Every product was carefully curated by an Esquire editor. We may earn a commission from these links. Here’s {link} and why you should trust us.

What Do I Pack for a Three-Day Work Trip?

There will be handshakes, huddles, and pitches, early starts and late nights. You might get to visit the gym. Here's everything you'll need.

Headshot of Charlie Teasdale

You know the score. It’s a classic three-day, two-night work trip punctuated by meetings, working lunches, and dinners out. There will be handshakes, huddles, and pitches, early starts and late nights. You might get to visit the gym, maybe see a friend from college, or spend a free afternoon exploring a new city—but don’t bank on it.

Packing a carry-on to cover all the above is hard. I’ve spent the last decade trying to perfect it (with occasional success) and the one thing I’ve learned is that in this instance, personal style needs to be reframed through the prism of efficiency. Sounds dry but hear me out.

If you’re taking a flight, moving all day, jumping in cabs, going straight from work to dinner, you need clothes that can go reliably unnoticed through all of it. Looking cool is great, I spend most of my time trying to do it, but when it comes to clothes, “cool” is often a byword for uncomfortable, heavy, hot, or conspicuous—four attributes you don’t want from your outfit in this situation.

Unlike a vacation, packing for this category of trip requires military precision. You need a concise, multi-tool edit of uncomplicated, stylish stuff that can be mixed and matched to maximum effect, adapting easily to shifts in climate, schedule, and mood. I spoke to Mats Klingberg, founder of menswear boutique Trunk Clothiers (and a master of elegant business attire) on this very subject, and he had just returned from a trip that started in 10-degree Canada and finished in 90-degree St Barths. He took a single carry-on.

That sounds extreme, but the single carry-on is common among serious travelers. With this guide, you needn’t be a grizzled road warrior to adopt their hard-earned lessons.

The first port of call should be a suit in a soft, non-shiny fabric. The cloth is crucial because it needs to be comfortable all day and work when you break the suit into separates (more on that later). You could go for one of the many “travel” suits on the market—high-twist wool makes them water-repellent and wrinkle free—but unless all your time will be spent in the C-Suite, I’d recommend something in a cotton twill or textured hopsack, like this Thom Sweeney suit , or in a varied mix of cotton, linen, wool, silk, like this cotton-linen blend by J Crew . Navy is the logical go-to, and I’d avoid black or charcoal, which are both too drab. If you’re feeling bold, you might try a dusty green, or even a slubby brown. Neapolitan tailor De Petrillo would be good for that. Pack a travel steamer, just in case.

Next, a poplin shirt you can wear with a tie—I love the striped shirts at Budd —and then a more casual chambray shirt ( try Sid Mashburn ) that you can also wear with a tie, but that looks even better without one. In terms of the tie, a plain knit number will suffice. Nothing chunky and loud; you want simple and textured. British brand Percival’s woven linen ties are perfect.

You already have two looks, and we’re just getting started.

chris storer

In terms of footwear, you need one pair that will work with everything. I’d opt for black penny loafers . I’m a Paraboot devotee , but you could also go with a chunky derby , either in brown suede or black leather . Another option: a great pair of chelsea boots , which would be handy at the TSA line. It’s up to you, but you just need a pair of shoes that won’t look mismatched with a pair of mid-blue, regular fit jeans , which you will also need to pack. These can come from anywhere, but Levi’s 501 is still pretty hard to beat. If you want a substantial pair, head to Orslow for 107s . Whichever brand you prefer, make sure they finish at or above your shoes and don’t puddle over.

Now you need an alternative to the suit jacket, which is where a good chore coat comes in. You probably won’t wear it with a shirt and tie, but it’s nice to have the option, and it will be more comfortable on the travel days. Brunello Cucinelli and Loro Piana make luxurious versions of the format. If you don’t want to break the bank, visit Mr Porter for its Mr P collection or Swedish brand A Day’s March . Milan’s Massimo Alba would be good, too.

Next, a white crew-neck tee , maybe two (or one in navy, or maybe even a vest to peek out from under the chambray shirt), and an open-collar knit polo that you can wear on its own or underneath the blazer. They’re great because they’re not as golfy as a classic polo, and right now you can find them everywhere. Abercrombie & Fitch do one with what they call a “Johnny collar ,” but I’d point you in the direction of Sunspel’s fine rib silk-cotton polo , which is lighter and a little slicker. If it’s going to be chilly, consider making the polo long sleeve.

Now you just need underwear (three pairs, max), socks , and workout clothes . Be sparing with the latter, you probably won’t work out as much as you think. This is where your second pair of shoes comes in—if you can bring running sneakers that don’t look terrible with the jeans (such as Asics’s Trabuco Max III ) all the better.

If it’s going to be really hot, you could opt for a suit in seersucker or a linen mix (pure linen will crease too much). Make sure it’s unlined. Officine Generale is great for warm weather suiting. And maybe bring an extra pair of lightweight pants and some swim trunks .

If the forecast says rain, pack a simple raincoat. Burberry still makes the best. And if it’s going to be really cold, you could keep the raincoat and add a quilted down or fleece vest underneath, or swap it out completely for a proper wool overcoat, like this one by Lemaire . Then pack a thick gauge scarf or a beanie (nothing too chunky or branded) but not both—they never look good together. Acne Studios is good for either.

