Top business travel tips

If you’re wondering how to travel for business, you’re not alone. Traveling for business is a little different and requires more preparation than traveling for leisure. Before you go, you’ll want to make sure all the logistics are in place, do some research, and pack your bags.

Business travel logistics

First, make sure your company has everything already set up for you—they should be handling most of the business travel management. Check that the following things are booked:

• Accommodation: Make sure this is confirmed, and familiarize yourself with the location and amenities ahead of time. Keep a confirmation with you in case there’s an issue at check-in.
• Transportation: If you’re traveling by plane or train, make sure your tickets are booked and the name on them matches your passport or ID. If you’re renting a car, have confirmation of the reservation with you when you arrive to pick it up.
• Meetings/events: If you’re being sent to attend an event on behalf of your company, check that you have a spot booked if it’s required.

You’ll also want to familiarize yourself with your company’s travel policies. Think about these:

• Budget: Your company has a duty of care for employees on business trips. They should outline a budget and expected travel expenses, and in some cases, they may give you a company credit card. Familiarize yourself with this as well as any recordkeeping procedures and reimbursement policies.
• Risk management: You should know what to do in case of an emergency while on the road and whether your company has any insurance policies in place.

Research your destination

If you’re going to a place you’ve never been to before, do some research on the destination itself. Think about these topics when familiarizing yourself with the area:

• Time zone
• Business etiquette specific to the area
• Culture specific to the area
• General cost of meals and other necessary expenses
• Main local roads and traffic patterns
• If applicable, things to do during free time

Top 8 essential packing tips

Now, it’s time to pack your bags. If you’re flying, you may be limited to a simple carry-on or one checked bag. The advantage of renting a car, though, is that your luggage allowance is unlimited. Consider this when deciding what and how much to pack. Here are some other essential packing tips:

• 1. Pack light: Even if your luggage allowance is unlimited, it’s better not to overpack.
• 2. Include both business and casual clothes: You’ll want professional attire for attending meetings, but you’ll likely have some downtime, too, so make sure you have something comfortable. Bonus points for versatile items that can be mixed and matched.
• 3. Bring comfortable shoes: These are essential, especially if you’ll be on your feet all day.
• 4. Have a dedicated work bag: A separate bag to carry work essentials will make your life so much easier. Include your laptop, chargers, agenda, and anything else necessary for your work.
• 5. Carry sleep essentials: Anything to help you sleep in an unfamiliar environment will help, like earplugs or a sleep mask.
• 6. Roll clothes instead of folding: Not only does this prevent wrinkles, but it also allows you to fit more in your bag.
• 7. Bring business cards: If you’re looking to network, business cards with your name, your company’s name, and your contact information are essential.
• 8. Keep important documents accessible: Your passport or ID, as well as any visas or travel passes you may need, should stay together in a secure place where you can easily access them.

Once you’re on the road, you’ll need to stay energized and productive so you can accomplish the goals of the trip. Here are our best tips on how to maximize productivity on business trips: