Business travel is either something you love or loathe. Many people consider it a benefit, especially if they can combine it with leisure. However, frequent business travelers find it uncomfortable and inconvenient.
Yes, traveling for business can be difficult. Travelers who are experienced know that following certain rules will make their trip more enjoyable. This list contains comprehensive tips and tricks for business travelers to help them navigate their next trip like pros!
You should also check your company’s travel policy.
Check your company’s corporate travel policies and procedures before planning your trip. You can find out more about Corporate Travel Policies. This includes where to book, who has to approve the trip, what expenses are refundable, and how to claim them.
Keep your carry-ons to a minimum
Packing efficiently can save you a lot of time. Please keep it simple and pack lightly to avoid spending 30 minutes on average at baggage claim or losing your suitcase.
Pack your essentials in your suitcase and be ready to travel with them
Always keep your needs, like toiletries and medications, close at hand. Keep these items in case you use them only for trips if you travel frequently.
When traveling, keep your essentials close at hand
Pack all your important items together so you can find them quickly. This includes your boarding passes, IDs, and other documents. Also, have any phone, agenda, or credit cards. Nothing is worse than being unable to find your ID at the gate and delaying boarding as you scramble through your belongings in a panic.
Pack both casual and business clothes
You may sometimes have to wear casual clothes, even if your meeting dress code is business attire. This will save you from “wasting” expensive business clothing. You never know when a client might invite you to an everyday activity or meal.
When packing, keep in mind security checks
The security checks are often rigorous. All liquids, electronics, and even chargers must be removed from your suitcase. Keep all items that will be checked by security at the airport ready to be unpacked when you arrive.
Prioritize comfort
Make sure that you are prepared for your trip. This includes your luggage, clothes, meals, sleep, and skincare.
Join rewards programs
Do you belong to any loyalty programs? Check out all the benefits you could receive as a frequent traveler. It will improve the quality of your vacation! You might be interested in signing up if you still need to. You can start saving immediately by using the points earned from your next trip. Second, membership can give you some exciting benefits even if you still need to save points.
Charge your electronic devices
Charge your electronic devices as soon as you leave home and even during your trip if possible. You never know when you might need to use your phone due to a work-related problem, a cancellation, or if there is a delay.
Fly non-stop
Avoid layovers whenever possible. You will spend less time on the road and arrive more rested. You’ll also have a better chance of avoiding delays, cancellations, and lost luggage.
Use airport lounges
Airport lounges offer a comfortable environment, Wi-Fi, plugs and outlets, food, drinks, showers, and spas. They can enhance your business trip experience. You can use them to catch up on work or relax before your flight. Airport lounge access can be purchased separately or included with business-class travel.
Use a suit bag
You can bring your suit in a suitcase if you don’t have the time to iron it before you go to meetings. This way, it will arrive wrinkle-free. You should check your cabin allowance to ensure you can take it. Wearing it on the plane is another popular option to prevent it from getting wrinkled.
Bring a Power Bank
It has never been proven to be a bad thing! It’s hard to know when you will need one, especially on the road.
Bring your (travel size) toiletries
Even though the hotel may offer quality toiletries, your products will likely be better suited for you. Bring your toiletries with you, even if the hotel has a wide range of high-quality products. They are best suited to your needs.
Pack healthy snacks
Business trips often mean irregular eating times and unhealthy snacks. You can avoid this with some preparation: Pack enough balanced, healthy snacks to take on your trip and the plane.
Select your seat for the plane carefully
Your seat choice can be the difference between an enjoyable and miserable flight, especially if you are traveling for a long time. You can check out websites listing the best and worst seats for your flight.
Do your research on foreign business etiquette
What else should you do after preparing your speech? Business Etiquette may differ from where you are traveling. Check the basics before you go, and you can confidently extend your hand to a client – or not!
Download useful apps
Apps can help you do things more efficiently. From your travel and expense management system to your hotel or rental car provider, apps are available to make your life easier. Uber, taxi applications, and apps to book coworking spaces and meetings are also helpful apps.
Bring an adapter with you
You may find that the plugs used in other countries are different. Pack an international adapter for your devices to avoid them breaking because of voltage issues.
Check-in ahead
Feel free to check in ahead of time, whether it is for your flight or TSA precheck. You can also do this with your hotel and car rental. You’ll save precious travel time.