-booking platform, employees can do it on Paxes. Paxes provide quick travel booking and efficient travel management solutions.

Business Trip Out Of Office Message FAQs

Why is it necessary to send out-of-office mail.

An out-of-office mail helps inform the sender about your absence from the office. It assures them of your response after resuming the office.

Is it mandatory to provide the contact number of a colleague or subordinate in the out-of-office message?

Providing an alternative contact is necessary if you are in charge of an essential service, such as customer support.

How to set up an out-of-office message if a person is on sick leave?

You may request a colleague to set up an autoresponder message mentioning your sick leave without giving a date of your return to the office. Do not provide details of your sickness in the out-of-office mail for sick leave.

What is an OOO message?

OOO message is an out-of-office message to let the sender know you cannot reply till you return to the office.

What can be a suitable subject line for a business trip out-of-office message?

Out of the office, on a business trip, can be a suitable subject line, as it is short and to the point.

How do I inform colleagues and clients about my absence?

One can inform the colleauges via several methods such as email, setting up out of office alert on email and internal communication platforms, or speaking directly in person with the colleagues.

2. What information should be mentioned in the out-of-office message?

The out of office message should have several important elements such as greetings, notification of absence, duration, emergency contacting person, reason, expected response time, and signature.

Are there any best practices for writing an effective out-of-office message?

Yes. One should maintain clarity, and be concise while writing the messages. Additionally, there should be a subject line, the message should customized for different person and direct to the point in a formal tone. You should set the alert in advance and set your voicemail accordingly.

Pratyush is a traveling enthusiast who always looks for innovations in business travel management. He has 5 years of experience writing content on corporate travel management and working closely with expert business travel facilitators.

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Meaning of business trip in English

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Examples of business trip

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What is a business trip? Definition and examples

If you visit somewhere for work purposes, i.e., on behalf of your company, that is a business trip. The term applies to both the journey to your destination and your trip back. In most cases, the trip is not a short one.

Collins Dictionary has the following definition of the term :

“A journey made somewhere and back again for business purposes in one’s working capacity.”

Business trip vs. business travel

The two terms refer to the same action or activity. However, their uses are not the same.

Business travel

Business travel refers to traveling on behalf of your employer generally. Although it is a singular term, i.e., business travel and not business travels , it refers to all trips for work purposes. It is a general term .

I might say, for example: “Business travel is becoming a significant part of our airline’s income.” In this case, we are talking in general.

I cannot use business travel for just one journey. For example, I cannot say: “I’m sorry, Jane is away. She is on a business travel.” I would have to say: “I’m sorry … She’s on a business trip.”

Business trip

This term refers to just one journey. We need to use the plural if we are talking in general.

For example, if I wanted to talk about my airline’s revenue, I would say: “Business trip s are becoming a significant part of our airline’s income.” I would not be able to use the singular form.

Reasons for business travel

In all the examples below, your employer is paying for travel, accommodation, etc.

• Meeting with customers or clients.
• Visiting suppliers.
• Attending a conference.
• Attending a course.
• Identify new markets, trends, and consumer traits elsewhere.
• Visiting somewhere to check the progress of a project.
• Visiting a prospect. A prospect is a company or person that you think could turn into a paying customer.
• Apologizing to a customer.
• Your purpose is PR or public relations , such as taking part in a press conference.
• The ROI from the trip is more than its cost. ROI stands for return on investment .
• Your employer sends you somewhere to fix, for example, equipment.
• Networking. There are many people you can meet away from work with whom you or your company could do business.
• Face-to-face meetings are usually more effective than using email, VoIP, texting, etc. Sometimes they are necessary.

Business travelers typically claim their expenses by filling a report , in which they list how much they spent on local public transport, meals, taxis, phone calls, etc.

Negatives and positives of business travel

Business trips may be extremely rewarding experiences. However, for some people, especially if they have families, there is a price to pay.

