More an more academic institutions are changing their policies for funding faculty travel. This example crossed my desk the other day:
Please be advised of the following changes to our department travel policy—effective immediately due to budget constraints:
Transportation: If commercial transportation must be utilized, the lowest cost tickets will be purchased. Airline tickets will only be authorized for purchase in extreme circumstances and, the lowest fares will be used. Bus transportation will be utilized whenever possible. Hitchhiking in lieu of commercial transport is strongly encouraged. Luminescent safety vests will be issued to all employees prior to their departure on department business trips.
Lodging: You are encouraged to stay with relatives or friends while on department business. If this is not possible, then cost effective alternatives should be explored. Public areas such as parks and parking lots can be used during periods of good weather. In inclement weather, bridges may provide temporary shelter.
Meals: Expenditures for meals will be limited to the absolute minimum. It should be noted that grocery chains, such as “General Nutrition Centers” and “Piggly Wiggly” stores often provide free samples of promotional items. Entire meals can often be obtained in this manner. You should also become familiar with, and exploit the use of, indigenous roots, berries, and other protein sources available at their destination. If restaurants must be utilized, you should seek establishments offering “all you can eat” salad bars. This will be especially valuable to those travelling together, as a single plate can be used to feed an entire group. You are also encouraged to bring your own food while on department business. Cans of tuna fish, Spam and Beef-a-roni can be conveniently consumed at your leisure, without the unnecessary bother of heating or other costly preparation.
Miscellaneous. Everyone is encouraged to employ innovative techniques in our common effort to save department dollars. One faculty member has already suggested that money could be raised during airport “layover” periods which could be used to defray travel costs. In support of this idea, “Red Caps” will be issued to all faculty prior to departure so that you can earn tips for helping other travelers with their luggage during such periods. Small plastic roses will also be made available to so that sales may be made as time permits.
Safety Vests, red caps and plastic roses can be picked up in the main office.