Ten Things To Do Before Your Next Business Trip
By the time you read this, I will be on my way to Cancun. No, I won’t be sunning myself on the beaches, though I do plan to make use of the hotel pool. Most of the time I will be working, and it’s so long since I’ve taken a business trip that I created a to do list, which I’ll share with you now.
1. Write a list of things to do and pack
I’m a firm believer in writing lists and although I keep most things online, that hasn’t stopped me from making long lists of the things I have to do. It’s even more important when taking an unusual trip, as it’s so easy to forget something essential. At the start of last week, I decided to get my act together and start collecting the information I would need so I could check it off throughout the week.
Cancun, Mexico
2. Print out your travel confirmation
Most tickets are e-tickets but you will need a reference number to get your boarding pass. In my case, the travel was booked by an office thousands of miles away, so it’s even more important for me to check that it’s all ok. Sometimes airlines have requirements you must meet before you get to the airport; this is a good reminder to check on those.
3. Book airport parking or arrange a ride to the airport
If you’re only going away for a few days, then booking offsite airport parking is the best way to make sure your car is waiting when you return. Another option is to get a ride to the airport, which works for me as it’s just ten minutes away.
4. Book travel insurance
It’s worth checking whether you’re covered on the company’s travel insurance. It’s pretty sure that the cost of cancellation will be, but what about if you get ill. Don’t take the chance; there are plenty of inexpensive travel insurance policies around that will get you the cover you need or fly you back home in an emergency.
5. Get directions for your hotel and make a note of the address
Whenever you travel, people want to know your destination. Sometimes you actually need to have an address before they will let you into the country. I solve that problem by visiting the website for my accommodation and printing out travel directions and the address. Then I put it in a handy folder with all my other travel documents.
6. Check on the exchange rate
Finding out the exchange rate is the only way to know if something is good value or a complete rip-off. It’s especially useful to find out the average prices for public transport and essential food items, otherwise you could blow your budget.
7. Charge your camera, phone, laptop, PDA and iPod
It’s amazing how much electronic stuff there is to charge. If you’re traveling on business you will probably have a laptop and a PDA or smart phone (ora regular cell phone). You may also have a camera and an iPod (after all, you need entertainment when you’re not working). Alls of these need to be charged and you should also check on the power system at your destination so you will know if you need adapters. In my case, Mexico uses 110v power, which is the same, though the plugs may be different in some cases.
8. Transfer any files you need to take
Since I have online backup of all my important files, I know I can access them from anywhere, but there are still a few things to transfer to my laptop. One of these is a portable version of my browser which means I will have access to my most used sites (and some of their passwords) wherever I connect.
9. Make sure you read up on business etiquette
You wouldn’t want to offend someone by wearing inappropriate clothing or making the wrong gesture. Check out our post on business etiquette for more information.
10. Prepare some advance posts for your blog
Check! It’s good to do this before you go just in case there are connection problems at your destination.
Tags: business travel, travel, Travel Tips
