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Business trips are sometimes very stressful events are becoming more and more stressful because geopolitical tensions are forcing airports and airlines around the world to increase their security measures.
However, it’s normal for you to want your business trips to go well. You don’t want to be stressed and exhausted when you arrive at your destination or when you come home. And here’s the good news: you don’t have to be!
These tips will help you make efficient business trips:
1- Whenever possible, always travel with the same airline. If you always travel with the same airline, you will leave, and you will usually arrive at the same terminal and you will have no trouble finding your way. You will find it much easier to park, check in and find the departure lounge. As a bonus, you will accumulate a bunch of loyalty points!
2- Keep a kit containing the toiletries you use only for business trips. Have you ever felt like you forgot something when you got there and realized you forgot your toothpaste? The best way to prevent this from happening is to keep a travel-only toiletry bag. Make sure to replace any out of stock items as soon as you get home.
3- Do not carry any prohibited items. The national air transport security authority maintains a list of items that you cannot carry on the aircraft because they are considered to be potential threats. This list always includes scissors, razors and some aerosols.
4- Keep your phone and laptop charged. Keep your chargers in your hand luggage, which may be a backpack or a laptop bag. When you notice that the power of one of your devices is low, plug it in as soon as you find a power outlet.
5- Bring extra clothing in your hand luggage. Clumsy fellow travelers and turbulence often cause spills and stains. Even if you’re on a short-day trip, make sure you have a change of clothes in your carry-on baggage in case of an emergency.
6- Online registration. Reduce the journey time by registering online. Online check-in is quick, easy and reduces waiting time at the airport before departure.
7- Use an app to record your trip information. Apps like Passbook for iPhone allow you to store all of your flight information, hotel reservations and other travel arrangements on your phone for easy access.
8- Dress appropriately to quickly pass through security. Security guards will ask you to remove your belt and shoes, as well as any metal items. Speed up the process by wearing slip-on shoes, avoiding metal accessories, and keeping your belt in your carry-on luggage until you reach your destination.
9- Attend the business lounge. No matter how prepared and efficient you are, you will almost always have to wait at the airport. Transform long lead times and delays into productive work time, by attending the business lounge, to make up for delays in your work. Be sure to use the Wi-Fi network as well as a VPN to reduce the risk of hacking.
10- Prepare for international travel. Make sure you have a valid passport and, if necessary, a visa. Even if you plan to use your credit card for all your purchases, bring some cash in the appropriate currency for tips and small purchases. Also, plan your trips to and from the airport, hotel, and your meeting in advance, regardless of whether you use a shuttle service or plan a car to pick you up. Finally, make sure you know where your native country embassy or consulate is located in case you need help.
Business travel can be tedious and tiring. But if you keep these tips in mind, you can reduce the risk of problems or delays, maximize your efficiency, and greatly increase your chances of having a successful business trip. |
