Travel like a Professional

You’re an old pro when it comes to vacation travel–you pack a book, your bathing suit, and some sunscreen. Whatever you forgot, you can buy there. No worries. Que Sera, Sera.

But what about that last-minute business trip with the boss? Might be a little more stressful than your all-inclusive weekend in Cabo…

With a little preparation, though, you can easily impress him or her with your travel savvy. Here are some things to know before you go.

Ten Tips for a Smooth Business Trip

1. Pack a carry-on bag with a change of clothes, laptop and charger, pen and paper (no batteries required), phone and charger, any important documents, and your organizer or day planner. ALWAYS carry your laptop on the plane. It’s called a laptop after all, not a tossed-beneath-the-plane-top.

2. ALWAYS carry some cash for tips, curbside check-in, hotel attendants, cabs, etc. At least for now, cash is still king.

3. Bring your ethernet cable and USB memory sticks with you for presentations, impromptu internet needs, and to avoid a data disaster.

4. Unless you’re staying for a whole week, you’ll probably just need one business suit. Bring several pieces or accessories (different color shirts, ties, scarves, etc.) to vary its appearance. Pack two suits if trip is extended.

5. Plan your airport exit strategy ahead of time. Know where you’re going and how best to get there.

6. Buy a bottle of water once you’re through security to carry on the plane. That tiny teacup of water they give you just isn’t enough. Staying well hydrated helps your body fight jet lag, too.

7. Speaking of jet lag–if you’re crossing time zones, start mentally adjusting on the plane. When you arrive, plan your sleep schedule as if you live in the time zone you’re visiting.

8. Try to fit in a workout each day. You’ll be more energized for the trip. A resistance band is easy to pack if you don’t have time to hit the gym. Running or walking are great ways to decompress and see a new city before you’re stuck in a conference room all day.

9. Keep receipts organized in your wallet and record each day’s expenses that night. This makes end-of-the-trip accounting much easier.

10. If you travel often, keep a stocked bag with trial size toiletries (less than 4 oz. if you plan to carry them on) packed in your luggage at all times. You’ll be ready to roll at a moment’s notice.

11. I know, there were only supposed to be 10 Tips… either I can’t count or it’s your lucky day. Don’t forget to stay green on your business trip. It’s easy! Reduce, reuse, recycle.

Oh yeah, and whatever you do, don’t bring your monkey on the plane.