Heading off on your first business trip and not feeling too sure about the whole deal? We've got you covered with these top tips to help you slay that business trip like a pro. Just keep calm and read on, you'll be sorted in no time.
1. Pack like a boss
Packing smart is half the battle won. Start with a solid carry-on bag that's light but tough enough to handle a bit of rough and tumble. Packing luggage? Those packing cubes and inner pockets will be your best mates for keeping things neat and easy to find. Skip the queues at the airport and head straight to your destination – you're on a roll!
Here are some key tips for choosing your carry-on:
- Go for good quality materials that can handle a bit of rough and tumble
- Keep it light as a feather, you don't want to be struggling
- Make sure it's easy to wheel around (those four spin wheels are magic!)
- And don't forget a reliable security lock to keep your things safe
2. Papers, please
As a new business traveller, all that paperwork can feel a bit hectic. But no worries, we'll go through the important stuff. For international trips, you'll need a valid passport that doesn't expire for at least six more months.
Depending on where you're jetting off to, you might also need a visa for business travel. But don't stress too much about remembering all the finer details, that's what your travel manager is there for!
They'll make sure your flights, accommodation and travel plans are sorted. And when it comes to visas? Corporate Traveller's visa partners are absolute legends at that game. They will handle everything like booking appointments, important documentation, and dealing with embassy requirements.
Just leave it to the experts in travel management and focus on preparing for that big meeting or conference. You've got this!
3. Is your business travel covered?
Before you take to the skies, check business travel insurance off your to-do list. Whether it's a short trip or a long one, on a first business trip, we want to make sure you're covered. Money may not buy happiness, but it can get you an annual policy – saving you time, money and many headaches later. One last thing: don't forget to scope out the risk landscape of your destination to make sure it's in policy. Questions? Your dedicated travel manager is in the wings.
Ask about business travel insurance coverage for trip interruption and emergency medical treatment. Corporate Traveller offers a range of insurance products both for single-trip and multi-trip annual plans. Contact your travel manager for more information - and be sure to check out your company's Duty of Care policy and emergency assist services when you travel.
4. Level up your airport experience
Airline lounges can reduce the stress of flying and lift you out of the chaos and noise of the main concourse. Step into peace and quiet, showers, healthy snacks and drinks for free (hello, morning mimosa!).
Business class fares generally include lounge access, but some are available for a fee. Credit card rewards programmes can also give you access to airport lounges. There is no better place to be if you're riding out flight delays or prepping for important business meetings.
5. Going the distance
The carry-on bag is tucked away and you're settling in. If you're on a business trip to a different time zone, try to eat and sleep during the flight based on the local time zone you're heading to. Body clocks are hard to reset, and it's better if you can start the transition mid-air.
While sleeping in economy class can be a challenge, earplugs and noise-cancelling headphones may help. If your business meeting is crucial, upgrading to a business class fare could be the thing you need if your travel policy allows.
For long-haul trips, make sure your member numbers are locked and loaded so you can maximise loyalty programmes. Once you land, eat a meal, stay hydrated and move around a bit to beat jet lag.
7. Always ask about amenities
Global travel is a huge industry, and many operators are adopting sustainability programmes. Small changes can make a big difference, especially on business trips.
It's now common for certain services and supplies to be on request at business travel hotels as part of efforts to reduce waste. Daily housekeeping, razors, creams, and other amenities are still available, but they might not be stocked in the hotel room by default. Pack light and ask what's available when you check in.
What's the strangest perk we've seen? A full set of gym clothes and shoes to borrow while staying at a hotel.
8. Counting costs
A greasy burger or room service? Should you opt for e-hail, taxi, or use public transportation? Check with the boss before you travel on what counts as business travel expenses rather than return to a chilly reception and a bill you have to pay for.
Hold onto all your receipts and make a note on them if they're low on details, like a taxi ride.
9. Work smart and stay refreshed
It's easy to go from meetings to drinks to dinner to bed and repeat. It's important you keep a check on your mental and physical health while you travel. Jet lag can sneak up on you. The first day, you feel fine, and then, to your surprise, you wake up at 4 am every day.
With the rising trend of digital nomads, business travellers have come up with new ways to find balance while on the road. A physical change of scenery can help traveller wellbeing.
Instead of working in the evening in your hotel room, why not answer emails in the lobby or patio of the hotel? Set a clear divide between work and travel, then your mind will be clearer, and you'll look and feel fresher.
Bleisure travel is one way to get that balance right. Check out what your bleisure travel style is to make better travel choices.
10. Flawless first impressions
When you travel on business trips, you're representing your company and yourself. And Mzanzi. But a few travel tips can help you make a good impression. Know the local laws, be courteous and tip when needed.
Pro travel tip: watch what you eat and drink on a business trip. It may be fun to experiment on the deep-fried delights from a street food vendor but why take the risk? Stick to bottled water in some destinations and avoid ice if you can.