10 Tips to Make the Most of Your Business Trip

With business travel back in full swing, make the most of these trips by ensuring a fulfilling experience for yourself. A well-planned trip can help ease stress while adding excitement, allowing for a more enjoyable time. Utilize these expert tips to make your business trip more efficient, comfortable, and rewarding.

1. Set a Clear Plan in Advance

The best way to create a stress-free trip is to plan ahead. Take note of what time is best to leave for the airport and which is the best way to get there. Try to get there at least 2-3 hours ahead of departure to have a bit of time to relax before your flight. It is very important to plan how you will get to the hotel from the destination airport. Whether it is taking a taxi, pre-arranged vehicle or public transport, it is always best to have the route pre-planned, especially if you are arriving early in the morning or late evening.

It is also useful to think ahead about your daily schedule to make sure you are hitting your daily goals as well as factoring in some time for relaxation. With lots to do in a short amount of time, set a plan of what to do each day and what you would like to accomplish.

2. Utilize Travel Credit Cards

Before leaving for your trip, make sure to have a proper travel credit card to make the most of your flights and hotel stays. Travel cards can also help you gain lounge access at the airport and receive free room upgrades along with other perks. The Marriott Bonvoy Travel Reward Card allows you to earn points while you stay and spend so that you can use them later for travel and leisure. Utilize the Marriott Bonvoy Travel Reward Card for dining, entertainment, room upgrades, and more.

3. Pack Efficiently

To pack most efficiently, we recommend using packing cubes to separate your suitcase. It is also helpful to have full outfits matched together so that it is easy and stress-free once you arrive. Keep in mind to pack clothes that are comfortable, yet professional. Remember to add a few items for leisure wear so you can take time for wellness activities and explore the local area. At least one comfortable outfit for a night out or sightseeing is recommended.

4. Request a Room by the Elevator

When making a hotel reservation, try to request a room close to the elevator for ease of access. Not only is it a shorter walk in a large hotel or resort, but it will be easier to carry your luggage to a nearby room. Contrary to popular belief, rooms near elevators are not usually noisier and they are also much more convenient.

5. Allot Some Time Daily for Relaxing

With lots of fun daily events, programs, and presentations, it’s important to spend some time working out, relaxing by the pool, or reading in a library. Take some time for yourself to recharge so that you can fully maximize each day. Take a moment to find your zen by booking an appointment ahead of time at your hotel’s luxurious spa.

6. Bring Along Universal Travel Adapters

A bit of research before a trip helps avoid finding yourself in a new country with incorrect plugs and chargers. Since the electrical system is different in most countries, it is vital to pack along an international power adapter. Opting for a universal adapter can help in almost every country, also protecting your electronics from varying voltages.

7. Check Out the Surrounding Area Beforehand

Utilize online maps before you start your trip and research the area around your hotel. Mark some spots that interest you that you can visit after your daily events, meetings, and activities, such as museums, bars, or restaurants. It is helpful to have your Google list saved so you can venture around the area confidently.

8. Research the Destination Country’s Local Customs

It is vital to research proper local business and social customs so as not to offend anyone. For example, on a business trip to Japan make sure to use both hands when receiving a business card and place it gently on the table to remain until the interaction has ended. Also, learning a few words of the destination’s language such as thank you and please goes a long way in connecting with locals.

9. Network and Socialize

Making new connections and friends can give you a more enriching experience overall. Also, strengthening bonds between clients, coworkers, and bosses can make the event more lively and enjoyable. Focus on building those relationships so that you can leave the trip confident you have made the most out of it.

10. Stay Open to New Experiences

When traveling to a new place for business, it is important to accept that unexpected situations may arise, and it’s good to keep a positive attitude when encountering them. You can experience a new activity or interaction that may change the way you think and it may give you invaluable life experience.

Business travel opens up a myriad of possibilities to enjoy a new experience and create memories that will last a lifetime. Ensure a stress-free trip with these tried and true tips for a more rewarding travel experience.