Noew just the finishing touches. A steel watch would be good. I love the compact functionality of Tudor’s 37mm Black Bay 54 , and the Mid-Century charm of Nivada Grenchen’s Super Antarctic (on a Twist-O-Flex strap, ideally.) You might want to pack a baseball hat, too. And you will definitely want sunglasses—for me, black acetate always—even if there’s no chance of sun. That red-eye home can be brutal.

e

How To Wear It

Traveling Out + Arrival Day: Jeans, Loafers, T-Shirt, Chore Coat + Overcoat/Raincoat. Comfortable enough for traveling, and if you switch the tee for a shirt, smart enough afternoon meetings and/or dinner.

Day Two: Suit, Shirt, Tie, Loafers, Overcoat/Raincoat.

Day Two: Suit Pants, Knit Polo/Chambray Shirt, Chore Jacket (if Necessary,) Loafers, Overcoat/Raincoat.

Day Four + Traveling Home: Suit jacket (switch to chore jacket at the airport), White Tee, Jeans, Loafers (switch to sneakers at the airport), Overcoat, Beanie, Sunglasses.

(Watch on at all times)

preview for HDM All sections playlist - Esquire

Esquire Travels

e

The Best Places to Have a Big Night Out in Chicago

man working out in a plane

How to RAWDOG a Trip to Italy Like a REAL MAN

a pair of black luggage

The 16 Best Pieces of Samsonite Luggage

graphical user interface

The Best Luggage for International Travel

random items

The 12 Long-Flight Essentials

a grey suitcase with wheels

9 Best Pieces of Lightweight Luggage

a building with a pool and chairs

Our Favorite Hotels of All Time

a collage of a kitchen

Esquire's First-Ever Watch Lover's Tour

a room with a chandelier and chairs

The 14 Best New Hotels in New York City

a stack of books

Inside the Literary Travel Boom

e

The 8 Best New Hotels in Paris

The Best New Hotels in the World 2024

CWT logo - homepage

Select your preferred language

  • Deutsch English English (Australia) English (China) English (India)
  • English (United Kingdom) Español (Latinoamérica) Español (España) Français Italiano
  • Português (Brasil) Suomi Svenska 中文

Top tips on how to plan a business trip

on a business trip

Follow these 6 steps for an effective business trip:

  • Make your travel arrangements well in advance
  • Select your accommodation based on both price and convenience
  • Create an itinerary

Research your destination

  • Remember your electronics, accessories and travel documents
  • Prepare for your meeting

In today’s digital world, we can communicate across different time zones at a moment’s notice. However, when it comes to brokering a big deal or fostering a solid and long-lasting business relationship, nothing beats face-to-face interaction.  

Corporate travel is still so important, and it’s equally important for anyone making a business trip to prepare thoroughly. When you arrive at your destination relaxed and well-prepared, you’re better equipped to make a good impression and focus on the purpose of your meeting. Preparation lets your mind focus on the here and now, making sure you stay on the ball in that all-important meeting. If you’d like to fine-tune how you get ready for your next excursion, follow these essential tips to become an effective business trip planner.

Make travel arrangements

Whether it’s your name on the travel documents or you’re a travel manager, planning business travel thoroughly is important. Your first step should always be to familiarize yourself with your company’s corporate travel policy . You’re making travel arrangements for a business trip, not planning a personal or a short break, so being compliant with your company policy is essential.

Next, it’s time to book your travel. This may involve traveling by air, rail, car hire or even boat. Think about the journey door-to-door, balancing travel times against cost and convenience. Visualize the various steps of the trip from A to B. Consider details like how long it will take to move between airport and railway station, the time it takes to fill out paperwork at the vehicle hire company, and whether luggage storage might be useful. Use multiple sources and different comparison sites, researching which companies are offering the best deals. Again, be aware of any budget restraints in your company’s travel policy.

Don’t forget the small details. Does the airplane have Wi-Fi so you can work on the move? Would leaving a day earlier allow you to arrive at your first meeting better rested and prepared? At this stage, the more carefully you prepare, the more confident and relaxed you’ll be when you depart.

Select your accommodation

Preparing business travel is, of course, only half the job. Choosing the best accommodation for your requirements is also essential. If you’ve only got one meeting place to reach, make sure you book a hotel that’s nearby – rather than be swayed by a more luxurious option that might be a stressful 45 minute trip away. Use maps on your smartphone to measure distances from the station or airport to your hotel – and remember the roads and transport networks will be busier at certain times of day.

Check your company’s hotel policies to see if there are any preferred hotels - you might be able to get a good deal too. When considering the cost, make sure you compare rates for similar types of accommodation and make sure you select something that’s fairly priced – some companies even stipulate a cost per day that would limit the choice of hotels.

It’s also a good idea to pay close attention to the amenities at the hotel. Some tourist-focused hotels may serve breakfast too late for your early starts, and as a business traveler you’re likely to want free Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service, plenty of power points for charging your devices. CWT Hotel Intel gives travelers access to trusted peer hotel reviews and can be a handy tool for business trip planners.

