When you start to travel domestically or internationally for business, it can be exciting and even feel glamorous. However, it can also be daunting, especially if you’ve never done it. I remember my first international flight and being in a foreign country. I was, of course, excited but the nerves set in as well. I didn’t know what to expect and I was terrified to make bad mistakes. Everything worked out, but there were some things I wish I’d known beforehand. Here are some important dos for business travel.
Do Check In Frequently
It’s always wise, whenever you’re traveling, to check in with your office and your loved ones. This is especially true if you have business in a questionable area or country. Giving updates will help you feel connected to vital information and home. If your company uses a cloud-based telephone service, you can easily check in without incurring a high cost. This also allows you to attend conferences and meetings from anywhere. For more information about this type of business communication tool, visit Single Point Global.
Do Limit Your Itinerary
It’s important to follow an itinerary while traveling for business. This helps you stick to a schedule and not get distracted by being in a new city or country. Make sure that this itinerary isn’t too jampacked, though, or you could end up rushing and getting stressed. I recommend leaving some free time in your itinerary so you can relax and look around.
Do Update Passport, ID, and Travel Documents Early
If you are traveling internationally and plan to stay for a length of time, there is a good chance you will need a visa or other travel documents in order to enter the country. Make sure that you sort out all of this necessary paperwork weeks before your trip if possible. Don’t get caught at the last minute scrambling to get what you need. Visas, passports, and other documents can take weeks to acquire.
Do Take Only What You Need
Make sure you travel light and pack wisely for business travel. You don’t want to carry around heavy luggage while in a strange place. Some trips may require you to travel to various locations and hotels. Consider taking only the bare essentials and a wardrobe that can be mixed and matched. If you are traveling by plane and don’t have a long stay at your destination, stick to one carry on and a purse so you don’t have to mess with picking up luggage. If you pack efficiently, this shouldn’t be a problem.