Frequently going on business trips can leave you feeling exhausted, and frankly, not like yourself. This could be from not being at home and having to do things that are out of your norm. Fortunately, the right travel routine can make your business trips go smoother, leave you feeling healthier, and more productive. In this guide, we’ll share 10 practical tips to help you create a business travel routine that actually works for you, so that you can stay balanced and focused, no matter how often you travel.
1. Streamline the Packing Process
One of the most important parts of getting ready for a trip is ensuring that you have everything you need. There are certain things that you’ll bring along with you each time you go on a business trip, which is why we suggest creating a packing list. This way, you can look at this list before every work trip, and check that you don’t forget anything. This can save you a lot of time and stress in the long run.
2. Organize Your Travel Documents
Keep your travel documents in the same spot around your house, and put them back after each trip. Store them in a safe place where only you can access them and where they won’t get ruined. You can even consider keeping them inside a folder, so that you always have an idea of where your passport is. The more organized you are, the easier it will be for you to stick to a business travel routine.
3. Shift Your Mindset
Traveling for business can be stressful – but it doesn’t have to be! A simple shift in your mindset can make a big difference. For starters, ensure that you are organized and have everything packed a few days ahead of time. The last thing you need is to be running around frantically the day of your trip.
Another thing to keep in mind is that traveling for business is actually a really fun and unique opportunity. You get to see different parts of the world, meet new people, and experience some pretty amazing things. So, if possible, always try to go into your trip with a positive mindset and attitude.
4. Build Productive Airport Habits
Sitting at the airport doesn’t have to be a waste of time. In fact, you may be surprised at how much you can get done while waiting to board your plane. For example, you can prepare for meetings, finish up any last-minute work, check emails, or outline your goals for the trip. If you don’t have any work to do and instead need some time to unwind, find a nice and quiet place to relax, get a light bite to eat, and hydrate.
5. Use Your Travel Time Wisely
Just because you have a long plane ride ahead of you, doesn’t mean that you have to be unproductive. There are many things that you can do while in the air that will give you a head start on your trip. Before leaving, download any important documents, presentations, or reports so that you can work offline. Not only will this make the time pass by more quickly, but you’ll soon get into a routine of working on the plane, increasing your productivity.
6. Unpack and Settle in Right Away
The best thing that you can do once you arrive at your destination is to head to your hotel, unpack, and settle in. At your hotel, turn your room into a mini workspace. Hang up your clothes, designate a work area, and set up your laptop. This will help you feel more comfortable and organized. Do this each time you get to your destination, and find a routine that works for you.
7. Adjust to the Local Timezone
One of the most difficult things to do is adjust to a new timezone. This is especially true when you’re on a business trip. Jetlag can throw off your productivity and disrupt your routine, which is why it’s best to adjust as soon as possible. Change your watch to the current time as soon as you get off the plane, get outside in the sunlight to reset your body clock, and avoid heavy meals or caffeine later in the day. The sooner your body can get used to the local time, the better.
8. Prioritize Sleep
Getting a good night’s sleep can make a world of difference, and can help you be more productive. That’s why it’s so important to create a bedtime routine that works for you, especially while you’re traveling for business. Try to go to bed at the same time every night, minimize your screen time, turn off the lights, and wear an eye mask if needed. If for some reason you’re feeling a little groggy during the day, get in a quick nap between meetings to recharge.
9. Stick to Healthy Habits
If you have a health routine that you try and follow while at home, you should do your best to stick to these habits while away. Though it would probably be hard to stick to your full fitness routine or nutrition plan while traveling, you can try your best to make good choices. For example, you can try to get in a quick workout before meetings, carry water around with you to stay hydrated, and walk whenever possible. Even small efforts can be extremely beneficial to your physical and mental health.
10. Take Time to Reflect
Not everyone’s business travel routine looks the same, and something that might work for one person may not work for another. After every trip, sit back, and take some time to reflect. Write down what worked for you, and what maybe wasn’t the best for your personal wellbeing. Keep doing this and before you know it, you’ll have a solid routine that helps you feel refreshed, recharged, and ready to take on whatever comes next.
If you need a passport or business visa for your upcoming trip, we’d be happy to assist you. To start your application, visit our website. Here, you can fill out all of the required information, get a list of the documents that you’ll need, and our team of travel experts will process your application. Your travel documents will then be sent to you in time for your work trip. If you have any questions along the way, please don’t hesitate to contact us. No matter where you’re going, we’ll get you there!