Create a detailed itinerary

Your itinerary is your blueprint for a successful business trip. Use it to stay in control of every detail – from transport times and the names of those you’re meeting, to your travel reservations and hotel address. Be sure to allow yourself extra time on your itinerary for relaxing, meetings that have been delayed or overrun, and busy traffic. Consider using a specially designed tool like the myCWT app , which syncs your itinerary with work calendars, and allows travelers to share this with colleagues. This is handy from a communication and efficiency perspective, and as a safety measure if you’re travelling to an unfamiliar destination.

It may be that you’re traveling to a destination you are familiar with and feel comfortable in. Or, you may be entering unchartered territory. If that’s the case, research is essential to avoid unnecessary risk. For example, some cities are well known for pick pockets, so you’ll need to be extra careful when storing important and expensive items like phones in your pockets. Depending on where you’re going, reading up on the current political situation at your destination could also be prudent.

Perhaps you’re traveling to a city or country with a different culture and customs to your own. Avoid looking foolish or, worse, causing offence, by researching the differences in behavior and manners before you arrive. For example, if you’re taking potential clients for a meal, do you know the etiquette on tipping, or when to give people your business cards? Or, if you’re visiting a country where English isn’t the common language, you could even learn a few basic phrases, such as greetings and “thank you”, which could make all the difference when making a good first impression.

Prepare your travel documents

Hours of careful preparation and research will all be wasted if you forget vital travel documents. Traveling between countries requires a current, valid passport, travel tickets and sometimes a visa. It’s key to research whether or not you need a visa as soon as possible, even if you are just transiting through a country, without stepping foot outside the airport. Some embassies can take a number of days or even weeks to issue visas. Even if you’re not traveling to a different country, you may need photo ID to clarify that your name corresponds to the one on the ticket - your passport or driving license are the best options so keep them safe at all times.

Remember your electronic accessories

Stay as productive as possible on your trip by taking a laptop or tablet – it’ll make your travel time really count. Remember to pack the relevant chargers and adapters, too. You can usually pick these up at the airport when you’re passing through, but being prepared is key and will save you time and money in the long run.

Get ready for your meeting

So you’ve followed all the right steps for planning a business trip, but what about your business objectives and the meeting itself? Making a note of what you hope to achieve on the trip can help improve your focus - even if you simply want to reach out to new contacts or gain a general overview of potential new client. Arm yourself with as much information as possible about the people you’ll meet, as well as the places they’ll be. What’s the dress code? If you’re visiting an industrial site, for example, will you need sturdy shoes? If you’re going to be giving a presentation, what format will it take and will your host have the equipment you need? Simply emailing ahead to check if they have suitable screens and cables can ensure you avoid embarrassing delays or confusion that would get your meeting off to an awkward start. That first impression counts so give yourself the best chance of making a good one.

By setting aside the time to prepare, conducting some detailed research and following these business travel tips, you can optimize your chances of a productive and enjoyable trip.

More publications

Contact us today to see just what we could do for your business.

Learn more about our travel management offering.

Travelers: manage your travel here . The below form is for inquiries about our corporate travel management offering.

To reach out to CWT to learn more and also receive communications (email or phone) on our products and services, please complete the form below. You can unsubscribe at any point in the future from our mailing list using the ‘unsubscribe’ link on any of our emails.

Thank you for your interest in CWT, we will contact you soon.

Thank you for your interest in CWT. Unfortunately, CWT cannot offer services in your home country at this time. Your contact request has not been submitted.

With kind regards,

Service unavailable in your location

Unfortunately Booking.com for Business is currently not offering its services in your location

on a business trip

on a business trip

Nice to meet you.

Enter your email to receive our weekly  G2 Tea newsletter  with the hottest marketing news, trends, and expert opinions.

Business Travel: The Beginner’s Guide

May 17, 2024

Rob Browne photo

In a world where it has become as easy as a quick few taps on smartphone to book a trip across the world, business travel is more widespread and accessible than ever before.

Are you a recent graduate or new employee looking for an introduction to business travel? This article provides an overview of the field as a whole as well as a guide to traveling for work and managing your business travel expenses .

What is business travel? A step-by-step business trip guide

Research from Statista shows that business travel contributes almost $1.3 trillion to the global economy in a single year, making it one of the world’s largest economic industries. Further research highlights only upward trends in the amount that is spent on business travel as well.

This research reflects an increasingly intertwined global economy. With the speed at which businesses on opposite sides of the world can interact over the internet and travel to meet with each other, employees are operating in a space where location is fluid and business interests can converge across state, national, and continental lines.

Thus, business travel is a vital part of many companies’ lifebloods. In this article, we’ll explore the four temporal components of a business trip and use them as a lens through which to discuss business travel.

Booking business travel

Oftentimes, the dates and general logistics of your business trip are determined by the wants and needs of the client(s) you visit on the trip. If possible, it’s always best to book as far in advance as you can to plan on being out of office. Of course this won’t always be the case, as business trips occasionally arise on short notice if a client needs a quick turnaround time on a particular task that requires a visit.

Booking a business trip is not the same as browsing the internet for the best deals on a family vacation . The online booking platform (OBT) that you use for securing your transportation and hotel depends on your company’s internal travel policy.

