- Fly with the same airline whenever possible. …
- Keep a separate set of toiletries you only use for business travel. …
- Don’t pack prohibited items. …
- Keep your phone and laptop charged. …
- Bring a change of clothing in your carry-on bag. …
- Check in online. …
- Use an app to store the details of your trip.
The ultimate list of business travel tips includes 147 (yes, you read that right) helpful business travel tips and frequent traveler tips to make your business travel easier, more effective, and more intelligent. I’ve made a lot of travel errors over the years because I travel for work frequently. Along the way, I’ve learned a lot about how to reduce the discomfort of business travel and increase your enjoyment while doing so.
21 WORK TRIP TIPS FROM A PRO – Packing, Rewards, Points, & Essentials For Business Travel
Booking and preparation tips
Use the advice below to get ready for your upcoming business trip:
Choose your preferred flight option
Try to choose flights that will reduce the amount of time spent traveling, like direct or nonstop flights. Keep in mind that a direct flight may stop along the way, but you do not have to get off the plane; a nonstop flight does not. Attempting to book a morning or midday flight can give you extra time if there are cancellations or delays.
Apply to traveler programs
Consider applying to one of the traveler programs, such as TSA Pre-Check or Global Entry, if you anticipate traveling frequently for work. These kinds of services can make your airport experience a little bit smoother and perhaps less stressful by allowing you to move through security or customs lines more quickly.
Join loyalty programs
You can gain from the loyalty or rewards programs of your favorite travel companies, like airlines, hotels, or rental car agencies, if you travel frequently. Try to consistently use the same businesses, and if those aren’t an option, have a backup. Your loyalty may enable you to earn points or miles more quickly, which you can then redeem for a variety of travel perks like priority boarding, upgraded accommodations, and discounted airfare.
Create an itinerary
Make a schedule of the events you must attend during the trip, including your flights, meetings, and other activities. Important travel information like boarding passes and confirmation numbers should be included in this itinerary. To ensure you always have access to your itinerary, keep both digital and hard copies of it.
Download any necessary apps
Download any necessary apps to your phone and get ready for everything related to your flight. Depending on your needs, these apps can either increase your enjoyment of your trip or help you remember crucial travel information. Examples include:
Know your airlines boarding procedures
Understanding the various boarding procedures used by airlines can occasionally improve your seat selection. Find out what you need to do to be among the first to board, so you can store your luggage more easily or exit the plane sooner.
Save customer service numbers
Save the contact information for all of the airlines, hotels, and rental car agencies you intend to use. If you keep these phone numbers in your phone or itinerary, you’ll have quick access to them in case your plans change and you need to call them.
What is business travel?
Business travel is any trip you take solely for professional purposes. It excludes journeys made for private purposes, such as holidays or vacations. You may make these trips alone or with other colleagues. Some examples of reasons for business travel include:
Packing tips
Make your packing more efficient and make sure you have everything you need by using the following advice:
Choose carry-on luggage
Carry-on luggage is recommended for shorter trips (less than a week). You have less chance of losing luggage if you only bring carry-on bags, and you can leave the airport more quickly because you won’t have to wait in the baggage area. Bring your most important items in a carry-on bag if you must check bags to prevent losing them.
Make a packing list
Make a master list of the things you must bring on every trip so you can refer to it when packing. You can specify the kinds of clothing you must bring along with you as well as accessories like chargers, toiletry bags, and electronics. Once you’ve finished packing, go over this list to make sure nothing is missing.
Leave essentials packed
If you travel frequently, you will get used to knowing what to pack for each trip. If you purchase extras of these things, you can expedite packing for your subsequent trip by keeping them in your luggage. Examples of what you might want to keep packed include:
Pack efficiently
Do not overpack as this may cause your luggage to become too heavy or require you to check your bags. Plan outfits for each day of your trip and select items that can be easily mixed and matched or worn again to reduce the amount of clothing you pack. To save space in your luggage, try to wear any bulky clothing you must pack when flying.
Build an emergency kit
As you never know what situations you may encounter while traveling, put together a small kit with the supplies you might need for various scenarios. These don’t necessarily need to cover emergencies, but they can make you feel more prepared and save you from having to look for “emergency” supplies. You may want to include:
Research your destination
Learn as much as you can about your destination before packing and choosing your outfits. Make sure to pack appropriate clothing by checking the weather forecast; you don’t want to have to buy something last-minute, like a winter coat. In order to look professional, you should also be aware of the dress code for any events you plan to attend.
Invest in quality luggage
If you travel frequently, invest in longer-lasting, higher-quality luggage. You can carry them comfortably with lightweight and robust options, and they can withstand being jostled while traveling. Modern luggage frequently has features that make it easier to pull through airports, like charging components or four wheels instead of two.
Charge your electronics
Make sure to fully charge any electronics you intend to use at the airport or on the aircraft prior to your flight. You cannot guarantee that you will have access to outlets because these are busy areas. You might want to think about getting a portable power supply so you can charge while you’re on the go.
