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LONDON, England -- As the summer vacation season hits the Northern Hemisphere, lines at airports get longer as families take to the skies.
This year promises to be no different and represents a greater hurdle for the executive who needs to travel.
"The summer of 2005 is shaping up to have record high demand and reduced airline capacity," said Jack O'Neill, chief operating officer at travel management firm Carlson Wagonlit.
"When you add standard weather delays and labor issues to the mix, travel can be challenging for executives traveling for business during this peak time."
If you cannot avoid traveling during this period, there are a few strategies executives can implement to keep stress and irritation to a minimum.
Check-in via a Web site and factor in time spent at security checkpoints at airports. This is especially true at European travel hubs in the wake of heightened security after the London blasts.
Print off boarding passes before leaving for the airport or use self-service check-in kiosks. This will save time and stop you venturing towards the check-in counters.
In the U.S., the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Web site allows travelers to determine the average time spent at security checkpoints at each U.S. airport for a specific time of day. You can access these details on the travel tips section of their Web site.
The Transport for London Web site gives details of the underground railway system and restrictions after the recent blasts. Check other airport and transport Web sites for delays and travel issues.
Try and pack a carry-on bag rather than check-in luggage. This can save waiting 20 to 30 minutes for baggage when you have landed. Luggage restrictions can be an issue, so you should check the airline's Web site for weight limits.
Experienced travelers know that it is best to fly early in the day for maximum flexibility in the event of a delay or cancellation. Those booked on the last flight may face late arrival times or unexpected overnight stays.
Remember that some budget airlines have restrictions as to which airports they can land at if weather diverts your airplane. You can end up stranded at an airport that is a long way from your final destination.
When travel budgets permit, try and book direct flights to eliminate the chances of missing a connection.
Carry emergency phone numbers, credit card details and photocopies of your passport separate to where you stash your valuables. This is essential if items are stolen.
Dress smartly in order to avoid delays at security checkpoint. Any clothing, jewellery or adornments with metal are best packed away in your luggage.
Remember that many laptop cases look the same, so if you are flying with one make sure it is noticeable as yours, with a business card adhered to the lid or with other tags.
Wear shoes that are easy to slide on and off, many airports in the U.S. and elsewhere require passengers to remove footwear before entering the security checkpoint.
Exercise while you travel. Not only does it help with jet lag and help you adjust to other time zones, it also helps improve circulation after a long flight and is a proven stress-reliever.
It can be hard to find time for a fitness routine on the road, but many top hotels now have gyms and fitness programs. Many cities have jogging routes in central areas, allowing you to exercise in the open-air as well.
It is worth booking a hotel near areas of interest in a city so you can easily visit an art gallery or a popular restaurant. This makes business travel more enjoyable. Walking to these sites is normally easier than sitting in traffic jams in a taxi as well.
