Since the restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic began, millions of people traveling for work have been forced to change planes and hotels for digital tools such as Zoom, Google Meet and Microsoft Teams that allow remote interaction with collaborators and partners. But what was true before the pandemic remains true today: there are certain activities that do not work as well remotely, such as creating relationships, promoting exchanges within the company, prospecting or launching into new markets.

According to the most recent index from the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA), the recovery of this sector in 2021 proceeded at a slower and more cautious pace than expected a year earlier. However, global business travel spending is expected to rise in 2022 and reach a full recovery in 2024, ending the year at the same rate as pre-pandemic spending in 2019 ($1.4 trillion) and a year earlier. than previously anticipated.

Keep in mind that business travel is no longer exclusive to senior executives or owners of large companies, but now includes owners of small and medium-sized companies, and even independent workers. This new type of 'business traveler' has grown considerably in Latin America and, according to the World Bank, is characterized by the use of technology, a “work smart and not work hard” mentality, and the purpose of investing your money strategically. Work-related trips also include all kinds of professionals, technicians, salespeople and entrepreneurs who, for example, move between cities in the same country.

Whether planning an out-of-town meeting, exploring new opportunities, expanding a business, or simply needing to travel due to the nature of the work being done, the new work traveler is looking to use their resources efficiently. It is not just about saving money and time on the trip, but also about taking advantage of digital tools that allow you to book a hotel or a flight easily and without extra costs. Currently, running a business requires speed and planning a trip is definitely not an option.

Here are five apps every business traveler should have on their mobile phone:

amend

With more than 450 standardized and affordable hotels in Colombia, Peru and Mexico that promise free Wi-Fi, toiletry kit, bottled water, television and impeccable spaces, Ayenda allows people who travel for work to book rooms in hotels that adapt to their needs. your needs.

With this app it is not necessary to plan a last-minute trip for work in advance, since the reservation can be made instantly. In addition, it has preferential rates for companies looking to save on their corporate trips, groups and long stays. Available on Google Play and App Store.

skyscanner

It is a flight metasearch engine with which it is possible to compare more than 1,000 flight and airline search engines from all over the world. It is essential when it comes to saving money and time because it allows you to find the cheapest flights in one place and quickly purchase one when you need an unforeseen business trip.

Once you find the desired option, Skyscanner connects you with the airline or agency to make the purchase. In addition, it has a real-time map that compiles entry requirements and information on restrictions due to the health emergency around the world. Available on Google Play, App Store and web.

Expensify

With individuals and businesses of all sizes as users, Expensify is one of the most widely used tools globally for automated expense management. It is useful to keep track of bills, travel expenses and all the expenses that arise on a business trip.

The application allows you to scan receipts, invoices and bank card vouchers that are automatically included in the budget calculations to maintain financial control of the trip. In addition, it allows you to generate and send both invoices and reimbursements. Available on Google Play, App Store and web.

Moovit

The number 1 urban mobility application in the world cannot be missing from your mobile device when traveling for work. With more than 1.3 billion users in 3,500 cities in 112 countries, Moovit combines information from public transport operators and authorities with real-time information from its user community to give travelers a real-time picture, including the best route to take. your trip.

In 2020, Moovit won the award for the best implementation of real-time passenger information at the 10th edition of the Transport Ticketing Awards held in London, United Kingdom. Available on Google Play, App Store and web.

Google Maps

Although it is one of Google's most basic tools, many times its full potential is not used to save time and facilitate mobility on a work trip. It not only allows you to know where you are but also to map and label the places of interest in the area of ​​influence of the trip: from meeting and work places to those related to basic needs such as restaurants, shops, supermarkets and pharmacies, among others; and for example check restaurant opening hours and points of interest.

This application makes it easy to create the step by step to get to a certain place knowing the distance and time -in different means of transport and even walking-, which can make the trip more productive. If you do not have a data plan or do not have a Wi-Fi network nearby, Google Maps allows you to download the instructions to use them without Internet. Available on Google Play, App Store and web.

Whether searching for the best hotel, flight, restaurant and transportation options, as well as managing related expenses, digital tools are helping to make the experience of the new business traveler easier and more productive.