Ah, business travel. There’s something about packing a bag, hopping on a plane, and heading off to another city (or even another country) that feels oh-so-glamorous. But let’s be real—after your third red-eye flight in a week and one too many cramped taxi rides, the allure can start to fade. The good news? With the right business travel tips, you can transform even the most hectic work trip into a (mostly) smooth and enjoyable experience. And if you’re prone to forgetting things at hotels or airports, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with some clever solutions, including a shout-out to our friends at Deliverback!
1. Plan Ahead (Like, Way Ahead)
First on our list of business travel tips: plan ahead. It might seem obvious, but you’d be surprised how often even the most seasoned traveler forgets to book something important, like a hotel room. Start by organizing your itinerary with all your flight details, hotel reservations, and meeting schedules. Use apps like TripIt or Google Trips to keep everything in one place, and set reminders for key events. This will help you avoid that awkward moment when you realize you’ve booked your flight for the wrong day (we’ve all been there).
2. Pack Like a Pro
Packing for a business trip is a skill in itself. You want to look sharp, but you also don’t want to lug around a suitcase that’s bigger than you are. This brings us to our next key phrase: business travel packing tips.
When packing, think versatility. Choose pieces that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. A classic blazer, for example, can be dressed up for a meeting or dressed down for a more casual dinner. Stick to a color palette that works well together to maximize your outfit options. And don’t forget to pack a small bag with essentials like toiletries, a charger, and a change of clothes in your carry-on, just in case your luggage decides to take a separate vacation.
For more in-depth packing strategies, check out our article on packing light, which is chock-full of business travel packing tips and tricks that will make your life easier (and your suitcase lighter).
3. Stay Connected Without Breaking the Bank
One of the best business travel tips is to ensure you stay connected without incurring sky-high roaming charges. Before you leave, check with your mobile carrier to see what international plans they offer. If you’re traveling to multiple countries, consider purchasing a portable Wi-Fi device or a local SIM card for your phone. Apps like WhatsApp and Skype are great for staying in touch with both your colleagues and loved ones without draining your wallet.
4. Book Flights and Accommodations Strategically
When it comes to business travel tips and tricks, being strategic about when and how you book your flights and accommodations can make a huge difference.
For flights, try to book early to get the best deals. If possible, aim to fly mid-week when fares are typically lower. Always check if your company has a preferred airline or hotel chain, as this could offer benefits like loyalty points or special rates.
When booking a hotel, look for one with a good business center and reliable Wi-Fi. Consider the hotel’s location, too. Staying closer to your meeting venue can save you time and reduce stress (because no one wants to navigate rush-hour traffic in an unfamiliar city).
5. Be Airport Savvy
Airports can be chaotic, but with a few business travel tips and tricks, you can navigate them like a pro. Enroll in TSA PreCheck or Global Entry to breeze through security lines. Arrive early to avoid stress and give yourself time to relax before your flight. And if you’re someone who frequently finds themselves hungry in airports, scout out dining options ahead of time or bring your own snacks. Trust us, your future self will thank you.
6. Keep Your Tech in Check
In today’s digital age, business travel without tech is like peanut butter without jelly—it just doesn’t make sense. Make sure all your devices are fully charged before you leave, and pack a portable charger for emergencies. It’s also a good idea to have backup files of important documents saved on a cloud service like Google Drive or Dropbox. And for goodness sake, don’t forget your charging cables! We’ve all been there, staring at a dying laptop battery while frantically searching for a charger. It’s not pretty.
7. Stay Healthy on the Road
Traveling for business can be tough on the body, but a few business travel tips and tricks can help keep you in top form. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water (airplane cabins are notoriously dry). Try to get some exercise—many hotels have gyms, or you can use apps like Sworkit or YouTube to find quick workouts you can do in your room. And don’t forget to pack some healthy snacks like nuts or fruit to avoid the temptation of airport junk food.
8. Master the Art of Networking
Business trips are often as much about building relationships as they are about getting work done. One of our top business travel tips is to master the art of networking. Bring plenty of business cards and be prepared to introduce yourself with a quick elevator pitch. And remember, networking doesn’t have to be formal—sometimes, the best connections are made over a casual coffee or during downtime at the airport.
9. Don’t Forget to Relax
It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of business travel, but don’t forget to take some time for yourself. Whether it’s enjoying a quiet dinner after a long day of meetings or taking a walk around a new city, make sure to carve out a little “me time” during your trip. This isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a crucial part of staying energized and productive. Consider it a bonus business travel tip that will make every trip a bit more enjoyable.
10. Be Prepared for the Unexpected (Like Losing Your Stuff!)
Even the most meticulously planned trip can go awry, and sometimes, you just can’t help but leave something behind—be it at a hotel, an airport lounge, or in a rental car. That’s where Deliverback comes in!
Imagine this: You’ve had a fantastic meeting, closed a big deal, and you’re heading back to the hotel, only to realize you left your laptop charger in the conference room. Or maybe you’ve just landed in a new city, only to find out your favorite tie didn’t make the journey with you. In situations like these, Deliverback can be your best friend. They specialize in retrieving lost items from hotels, airports, and even rental cars worldwide, ensuring that your lost belongings are returned to you quickly and easily. So, next time you leave your favorite pen at a hotel desk or forget your headphones on a plane, you can rest easy knowing Deliverback has your back.
11. Organize Your Expense Reports On the Go
Business trips often mean dealing with expenses: meals, transport, hotels, and more. Staying on top of your expenses during your trip can save you a headache when you return to the office. Use apps like Expensify or Concur to track receipts and expenses in real time. This way, you won’t end up with a pile of crumpled receipts and a vague memory of what you spent. Plus, being organized with your expenses is a great way to impress the finance team back home.
12. Make the Most of Your Downtime
One of the best business travel tips and tricks is to make the most of your downtime. Whether you have a few hours between meetings or an evening free, use that time to explore. Try local cuisine, visit a museum, or simply take a walk around the area. This not only makes your trip more enjoyable but also enriches your experience of the place you’re visiting.
13. Stay Loyal
If you travel frequently for business, consider joining loyalty programs with airlines, hotels, and even car rental companies. Over time, these programs can offer significant perks like free upgrades, access to airport lounges, and even free flights or hotel stays. A pro-business travel tip is to consolidate your travel with a few select companies to maximize these benefits.
14. Communicate Effectively with Your Team
Whether you’re traveling solo or with colleagues, clear communication is essential. Make sure everyone is on the same page regarding meeting schedules, travel plans, and responsibilities. Use tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, or WhatsApp for quick and efficient communication, and always confirm important details via email to have a paper trail.
15. Prepare for Jet Lag
If your business travel takes you across time zones, jet lag can be a real productivity killer. Adjust your sleep schedule a few days before you leave to match your destination’s time zone. During the flight, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and try to sleep according to your new schedule. Once you arrive, spend some time outdoors in natural light to help reset your internal clock.
16. Leverage Technology to Your Advantage
Technology can be a lifesaver when you’re on the road. From apps that help you find the best local restaurants to ones that translate foreign languages, there’s a tech solution for almost every travel challenge. Make sure your phone is loaded with useful apps, and keep an eye out for new tech that can make your business travel more efficient and enjoyable.
Wrapping It Up
Business travel doesn’t have to be stressful. With these business travel tips, you can navigate the world of work travel like a seasoned pro. From packing smart and staying connected to mastering the art of networking
