Traveling for business is something of a science. It takes careful planning and preparation and can be a very stressful endeavor without proper forethought. The good news is that a business trip doesn’t have to be all work and no play. In this post, we’ll introduce you to a few handy travel tips that will help make your business trip seamless, productive, and even fun.
Keep Yourself Entertained on the Long Journey to Your Destination
One of the toughest parts of traveling for business (or traveling for any purpose) is the time spent actually traveling, whether it’s by car, train, plane, or bus. Long trips can be exhausting and tedious and really put a damper on your ability to stay fresh, energized, and clear-minded right before a big business meeting. One way to keep the boredom and fatigue at bay is by staying entertained during your trips. Pack a book you’ve been dying to read but just haven’t had the time to get started on. Get your music playlist ready to go and download a couple of lengthy podcasts to listen to. When you keep yourself entertained, the time will fly by and you’ll be fresh and alert for your important meeting, conference, tradeshow, or other business-related activity.
Optimize Your Comfort on the Bus Ride
Being entertained on your trip is one important element of travel and staying comfortable is another, especially if you’re going to be on a long-haul bus ride. Pack the essentials necessary to make your ride more comfortable. This would include loose, casual clothing instead of jeans or dress pants. If the weather is a bit chilly, pack a big scarf that can double as a blanket. Wear comfortable shoes and save the heels for something to change into when the bus ride is over. If you’re riding overnight, pack an eye mask and some ear plugs to make it easier to sleep soundly.
Be a Tourist for a Day
If your schedule permits, plan to set aside some time between meetings to get out and explore the fabulous city you’re visiting. As the saying goes, “all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.” If all you are doing is running yourself ragged and working non-stop, you likely won’t be your sharpest during your business engagements. Give yourself some time off to renew your mind and spirit by taking a snooze on the sands of the local beach, visiting the museums and historical moments of the city, and taking yourself to lunch at any of the great local restaurants.
Treat Yourself
Once the long work day is over and it’s time to wind down back at the hotel, make a point to go all out. If possible, don’t allow yourself to stay up all night going over a big presentation when you should be getting your rest. Manage your time wisely and schedule a time every day (even if it can’t be until later in the evening) to just relax and treat yourself. If you’re staying at a hotel, there are many excellent, built-in ways to have a little “me time.” Order room service, take a hot bath, go for a dip in the pool, or get in a rigorous workout at the gym. If you’re constantly on the go, hopping from one meeting to the next, shaking a thousand different hands at a convention, or writing up a speech for a conference, you’ll eventually burn out.
Don’t Let Yourself Get Overwhelmed
The best way to protect yourself from getting overwhelmed on your business trip is to efficiently plan all aspects of it before it happens. Seasoned business travelers swear by well-organized travel itineraries. You can keep yourself from being overwhelmed by giving attention to the little things like packing your travel bag several days before the trip instead of a couple of hours before you have to leave. It’s also a good idea to have your entire schedule planned before departing — as well as penciling in the time you need to explore the sights and give yourself some attention.
Don’t Neglect Your Health
When you’re away from home and out of your routine, it’s easy to neglect your normally healthy eating habits. When you first check into your hotel room, stock the mini fridge with some fresh produce and other groceries bought locally. This way you won’t be tempted to indulge in a midnight dessert or just eat greasy fast food the whole time while you’re on the go.
Looking for help planning your business trip? Start by buying your bus ticket today!
