If you travel for work, you know that it can be stressful to plan and then actually make the trip. You have to find accommodations, book your transportation, pack, and then travel to and from your destination. To make the best of your trip, here are some tips to make it a bit smoother.
Choose Your Accommodation
Choosing the best accommodation for your needs is essential. If you’ve only got one meeting place or convention hall to reach, make sure you book a hotel that is close by so you don’t need public transportation or car service. For instance, if you have a trade show in Anaheim, book a room at the suites near Anaheim convention center. Be sure to reserve well in advance so you don’t end up needing to commute longer than necessary.
Research Your Destination
While you may be in meetings all day, you will likely want to have options for meals and relaxation in the area so you aren’t only spending time in an office, convention center, and hotel room. Learn the lay of the land so that you are staying safe, especially when in an urban center where you don’t know the neighborhoods. Download a city map to your phone so you know where you are all the time.
Gather Your Travel Documents
Make sure you have your photo ID, passport, health insurance cards, airline tickets, and anything else you will need while traveling, especially if going to another country. Documents for foreign travel often require applying for them months in advance of your trip. Make copies and give those to a family member to keep while you are away in case of an emergency. While you are at it, make sure you have an ATM card and a credit card in your wallet.
Pack Your Electronic Accessories
There is nothing more annoying than unpacking your bag and realizing you didn’t bring your phone or tablet charger. Be sure to consider you might need special adapters if traveling outside of the country. If you forget, you can typically purchase them at the airport before you board the plane.
Get to the Airport or Train Station Early
Security check lines at airports are ridiculously long these days. If you can, get approved for a TSA PreCheck. Baggage checks can also be time-consuming and expensive. If possible, pack just a carry-on bag. Some train stations are still doing random security checks before boarding. Buy your tickets online and make sure you have the QR code downloaded to your phone. It’s smart to print out a hard copy, just in case.
No matter how you are getting there or where you are going, business travel can be daunting. It is best to prepare well ahead of time and research your destination. Use these helpful tips to make the most of your trip and ease any associated stress or unexpected inconveniences.
Author Bio
Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn’t on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym. Follow her on Twitter and Facebook: @RachelleWilber; https://www.facebook.com/people/Rachelle-Wilber/100009221637700/