Regular business travelers frequently feel loney. Some of them may show signs of deteriorating mental health and even depression. According to Adam Perotta in a Business travel News article in December 2019, over 20% of business travelers said they experienced negative mental health effects.

Regarding the survey, Perotta wrote :

“22 percent of respondents reported that business travel had a “very” or “somewhat” negative impact on their mental health. Twenty-one percent indicated that even thinking about an upcoming work trip caused stress. Factors causing that angst include the toll travel takes on physical health, sleep schedules, personal relationships, personal finances and productivity.”

Traveling regularly on behalf of your company may mean missing major family events, which can contribute significantly to relationship problems.

Jet lag can play havoc with our body clock, productivity, and mental and physical health. Eating small meals before and during your flight, refraining from consuming alcoholic drinks, drinking plenty of water, and getting plenty of rest beforehand can help reduce the negative effects of jet lag.

In a Small Business Trends article, Samson Haileysus wrote that the vast majority of small company owners enjoyed their work-related trips. Approximately fifty-five percent of small business owners travel for work purposes at least once each month. Sixty percent of them spend three nights away from home during each trip.

Haileysus added:

“Surprisingly enough almost all (88%) small business owners who travel for business do enjoy traveling. In fact, just under three in four (72%) say they wish they traveled for business more often.”

Corporate travel is a huge market

Business travel is worth hundreds of billions of dollars each year globally. The biggest spenders on business trips are the United States and China.

In the United States, there are over 405 million business trips annually (long distance). For every working day, approximately 1.1 million Americans are traveling for work purposes.

The world’s most popular destination is New York City, while Shanghai is the fastest growing. Trondent Development Corp. made the following comment regarding the importance of business travel for airlines:

“Business passengers represent 75 percent of an airline’s profits despite only being 12% of their total passengers. But the money is well spent: every $1.00 spent on business travel creates $15 of profit for increased sales.”

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Biden visits his Pennsylvania hometown to call for more taxes on the rich and cast Trump as elitist

President Joe Biden returned to his working-class childhood hometown of Scranton Tuesday to call for higher taxes on the rich and cast Donald Trump as an out-of-touch elitist, as he seeks to blunt the populist appeal of Trump’s comeback bid.

President Joe Biden on Tuesday made a nostalgic return to the house where he grew up in working-class Scranton, kicking off a multi-day swing through Pennsylvania. (AP produced by Javier Arciga)

President Joe Biden walks out of his childhood home with a group of unidentified children, Tuesday, April 16, 2024, in Scranton, Pa. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

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President Joe Biden speaks at a campaign event, Tuesday, April 16, 2024, in Scranton, Pa. Biden has begun three straight days of campaigning in Pennsylvania in his childhood hometown of Scranton. The Democratic president is using the working class city of roughly 75,000 as the backdrop for his pitch for higher taxes on the wealthy. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

President Joe Biden speaks at the Carpenters Union Hall, Tuesday, April 16, 2024, in Scranton, Pa. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

FILE - Joe Biden, former Vice President, makes a visit to his childhood home in Scranton Pa., Oct. 23, 2019. President Joe Biden will return to his childhood hometown of Scranton on Tuesday, April 16, 2024, to kick off three straight days of campaigning in Pennsylvania, capitalizing on the opportunity to crisscross the battleground state while Donald Trump spends the week in a New York City courtroom for his first criminal trial. (Jason Farmer/The Times-Tribune via AP, File)

President Joe Biden waves as he arrives on Air Force One at Wilkes-Barre Scranton International Airport, Tuesday, April 16, 2024, in Scranton, Pa. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

SCRANTON, Pa. (AP) — President Joe Biden made a nostalgic return to the house where he grew up in working-class Scranton on Tuesday, kicking off three days of campaigning across Pennsylvania by calling for higher taxes on the rich and casting Donald Trump as an out-of-touch elitist.