Some companies require their employees to book through a specific brand of travel management software  or using a travel management company . A key motivator for companies to use travel management software is that it makes it easier to ensure that employees comply with corporate travel policies. These policies include which airfare class employees are allowed to book, which hotel star class they can stay in, and the class of rental car they can use.

For others, booking your business trip may be a similar experience to booking a trip outside of work, as some companies tolerate open market bookings.

The rigidity with which you’ll be dealing with in terms of booking compliance is dependent upon your company’s travel policy and budget. In most cases, you’ll be looking at a range of mid-tier flight and hotel options that best fit your needs in terms of schedule and distance from the site where you’ll conduct most of your business.

Preparing for the trip

Business trips are often short and have a singular purpose. Get to your destination, meet with the people you need to meet with, and go home. Because of the high energy level required for such a focused itinerary, you’ll want to make sure that you are well-rested going into the trip.

After arriving at your destination, there may not be time to catch a nap  before heading to your first meeting, so you’ll want to ensure that you are able to operate at peak performance as soon as you arrive.

Travel with your important items in your carry-on bag just in case anything happens to your checked luggage. Almost everything you bring on a business trip should be essential to your work, and with a short turnaround between arrival and meetings, you can’t risk not having item X, Y, Z..

On the trip

While on your trip, optimize for everything you can. Outside of any business-related commitments, you’ll want to make sure you have as much time as you need for your work. If there is a particular company policy regarding a daily per diem, or allowance, for meals or transportation, you’ll also need to keep that in mind.

If your trip is to a destination with a lot to see outside business hours or a place where you have friends or family, you can also check with your company’s travel policy regarding bleisure travel. Bleisure, a combination of “business” and “leisure,” means adding a few days onto the beginning or end of your trip to enjoy the opportunity to spend some time not only inside an office.

After the trip

The most important part of finishing a business trip is gathering your expenses and filing an expense report. Between flights, hotels, other transportation, and food, you likely spend a decent amount of money and would like your expenses to be approved and reimbursed as quickly as possible.

Having your expenses approved and reimbursed is typically an easy process, especially if your company uses a form of expense management software .

See the Easiest-to-Use Expense Management Software →

It’s a trip!

Traveling for work may seem daunting, but thinking about your trip in terms of these four segments will help you succeed at all points of your trip. If your job allows you the opportunity  to spend time outside of your office, enjoy it—and maybe spend time in some exciting destinations along the way.

Rob Browne

Rob is a former content associate at G2. Originally from New Jersey, he previously worked at an NYC-based business travel startup. (he/him/his)

Recommended Articles

on a business trip

Small Business Finance Guide for Beginners

Alright. You started your small business and everything seems to be going pretty well.

by Mary Clare Novak

on a business trip

Contributor Network

A Beginner's Guide to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)

Imagine a world without communication: business would grind to a halt, governments would be...

by Bhagirath Sindhav

on a business trip

How to Use Process Automation to Boost Your Small Business

If you own a small business, you know how difficult it is to get everything up and running...

by Ashley Spencer

on a business trip

Get this exclusive AI content editing guide.

By downloading this guide, you are also subscribing to the weekly G2 Tea newsletter to receive marketing news and trends. You can learn more about G2's privacy policy here .

GetGoing

Planning a business trip 101: Tips for regular business travelers

There’s a lot to consider when planning a business trip. This guide is designed to make sure you’re prepared to get going. Travel for business is easier when you’re prepared.

By Jessica Freedman

July 29, 2024

business travel tips

Planning a business trip is not always fun and games ; there’s a lot to think about. Whether you’re a small business owner, a regular business traveler or a travel manager, it’s sometimes hard to know where to start. You have to deal with searching for the best travel deals, planning the ideal itinerary, and if you’re the one traveling, make a packing list.

Dealing with all that goes into planning business trips for yourself, your boss and your company is no easy task, which is why we’ve created this Business Trip 101 to help you get going. Travel easier and be sure how to plan a business trip after reading this guide. 

Get going, travel easier

The more efficient your planning is, the more productive you can be on your business trips as a regular business traveler because you will have a clear agenda and know where your priorities lie. When it comes to corporate travel there is a lot to keep in mind such as flight and hotel bookings, scheduling, ground transportation, checked baggage vs. hand luggage and everyone’s agendas. The more organized you are, the better yours and your team’s results will be.

How to plan a business trip

Planning a business trip can take a lot of work, and part of that is making sure you can balance the business traveler’s mental health (or if you’re the one planning, you have your own wellbeing in mind) as well as the physical needs with the objectives of the company. This is why it’s so important to start with a goal. This way you can see if your agenda is feasible and whether it helps work towards achieving a goal while also following a rhythm that is feasible for the person doing the traveling. If you can, try to have a master planning list that allows you to optimize the time that goes into planning, and then you can more easily replicate for future trips.

It’s also a good idea to have it clearly established who’s in charge of booking business travel.

1. Start with a goal

If you are looking for how to plan a business trip and stay efficient, we suggest you start with a goal for your business trip . Figure out what you want to accomplish and why you must take a trip to do so. With a goal in place it will be easier to figure out your objectives and then track KPIs related to the trip. KPIs could be the number of new clients onboarded, number of new prospects, number of sales contacts, or goals like designing the Marketing Plan for the following year or simply teambuilding, depending of course on the goal of your business trip.

