Get ready to conquer your first business trip with Corporate Traveller's essential tips! From packing like a pro to navigating airports, we've got you covered.
Is it better to check in online or at the airport?
It varies. Checking in online means you're able to reserve your seat quicker and less likely to be bumped. It saves time at the airport if you only have hand luggage, as you can go straight through to departures without queuing to check in. Another perk of online check-in is that you'll have your boarding pass stored on your phone.
If you're travelling with luggage that needs to go in hold, you can check in online but would still need to queue to check in your baggage. It could be easier to check in at the airport. You may have a slim (emphasis on the slim) chance at an upgrade too. Plus if you still love a paper stub, you'll probably get one too!
A few additional things to note. If you are booked on a group travel fare, you may not have a choice but to check-in at the airport. And check your airline booking terms - some may charge you to check in at the airport.
What are the benefits of checking in online?
Benefits of checking in online include:
- You can reserve your seat quicker.
- Less likely to be bumped off the flight if it's overbooked.
- Reduces time at the airport if you only have hand luggage, as you can go straight through to departures without queuing to check in.
- Your boarding pass will be stored on your phone - easier to access and kinder to the planet.
When should you check in online before a flight?
Usually you will be notified by your airline when online check-in has opened. Keep an eye on your emails or app for those alerts; it can vary between 30 days ahead of the flight, to just 24 hours before take-off. Why not check in as soon as you can, it's one task ticked off?
What is the process of checking in at the airport?
Firstly, double, triple check you have your identification and other documents, before you even leave! And allow yourself plenty of time.
When you arrive at the airport, view the boards to see what zone and desk number/s your airline is using. Follow the signage to those desks - there should be airline-branded signs around you to help you know you're in the right place.
The desk clerk will check your identification and ask questions about your luggage to check you in. You'll then get your boarding pass, and can head to departures!
What documents do you need to check in at the airport?
Flights within South Africa - You will need either your ID book or drivers licence for domestic travel.
International flights - Business travel to anywhere outside of South Africa requires a passport to travel. Passports need to be valid for six months after your intended return date, and have at least two blank pages, otherwise you may be denied boarding.
You must also check the government regulations of the country you're visiting as they may require a visa, health documentation or other documents. Use Corporate Traveller's Travel Map to check restrictions and guidance for the country you are planning to visit.
How can a travel management company help ease the stress of corporate travel planning?
While business travel appears to be just booking flights and accommodation, it's actually about much more than that. That's why we call it travel management - it's bringing together all those aspects that companies have to think about, from their travel policy through to duty of care, reporting, mobile apps and more. Corporate Traveller has been assisting South African businesses with solutions for their corporate travel challenges for 25 years.