When the Democratic president wasn’t trying to blunt the populist appeal of his Republican predecessor’s comeback bid, he appeared to savor his trip down memory lane. He lingered longer than expected at his childhood home, where an American flag waved softly in the wind on the front porch and neighbors crowded the sidewalk under flowering trees and a pale blue sky. The president later posed for photos with children, some wearing school uniforms, in the backyard.

Biden is looking to gain ground in a key battleground state while Trump spends much of the week in a New York City courtroom for his first criminal trial . Biden heads to Pittsburgh on Wednesday and Philadelphia on Thursday, but he started his travels in Scranton, which has long played a starring role in his political autobiography.

On Tuesday, the city of 75,000 provided a backdrop for Biden’s efforts to reframe the conversation around the economy, which has left many Americans feeling sour about their financial situations at a time of stubborn inflation and elevated interest rates despite low unemployment.

The president said he wanted to make the tax code fairer, keeping more money in Americans’ pockets, while criticizing Trump, a billionaire himself, as a tool of wealthy interests.

“When I look at the economy, I don’t look at it through the eyes of Mar-a-Lago. I look at it through the eyes of Scranton,” Biden said, contrasting his hometown with the Florida estate where Trump lives.

Biden has proposed a 25% percent minimum tax rate for billionaires. He added that taxes are “how we invest in the country.”

“Scranton values or Mar-a-Lago values,” Biden said. “These are the competing visions for our economy that raise questions of fundamental fairness at the heart of this campaign.” He spoke at a community center from a stage flanked by a banner reading “Tax Fairness for All Americans.”

The president said decades of Republicans policies that cut taxes for the wealthy with the idea of stimulating the economy “failed America, and Donald Trump embodies that failure.” He scoffed that Trump’s background taught him little more than “the best way to get rich is to inherit it,” and he jabbed at the sharp fall in market value of the former president’s social media platform, Truth Social.

“If Trump’s stock in Truth Social, his company, drops any lower, he might do better under my tax plan than his,” Biden quipped.

Michael Whatley, chair of the Republican National Committee, blamed Biden for inflation in a statement about his trip.

President Joe Biden speaks at a campaign event, Tuesday, April 16, 2024, in Scranton, Pa. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

“It’s no wonder why Pennsylvanians will vote to make America affordable again and elect President Trump in November,” he said.

Near the end of Biden’s speech, he sharply criticized Trump for reportedly calling veterans who died in combat “suckers and losers.” He said the comments, which Trump has denied, were “disqualifying,” adding, “Thank God I wasn’t standing next to him.”

Later in the day, Biden spoke at a training session for grassroots organizers at a union hall, telling attendees: “We have to win. It gets down to old-fashioned politics. It gets down to knocking on doors.”

Throughout the multiple stops, there were paeans to Biden’s roots in this town, where crowds lined the streets to cheer his motorcade. Trump flags were rare, and there was only a smattering of protests against Biden’s support for Israel’s military operations in Gaza.

“Joe Biden has never forgotten where he’s from,” Scranton Mayor Paige Cognetti said before Biden’s speech at the community center. Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro echoed the idea, saying, “This is a guy who has never forgotten the people he grew up with.”

“They’re the people on his mind, and they’re the people in his heart,” Shapiro said.

When Biden took the stage at the community center, the crowd chanted “four more years” before he started speaking. Biden smiled and joked, “I think I should go home now.” Then he quickly added, “except I am already home.”

Biden grew up in Scranton’s Green Ridge neighborhood until his father struggled to find work and moved the family to Delaware when the future president was 10.

Although Delaware eventually became the launching pad for Biden’s political career, he often returned to Scranton, including visiting his childhood home on Election Day 2020.

During that campaign, Biden described the presidential campaign as “Scranton versus Park Avenue.” His reelection team is framing this year’s race in a similar way, releasing a video that calls for promoting the middle class and features interviews with his cousin, a grade school classmate and a county commissioner.

