10 of my (work) travel habits

Yesterday I got back from a company kickoff in Vegas.

Great week, lots and lots of learning, and celebrated a month into my new role. Wild that it’s already been a month.

Coming back from this work trip inspired me to write this week’s newsletter on some of my (work) travel habits. These aren’t specific to work travel, but could definitely apply.

Let’s jump in.

I can be pretty particular about some elements of travel. Not annoying particular. I am particular, but I plan ahead. I would never inconvenience someone or be annoying (at least not intentionally!).

Here’s a list of some of my (work) travel habits. Which ones do you identify with? Which ones do you disagree with?

1. I am a United Airlines stan: Ok ok… I didn’t take United this time around. I took American. But that’s because I was tied to a specific process as a new hire to the company, and there wasn’t a United option available. But in general, United Airlines always.

2. Overpacking: On cords and chargers, that is. I always worry about not having enough charge on my electronics. I also have a huuuge external charging bank that I love. Works wonders and charges my Macbook pro too.

3. Aisle seat only: Self-explanatory. I’m tall. Aisle seats on planes. Nothing else.

4. Credit cards: My CC strategy is to focus on cards that are centered in travel. Even if I don’t travel too too extensively, just here and there, the perks are worth it. I also aim to do all spending on my CCs (in everyday life too, not just traveling). I have Chase Sapphire Reserve and the United Club card.

5. Early morning flights: Love them. I prefer first or second flight out of the day. Lower chance of delays and cancellations.

6. First/Biz class: Ok here’s my philosophy on upgrading (I def don’t spend on this at time of purchase). If I’m upgrading, I will only do so if the following criteria is met: The cost of upgrade equals out to $100 (or less) per hour of the flight, and the flight has to be longer than 2 hours. if those parameters aren’t met, it’s not worth it to me. I’ve done some ORD-SFO trips this way. I even did it on KLM when I flew back from AMS-ORD last year. The upgrade was not too much, relative to the length of the flight. And it worked with my rule.

7. Carry-on: I will sit in a middle seat before I need to check a bag. I loathe checking bags. I understand a larger suitcase for something long-term, but the regular trips I make domestically for a few days, carry on only. The convenience of it all is 10/10.

8. Backpack: I love a good travel backpack. Maybe my favorite brand, for the last decade or so, maybe more, is Topo Designs. I also recently discuvered WANDRD. Great bags. The (functional) design, the color options, the materials, everything about them is great.

9. Airport theory: I won’t ever be testing this. If you don’t know airport theory, it’s this weird internet trend where people have been documenting showing arriving to the airport like 45min before their flight. No thank you. I’ll be there 2hrs before. LOL.

10. Hotel upgrades: If you don’t ask, you’ll never know. I try and always squeeze in an ask. I’m currently Gold status with Hilton, but I think that will go away soon, since I no longer am with AMEX. We’ll see. Speaking of chains, I’ve been really enjoying my stays at Marriott, so I may be turning into more of a Marriott stan.

This list makes it seem like I’m jet-setting every week. lol

I’m not.

What are some of your travel habits?

Thanks for reading and for being here. I don’t take for granted that you care what I have to say. Or even if you don’t care, and you’re still here; thanks for being a fan anyway. ❣️

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