No matter how high on the corporate ladder you are and what your job description is, there is a high chance you will encounter a business trip sometime in your career. In fact, you may have already gone on multiple business trips in your career.
These trips are somewhat a necessity for many companies worldwide and since the business travel sector is predicted to grow to $1.7 trillion in 2022, it’s obvious that business trips are very common. But while these trips can be fun and educational, they can also be draining and stressful.
To make the experience more enjoyable, we’ve prepared some tips that might help.
Don't forget your work
Just because you’re going far away from the office doesn’t mean that you will leave your responsibilities behind. Your work should stay a priority.
If you don’t want to miss out on the important tasks, deadlines, meetings, and responsibilities, here are some things you need to do:
- Find a stable internet connection. The hotel you’re staying in will probably provide you with Wi-Fi, but you can’t be sure how dependable and fast that internet will be. Make sure to find alternative places like internet cafes where you’ll have a stable internet connection and don’t forget about an online VPN.
- Learn to work in different time zones. If your trip brings you to a different time zone, see if you can still work during your regular working hours. Even if it’s hours ahead or behind the rest of your team, just make sure to inform your supervisor you will be working from a different time zone.
- Stick to your usual routine. Regardless of where you’re located, if you manage to stick to the same routine you have as when you’re in the office, you won’t have issues with productivity. Wake up at the same time, do the same amount of work, and take the same amount of breaks as you would back home.
Finally, don’t forget that you still need to stay in contact with your team members while you’re away and keep the team spirit alive. You can try some virtual team building activities. SnackNation compiled a list of them to ensure that professional bond stays strong even when working from different locations.
Book your accommodation wisely
A lot of thought usually goes into where the person who is going on the business trip will stay. And that requires a lot more than just picking out a hotel.
The most important thing you need to look into is location. Your accommodations should be near the place where you will have to be for your business activities. After all, you don’t want to spend hours commuting after you’ve just gotten off the plane.
The second most important thing to look at is the price. Did you know that money for lodging makes up 34% of the average business travel budget? When choosing the perfect accommodation, try to find something that won’t break the bank but is still comfortable and comes with the necessary amenities.
Finally, look for a place that will make you feel comfortable and like you’re at home. A great location and an excellent price don’t mean anything if you can’t relax and unwind in the place you’re staying after a long day of work.
For example, if you’re traveling to Houston for your business trip and will be staying for more than a few days, you can look up 1 bedroom apartments for rent in Houston. Find accommodation where you can be at the right location and feel comfortable.
Always look the part
Appearance is always important, even when traveling. You probably already know that you need a couple of sharp outfits for all the business meetings you will need to attend, but that’s not the only time you should dress professionally.
Like it or not, you should also dress professionally while you’re in transit. Even though wearing a suit on an airplane can be a little bit uncomfortable, you’re still representing your company and yourself, even when you think nobody is looking.
When you’re dressed smartly during transit, you’re more likely to receive a free upgrade, you have better chances of hailing a cab in a big and busy city. And if your flight gets canceled and you need to book a hotel room last minute, that sharp suit might help you get a free upgrade as well.
Pack like a professional
Packing for a business and a personal trip are two completely different things. If you learn how to pack like a professional, it will save you a lot of time and worry.
First of all, you need to have the perfect luggage. Your main suitcase should be lightweight but durable and be able to hold all of your essentials. Make sure to have a carry-on bag that will be easy to transport from one part of the airport to another. And don’t forget an anti-theft backpack for your laptop and other valuables you can’t afford to lose.
If you have designer luggage, don’t bring it along with you because that kind of luggage makes you stand out more and advertise to thieves that you’re someone with a lot of money. Simple luggage with some flair like patches or stickers that will make it more noticeable is a perfect choice.
As for what you should pack, that depends on where you’re going and how long you will stay there. But always make sure to have multiple changes of business attire, sensible shoes, casual clothes for your free time, and essential toiletries.
Final thoughts
Traveling for business can be a challenge for some, especially for professionals who are new to this type of travel and are feeling lost. But as long as you know all of the tips that will make your business trip across the country smooth and effortless, you have nothing to worry about.