Christopher Borick, director of the Muhlenberg College Institute of Public Opinion, described Scranton as a “mythical place in political culture” that will provide a test for Biden’s political appeal.

“It’s an area that, on paper, aligns perfectly with the populist gains of the Republican Party during the Trump era,” Borick said.

However, Biden won the city and the surrounding county in 2020. If Biden is able to carry Scranton and similar places again this year, as well as limit Trump’s winning margins in rural areas, he may be able to secure another victory in Pennsylvania.

Sam DeMarco, chair of the Republican Party in Allegheny County, where Pittsburgh is located, said “across the board, it costs more to live today than it did when Joe Biden came to office.”

“These are the things that families feel,” he said. “And a scripted appearance by the president is not going to change that.”

As president, Trump signed into law in 2017 a series of tax breaks that disproportionately benefit the rich . Many of the cuts expire at the end of 2025, and Biden wants to keep a majority of them to fulfill his promise that no one earning less than $400,000 will pay more taxes.

However, he also wants to raise $4.9 trillion in revenue over 10 years with higher taxes on the wealthy and corporations. His platform includes a “billionaire’s tax,” which would set a minimum rate of 25% on the income of the richest Americans.

Biden’s Pennsylvania swing overlaps with the start of Trump’s first criminal trial, presenting an opportunity and a challenge for Democrats.

Trump is defending himself against criminal charges for a scheme to suppress allegations of affairs with a porn actor and a Playboy model. Biden’s team has quietly embraced the contrast of the former president sequestered in a courtroom while the current president has free rein to focus on economic issues that are top of mind for voters.

However, the juxtaposition becomes less helpful if Trump soaks up the country’s attention during the first-ever criminal trial of a former president.

Biden didn’t mention Trump’s legal problems. Instead, he told the community center crowd that he learned in Scranton that “money doesn’t determine your worth.”

Associated Press writers Josh Boak and Will Weissert contributed to this report from Washington.

I used points to upgrade my 13-year-old to business class on a long-haul flight — and I may regret it

• I travel often and love using points to upgrade my or my husband's seats, but not our kids.
• I used points to upgrade to Delta One on a flight with my son so we could be comfortable.
• Now that he's had a taste of luxe flying, my kid probably won't love going back to economy class.

As a frequent traveler, I stockpile airline loyalty points and frequently earn upgrades to first class, business class, or premium economy.

I usually save those perks for me and my husband — we don't share them with our kids . But I made an exception on a summer trip to Israel when I was dreading taking long-haul flights from San Antonio to Tel Aviv, Israel, and back in coach.

After all, despite rising costs of living, trend reports suggest many US travelers are still seeking to upgrade their flights to business class or first class . And I get it — an upgraded flight is an easy way to make any trip feel way more luxurious.

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Since I was only traveling with my 13-year-old, I used my saved miles to upgrade us both to Delta One, which is essentially the airline's business class.

The upgraded flight was a highlight of the trip for my son

Going to Israel was a bucket-list trip for us, but I think my son was just as tickled with experiencing in-air luxury as he was with taking a dip in the Dead Sea.

Having extra-large screens for movies, seats that turned into beds, and extra-solicitous flight-attendant service was a pretty cool experience for me to have with my son. We enjoyed having nice meals and special desserts in the sky, too. It made the trip with just him and me more special.

Bonding over the love of travel is awesome. Bonding over the love of travel and eating hot-fudge sundaes at 37,000 feet was the cherry on top — pun intended. I don't regret upgrading his seat.

I'm not sure how my kid will handle flying in economy now

My kids fly with us a lot, but this is the first long-haul flight my son actually remembers. And I'm glad I could swing the upgrade this time, but it won't become a default for him.

If we'd been flying as a family of four as we usually do, I wouldn't have had enough points to cover Delta One for everyone, and the cash price to upgrade would've been outside our budget at thousands of dollars a person.

My 13-year-old is old enough to understand that we don't travel like this on every trip we take, but I'm sure he'll miss business class when he's in economy on his next international flight.

