Travelling is soul-soothing, except for the planning part. It can be stressful. You do not want to experience frustration when you realize you have forgotten to pack an important item after arriving at your destination!
It is especially maddening if you are traveling for business and discover an important document because of prior planning. The best way to avoid disappointments like this is to create a business travel planner that is customized to you. Here are our tips to make your journeys – business or pleasure – much easier.
Research your destination
Research about the area you’ll be traveling to. Consider things that may affect your trips, like political situation, cultural differences, crime rate, and business hours.
If you have some additional time left after work, you may even turn it into a ‘leisure’ trip and check out some tourist destinations.
Make travel arrangements
Ensure that your passport, ID, and appropriate visas are valid and you have them packed.
Prefer to book red-eye flights to avoid traffic and surged airfare.
Book accommodations close to your business venue.
Book local transport to and from the airport or train station. If you are traveling to a new destination, we suggest you book a professional chauffeured car service provider for your intra-city travel.
If you have airline reward points or are a part of hotel loyalty programs, consider booking with them. It will help you save a ton of money.
Consider trip insurance to cover unforeseen circumstances.
Create an itinerary
Prepare a comprehensive itinerary to keep you on the right track. It could include your meeting dates, time, venue, address, people you are meeting, all your transportation and accommodation details, and even your local correspondence.
Prepare for your meetings
Establish quick pointers on goals and objectives for each of your meetings.
Review the names, roles, and titles of the people you’ll be meeting with.
Keep necessary documents and presentations in a shareable format.
Try to take only a carry-on suitcase. Even if you have a check-in bag, ensure you have essentials like your electronics and accessories, medications, and a change of clothes in your carry-on bag.
Prefer travel organizers to streamline your belongings and use plastic bags for toiletries to prevent leaks.
Stick to neutral colored clothing that can be worn in various ways.
Prepare a list of necessary and optional items.
Necessary
Passport/visa, credit cards, bank cards, vaccination records, and personal ID (keep the digital copy of all your important documents in your cloud storage)
Toiletries
Local currency as cash
Electronics chargers and additional USB cords
Weather and culture appropriate clothes
An all-purpose kit with band-aids, stain remover, lint roller, breath mints, allergy medication, upset stomach medication, pain relievers, flu medication, hand sanitizer, face mask, and baby wipes
Optional
Notebook and pen
Noise-canceling headphones or earplugs
Casual clothes for evenings and weekends
Workout gear
Before Your Leave
Set up your out-of-office message.
Arrange your substitute who will be taking care of your responsibilities until you return.
Find someone to take care of your pets if you have any.
Give your itinerary and contact information to a trusted friend or family member so they know your whereabouts.
Make sure to stay hydrated.
Bonus tip
Even if you are on a business trip, take short strolls or take the scenic route to your meeting. You don’t want the only things you see are hotel rooms and conference centers!
Everyone would agree TSA security checks are nightmares for flyers. It has caused thousands of people even to miss their flights!
You can’t help if the TSA screens passengers at a snail’s pace. In addition to that, if you have a novice traveler in front of you in the queue, it’s another nightmare waiting to happen. These are beyond your control.
But what you can do is be prepared and take the necessary steps possible to make the screening process as fast as possible from your end. Here’s how you can do it.
Tip 1: Pack Smart
If you are traveling by flight, packing is an art you must master.
Your boarding pass, IDs, passports are some things that get checked frequently at the airport. So, remember to keep them in the outer compartment of your bag so that they are easily accessible.
Electronic items like mobiles, laptops, tablets, chargers, and other devices go through security checks. So, carry them in luggage that makes it easy for you to pack and unpack them quickly. Also, be sure to have all your electronics in your carry-on, not in your check-in baggage.
Tip 2: Prepare For Screening Lane
Remove your belt along with your wallet and store them (except for your ID) in your carry-on bag.
