From packing like a pro to spending a little time in the hotel gym, here are a few tips for the first-time business traveler.
1. Pack Like a Pro
One small carry-on case, perfectly packed. This should be your goal. Get a good-quality carry-on case, pack light and use packing cubes. Deboard the plane and go straight to your meeting, don’t forget your notebook and pen as they may come in handy.
2. Be Prepared
First time business travel might be a little more nerve racking for most and you might forget important details. When it comes to international travelers, you’ll need to remember to bring a current passport with at least six months remaining before it expires. And there’s more. Do you need a visa or other authorizations? Do you have the right type of visa for business travel? Make sure that you have everything you need before going International to avoid a potential disaster with immigration.
3. Got Coverage?
Before you take off to the skies, check travel insurance off your list of to do’s. Whether it’s a short trip or a long one, on a first business trip, you need to be covered.
Money may not buy happiness, but it can get you an annual policy – saving you time, money and a whole lot of headaches down the road – did we mention it’s tax deductible too!
4. Lounge Around
Airline lounges can reduce the stress of flying and lift you out of the chaos and noise of the main concourse. Walk into peace and quiet, showers, decent food and drinks for free. Business Class fares generally include lounge access, but some are available for a fee. There is no better place to be if you’re riding out a delay.
5. In for the Long Haul
Keep in mind If you’re traveling to a different time zone, try to sleep in the night-time of that time zone prior to take-off. Your body clocks are hard to reset and it’s better if you can do this on the flight. While sleeping in Economy Class can be a challenge, earplugs and noise-cancelling headphones may help. If your business meeting is crucial, stumping up for a Business Class fare could be the game changer you need.
6. Deep Breath, Time to Relax….
As it may be hard to work on the plane let alone in Economy Class, chances are you will be cramped and regularly interrupted. Just put those headphones in your ears, listen to some calming music and get your mind prepared for that next business meeting. Most important of all, stay hydrated (preferably with water, not booze).
7. Expenses
A greasy burger or glazed salmon? Limousine, uber, taxi or bus? Make sure to check with the boss before you travel and what you can charge up, rather than return to a frosty reception and a bill you will have to pay. Retain all your receipts and make a note on them if they’re obscure, like a taxi ride.
8. Work & Work Out
It’s easy to go from meetings to drinks to dinner to bed and repeat. It’s important you keep a check on your mental and physical health while you travel. Find time to sweat in the hotel gym, do some laps in the hotel pool or walk to a local attraction. Your mind will be clearer, and you’ll look and feel fresher.
9. Don’t Be THAT Employee
When you travel, you’re either representing your company or yourself. And your country. Know the local laws, be courteous and tip when needed. Also, stick to bottled water in some destinations and avoid ice if you can.