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It’s no secret that if not done right, business travel can negatively impact diet, exercise and sleep, and as health and wellbeing continues to be on the forefront of many business’ minds – SME travel expert, Corporate Traveller is encouraging professionals to adopt healthier travel habits.
Corporate Traveller New Zealand general manager Angie Forsyth says the productivity benefits of having a healthy and happy team should not be underestimated.
“Prioritising health and wellbeing when travelling for business will ensure you and your team arrive at meetings and events with the energy needed to achieve ideal business outcomes.”
Angie says there are some simple ways in which professionals can keep themselves well and also optimise the time spent travelling.
To start, Angie says the type of flight you book can make all the difference.
“Always aim to book direct flights when available to avoid unnecessary layovers and delays.
“Additionally, if you’re required to travel for more than six hours – consider a ticket in a premium cabin, or if flying Air New Zealand – a Sky Couch, for extra comfort and the ability to sleep if need-be.”
Corporate Traveller New Zealand booking data shows roughly a 20 per cent increase in Premium Economy bookings when comparing the first six months of 2024 compared to the same period last year, for international destinations other than Australia.
“Premium Economy has taken off in popularity for those travelling for business to long-haul destinations.
“Many airlines offer fantastic Premium Economy products that provide you with some of the same benefits of travelling business class, without the price tag.
“Air New Zealand’s, Sky Couch product is another great option for more flexibility and a comfortable sleeping option on long flights.”
Angie says for close to home travel – using carry-on only luggage when possible and choosing strategic flight times are effective ways to enhance airport experiences, ensuring both cost savings and reduced stress.
“With carry-on only luggage you will save on your airfare, and it will also mean you don’t have to be at the airport as early, and you can leave the airport much quicker at the other end.
“Choose accommodation offering amenities like premium toiletries and gym facilities, which can significantly lighten packing lists.”
Lounge-access is a nice add-on to have especially if you fly for business often. If a membership is unaffordable, there are ways to access a lounge through loyalty schemes or even through your credit card provider.
“In an airport lounge you can clear emails, have something healthy to eat and even have a shower if need-be to freshen up ahead of your flight.”
Once on the plane there are ways to put the downtime to good use to reduce stress at the other end. “Consider getting out your laptop and finishing off a presentation, or going over your speech notes, this will ensure you arrive at your destination with a clear head.”
Angie says simple healthy choices onboard a flight can also help you feel less lethargic.
“Remember the basics like drinking plenty of water to avoid dehydration, choosing a healthier meal option and stretching your legs when safe to do so to avoid aches and pains.
“Health and wellbeing is front of mind for us at Corporate Traveller when we help businesses put together their travel programs.
“We thrive off seeing our clients succeed and know that a travel program supported by data and analytics from our market leading reporting, that prioritises health and wellbeing, all while sticking to that all important budget, can help professionals focus purely on the task at hand.”