Ensure your pockets are empty except your ID and cell phone (if you have a digital boarding pass).
Untie your shoes to remove them before you reach the gray bins.
Place your laptop/tablet/other electronics in a single compartment.
Place your shoes, belt, and liquids in another bin.
Make sure your liquids are in a single Zip-Loc bag together
Tip 3: Choose Your Queue Strategically
If you are in a hurry to catch your flight, never stand behind a family with kids or that frazzled, discombobulated traveler who is woefully unprepared for an airport security check.
Tip 4:Get Global Entry
Opt for TSA PreCheck. It’s a lifesaver for frequent fliers as it allows flyers departing from the USA to go through a security check-in in under 5 minutes without having to remove their shoes, laptops, belts, and light coats.
But here’s a secret. You can get your Global Entry pass for free with certain American Express credit cards. If you also travel abroad, get a Global Entry pass for $100. It not only includes the perks of TSA PreCheck, but you will also be able to enter the USA through the automatic kiosks that scan your passport and fingerprint instead of standing in long customs lines.
Tip 5: Become An Elite Flier
Elite fliers enjoy loyalty rewards like special discounts, free upgrades, and other perks. Most airlines have a special security lane for their elite flyers, which is always less crowded.
Tip 6: Arrive Early
Airports are almost always overcrowded. Furthermore, chances of getting caught in traffic are also high. It is especially true if you are traveling from busy NYC airports like LGA, JFK Airpor or Newark Airport.
You can avoid unnecessary stress by arriving at the airport early. Rely on chauffeured airport car services from professional car rental companies VIP Connection
We provide an on-time car service. Our chauffeurs are trained and aware of shortcut routes to all California airports. So you can rest assured you will reach your destination safely. Not only that, we have an extensive fleet of luxury cars that will ensure you travel in style.
How many times have you traveled somewhere by Uber or Lyft?
How many times have you come across a situation where the app shows you the wait time is almost an hour or the surge price is through the roof?
In such situations, you must have taken refuge in your local taxis to save the cost or time, right? Here’s the thing, there’s no guarantee that the cab will be clean or you will be safe with the unknown cab driver.
But, have you ever thought of looking for an alternative that’s safe, hygienic, and comes with an on-time arrival guarantee? VIP Connection is an experienced luxury transportation company in the New York Area. But what makes us different from Uber or Lyft?
Aside from the competitively affordable price and on-request always-on-time service, there are numerous things that make VIP Connection vastly different from a Transportation Network Company (TNC) like Uber and Lyft. The most significant among them is the lack of professional training of independent drivers who drive Uber or Lyft. They often do not come with the same level of chauffeur training, client servicing, and overall safety, and the high standards of excellence as our expert drivers.
The following are a couple of Pros and Cons of using a TNC rideshare:
Advantages:
🗸They are convenient and easily available to go anywhere at any given time
🗸 Competitive price
🗸 Easy to order ride via app/phone call
Disadvantages:
⤫ TNC drivers are required to get separate insurance since their vehicle insurance doesn’t cover if mishaps happen while working with a TNC. But, how to ensure your cab driver has one such insurance?
⤫ No drug or liquor testing is mandated to become Uber/Lyft driver
⤫ No authority monitors the vehicles while on duty on GPS live
⤫ No live personnel to go to if any issue arises to get immediate resolution
⤫ No criminal history verification done with fingerprints
⤫ Excessive cases of kidnapping, assault, and attack on travelers by TNC drivers have been reported
⤫ No formal safety training program for drivers
⤫ Excessive/unpredictable stand by times
⤫ Often drivers don’t even show up or cancel abruptly
⤫ Not regulated in every state
Whereas TNC drivers work independently, according to their needs and convenience. The trips done by Uber or Lyft drivers are not closely monitored as well, which is why they lack the enthusiasm and pressure to improve their performance. Safety and on-road assistance are also not guaranteed.
