If you’re like many working professionals, there will be times when your business takes you on the road. Below are a few tips to help you make traveling easier.
1. Pack Light
Many business trips only require a few days of travel and the less you pack, the less hassle before and during your trip. If you’re planning to only take a carry-on you’ve got a lot less room so start by making a list of essentials. This should include toiletries, accessories, shoes, jackets, and complete outfits for your time away. To minimize clothing items, pack tops and bottoms that are interchangeable. Women can often wear the same skirt or slacks more than once with different shirts and men can change up their outfit by switching out the shirt and tie. For accessories, men can select a belt that will go with all of their clothing choices while women can cut down on the accessories by bringing a few classic pieces that will work with everything.
*Tip- If you’re bringing a jacket that’s too big to fit in your bag, wear it onto the plane then stow it in the overhead when you board.
2. Set Some Work Aside for the Plane
Take a look at your to-do list a few days before your departure and find projects that can be completed during your flight. Reviewing reports, updating your schedule, or putting together proposals are all good projects while on the plane. If you have access to internet, this is also a great time to catch up on all those emails. Saving this type of work for your flight will free up your time in the days before your trip to handle the items that have to be addressed in person. Of course, you might want to use your time on the plane to take a mental break from work before getting back to it when you’re on the ground!
*Tip- Print any important papers before you head to the airport and place them in a folder that fits easily in your work carry-on.
3. Travel Comfortably
While you may need to dress in business attire due to a post-flight meeting, you can still be comfortable while you fly.
- A pillow that acts as neck support can help prevent sore muscles while you’re working. It can also help you catch a quick nap in between tasks.
- A good set of earphones or headphones can drown out the noise around you and help you focus on work. Even if you’re not listening to music, wearing your headphones will tell the person sitting next to you that you’re not interested in a mid-flight chat.
- Bringing bottles of water onto the plane will ensure you’ll always stay hydrated even if the flight attendants haven’t been by your seat in a while. Drinking plenty of water during a flight also helps offset the effects of jetlag and can help prevent headaches.
- Packing a few of your favorite snacks to eat during the flight can provide a welcome break from your work and give you a chance to relax. It also keeps you from going hungry if those in-fight peanuts prove not to be filling!
*Tip- Dress in layers for your flight. The temperature often fluctuates and it’s nice to be able to adjust your clothing accordingly.
4. Plan for Your Off-Hours
After the meetings and work dinners are over, you may find yourself with some free time before bed. Make sure to bring a good book or download a new movie to watch in your hotel room. You can also check out the local shopping or sites and do a little sightseeing while you’re there. Many hotels have a restaurant downstairs where you can either enjoy the company of the dining room or grab a good meal to go. Whatever you choose, make sure to give yourself a little mental downtime before starting work again the next day.
*Tip- If you plan to play tourist during your trip, make sure to research your location before you leave so you know what you don’t want to miss.
Regardless of where you’re going or how long you’ll be there, these tips can help you make your business trip easier!