Are you the type of person who always seems to leave something behind when taking a business trip? Has this cost you time and money in the past? Are you willing to do whatever it takes to avoid a similar situation in the future?
On the surface, it sounds simple enough to pack for a business trip. You throw some stuff in your bag, hit the road, and use what you have once you reach your destination.
While this sounds like a good plan, you know that there is more to it than this. Without the right approach to packing, you could find yourself without something you really need – and that’s not a situation that is any fun.
Here are 5 packing tips you should follow as you get ready for your next business trip:
- Make a Checklist
This is one of the best things you can do, as a checklist almost guarantees that you never forget anything you need.
As an item makes its way into your bag, cross if off your checklist. By doing this, you will know once you are all packed and ready to go.
It’s easy to fall into the trap of believing that you don’t need a checklist, but you don’t want to go down this path.
- Take Enough Clothes
There is nothing worse than realizing that you didn’t pack enough clothes for your trip. This could lead you to wear the same thing twice or find a laundry facility that meets your requirements.
Tip: if you think you may have to do laundry, maybe because you have a long trip planned, search for a hotel with an on site facility.
For example, you can use Expedia to find the Budapest hotel with the best on site amenities, including laundry.
You can help protect against the need to do laundry by taking enough clothes with you on your trip.
- Pack for Pleasure as well
Even though you’re traveling for business, there could come a time when you find yourself looking to have some fun. Maybe you want to hit the pool. Or maybe you want to workout in the gym. Even better, you could take in a local ball game.
Since you know that these opportunities may arise, you want to pack for pleasure as well.
For example, if you’re staying at the Four Seasons Hotel in Miami, there is always something exciting going on around you. While you may not have the time in your schedule for each and every activity, chances are that you’ll want to enjoy your trip just a little bit.
- Take the Right Technology
This all depends on why you’re traveling, how long you’ll be gone, and whether you need to stay connected, but most people see traveling as an opportunity to expand their portfolio both professionally and as a hobby.
In addition to your smartphone, don’t forget about your tablet and laptop computer. All of these devices can go a long way in helping you stay connected when you’re away from the office. If you snap a great picture and want to make a killer social media post for the company, having your laptop will serve you well. Even when you’re away from the Creative Cloud, there are plenty of DIY ways to produce great content. Check out this blog from squareship.com to learn a few.
Tip: Pack your technology carefully, as you don’t want to risk damage during your trip to and from your destination.
- Forget Checking a Bag
Although there may be times when you have no choice but to check a bag, such as if you’re traveling for several weeks at a time, you should attempt to avoid this at all costs.
There are many reasons to carry on your luggage, including the convenience factor. Also, it can save you quite a bit of money as well.
It can be a challenge to pack everything you need into a carry on bag, but it’s something to consider.
Final Thoughts
These are the types of packing tips you can follow as you prepare for your next business trip. Once you get into the habit of doing these things, you’ll find it much easier to make the right decisions every time you find yourself in this position in the future.
What types of steps do you take when packing for a business trip? Is there anything in particular that you always do? Is there anything in particular that you always avoid? Share your best business trip packing tips in the comment section below. Your feedback can help other travelers better plan for an upcoming trip!
