Top tips for business travellers: Ensuring smooth and productive journeys

No matter how frequently you travel for business, a well-planned trip can make the difference between a successful venture and a dreaded affair. Travelling can be quite stressful, more so when you’re juggling multiple responsibilities. Here are some top tips for business travellers to ensure your trips are smooth, stress-free, and productive.

1) Embrace technology

The world of technology has transformed how we approach travelling. From organization to time management, digital tools can make your business trip much easier. One such platform is Turo, a car-sharing marketplace where you can book any car you want, wherever you want it. 

2) Become a packing pro

Getting your packing right is essential. Try to go for carry-on luggage only to save time at the airport. Make sure you pack travel-size toiletries, professional attire for meetings, and casual wear for downtime. Also include essential accessories like chargers, international plug adaptors, and noise-cancelling headphones to cancel the chaos when you need to.

3) Prioritize health and well-being

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle should always reign supreme, even when you’re travelling. Pack some healthy snacks to keep your energy levels up during your journey. Try to stay active during your trip by using the hotel gym or simply taking a brisk walk. Moreover, don’t forget to hydrate and get enough sleep.

4) Choose your accommodation wisely

You might be tempted to go for the most affordable option, but it’s not always the best choice for business travel. Consider factors such as proximity to your meetings, Wi-Fi availability, breakfast options, and gym facilities. You need an environment that’s conducive to both relaxation and productivity.

5) Regularly check your travel documents 

There’s nothing more stressful than last-minute rushes to sort out travel documents. Ensure your passport has enough validity for your trip. Regularly check if you require any visas for the countries you’re visiting. Finally, don’t forget to have travel insurance that covers unpredictable issues like trip cancellations or medical emergencies. 

6) Use your travel time productively

Long flights or train rides can become opportunities for productivity. Carry work that can be done offline, such as planning, strategizing, or going through materials for your meetings. Alternatively, you can use this time to unwind by reading a book or watching movies, arriving at your destination refreshed and ready for business.

7) Be cognizant of time zones

If you are travelling across different time zones, it’s key to reset your internal clock to avoid jet lag. Stay awake during the day as much as you can and go to sleep at your usual bedtime based on the local time zone.

8) Stay organized 

Have digital calendars and reminders set for your meetings, calls, and deadlines. Also have a to-do list for each day. Apps like Evernote, Google Kee,p or Asana can assist you in staying organized and on top of your tasks.

9) Keep all your expense receipts

For any travel expense incurred during business trips, ensure you have the required receipts for claims. You can use apps like Expensify or Zoho Expense to digitally track your business travel expenses. 

10) Re-evaluate and reflect

After each trip, it’s a good idea to reflect on what worked and what didn’t. This will assist you in refining your travel tactics and planning more efficiently for your future trips.

Business travelling no longer has to be stressful or exhausting with the right planning and strategies. By incorporating these handy tips into your travel plans, you can wholly focus on the objectives behind your travel – sealing the deal, fostering connections, and driving your business’s success.