Hopefully, even though he's got a taste of flying up front, he'll learn to have the same balance I do. Although I often fly in upgraded seats, I occasionally get stuck in the middle seat in the back of the plane. I don't love it, but I also don't feel I'm entitled to sit up front or that flying coach is beneath me .

Still, I wonder. When we were enjoying our hot-fudge sundaes in our slippers in business class, he told me, "I wonder what the people who sit in the back are having for dessert." Probably not hand-dipped sundaes with custom toppings, kid.

Watch: Why flying is so terrible even though airlines spend billions

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Best International Travel Insurance for April 2024

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If you're planning your next vacation or trip out of the country, be sure to factor in travel insurance. Unexpected medical emergencies when traveling can drain your bank account, especially when you're traveling internationally. The best travel insurance companies for international travel can step in to provide you with peace of mind and financial protection while you're abroad.

Best International Travel Insurance Companies

Best overall: Allianz Travel Insurance

Best for exotic travel: World Nomads Travel Insurance

Best for trip interruption coverage: C&F Travel Insured

Best for families: Travelex Travel Insurance

Best for long-term travel: Seven Corners Travel Insurance

Best overall: Allianz

Allianz Travel Insurance  offers the ultimate customizable coverage for international trips, whether you're a frequent jetsetter or an occasional traveler. You can choose from an a la carte of single or multi-trip plans, as well as add-ons, including rental car damage, cancel for any reason (CFAR) , adventure sport, and business travel coverage. And with affordable pricing compared to competitors, Allianz is a budget-friendly choice for your international travel insurance needs. 

The icing on the cake is Allyz TraveSmart, Allainz's highly-rated mobile app, which has an average rating of 4.4 out of five stars on the Google Play store across over 2,600 reviews and 4.8 out of five stars from over 22,000 reviews on the Apple app store. So, you can rest easy knowing that you can access your policy and file claims anywhere in the world without a hassle.

Read our Allianz travel insurance review here.

Best for exotic trips: World Nomads

World Nomads Travel Insurance  offers coverage for over 150 specific activities, so you can focus on the adventure without worrying about gaps in your coverage. 

You can select its budget-friendly standard plan, starting at $79. Or if you're an adrenaline junkie seeking more thrills, you can opt for the World Nomads' Explorer plan for $120, which includes extra sports like skydiving, scuba diving, and heli-skiing. And World Nomads offers 24/7 assistance, so you can confidently travel abroad, knowing that help is just a phone call away. 

Read our World Nomads travel insurance review here.

Best for trip interruption: C&F Travel Insured

C&F Travel Insured offers 100% coverage for trip cancellation, up to 150% for trip interruption, and reimbursement for up to 75% of your non-refundable travel costs with select plans. This means you don't have to worry about losing your hard-earned money on non-refundable travel costs if your trip ends prematurely. 

Travel Insured also stands out for its extensive "reasons for cancellation" coverage. Unlike many insurers, the company covers hurricane warnings from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Read our Travel Insured review here.

Best for family coverage: Travelex

Travelex Travel Insurance offers coverage for your whole crew, perfect for when you're planning a family trip. Its family plan insures all your children 17 and under at no additional cost. The travel insurance provider also offers add-ons like adventure sports and car rental collision coverage to protect your family under any circumstance. Got pets? With Travelex's Travel Select plan, you can also get coverage for your furry friend's emergency medical and transportation expenses. 

Read our Travelex insurance review here.

Best for long trips: Seven Corners

Seven Corners Travel Insurance offers specialized coverage that the standard short-term travel insurance policy won't provide, which is helpful if you're embarking on a long-term trip. You can choose from several plans, including the Annual Multi-Trip plan, which provides medical coverage for multiple international trips for up to 364 days. This policy also offers COVID-19 medical and evacuation coverage up to $1 million. 

