7 Tips For Efficient Business Travel
It may seem that people who travel for business truly live the good life. They get to experience destinations all around the world, eat delicious food, and lounge by the pool. This is one of the best ways to be on the job, right?
In most cases, this isn’t true. People who travel for business must stick to a strict schedule. They must board early flights, attend endless meetings or conferences, and constantly fight the jet lag.
This doesn’t sound as glamorous as the first scenario. No fear, we have compiled a list of 7 tips to get you through any long and tiring business traveling experience.
Compile all travel documents
Before embarking on any trip, make sure your passport is valid and you have all the necessary visas. Being on a tight schedule, you do not want to miss a flight due to lack of preparation.
Another opportunity for simplifying your travel is applying for security pre-checks and global entry programs when available. This will prevent you from sitting in long lines at security or customs.
Join a frequent fliers program
Don’t be a business travel rookie. Sign up for a program where your miles can turn into free plane tickets! Whether you are paying for your own flights or the company is compensating them for you, having your miles recorded is essential.
There are many FFP out there such as Star Alliance, Oneworld, or Sky Team. Depending on what airline you fly with, you can earn exclusive access to airport lounges, free upgrades, and credit towards a rental car.
Taxis and rental cars can be expensive and may not be compensated for by your company. An airport transfer is a safe and effective way to get you to your hotel after a long day of traveling.
Book with travel business insurance
This is something that is often forgotten about when booking a trip. It is unfortunate when you don’t have business travel insurance and your bag goes missing. This is something that could easily be mended with insurance.
With travel insurance your medical emergencies, loss of personal belongings, and cancelations in flights will be covered. These are all things that could potentially hinder your meeting or conference. To avoid this, book the proper insurance so you will be covered.
Pack smart
There is no need to bring your whole life along as a business traveler. As mentioned, you won’t have a lot of time for leisure. It’s important to dress smart to the airport so when you arrive, you are ready for a meeting.
If you are able, try to pack everything into a carry on bag. This will prevent you from waiting on checked in luggage and keep your load light. Using packing cubes will help keep your outfits organized and allow you to get changed quickly.
If you have a long journey, pack a change of clothes. That way you can get off the plane you can feel somewhat fresh to meet with colleagues.
Pick quality accommodation
A good nights sleep is crucial for a business traveler. You will be suffering from a combination of a long day of travel, endless meetings, and jetlag. You will want a comfortable and quiet room, a decent bed, and Wi-Fi.
If you are able to book your own accommodation, do the research and pick the best local hotel. If a company books it for you, look into the room in advance and determine whether you will need to upgrade.
If you have an extended business trip, look into booking a service apartment. These are often more spacious and homey than a traditional hotel room. They offer more amenities and use a smaller ecological footprint than a large hotel.
Stay healthy and exercise
It’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle while traveling. This will keep you energized, alert, and keep the effects of jet lag at bay. Most business travelers face a similar issue. Business meetings and conferences have tables packed with carbs and junk food. After these meetings, you will be invited to have drinks.
The best advice is to avoid these things as much as possible. They will make you feel overly full and sluggish. Stick to fruits and vegetables and loads of water. Avoid drinking too much coffee to battle with jet lag. Listen to your body and fuel it with the right foods to keep you going.
Consider taking a walk or run before beginning your meetings. It’s easy to get lazy while traveling and get comfortable with a lot of sitting. It will be a great way to wake you up and give you a jumpstart to your day.
Be aware of your mental state
With the stresses of one’s personal life, travel, and business it can be easy to become overwhelmed. Things may go completely wrong and you may face long lines, big crowds, delays, missing baggage, etc. It’s crucial to stay calm in these situations.
Your mental health as a business traveler is just as important as your physical. Your brain must be in tiptop shape to participate in meetings and conferences. Set aside time to sit down, focus on your breathing, and relax. This will allow you to reset and manage your stress.
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