5 Tips to Prepare for a Successful Business Day Trip

One-day business trips may sound hectic, but they can be extremely productive and stress-free if you plan for them correctly. They can also keep your personal life on track, so you aren’t missing out on events and commitments. Here are 5 tips to make your one-day business trip a seamless and enjoyable experience.

1. Book an early flight

This may seem like a given, especially if you’re traveling across the country. Early flights not only get you to your destination earlier in the day, but they are less likely to be delayed. And if you’re not a morning person, you can sleep on the flight! If you don’t need to head straight to your destination, plan where you can grab a bite to eat and stretch your legs.

2. Make check in a breeze

Download your airline’s app and check-in through that. Not only will it help you avoid check-in lines at the airport, the app will alert you to any changes or delays concerning your flight. If you’re flying domestically at an airport with PreCheck or CLEAR services and are an approved member, use them. If you are not a member and fly often, consider enrolling in TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, and/or Global Entry (for international flights) to get through security more quickly.

3. Check the weather

Are you going from a warm climate to cold? Dry weather to rain? These are important factors to consider so you can pack appropriately for your trip. Consider packing allergy medication or a decongestant if you’re traveling to a climate vastly different from the one you're leaving behind. Dress in layers and if you need to pack a coat, wear it on your flight so it doesn’t take up space in your travel carry-on bag.

4. Pack sparsely but smartly

You aren’t going to need much, so don’t plan to take anything but a carry-on bag. Packed necessities should include your laptop, phone, corresponding chargers, and one change of clothes. Toiletries may include glasses, contacts and case, contact solution, a travel toothbrush, toothpaste, travel face wash, deodorant, moisturizer or sunscreen.Don’t forget about the 311 liquids rule! Each passenger may carry liquids, gels, and aerosols in travel-size containers that are 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters. Each passenger is limited to one quart-size bag of liquids, gels, and aerosols. Common travel items include toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, mouthwash, and lotion.

If you still have room left over, pack some comfortable items for the flight; some noise canceling earbuds, chewing gum, a book/magazine.

5. Create a detailed trip itinerary

Create an itinerary that outlines where you need to be and at what time. Be sure to leave a buffer for deplaning, traffic, unpacking, freshening up, eating, and preparing for any presentations. Learn about your travel destination in advance so you can plan restaurants to walk to for meals or any ride share programs available. Store important addresses and contacts in your phone in advance.

CLC Lodging offers comprehensive business travel management services to businesses of any size. These services include pre-negotiated room discounts, streamlined hotel, and payment options, assistance with travel policy adherence, and technology that can help ensure the safety and well-being of team members. Become a member today!