Tips for Business Travellers
The mere experience of travelling, particularly when you’re on your own, can be stressful and even the thought of the whole process can be quite intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re arranging everything yourself or are fortunate enough to have someone do it for you, it’s important to give yourself the time and opportunity to plan your trip properly. Make sure you have each part of your journey pre-planned wherever possible, as it will help alleviate unnecessary anxiety on the day. A well thought out travel plan is most likely to actually save you money and will help turn your trip into an exciting experience.
With this in mind we’ve put together some useful tips about how to make the most of your business trip, but also help make the experience more enjoyable.
Travel Planning
So you’ve decided it’s essential that you travel to meet some important clients, as there’s nothing quite like engaging with people face to face to build an important and lasting relationship. In some cases that may mean journeying to a far off destination involving a multi-day trip and it’s essential to be sufficiently organised to maximise the opportunity to give you the best chance of achieving your business objectives. Consider the many factors involved such as the objectives of the meeting you’re heading to, an effective presentation, supporting information and documents you may wish to leave and any research information you may want to recap on during your journey. There’s the other practical aspects such as accommodation options, venues for dining and business meetings and a trusted transportation company for your airport transfers and other required journeys.
Smart Packing
Start with a checklist of everything you’ll need for both business occasions and leisure time. It’s always worth having a small carry on bag to hold essentials such as toiletries, comb and basic change of clothes, in case the worst happens and your main luggage doesn’t make it at the same time as you. Remember only to take smaller security approved sizes if you opt to put these in your carry-on bag. If it’s a long haul flight it’s a good opportunity to catch up on some reading, it will help to while away the hours. It’s a good idea to have a list close to hand of useful contact numbers such as for accommodation, business and social venues and trusted transportation company or hire car company, together with vouchers and/or booking confirmations.
Take Time To Relax
Whilst business trips can be exciting and rewarding, they can be quite demanding and you should ensure you allow yourself time to relax. Make sure your itinerary isn’t packed end to end with meetings, you’ll find you’ll acclimatise much quicker and you’ll be more productive if you allow yourself some leisure time whilst away. A bit of research before your trip can pay huge dividends. Determine what you’d like to see or do and put that into your schedule. If you’re travelling inbound to the UK, we can offer suggestions of which highlights you can visit in the time available. It’s always enriching to experience a bit of the local history and culture that will add another dimension to your trip.
Beat The Jet Lag
There are a number of ways you can beat the dreaded jet lag. Unfortunately, it’s something that affects most of us when we travel long haul. Try to get as much rest as you can while travelling, don’t over indulge with alcohol and drink loads of water. Try to do a little exercise onboard and when you arrive going for a walk is also a great way to beat jet lag. If you’re working from your hotel, don’t stay in your room for excessive periods. Get out and exercise regularly, you’ll find it helps stimulate your mind and keep your body feeling good.
Managing Sleep
To get the most out of your trip, it’s important to manage your sleep, regardless of the time zone you are in. First of all, for long haul flights, it’s worth considering a nighttime flight. You’ll find it easier to sleep onboard and arrive more refreshed in a new time zone. During your stay try to keep to a daily routine which will help to maintain a useful sleep pattern. Remember to exercise regularly to help you relax and keep well hydrated.
Feeling Unwell?
If you’re feeling unwell prior to travelling contact your doctor to seek advice and any appropriate medication. If something occurs during your trip, most decent hotels will have their own local medical contacts and can call a doctor for you, if required. Make sure you have over the counter medication with you, such as pain killers, aspirin and stomach remedies etc. to treat minor ailments. Have as much sleep as possible during your trip, avoid too much alcohol and drink plenty of water. Remember to report any lingering symptoms to your doctor on your return to get recommended treatment.
Remember, the more you’re organised, the more you’re likely to enjoy your trip, so to book your travel to and from the airport or for inbound travellers who require any onward travel, please email enquiries@parkerschauffeurs.com or phone 0333 666 1777.