Business travel can bring people to some wonderful locations; in fact, many locations are chosen to draw attendees and appeal to a range of people and tastes. What's more, bringing a spouse or friend can be more pleasant than traveling alone. For those travelers who are considering bringing a spouse or significant other to a business event, there are some considerations to think about before booking travel.
Review Corporate Travel Policy Before Traveling with a Spouse
Check with a supervisor or the corporate employee handbook to determine whether the company allows spouses or other guests to accompany business travelers. Be advised that, in most cases, the guest will have to pay for their own expenses, including airfare, meals and other costs associated with the trip.
Ensure that the Business Trip is Amenable to Guests
Check the program or itinerary and see if guests are allowed at certain functions, such as cocktail hours or dinners. If a specific policy is not stated, ask colleagues or other industry members if guests usually attend the event or if it is frowned upon.
In addition, it is usually wise to let a boss or manager know of plans to bring a guest on the trip – there is a chance that he or she could find out from someone else instead, which can cause for an awkward or difficult situation.
Many conventions provide guest programs in which spouses can gather and enjoy a guided tour of the city's sights or other attractions, sometimes at no charge. This is a great way for guests and spouses to gather and meet, and to spend time during the day while meetings and other business is taking place.
Research the Host Hotel or Resort's Amenities and Activities
Read up on the resort or hotel in which the event will take place – are there amenities or activities that a guest would be interested in, such as golf, spa services or nearby attractions? Take into consideration how a guest would spend his or her time while the business traveler is attending meetings and other functions during the day.
Plan to Keep Corporate Travel Expenses Separate
When bringing a guest on a business trip, prepare in advance to keep each person's expenses separate. Expense reports should only bill for expenses incurred while traveling for business – not spa treatments, guest programs or other costs not associated with the event. The guest will need to pay his or her own way and all receipts should be kept separate for easy record keeping.
Bringing a guest along on a business trip can be an enjoyable way to mix business and pleasure with some advanced planning.
Teresa Shaw - Teresa J, Shaw is a professional journalist with more than 12 years of experience. She travels for both business and pleasure several ...
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