8 Ways to Stay Sane on Your Next Business Trip

Between interminable airport layovers, scheduling inconveniences, and dealing with coworkers’ strange travel quirks, staying positive during a business trip can be a struggle. But with a little foresight, planning, and a positive outlook, you can turn your next business trip into a productive and enjoyable experience. Use these tips as your guide—your travel-weary body will thank you.

1. Stick to a schedule.

Time management is especially tricky when you’re in a different location than usual. Before arriving, create a detailed schedule for your days away and the tasks you aim to accomplish. Another tip: schedule all your meetings in the same location. While sitting tight might not be the most interesting option, especially if you’re in an exciting new location, you’ll save yourself the logistical stress of running across town between meetings.

You don’t need to take your whole closet with you for a business trip. You know exactly what to expect from your schedule, so pack accordingly—whether you need a tailored suit for a slew of formal business meetings or business casual for an industry conference. Considering the cost for checked luggage, packing a carry-on suitcase will be both a time- and money-saver.

2. Pack smart.

3. Keep track of your expenses.

4. Download your airline’s app.

Instead of waiting for the gate agents to announce your airplane’s status, get real-time updates from the app. In the unfortunate circumstance that your flight’s been canceled, you’ll be the first to know—and the first in line to rebook. In addition to the airline app, download GateGuru and Seat Alerts for seamless boarding and flight experiences.

5. Treat yourself to a VIP lounge.

6. Don’t lose sleep.

One thing’s for sure: a hotel isn’t home sweet home. If you’re flying through time zones, take a melatonin pill—an all-natural sleep supplement designed especially for jet-lag relief. If stress or a change in scenery is keeping you awake, download an episode of the “Sleep With Me” podcast, which airs boring stories that will lull you to sleep in no time.

7. Try to maintain your regular routine.

8. Plan your transition home.

Imagine returning home to a mowed lawn, a washed car, and a fridge full of all the groceries you need. Well, there’s an app for that. By taking advantage of apps like Instacart, which does your grocery shopping for you, you can make your transition back home from a business trip as seamlessly as possible.

Need help planning your next trip? The Trip Atelier takes the stress out of vacation planning. Schedule a consultation and have a great business trip.