VIP Connection comes into the picture with the assurance of safety, cleanliness, utmost high-quality chauffeur service, and always on-time guarantee. We ensure stress-free travel and safety. Our services are closely monitored by the New York Public Utilities Commission, the New York Highway Patrol, and the Department of Motor Vehicles. Therefore, we abide by all the safety requirements and service standards. So, various transportation services provided by us, at VIP Connection Transportation, are of a much higher standard than that of a Lyft or Uber.
Furthermore, your trip is insured every time you avail of our services. But, if in case the insurance company refuses to cover the cost, one of our representatives personally follows up with the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) on the same day. Otherwise, the authority has the right to suspend our ‘Authority to Operate’ license. Therefore, you can rest assured that your journey will be smooth, comfortable, hassle-free, and memorable.
VIP Connection is dedicated to demonstrating the highest degree of professionalism that you can rely on. Our long list of happy customers proves that you receive only the safest, most comfortable, and efficient chauffeur services in the world. We are present in the tri-state area. So, next time you are traveling give VIP Connection a ring at (212) 571-7770 or book here.
International Arrivals – Inside Pickup: Inside the terminal, on an international flight your chauffeur will meet you outside of customs with a name sign
Domestic Arrivals – Inside Pickup: Inside the terminal, on a domestic flight your chauffeur will meet you in the baggage claim area.
Arrivals – Curbside Pickup: For International Flights Curbside pickup requests – Your VIP chauffeur will meet you at Level 1 Terminal A arrivals. For Domestic arrivals, Your VIP chauffeur will meet you upstairs on the departure level.
When you have secured your luggage and are ready to be picked up please call your chauffeur directly or call VIP Dispatch at 212-571-7770 to coordinate your pickup.
Airlines Served – Aer Lingus, Air China, Air India, British Air, Cathay Pacific, Delta Airlines, El Al, Lufthansa, Open Skies, Porter Airlines, SAS, Swiss Air, TAP, Virgin Atlantic
International Arrivals – Inside Pickup: Your VIP chauffeur will meet you with a name sign in the international arrivals hall, after clearing US Customs.
Domestic Arrivals – Inside Pickup: Your VIP chauffeur will meet you in the baggage claim area with a Name Sign.
Arrivals – Curbside Pickup: For International flights curbside pickup request – Your VIP chauffeur will meet you outside the terminal at Level 1 Terminal B arrivals. For domestic arrivals – Your VIP chauffeur will meet you upstairs on the departure level at the far end.
International Arrivals – Inside Pickup: Your VIP chauffeur will meet you at the international departures level which is the upper (3rd) level.
Domestic Arrivals – Inside Pickup: Your VIP chauffeur will meet you in the baggage claim area.
Arrivals – Curbside Pickup: For International Flights Curbside pickup requests – Your VIP chauffeur will meet you at Level 1 Terminal C arrivals. For domestic arrivals – Your VIP chauffeur will meet you at the international departures level which is the upper (3rd) level.
Fixed Based Operators out of Newark (EWR) Airport:
FBO Signature Flight Support EWR – 24/7 operations 15 Brewster Road, Newark, New Jersey 07114 Phone: +1 973 624 1660 Email: EWR@signatureflight.com
Newark Airport lounges (EWR)
United Club – relaxing and friendly
The United Club lounge in Terminal A serves all United Club members, while all other United passengers can access the lounge for 59 USD.
With basic business services, including free Wi-Fi, computers with internet access, printers, and copiers, you can get a little work done before you fly. Or enjoy free snacks, drinks poured by a friendly bartender, and reading material while you wait for your flight.
The Terminal A United Club is so popular, many United passengers take the shuttle from Terminal C to relax here.
American Airlines Admirals Club – conference rooms
If you’re flying first-class or business-class on American, if you have an Admirals Club membership, or if you’re an elite frequent flyer AAdvantage member with the airline, you have access to the Admirals Club Newark airport location.
