Whether you’re an entrepreneur or a part of a large company, if your job involves frequent travel, you know the pitfalls and perks of getting that sudden assignment in your neighboring country or even halfway across the world. Knowing such a scheduling nightmare can occur at any moment is enough to wreak havoc on your life’s structure, but sometimes a little preparation can make a tremendous difference in helping you curb the stress of business travel.
No matter if you’re new to the notion of working on the road or you’ve been a veteran for years, the following tricks may just be the perfect solution you need to make the most of your brief business getaways.
1. Have your go-to bag ready
Although you cannot pack everything weeks ahead of time, especially if your company often sends you to impromptu client meetings, you can at least have a travel set with all your essentials. That way, you won’t waste any time packing or looking for your shaving cream, your power bank for those gadgets that tend to eat away at their batteries, or a first-aid kit. It’s also good to have your personal hygiene kit all set and ready to go on a moment’s notice.
This little bag can sit at the bottom of your closet or under your bed, so when the time comes to hit the road, you’ll be half-packed and ready to go. Other essentials include a small umbrella, a set of business cards in case you run out, and a few protein bars or similar snacks that don’t spoil easily and can keep your belly full even on connected flights and long hours at the airport.
2. Pick the right fabrics
Whatever the reason for your travels may be, whether it’s a client meeting, a conference, or simply checking up on your own office, you always want to look your best when you land. Traditional suits aren’t your best bet in this scenario, simply because you’ll end up all wrinkled and messy as soon as you take your favorite button-down out of the suitcase. Instead, find fabrics that won’t wrinkle so easily, such as wrinkle-free cotton or wool, depending on the weather.
Also, aim for neutral colors that you can easily mix and match for both daily and evening events. As for your on-flight wear, maintain a growth mindset—you never know who you’ll run into! To that end, stay away from those old hoodies and ripped denim. Go for business casual combos that are always simple and comfortable, but also stylish enough to make an impression.
3. Use your free time wisely
When on the go for business, wasting time is the worst thing you can do to your energy and schedule. Although you cannot pre-book and organize every single detail, it’s useful to think in advance and incorporate some of your favorite activities to make the most of your stay. In fact, many business people consult a reliable DMC for a given destination to lessen the stress of travel even further and ensure they spend quality time doing things they love.
This is particularly handy if you have specific dietary restrictions or if you have a personalized fitness regime, and you need help finding the right restaurants and fitness centers to keep up with your lifestyle needs. You might also want to do some sightseeing in your free hours, so why not find precisely the events, exhibitions, and places you’d actually enjoy?
4. Use travel apps
If we have apps for setting up our budget, paying our bills, finding a ride, and booking a medical exam, the notion of using various smart applications to simplify your travels is an excellent way to reduce stress. Even a simple digital travel planner can help you keep an eye on your busy schedule and coordinate a multitude of visits, clients, and responsibilities.
Then again, more elaborate ones, such as the conclusion, which includes your accommodation, itinerary, plane tickets, and daily routine, can be a more useful option for those who travel very frequently. With some of them, you no longer have to worry about sending invoices or looking for reimbursement, as you can do that with the help of the app directly.
Even the busiest of business travelers can enjoy their occasional trips without fretting over forgetting an important part of their luggage or setting up every appointment. Save your time and your energy with these tips, and you’ll start looking forward to your next assignment abroad!