If you are a regular business traveler traveling for a sales meeting, why not set up several meetings with different potential clients and current clients in the same area to avoid having to travel so frequently? This way you can focus on quality business trips over quantity, which makes them more productive and you will experience less travel fatigue, especially for regular business travelers. 

2. Plan travel once and repeat

Sometimes the biggest part of getting anything done is devising a plan. So start your business trip planning by coming up with a travel plan that is easily replicable for future trips. Start by making a list of everything that you need to do to plan and turn it into a checklist. Business travel like any project needs a roadmap to get anything accomplished.

Need a helping hand to get started? Download our checklist!

3. create a master business trip itinerary.

Creating standard itinerary for a business trip oftentimes will fall in the hands of an administrative or HR professional, but if one isn’t provided for you, there are some important details you must consider jotting down such as transportation times and details, travel reservation and confirmation numbers, addresses, emergency contact information, check in and check out times for the hotel, day-to-day schedule details (such as what time do meetings start, where and how long do they go), as well as contact information for the people you will be meeting with. 

It may seem overwhelming at first but once you have a master business trip itinerary outline it will be easily replicable for your next trip. If you work with a travel management company like GetGoing , you can store all your itineraries and travel documents in one place making managing your business trips as easy as the snap of a finger. 

4. Store all business trip-related documents in one place

As we’ve mentioned, when you work with a travel management company, all of your business and trip-related documents will be stored in one place on the web app, including important contact information for travelers, hotel information, emergency contacts, and a support phone number to call in case of issues. 

If you are booking all your regular business trips on your own without the support of a TMC, then be sure to have a spreadsheet and shared drive dedicated to your travel plans and itineraries. It will be easier to keep track of everything and ensure nothing gets missed. If you have a business travel and expense management solution , you can keep track of receipts, travel itineraries, and so much more all in one place.

Packing and trip lists: lists are your friend

When it comes time to pack for your business trip there is nothing more important than having a list ready with everything you need to start your business travel plans, especially if you’re a regular business traveler. That means having a running list of those elements that you can’t travel without like your passport or ID, your computer, a mouse, a pen and notebook, or your business cards.

Consult our ultimate packing list for more ideas about the travel essentials.

Make a list of all the travel extras

Extras can be things like checking a bag, traveling business class on a flight, purchasing an in-flight meal, having a driver pick you up, and more. The kinds of extras permitted might depend on your company’s travel policy. For example, taking a taxi instead of the bus to the airport may or not be allowed based on the budget per trip your company has in mind, so make sure to check with your travel manager, HR or office manager about what is and is not allowed. 

Search for business travel deals

Finding business travel deals is perhaps the most important and time-consuming task when it comes to making your business travel arrangements. If your company doesn’t already work with a TMC, you may consider urging them to sign up for a corporate travel management solutions company who can help you find the best (and most convenient) travel deals . 

Some other cheap travel hacks for regular business travelers are:

  • Be flexible with dates
  • Travel in the middle of the week instead of Monday or Friday.
  • Consider traveling via a historically cheap destination to get to your final destination
  • Go with budget flight options like RyanAir, EasyJet or Vueling

Business travel by flight

Business travel by flight is one of the hardest parts of booking a business trip. How can you find the most convenient and shortest route without having to pay an arm and a leg? There is also a fine balance between the amount of time you dedicate to searching for cheap flights and the amount you pay because after all time is money, so you don’t want to whittle away your time to spend a little less. Find out the top 10 flight apps to book your business trip.

It’s also hard to know, whether hand luggage is enough for you when traveling by air, whether it’s worth-it to book business or first class (and if your company even allows it). One of the most important things is to familiarize yourself with your company’s travel policy so you don’t find surprises when it comes time to having your travel approved. 

Man with mask on carrying a backpack looking at plane from inside an airport

Checked or hand luggage only: Is hand luggage enough for you when traveling by air?

So should you go with checked or hand luggage only? Is hand luggage enough for you when traveling by air? Our rule of thumb when is to ask yourself the following questions, which can help you decide whether hand luggage is enough or if you should consider fronting the extra bucks to check a bag:

  • Is your meeting formal or informal? If it’s formal you may want to consider checking a bag so you can keep your suit or blouse from wrinkling.
  • How many days are you traveling for? 1-4 days of informal business travel can easily be packed into hand luggage only. Beyond 5 days, it’s definitely worth checking a bag or if you have to deal with cold weather or different climates on the different stops in your trip.
  • Will you be adding time on for bleisure or blended travel? If you decide to add in extra days either before or after your trip you may consider throwing in a bathing suit to hit the beach or the spa or some extra clothes that don’t necessarily scream “I’m on a business trip.”
  • What kind of traveler are you? If you’re the kind of traveler that wants to throw in your rain boots and parka in case it rains when you’re traveling to Spain that has an average of 50 days of rain a year, then you might consider checking a bag. If you’re a “worst case scenario” type of traveler then just a carry-on will most likely never suffice. 

Hotels for business travelers

Choosing the right hotels for regular business travelers is no easy decision. Breakfast or no breakfast? What kind of amenities are non-negotiable? Is it better to be close to the office or downtown? Should you choose a hotel just because they include airport pick-up? There are so many questions to ponder that we’re going to dedicate an exclusive post just to choosing hotels for business travelers. Stay tuned.

