For most people, boarding a plane means that they’re on their way to a fun family vacation, or they’re taking a trip to visit family and friends from another part of the country, or the world. However, if you’re involved in the fast-paced world of global or international business, then the chances are you’ll be boarding a plane regularly as a way of catching up with clients, discussing projects with partners, and conducting important meetings.
However, just because you’re travelling for business doesn’t mean that you have to give up all of the pleasure that exploring the world can bring. These business travel tips will help you to be the boss of your next journey – no matter where you go.
1. Take Advantage of the Lounge
Most people assume that lounges in airports are reserved specifically for people who have paid for first class tickets, or have achieved a certain level of status within the airline. However, that’s not always the case. If you look online today, you can find various airports where you can gain access to the lounge on an as-needed basis. As business travel tips go, this one will help you to be more comfortable, and get more work done as you’re waiting for your flight.
2. Remember Your Electronic Needs
If your business takes you around the world, then the chances are you’ll visit one or two countries that use different voltage levels and power outlets to the ones you use at home. Doing a little research ahead of time can help to ensure that you pack the right worldwide adapter plug and converter to keep your equipment fully powered wherever you go. After all, you don’t want to deal with the stress of an empty smartphone battery or dead laptop when in the middle of important work.
3. Keep Your Documents Secure
While cloud storage may be emerging as a good way to gain access to the files and documents you need whenever you want, wherever you are, there’s always a chance that you might need some information you simply can’t access online. If you’re carrying important information with you in hard copy, make sure that you keep it in a secure place, such as an RFID-protected neck wallet. This will keep your documents protected from pickpockets, and ensure you’re prepared for the worst.
4. Pack an Extra Suit
Whether you’re expecting to take part in various meetings during your trip or not, it’s a good idea to have an extra suit handy just in case. Too many people only take one set of professional clothes with them in an effort to save luggage space, then find that a sudden patch of bad weather or a mishap with some messy food leaves them attending an important occasion in their shorts and t-shirt. As business travel tips go, an extra suit is a good way to avoid embarrassment.
5. Remember to Have Fun
Finally, while all of these business travel tips may help you to stay professional and make the right impression when you’re visiting somewhere new, remember that you should at least be having a little fun at the same time. Travelling should give you an hour or two to explore your destination, enjoy the cuisine and take a few photos too. Try to have fun wherever you can!
