Whether you're a seasoned choreographer who has traveled the world or just beginning to take on jobs that would require you to travel, check out some of my tips below to help make your travel experience less stressful and more rewarding!
Tips for Airplane Travel
Pick an airline and join their mileage rewards program. It’s free. Flying with the same airline as much as possible can be very beneficial. The accumulated milage on these trips can be used towards future trips. Who doesn't love a free vacation?
Get a credit card offered by your airline of choice. Use this card to make all of your purchases throughout the month (and be sure to pay it off to avoid crazy interest charges). You will also get additional mileage, discounts, access to airport lounges, and more. This is an opportunity to gain status very quickly. Before you know it, you’ll be bumped up to business class for free!
Download the airline app. You can check in, change your seat, and do everything prior to arriving at the airport. Avoid waiting in long lines at a kiosk or desk to check in.
TSA Pre Check. The cost is $85 and lasts for 5 years. I get through TSA in about 3-5 minutes with this. In most cases, you don’t have to remove electronics, shoes, coats, etc. Note: most airline credit cards will give you a full refund when you apply for Pre Check so it could end up costing you zero.
Set up your transportation to/from the airport in advance. If you are paying for a ride share or parking be sure to include this in your invoice to a client when possible.
Pack your small essentials in a fannypack. It’s handsfree and secure with easy access to things like your phone, credit card/cash, ID, Airpods, charger, etc.
Carry-on bag (and backpack if needed) only. More tips on how to pack efficiently coming your way soon!
Tips for Travel by Car (for the long haul drives)
Create a few music playlists, download podcasts, or audible books you can listen to while you are driving. This helps me avoid getting tired or zoning out on long drive. A great music playlist is always a great way to stay pumped up and ready for your rehearsal!
Look up your destination around the same time the day prior you are planning on leaving. This will be a good estimate for how long it will take you so you can plan accordingly. Always leave a 30-60min buffer as you never know. Especially if you are arriving and beginning to work right away!
Fuel up your vehicle prior to the day you are taking off. It can get hectic so not having to worry about that is helpful.
Be sure you keep track of your mileage and gas as these expenses can be write-offs AND you should turn them into your client to be reimbursed.
Discussions & Decisions
The more comfortable we can feel when on the road, the better mindset you will be in to deliver the best possible routine and experience to your clients. Some things to consider when setting up your travel arrangements:
Discuss your travel with the client. Understanding what they will cover and if they are going to make the arrangements or if you need to. If you are covering the costs upfront, be sure you know when/how you'll be reimbursed.
Pending your schedule, how you work best, and a teams budget think about when you would like to arrive and what time of day you are going to fly or drive. We all work differently, so a red eye flight might be an option or an early morning/afternoon flight might be better. There are many variables to take into consideration, but it is important that you always try to do what is best for you. We can be on our feet for 30+ hours in a 2-day time span, so being mentally and physically. It might not always be available in a clients budget, but I generally try to fly out or drive in the day prior to get settled and have a good nights rest prior to a long few days of rehearsal. Take into account you might be in a completely different time zone which can be difficult as well.
Hotel vs. staying with a client. In an effort to save costs, a client might ask if you are ok staying at their home. I have done this before and it's worked out great. In most cases, a client will book a hotel for you. However, even when they offer you to stay with them, you always have the option to still ask for a hotel room. Some jobs might require more of you mentally and physically so having your own space can be much needed.
Essentials When Traveling Traveling can take a toll on us, so having a few things that allow us to stick to some of our daily routine and habits can be VERY HELPFUL! Below are some items I ensure are with me at all times:
Healthy snacks. I’ve been in plenty of binds without food/beverage. You need to be sure you can power up your energy and creative mind once you arrive.
Vitamins & Elderberry chews (helps keep your immune system strong)
Theragun or small foam roller to help massage our tired bodies after rehearsals.
Facial mist spray. My skin gets incredibly dry traveling by plane and to different climates.
AirPods or headphones
Journal. This has been helpful so I can reflect throughout my trip.
In closing, as choreographers we normally try to be very budget conscience as these additional costs can add up for our clients. With that said, it’s also important for you to be comfortable and that you are taking care of yourself when on the road. It is also important that you take advantage of certain travel benefits that are available to you. In my experience, most clients want to take very great care of you as they understand this will ensure you are instructing at your best! Stay tuned for more tips on how to "travel like a pro"! Feel free to leave comments on any travel advice you might have!
Comments