Airport and in-flight tips
The following advice can help make your business travel experience better:
Check-in ahead of time
Frequently, using your airline’s website or app, you can check in for flights before you arrive at the airport. Additionally, these choices give you access to a digital boarding pass, which you might find more useful. Early check-ins can speed up your airport journey by allowing you to skip the check-in line and go straight to security.
Arrive early
Arrive at the airport at least 60 to 90 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time when traveling within the country. Airports typically advise arriving at least two hours prior to a flight for international travel. Being early gives you more time to check bags, go through security, and grab a bite to eat, which reduces your anxiety about missing a flight.
Speed up security
Although you can’t promise a short security line, you can take steps to speed up the procedure. As soon as you enter the line, have your ID and boarding pass ready to hand to the security guard. Start packing away any necessary items as you make your way to the screening area and put them in bins. The earlier you complete these steps, the faster you and your fellow travelers can move.
Be kind
Treat everyone you interact with while traveling with kindness. Traveling can be stressful, so doing this will make you and those around you happier. Because of your positive outlook and friendliness, some gate staff or flight attendants may be willing to give you some additional benefits.
Dress well
If necessary, you can go straight from your flight to any professional event by dressing appropriately for work. Additionally, by acting professionally and being courteous to the gate agents and flight crew, you may leave a good impression for subsequent interactions.
Take advantage of lounges
Use these facilities when traveling if you have access to airport lounge privileges or if you purchase an airport lounge membership. As you wait to board a flight, these lounges provide a peaceful environment where you can unwind or work in addition to food and other perks.
Do in-flight exercises
You may want to perform easy exercises before a long flight to prevent any discomfort later. Bring a tennis ball with you so you can roll it under your feet or thighs to massage your muscles and prevent stiffness or soreness from prolonged sitting. You can also occasionally stretch your legs by walking to the restroom.
Stay hydrated
Because of the dry air inside of airplanes, it is simpler to become dehydrated. Try to choose water when given the option over soda, alcohol, or coffee for better hydration. Hydration is crucial when traveling abroad because it can help combat the effects of jet lag.
Post-flight tips
Here are some pointers you can put to use for a more fruitful business trip once you have reached your destination:
Ask for upgrades
A premium rental car can be expensive to reserve, but if the company has one available when you arrive, you might be able to get one for less money. Always make your request politely and prepare to negotiate.
Additionally, you can request upgrades at hotels, but only when the front desk staff is not otherwise engaged. If they have available rooms and you speak respectfully, it can increase your chances of an upgrade—sometimes at no additional cost—so you can say, “I know the hotel is not full right now—could you upgrade my room to a suite?”
Get sufficient sleep
Getting enough rest helps you stay alert and focused while working. Packing a blanket, pillow, or earplugs can make it easier for you to sleep both on airplanes and in hotels. Follow local time instead of the time at home to stay awake and avoid sleeping in late the following morning to reduce jet lag.
Follow a routine
By incorporating elements of your regular routine, you can feel more at ease and experience less stress while you’re away from home. Try eating breakfast or exercising at the same time every day, for instance. Maintaining a consistent bedtime routine can also aid in better sleep, ensuring that you wake up feeling rested and prepared for your trip.
Make healthy choices
Traveling can be exhausting, but adopting healthy habits can make you feel more energised and less stressed. To stop snacking on junk food, go to a grocery store and purchase wholesome food to keep in your hotel refrigerator. Try to get some exercise when you have some free time, whether it be in the hotel gym or by taking a walk around the area.
Track your expenses
Whether you are using a company card or getting reimbursements from your employer, you might need to keep track of your purchases. To be safe, try to save all receipts, both paper and electronic, and take pictures of them.
Prepare for your outings
You will have business-related events to attend while on your trip. Make sure to do your research on the people and locations you will be meeting. Once at your hotel, become familiar with the area and estimate the time it will take to get to the events. You can also inquire with the front desk staff about any traffic considerations.
Set aside time for fun
Try to make the most of any free time you have while visiting. Plan to visit well-known or well-liked attractions, but make sure your schedule does not conflict with your obligations. During business travel, making time for yourself can enhance the experience.
FAQ
How can I make my business travel easier?
- Consolidate your packing. Business travelers who travel frequently do not have time to pack large suitcases or check luggage.
- Sleep on the plane. …
- Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. …
- Find your zen. …
- Be consistent. …
- Practice your icebreakers.
How do I travel on a business trip?
- Check your company’s business travel policy. …
- Stick to carry-on bags only. …
- Keep your necessities prepared and packed in your suitcase.
- Keep your essentials handy when on the road. …
- Pack both business attire and casual clothes. …
- Keep security checks in mind when you pack. …
- Make comfort a priority.
What travel tips are most important?
- Don’t overplan every detail (learn to go with the flow) .
- Wake up early to beat the crowds. …
- Only carry what you need when sightseeing. …
- Eat local. …
- Bring a decent camera to take amazing photos. …
- Bring a GoPro if you’re going somewhere water-based. …
- Don’t be afraid to get lost.
