Somehow, we’ve already made it to the halfway mark of the year. Meetings are stacking up, calendars are filling fast, and for many professionals, the second half of 2025 is all about getting back out there: in person, on-site, and on the move.
Whether you're flying into Cape Town for a strategy session, visiting clients in Durban, or squeezing in a few site visits between airport lounges and hotel check-ins, business travel needs to be efficient. And that’s exactly where First Car Rental steps in.
Here are some of our go-to tips for smarter business travel, designed to keep you moving, focused, and ahead of schedule.
1. Book early and book smart
Don’t leave your car rental until the day before a trip. Peak periods, regional events, and last-minute demand can limit availability, especially for automatics or premium vehicles.
If you’re travelling often, set up a First Car Rental profile and book online ahead of time. You’ll save time at the counter and can request your preferred vehicle category without the stress.
2. Know your route before you land
If you’re flying in for a day or two of meetings, do yourself a favour and map out your travel in advance. Identify:
Whether you're in Joburg, Gqeberha or Polokwane, knowing where you're going before you step off the plane cuts out unnecessary delays.
3. Travel light, move faster
Packing light isn’t just a personal preference. It’s a time-saver. One small bag means:
If you’re renting for a short trip, consider a smaller car category. It’s easier to park, lighter on fuel, and just right for solo travel.
4. Build in buffer time
We get it. The goal is maximum productivity. But tight, back-to-back meetings leave no room for traffic delays, rescheduled calls, or finding the right venue.
Build in 15 to 30 minute gaps where you can. Not only does it reduce stress, but it also gives you time to:
A smoother pace makes for sharper conversations.
5. Choose a rental partner that gets it
Business travel is all about precision. The last thing you need is a clunky car hire process. With First Car Rental, you can expect:
Whether you’re on a week-long regional tour or a one-day pitch run, First makes it easy to get in, drive out, and focus on the work.
Need to move even faster? Try Show&Go
In a fast-paced work environment, time matters. That’s why First Car Rental offers Show&Go, a dedicated product designed specifically for corporate travellers who want to skip the queue and hit the road in seconds.
With Show&Go, there’s:
Your information is pre-loaded, your preferences are saved, and your rental is ready to go. All you need to do is hand your Show&Go card to the Rental Agent, complete the self-service check-out, and you’ll be on the road in under 12 seconds.
It’s fast, simple, and built for business travel that doesn’t stop.
Want to get started?
Open a Show&Go account today by completing the form here. One of our sales representatives will be in touch to get you set up.
Show up. Check out. Go.
One more thing: Look up once in a while
Business travel doesn’t have to be all boardrooms and briefcases. South Africa’s roads are full of unexpected views, from golden fields in the Free State to sunset skylines in Sandton.
So, if you find yourself with ten extra minutes, take the long way back to the hotel. Roll the windows down. Put on your favourite playlist. You’re still working, but you’re living too.
First for business. First for smart travel. First for you.