Wi-Fi is free, as are PC terminals, and you have three conference rooms to choose from. Keep in mind, you’ll have to pay for any food you enjoy here.
Air Canada Airport Lounge – designed for privacy
Though the Air Canada airport lounge at Newark Airport is relatively small, it’s designed to provide privacy both for those trying to work and passengers who want to relax. Take a look at one of the more niche Newark Airport lounges.
The buffet is fairly substantial, and the self-serve drink area offers some good choices. One of the real advantages of this Newark Airport (EWR) lounge, which is open to Air Canada premium passengers, Star Alliance Gold members, and Priority Pass members during non-peak hours, is its convenient location to the nearby Air Canada gates.
Art & Lounge – Newark Airport’s answer to convenience and designer style
This private airport lounge is conveniently located at Terminal B, between Satellites B2 and B3. As it’s on the city side of the airport rather than the runway side, it’s an ideal choice if you need to hold a business meeting with someone who isn’t flying.
An artistic vibe permeates the Art & Lounge space, which features designer seating areas, a dedicated TV zone, and conference rooms, as well as private workstations, printers, and fax machines.
Enjoy a wide selection of food, liquor, and premium coffee and tea choices.
Priority Pass members have access to Art & Lounge, while other passengers can pay 45 USD for entrance.
British Airways Galleries Club Lounge – first-class dining
If you’re flying in first class with British Airways or Cathay Pacific, fine dining awaits you at this lounge. Elite and premium BA passengers can also take advantage of the snacks, buffet, and self-service bar available in this lounge.
Showers are available for those in need of freshening up after a long flight, and a business center provides computer access. Keep in mind however that outlets are in short supply elsewhere in the lounge. Oneworld elite members also have access to this lounge.
Lufthansa Senator and Business Lounges – German beer on tap
If you’re flying first-class or have top-tier frequent flyer status with Lufthansa, you can access the Senator Lounge, which features a reserved dining area with meals prepared to order.
The Business Lounge is also available to frequent flyers, business-class flyers, and those with premium economy tickets.
Both lounges take advantage of their space well and have an extensive array of liquors and spirits available, including top German beers on tap.
Delta Sky Club – renovated with more outlets
The recently renovated Delta Sky Club Newark Airport has updated its menu and added plenty of charging outlets throughout its space. Delta Sky Club members can even use their frequent flyer miles to order drinks at the bar.
If you’re an American Express Platinum cardholder, you can also enjoy free access to this lounge when you’re flying with Delta.
Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse – showers and luggage storage
Those flying Upper-Class on Virgin Atlantic, Flying Club Gold members, and their guests flying Virgin are welcomed to the high-end Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse lounge near the Terminal B gates.
Passengers can enjoy cooked-to-order burgers and other free food and drink options, as well as free Wi-Fi and showers to enjoy before the flight. You can also stow your carry-on luggage safely to enjoy your time in the lounge more freely.
United Clubs – take your pick from two locations
While many passengers choose to head to the more spacious United Club at Terminal A, there are also two United Clubs to choose from in Terminal C, at the ends of the C1 and C3 wings of the terminal. These two lounges offer the same basic amenities as the Terminal A club, but they’re smaller and may have fewer food options available.
United Airlines Polaris Lounge – craft cocktails and outlets galore
With an outlet and USB port available for every guest in this United Airlines airport lounge, the new Polaris Lounge clearly has business-oriented passengers in mind. The bar makes craft cocktails, the dining area features an a la carte menu, and a DIY bagel bar helps you stay well-fueled if time is an issue. Ten private daybeds and 10 shower suites, with room for your luggage, let long-haul passengers recuperate and freshen up.
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) is one of the busiest airports in the country, and connecting to and from New York City can be complicated at times. Take the stress out of the final leg of your journey and book a reliable VIP Connection car service for Newark International Airport (EWR) to add a touch of comfort and elegance to your trip.