Travel is a part of most businesses. You might need to go across the state, or you might need to go across several. Either way, the costs add up. Planning carefully could end up saving the business a lot of extra money.

Here are 5 tips on how you can save money on your next trip:

1. Choose a hotel with a free airport shuttle.

If you're not getting a rental car, and no one will be available to pick you up, choosing a hotel with free 24-hour shuttle service saves time and money. You might pay $20 more for the night, but you'll save the one-way taxi fee.

2. Search for coupon codes.

Do a quick search on sites like RetailMeNot.com and Coupons.com for coupon codes to use online. You might find coupons for your hotel, flights, food or other amenities. Sometimes, sites will offer discounts if you book through their mobile app. Make Google your friend and search for terms like coupon codes and travel discounts.

3. Pay for flights, hotels and expenses with a cash back credit card.

If your company has more than one credit card, check to see which one offers the highest amount of cash back. Use that one to get back money for your expenses. It's not a lot but $10 per trip multiplied by ten trips a year is $100. Your credit card may also offer additional protection which is supplemental to your business insurance policy.

4. Pack lightly.

There are several benefits to taking just a carry on. You won't have to pay extra to check your suitcase, nor worry about the baggage policy of the airlines. You won't waste time waiting for it to come off the plane. There's no worrying that it might not have made it on the plane. You won't have to pay for a taxi for your large suitcase; your smaller carry on can go with you on the bus or subway.

5. Make lunch your main meal.

Restaurants often increase meal costs between 4 pm. and 6 pm. A $20 entrée at dinner might only cost $12 at lunchtime. If you need to host a meal, schedule it for noon and slash your expenses considerably.

Use these tips to help you save money. Something that also helps you save money is business insurance. If you're looking for business insurance in Dallas, call us at 972.234.5588 for a free quote.