I received an e-mail regarding the difficulties of making travel arrangements for managers and other executives. I agreed that putting travel arrangements together can definately be a thankless chore, but knowing where to find help can help.

There was a time when there were few rules and regulations concerning travel in the United States, except those imposed by company policy and proceedure. However, multiple major governmental changes began to take place after September 11, 2001. Travel policies changed within many companies as well.

While it is important to be aware of all changes to company policy, you should also be aware of any changes that may have taken place in your office. The most drastic changes may be those that apply to company travel.

In addition to keeping up any new policies and procedures your company may have, it is necessary to know and understand the regulations that will apply to your manager while traveling.

The sites below address new airline security regulations, safety issues and other travel concerns. This information pertains to travel in and from the USA. Other countries will have similar travel information.

• The Transportation Security Administration has advice on safe travel by air, land and sea. For example, they post tips on dealing with airline security checks, traveling with kids, and warnings on prohibited items, etc. Visit www.tsa.gov
  
  
• The U.S. Department of Transportation offers airline, highway and rail safety information. For example, you can look up crash-safety reports on cars or find out how the weather is affecting air travel and road conditions. Visit www.dot.gov.
  
  
• The U.S. State Department provides information on what to do before, during and when you return from a trip overseas. You can also get warnings on locations to avoid and what to do in an overseas emergency. Visit www.state.gov/travel
  
  
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers health-related travel information. You can research vaccination requirements, find information on how to avoid illnesses caused by food and water, and review inspection scores on specific cruise ships. Visit www.cdc.gov/travel.
  
  
• The U.S. Department of State offers common sense information on travel abroad, along with travel warning, travel alerts and specific country information.Visit http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1747.html
  

See Surviving Business Travel Expense Reports in related links