Use the right tools for booking hotels for your business trip

Kayak, Skyscanner, Google flights or Hopper are all great tools for your every day trip, but when it comes to business travel, you want a company like GetGoing travel management for businesses that will help optimize and streamline your booking process. The easier trip planning is, the less time you will have to spend planning and the more productive you can be in your daily job. 

And that’s how you plan a business trip

Review and refine the process for planning a business trip . To do so, create a short survey that you can share with your team so you can evaluate how the trip went and assess whether the goals of the meeting were accomplished. This is an important step, especially when deciding whether to travel or not to travel for future trips.  The more often you reach your goals and the more your goals are reliant on a trip to meet them, the more it makes sense to travel. 

Hands holding grass-covered globe

related article

Business sustainability management

Go share the news:, sign up now to receive exciting news & updates.

  • the ultimate guide for business travel
  • city guides
  • book coming soon!

Sign Up For Early Access

Businesstravel.com is still in development. get early access to the only booking website designed specifically with business travelers in mind., the ultimate guide for business travel.

Introduction

Introduction

Traveling for business is an all-encompassing enterprise these days, for the road warriors and novice business travelers alike. Many, without travel policies to work off, are on their own. That’s a good thing, because it means more opportunities to personalize your trips— but this can also be quite daunting.

Consider this your all-encompassing guide to help make business travel seamless and stress-free, from what apps and podcasts to download and shoes to wear, to what to do during downtime at the airport, how to make your hotel room feel more like home, and much more.

Read on to make the most of your next business trip, and don’t forget to subscribe to get the latest news and stories from BusinessTravel.com

 alt=

What Type Of Business Traveler Are You?

The Planner

The Planner

Planners like to have their itineraries locked in place, but they should add flexibility when applicable. Your coworkers will appreciate it, and it could give you peace of mind should your all-important plans change. 

The Worrier

The Worrier

Worrier need not be a negative label, especially if you offset your travel anxiety with structured plans. Worriers should outline clear, easy goals to hit and map out what they can and can’t control. Talk to the planners and road warriors for more advice. 

The Homebody

The Homebody

Homebodies should do their best to mimic home settings on the road: Unpack right away, bring trinkets, and pack your own coffee. While travel may never be your thing entirely, the more you can personalize it to match your home preferences, the more you’ll enjoy it. 

The Rookie

Young professionals are ambitious, but they like guidance. If you’re a rookie, poll your colleagues with more travel experience to get their thoughts on nailing a business trip. You’ll be thankful and will build confidence to tackle the next one on your own. 

The Road Warrior

The Road Warrior

Adding a few tricks—such as finding off-the-beaten-path restaurants or traversing the city by bike or scooter—can break up the monotony of travel for even the most weary road warriors.

For a more in-depth breakdown of business traveler types, check out What Kind Of Business Traveler Are You?

Before You Depart, Do These Three Things

1. set goals.

Everything from unpacking luggage to reading an article specific to your industry can make you feel productive on a trip, so it’s a good practice to write these goals down—no matter how small—and cross them off as you complete them. 

2. Map Your Preferences

Plan a business trip around your preferences to create an environment you’re comfortable working in on the road. From hotel amenities, to rental car choice, to flight times, there’s flexibility at almost every stop of business travel. 

3. Have A Packing Plan

Packing efficiently isn’t just about fitting everything into a carry-on or including the right - sized toiletries. It’s about optimizing the space to help you get the most out of your business trip.

Learn more about these helpful pre-trip protocols. Read 3 Quick Tips To Prepare For Your Next Business Trip

No Business Travel Policy? No Problem

1. stick to one itinerary.

Being productive on the road starts with organization. Either manually or with the aid of an app, keep the details of your trip in one place. This way, when you want to know the check-out time for the hotel in reference to your departing flight, you can do so with one touch rather than two or three. 

2. Build Points That Work For You

Unbridled business travelers should explore loyalty programs that work best for them. You will find you can use your travel for work to subsidize your personal vacations. Beyond credit cards and hotels, Uber, Lyft and Airbnb all now have business offerings. 

3. Never Collect Receipts Again

There are plenty of apps on the market with both free and subscription offerings for keeping track of business travel expenses . Two apps for expensing business travel stand out in the field: Expensify and Zoho. While keeping physical receipts is still a good practice, these make tracking expenses a breeze. 

4. Plan & Debrief

Planning meetings, especially those that take place away from the office, can go a long way in easing the burden of traveling, while setting clear goals for the trip. When you return, debrief with your colleagues and chart your likes and dislikes to build up a reference for future travels.

Take a deeper dive into how to better organize your next business trip with this useful checklist: Best Practices For Managing Business Travel Without A Travel Policy

Podcasts That’ll Make You Smarter For Your Next Business Trip

Masters of scale with reid hoffman.

By presenting his theories and bringing on experts to discuss — and often challenge — them , entrepreneur Rich Hoffman, co-founder of LinkedIn, levels himself with his audience. You’ll take away business advice and hear firsthand that there’s always more to learn.

  • Where You Can Get It: Apple Podcasts | Google Play Music

Planet Money by NPR

What’s going on in the economy? How does it affect your business? Stay up-to-date with these quick-hit episodes that cover current events or offer retrospectives on some of the most transformative economic events in world history.

