Business travel can be an exciting adventure, but it can also be incredibly stressful. Between the long hours in airports, the slow check-in processes, and the never-ending search for comfortable accommodations, business travelers often find themselves worn out before their trips even begin. Thankfully, there are some simple tips and tricks that can make business travel much smoother and more comfortable. Here are just a few of them.
Pack Lightly
Packing lightly is essential for efficient—and comfortable—travel. Othman el Ballouti, an international investment banker based in New York City, says that light, well-organized carry-on is the best bet for short trips. You won’t have to check it in or wait for it in the baggage claim. He says that means you can go straight to your taxi. And if necessary, the right to a meeting. Use the following tips to prepare for your next business trip: Try to book flight options that minimize travel time, such as direct or nonstop flights.
Be sure to only bring what you need, as lugging around a heavy suitcase can quickly become tiresome (not to mention expensive). Consider investing in a small backpack that you can use as your carry-on bag if you plan on taking multiple flights during your trip. It will save you time at the airport by allowing you to quickly move through security without having to worry about checking bags or waiting in line at baggage claim.
Book Early
According to Travel Pulse, booking flights early is key to getting the best prices and seats available. If your company has flexible policies on when you book flights (some require 30 days advance notice while others may allow up to 90 days), take advantage of booking early so that you don’t have to compromise on comfort or convenience later down the line. Planning ahead also gives you more time to research different airlines and routes so that you can get the best deal possible on airfare.
Invest in Quality Accommodations
Choosing quality accommodations is essential for ensuring a good night’s sleep while traveling for business. Investing in a quality hotel room not only makes life easier while away from home, but also helps maximize productivity and minimize stress during your trip. Look into hotels with amenities such as complimentary breakfast buffets, fitness centers, or spa access, which may help make your stay more enjoyable.
Get There a Day Early
Whenever possible, try to book business trips with an extra day in between. Not only will arriving a day early give you more time to adjust to the new time zone (which can make business meetings much more productive), but it also gives you more time to rest and relax before your business activities begin. This will help ensure that you’re well
Business travel doesn’t have to be an unpleasant experience; with just a few simple strategies, it can actually be quite enjoyable! By packing lightly, booking flights early, and investing in quality accommodations, travelers can ensure that their trips go off without a hitch and they return feeling refreshed instead of exhausted from their travels.
