Business travel can be both exciting and exhausting. Whether you’re jetting off for a 30-day temporary work trip or are going to be in a new city for 6 months, having a solid plan is essential to making your trip productive and stress-free. With years of globe-trotting experience under our belt, we’ve compiled the ultimate business travel checklist that covers everything from pre-trip prep to post-arrival strategies. Ready to elevate your travel game?
Investments for Business Travel
- High-Quality Carry-On Luggage
Your luggage is your best friend—or worst enemy if it fails you. Investing in a durable, sleek carry-on can save you from lost baggage woes and keep your professional attire in pristine condition.
Pro Tips:
- Always opt for carry-on luggage that meets international size requirements (22x14x9 inches).
- Look for models with gyroscopic wheels for effortless maneuvering on any surface.
- If there’s a chance you’ll run into clients or co-workers at the airport, stick to neutral colors.
Recommended Brands: Away, Chester, Tumi, and Briggs & Riley are well-regarded for their durability and functionality.
- A Well-Organized Tech Bag
Tech gear is an essential part of business travel. Keeping your chargers, cables, and gadgets organized can save you time and prevent last-minute scrambles.
Must-Have Accessories:
- Tech Organizer: Use a dedicated pouch to keep your cables, chargers, and adapters neatly stored.
- Universal Charging Brick with International Adapters: These are lifesavers when traveling abroad. Many models allow you to charge multiple devices simultaneously.
- Extra-Long Charging Cord: Hotel outlets aren’t always conveniently placed—a longer cord ensures your devices stay charged wherever you are.
- Hanging Toiletry Case
Stay organized and keep your toiletries accessible with a hanging toiletry bag. Many options come with a removable clear section for liquids, making TSA checks smoother, like for example the Travando hanging toiletry bag. Check out this great video on how to pack the perfect liquids bag for carry-on travel that we highly recommend.
Travel Day Essentials
- Sign Up for TSA Pre-Check & Global Entry
Long security lines are a drag, especially when you’re on a tight schedule. TSA Pre-Check lets you breeze through domestic security without removing your shoes, belt, or laptop. For international travel, Global Entry expedites customs processing.
Pro Tip: Many premium travel credit cards reimburse the application fees for these programs.
- Download Essential Travel Apps or Docs
Make your travel day as seamless as possible with these must-have apps:
- Airline Apps: Access mobile boarding passes, check flight status, and select your seats.
- Hotel Apps or Corporate House Info Docs: Having this information handy on your phone will make check-in, digital room keys, and special requests so much easier.
- Rideshare Apps: Ensure you have Uber, Lyft, or local equivalents installed for easy transportation.
- Stay Hydrated & Moisturized
This is going to sound silly but flying can dehydrate you quickly. Pack a reusable water bottle and refill it after passing security. Don’t forget to apply moisturizer and SPF—yes, even on a plane! UV exposure is higher at cruising altitude. - Pack Essential Medications
Always carry a small kit with headache remedies, antacids, and any prescription medications. A minor ailment can derail your entire trip.
Post-Arrival Strategies
- Unpack and Hang Your Clothes
First impressions matter. Upon arrival, unpack your clothes and hang them up to minimize wrinkles. If needed, use the hotel iron or hang garments in a steamy bathroom to freshen them up. (Check the bottom of the iron to make sure there’s no build-up on the bottom of the iron. Iron a towel, using the steam feature, to clean the iron first so your clothes don’t have streak marks after ironing.) - Ensure Accurate Time Settings
Crossing time zones? Double-check that your watch, phone, and hotel clocks are correctly set to avoid missing meetings. - Stay Presentable
Spills happen, so pack an extra set of business attire. A stain remover pen or wipes can also come in handy for last-minute touch-ups.
Maximizing Business Travel Benefits
- Optimize Travel Rewards
Make your trips work for you by racking up points and perks.
- Airline Loyalty: Stick to one airline to earn elite status, which can lead to upgrades and lounge access.
- Hotel or Corporate Housing Loyalty Programs: Consistency pays off. Higher status often means free perks and cost savings.
- Rental Car and Train Programs: Don’t forget to sign up for these loyalty programs, too!
- Use the Right Credit Cards
If permitted, use a personal credit card that offers high rewards on travel expenses. Cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred or American Express Platinum offer generous points and travel perks.
Bonus Tip: Register your card with airline dining programs to earn extra miles when dining at participating restaurants. Here are a few fan favorites:
American Airlines Dining
Delta Airlines Dining
United Airlines Dining
- Combine Business with Leisure
Known as “bleisure” travel or “workcations,” combining business trips with leisure time can make your travels more enjoyable. Explore the local culture, try new cuisines, or extend your stay over the weekend.
Business travel doesn’t have to be a chore. With the right preparation and mindset, it can be a productive, even enjoyable, experience. By investing in high-quality gear, staying organized, and taking advantage of loyalty programs, you can turn each trip into an opportunity to grow professionally and personally.
So next time you’re packing for a work trip, keep this ultimate business travel checklist handy. Safe travels!