You also get the added benefit of incidental expense coverage. This policy will cover remote health-related services and information, treatment of injury or illness, and live consultations via telecommunication. 

Read our Seven Corners travel insurance review here.

How to find the right international travel insurance company 

Different travelers and trips require different types of insurance coverage. So, consider these tips if you're in the market to insure your trip. 

Determine your needs 

• Consider the nature of your travel (leisure, business, or adventure) and the associated risks (medical emergencies, trip cancellations, etc.).
• Determine your budget and the amount of coverage you require. 
• Consider the duration of your trip and the countries you'll be visiting, as some policies won't cover specific destinations. 

Research the reputation of the company 

• Look for the company's reviews and ratings from reputable sources like consumer advocacy groups and independent website reviews. 
• Check the provider's financial stability and credit ratings to ensure it can pay out claims reliably. 
• Investigate the company's claims process to ensure it can provide timely support if you need to file a claim.

Compare prices

• Get quotes from multiple providers to compare rates and coverage options.
• See if the company provides discounts or special offers to lower your cost. 
• Look at the deductible or any out-of-pocket expenses you may have to pay if you file a claim to determine if you can afford it. 

Understanding international travel insurance coverage options 

Travel insurance can be confusing, but we're here to simplify it for you. We'll break down the industry's jargon to help you understand what travel insurance covers to help you decide what your policy needs. Bear in mind that exclusions and limitations for your age and destination may apply. 

Finding the best price for international travel insurance

Your policy cost will depend on several factors, such as the length of your trip, destination, coverage limits, and age. Typically, a comprehensive policy includes travel cancellation coverage costs between 5% and 10% of your total trip cost.

If you're planning an international trip that costs $4,500, you can expect to pay anywhere from $225 to $450 for your policy. Comparing quotes from multiple providers can help you find a budget-friendly travel insurance policy that meets your needs.

How we reviewed international travel insurance companies

We ranked and assigned superlatives to the best travel insurance companies based on our insurance rating methodology . It focuses on several key factors, including: 

• Policy types: We analyzed company offerings such as coverage levels, exclusions, and policy upgrades, taking note of providers that offer a range of travel-related issues beyond the standard coverages. 
• Affordability: We recognize that cheap premiums don't necessarily equate to sufficient coverage. So, we seek providers that offer competitive rates with comprehensive policies and quality customer service. We also call out any discounts or special offers available. 
• Flexibility: Travel insurance isn't one-size-fits-all. We highlight providers that offer a wide array of coverage options, including single-trip, multi-trip, and long-term policies.
• Claims handling: The claims process should be pain-free for policyholders. We seek providers that offer a streamlined process via online claims filing and a track record of handling claims fairly and efficiently. 
• Quality customer service: Good customer service is as important as affordability and flexibility. We highlight companies that offer 24/7 assistance and have a strong record of customer service responsiveness. 

We consult user feedback and reviews to determine how each company fares in each category. We also check the provider's financial rating and volume of complaints via third-party rating agencies. 

Which company has the best international travel insurance?

The best insurance policy depends on your individual situation, including your destination and budget. However, popular options include Allianz Travel Insurance, World Nomads, and Travel Guard. 

Is international health insurance the same as travel insurance?

International health insurance and travel insurance serve different purposes. While both may cover medical expenses, international health insurance provides long-term health insurance for working abroad. Meanwhile, travel insurance offers short-term coverage for the duration of your trip. 

What insurance do you need for international travel?

Typically, your regular health insurance won't cover you out of the country, so you'll want to make sure your travel insurance has adequate medical emergency coverage. Depending on your travel plans, you may want to purchase add-ons, such as adventure sports coverage, if you're planning on doing anything adventurous like bungee jumping.

Should you get travel insurance for international travel?

Travel insurance is worth the price for international travel because they're generally more expensive, so you have more to lose. Additionally, your regular health insurance won't cover you in other countries, so without travel insurance, you'll end up paying out of pocket for any emergency medical care you receive out of the US.

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