  • Where You Can Get It: Apple Podcasts | Spotify

The EntreLeadership Podcast

Educational and inspirational, the EntreLeadership Podcast will leave you thinking— in a good way . Take in the lessons and apply them to your everyday life. There’s more than just business here. 

TED Talks Daily

These are tailor-made for the business traveler. Have a short layover? Want to learn as you pack? Need a soundtrack for your morning hotel routine? Throw on an episode of TED Talks Daily and learn on the fly. 

Stuff You Should Know

Well, the “should” can be misleading. Should you really know how a Ouija b oard works? Probably not, but now you’re curious, and you can find out on a spooky episode of this podcast. It’s the podcast made to defeat awkward silences. 

Ologies with Alie Ward

The name says it all. Alie Ward takes a comedic approach to all the ologies, the studies of whatever you can think of. L earn about vexillology (flags), saurology (lizards), or acarology (ticks), and share the info with whomever will listen.

Learn more about these incredible podcasts, and where you can get them, with this helpful guide: 12 Must-Listen Podcasts For Your Next Business Trip

There’s An App For That

Business travelers often need to adjust on the fly in unfamiliar territories. Useful apps, therefore, play a crucial role in their work lives. Here are some common problems for business travelers and apps that provide solutions.

“I’d like to find a lounge at an airport”

Check out LoungeBuddy , which enables you to see what lounges you have access to. If you have an American Express card, you can purchase time at participating lounges as well. 

  • Availability:   Apple
  • Cost:   Free

“Can public transportation get me to my destination?”

Download Transit , an app that charts public transportation and suggests routes in 104 cities across the United States. 

  • Availability:   Apple   |   Android

“I need to track my expenses, but I don’t want to bring home receipts”

Road warriors will find Expensify indispensable. Take pictures of your receipts and upload the details. It also includes integration with popular accounting programs. Expensify was named “The Best Business Travel App” by Business Insider . 

  • Cost:   Free (Limited) | Subscriptions: Starting at $4.99/month

“I’d like to maintain my health routine on the road ”

With HabitMinder , you can set three fitness goals (with the free version) and track your progress hitting them each day. Goals include physical activities, like walking and stretching, to good habits, like hydrating and eating healthy. 

  • Cost:   Free | Premium Subscription: $.99/month

Ready for more recommendations? Check out 14 Apps To Consider Before Your Next Business Trip

Versatile Shoes You Need (That Fit Your Budget)

A shoe that’s made for walking and looks good with every outfit is essential for business travelers. Here are four styles to check out, all less than $150.

Sperry Authentic Original 

Easy to slip on? Check. Formal look with a casual feel? Check. Great in indoor and outdoor settings? Check. The Sperry Authentic Original expands any business traveler’s wardrobe. Get a pair and thank us later. 

Nike SB Zoom Bruin 

The Nike SB Zoom Bruin combines the comfort and cool of skate shoes with the look of something a little more formal. You’ll feel good rocking them with board shorts or jeans and a blazer. The smaller swoosh hints at the balance the sneaker giant has found with its skateboarding collection: undoubtedly Nike but a little more understated. 

Rothy’s The Point

A shoe that comes in 23 colors is always green. That’s because the company makes one of its signature models from 100% recycled plastic bottles. It’s a 21st-century concept that you’ll love: a great looking shoe that helps the environment. 

Dr. Scholl’s

In an ironic twist, not many people associate a company built on comfort with having a great selection of shoes. But here we are. Dr. Scholl’s has a number of offerings that fit the casually formal description with the Freestep Laceup Sneaker (for men and women) standing out. 

Discover more incredible footwear for your next business excursion with this in-depth guide: 12 Shoes Business Travelers Will Love

Airport Tips For The Business Traveler

1. time is of the essence.

Stick to carry-on luggage. Sign up for TSA Pre-Check. Check in online rather than at the airport. And, if you don’t have TSA Pre-Check, know which security lines tend to be the longest, especially in airports where you can walk between terminals once cleared.  

2. Count Your Steps

Staying active in the airport is relatively easy for any traveler: choose the stairs over the escalator; skip all moving walkways; if time permits, walk the length of the terminal or explore other areas of the airport.

3. Whet Your Appetite

If time constraints limit your ability to explore a city’s food and drink scene, don’t worry. More and more airports are bringing local favorites — chains and dives alike — to their terminals, allowing travelers to get their fill on the go. 

4. Flag Down That Taxi

While Uber and Lyft offer business plans, they aren’t always the most reliable transportation options to save on time. From airports, taxis are often the most efficient in this regard.

For a more comprehensive breakdown of essential airport tips, check out 5 Airport Tips For Business Travelers

Make Your Hotel Feel Like Home

1. make use of the dressers & closet.

You’ll feel organized from the start, setting the tone for the rest of your trip. Plus, getting your clothes out of your luggage early will help keep them from wrinkling and may save you time with the iron. 

2. Brew Your Own Cup Of Joe

Nothing will make you feel at home like the smell of your favorite coffee brewing early in the morning. The routine will put your day in motion while making you feel accomplished. A bonus: Should you adventure out to sample local brews, you’ll have something to measure new flavors against. 

