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Budget for Business Travel
Wordcamping
Traveling for business isn’t just about leaving your office—it’s about creating new opportunities. This week’s habit reminds us that budgeting for business travel is a strategic move for any professional, especially in the web design field.
Habit of the week:
Budget for Business Travel
From my first local WordCamp in 2013 to attending every in-person WordCamp US since traveling with GoDaddy to Nashville in 2018, I've seen firsthand how valuable these experiences are. Thanks to thoughtful budgeting, I'm gearing up for another WordCamp in August.
Why it matters:
Business travel is not only a tax-deductible investment but also a big part of professional growth. It offers opportunities to network, boost your knowledge, and stay updated with industry trends and skills.
Quick Start Guide:
- Book early: Early planning can save you money on travel expenses such as flights and hotels.
- Set a Budget: Determine what portion of your budget can be allocated to travel and stick to it. Get a good idea of your total costs and put away incremental monthly amounts to cover your costs. Remember, you can room with a close friend to cut costs.
- Track Expenses: Keep meticulous records of your travel expenses to maximize your tax benefits.
Cami's Tips
- Networking: Never underestimate the value of networking. While budgeting for conferences might feel like a business luxury, instead, think of it as a necessary business expense.
- Learning: Investing in your knowledge is always a good idea. It can motivate you to keep your business competitive in your market.
- Downtime: Plan for some conference downtime during your trips to decompress. Enjoy the local area, and make sure you budget for that, too.
- Refrain from Overbooking: You are likely to see others with a booking calendar to meet with them during the conference. I prefer to have spontaneous meetings interactions.
Routine Checkpoint:
Remember, reflect on your business travel over the past few years. Has it provided the intended value in terms of networking, learning, and business growth?
What's Your Take?
Have you incorporated business travel into your annual budget? What benefits have you observed? Share your experiences and join the conversation using #WebDesignerHabits!
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about the author
Cami MacNamara is a web designer and owner of WebCami LLC, a Seattle-based agency since 2002. She created Web Designer Habits to help solopreneurs build smarter systems, stay productive, and run a business that works for them.