Business trips – there’s no getting out of them when you’re a CEO, CFO or another important business figure. They’re a necessity to solidify partnerships and business ventures.
But is it something that should stress you out? No. Unfortunately, most business trips are a hassle and cause stress and worry for most.
This leaves it up to you to figure out ways to make your business trip as stress-free as possible. In the following guide, we’ll cover some of the best tips for doing just that.
Let’s take a look.
1. Don’t Pack More than You Need
A lot of people have the tendency to overpack when going on trips. This includes personal and business trips. Toting around a bunch of luggage is problematic whether you’re taking an airplane or train.
Let’s not forget how common it is for luggage to get lost in transit.
Consider only bringing along the items you really need. For instance, your smartphone, tablet, laptop and business files. Of course, you’ll need a change of clothes and personal hygiene products, if you’re going to be there for one or more nights.
If possible, try to have a carry on bag, so you don’t risk losing your important items.
2. Turn Off All Your Devices
It’s easy to get caught up in your emails, phone calls, and text messages while you’re sitting on a long flight. However, there isn’t much you can do from where you are, which can lead to unnecessary stress.
Consider turning off your phone and email, so you aren’t bombarded with corporate problems during your business trip.
Once you arrive, you can handle whatever business matters that need tending to.
3. Have Dinner Somewhere Relaxing
In most cases, your business trip ends with you in a hotel room chowing down on local fast food. Why not enjoy a nice experience at a local restaurant instead?
See if you can find a live band playing somewhere and have a few drinks to let off steam. You may be able to find a jazz club if you’re visiting a city.
Just try to eat somewhat healthy while you’re on the go.
4. Schedule Going Off Site
If you’re in charge of planning the business trip, consider making time to go offsite. Why should it be all work and no play? Surely, everyone needs to wind down in between meetings and brainstorming sessions.
Make time for everyone to head out and explore the city and whatever it has to offer. You can even hang out with some of your co-workers to add a more personal element to your business relationships.
5. Reach Out to Contacts Before Your Arrival
If you’re taking these tips seriously, you may become acquainted with one or more locals. Exchanging contact info is common when you connect with like-minded individuals at local restaurants and pubs.
The next time you’re in town, why not connect with them again? You can reach out to them to let them know of your scheduled arrival.
Having local relationships will make your trip feel more human and less corporate.
In fact, some business travelers are a part of organizations, such as ClubCorp, which is ideal for connecting with other businesspeople around the US.
6. Bring Along a Book
Now, this can be a self-help, thriller, mystery or any other type of book you find engaging. The idea is to pick something that helps you slide into a state of relaxation.
You can also use this time to read up on the materials you’ll cover in your business meeting, so you’re on point. But if work-related materials stress you out, then avoid it until you get to your destination.
The key is to feel refreshed by the time you get to wherever you’re going.
7. Make a Checklist
The good news is if you make your checklist thorough enough, you can use it for each business trip you go on. Just print it out or pull it up on your tablet and check off everything as you prepare for your travels.
Your checklist should cover what to pack and certain items you may need. For instance, you may need an outfit for a black tie event. Or maybe a book to read while you’re on the plane.
8. Consider a Concierge Service
Life is easier when you have the help you need to make your daily tasks a breeze.
For instance, you can use this travel service to make overseas travel arrangements, receive VIP transport from the airport and assistance picking up your dry cleaning.
9. Create an Itinerary
An itinerary will really come in handy during your business trips. Do the research to see what restaurants and hot spots are nearby, so you can add them to your list of things to do.
Once you book a room at your hotel, you can browse around for attractions, eateries, and bars that are close by. Make sure you set up a concierge service, so you have transportation around town while you’re there.
10. Wear Something Comfortable
This is very important if you’re about to go on a long trip. There’s no point in dressing up for a business meeting if it’s not for another half a day. You can change your clothes once you arrive at your hotel.
A pair of comfortable pants, sneakers and t-shirt are ideal for traveling long distances. And make sure to bring a sweater, blanket, and pillow in case it’s cold on the plane and you want to try and sleep.
Make Your Next Business Trip a Comfortable One
You have enough to stress about in life – your business travels shouldn’t be one of them. By using the above tips, you can help eliminate the worry of dealing with long flights and planning your stay.
And there’s a lot more you can learn about maintaining a comfortable lifestyle on our blog. Here, you will find blog posts on everything to do with lifestyle, beauty, and style.
