If you’re planning on starting a new job, it means that you’ll be making your first business trip. This can be daunting if you’ve never taken the time to prepare for one before. But don’t worry, we have 10 tips in this business travel blog post to make your first business trip easier!
- Keep your devices charged at all times, including the day of departure. That way you’re prepared for any delays
- Always have a plan B in case something goes wrong on your flight
- Get enough sleep before and during your trip – this will help to keep jetlag away
- Try not to overspend while abroad so that it’s easier when it comes time to pay for the return flight home or hotel stay
- Be sure to pack toiletries (such as toothbrush, toothpaste, soap) since they might be hard to find overseas
- Consider bringing snacks like nuts or trail mix with you if there is no meal service available throughout the duration of your journey
- Pack a travel pillow, a neck pillow, and your favorite headphones to help you sleep more comfortably
- Be prepared before boarding any plane by double checking everything – including the airport terminal
- Make sure to pack a sleep mask/eye shades if you find it hard to sleep on airplanes or jet lag gets you up at odd hours of the morning back home.”
Pack light:
You should pack as little as possible for this short trip so that it’s easy to carry around with you and doesn’t take up too much space in your bag or suitcase when flying. Make sure not to bring anything extra like clothes (unless they are dressy), shoes, toiletries, or any other items that will weigh down your luggage and slow down the process of checking-in at the airport and going through security.
Pack clothes that are dressy enough:
It’s a good idea to bring an extra outfit in case you need it and also something nice for the business meeting or event. You don’t want to show up in your 10-year old t-shirt and jeans.
Make sure your passport, travel documents and other important items are always accessible:
You might be a bit frantic when in the middle of an airport or during your flight. Make sure that you have everything right there on hand so that you don’t spend 10 minutes looking for something at the very last minute.
Bring snacks:
If there is no food service available for the duration of your flight, then it’s a good idea to pack your own. This will take care of any hunger pangs and save you from having to spend 10 Euros every time you want something sweet or salty. Plus, you might want some emergency snacks for long layovers or in case anything else goes wrong on your journey.
Pack a travel pillow, neck pillow and headphones:
These things can help you to sleep more comfortably and enjoy the flight a bit better. Plus, it’s great to have when you’re on a 10-hour flight and need some down time.
Don’t forget your cell phone charger:
It is always important to keep all of your devices charged at all times for emergencies or in case of delays (which can happen). You should also get the correct plug adapter before departing so that you don’t have any issues with being able to charge up while traveling.
Have a plan for what to do in case of emergency.
Call your insurance company and put them on speed dial so you can quickly get help if needed, whether it is medical or legal assistance.
Know the name of the person who will be meeting with you at your destination airport and find out where they are located within that building ahead of time.”
It’s not just about checking email or writing reports during business travel; taking this opportunity to connect with people face-to-face could make all the difference in developing new partnerships for long term success!
Plan for emergencies:
If something happens you should call your insurance company and put them on speed dial to be able to quickly get help if needed. Make sure that you know the name of whoever is meeting with you at your destination airport, so it’s easier when looking for people once inside the building.”
Prepare health documents ahead of time so they’re accessible when needed most and know where the person who will be meeting with you at your destination airport is located ahead of time.”
Buy Health Insurance for the trip If you’re not covered by your employer’s plan, check with a travel agent or insurance provider (such as Allianz) about coverage options before you leave home. The company may be able to provide travelers’ health insurance that goes into effect on day one of their departure and ends at day 30 even if they are traveling only part way through this time period. This type of extended traveler medical protection can be expensive but often is worth it in case anything should happen while abroad.