3. That’s Your Desk Now

Organizing your clothes is one important step to making your hotel feel like home. Organizing your work materials is another. By plugging in your laptop at the desk, you’ll have a ready-made workspace to turn to should you retire to your room with tasks still left to complete. 

4. Block Out The Noise, Literally

Sleeping on the road in a bustling town isn’t the easiest thing. While companies like Bose produce wireless sleepbuds that play soothing sounds, you can get a similar effect by listening to sleep-aid stations on Spotify or Pandora. Learn to set the sleep timer on your phone: In the clock app, set a timer and change “When Timer Ends” to “Stop Playing.”

Learn more useful advice on how to make your hotel room match the comforts of home with this in-depth post: 7 Hotel Tips For The Business Traveler

The new home for business travelers.

Businesstravel.com is the only booking engine on the internet designed specifically for business travelers, from novices to true road warriors., sign up to get the latest news from businesstravel.com, including early access to the platform..

BusinessTravel.com

© 2024 BusinessTravel.com. All Rights Reserved.

  • PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
  • EDIT Edit this Article
  • EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Happiness Hub Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
  • Browse Articles
  • Learn Something New
  • Quizzes Hot
  • Happiness Hub
  • This Or That Game
  • Train Your Brain
  • Explore More
  • Support wikiHow
  • About wikiHow
  • Log in / Sign up

How to Plan Your Business Travel

Last Updated: March 18, 2024 Approved

This article was co-authored by Michael R. Lewis . Michael R. Lewis is a retired corporate executive, entrepreneur, and investment advisor in Texas. He has over 40 years of experience in business and finance, including as a Vice President for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas. He has a BBA in Industrial Management from the University of Texas at Austin. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 100% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 86,115 times.

Planning a work-related trip can be a stressful endeavor. On top of your usual travel concerns, you also have to keep your mind focused on the business aspect of your trip. Business travel doesn't have to be stressful, though. With a little planning and preparation, you can help ensure your trip runs as smoothly as possible so you can stay focused on your work.

Making Travel Arrangements

Step 1 Find out if you'll need any special accommodations.

  • If you're traveling internationally, you may need to secure a visa before you leave. You may also need certain vaccinations, including anti-malarial medication.
  • If traveling to a city at an elevation above 4,900 feet (1,500 meters), you may be susceptible to elevation sickness. Try to give yourself a few days to acclimate before doing anything strenuous and start drinking two to three liters of water each day to stay hydrated.
  • If you're traveling outside the country, find out if you can safely drink the tap water where you'll be. If not, you'll need to stick to bottled, purified water to stay healthy.

Step 2 Put together an itinerary.

  • Start with the date and time you're checking into and out of your hotel, then work your way through everything that you'll be doing while you're away on business.
  • Don't forget to keep track of your flight's boarding and departure times so you know when you need to arrive at the airport.
  • Highlight any work-related events on your schedule. That way your most important priorities won't get lost in the shuffle.

Step 3 Make reservations for hotels, flights, and anything else that requires booking.

  • When booking your flight, make sure that you use your sky miles account so that you can get points and rewards. You might even have enough sky miles already to cover the cost of your flight!
  • When booking your hotel, see if you can use sky miles or get points towards a rewards program. You should also make note of your hotel's policies on check-in, checkout, parking, and number of people per room.
  • If you need a rental car, make sure that all the roads you'll be driving will be safe with your rental car. Research if you need two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. Look around with different rental car companies to see which has the best rate.
  • Some credit cards also have rewards plans and perks for traveling. See if your credit card comes with any of these benefits.

Preparing for Your Trip

Step 1 Check that your ID/passport is up-to-date.

  • Make sure that all your identification is valid and up-to-date well in advance, as it can take several weeks for new documents to be prepared.

Step 2 Determine how you'll receive your ticket.

  • Give yourself at least an extra 15 to 20 minutes if you'll need to print out your ticket upon arrival at the airport.
  • If you have a paper ticket, keep it someplace where you won't lose it. You may want to store it with your ID or passport to ensure that you don't misplace any of those documents.
  • If you're using a digital ticket, make sure you'll have reception wherever you're flying out of for the return trip. If you can't pull it up on your phone, you'll likely need to print out a paper copy at the airport.

Step 3 Try to avoid checking any bags.

  • Try to pack as light as possible. Bring enough dress clothes for the trip and one or two pairs of casual clothes for exploring the town.
  • Confirm that your bag will fit in the overhead compartment or under your seat by checking the carry-on bag size restrictions with your chosen airline.
  • Check the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website for any updates on prohibited items and packing suggestions to ensure your security check is as quick as possible.

Step 4 Learn about any relevant customs and culture.

  • Read up on the culture and customs of the people you'll be doing business with.
  • Talk to other colleagues or friends who have traveled to the country you'll be doing business in. This can help you get a better sense of what's acceptable and what isn't.
  • Be respectful at all times. Remember that you're representing your business and possibly your culture, so you'll need to be on your best behavior at all times.

Step 5 Back up all your important information.

  • Keep a backup copy of all your important information on your laptop or a USB flash drive.
  • If you really want to cover all your bases, you can also print out hard copies of any important paperwork and keep those papers in a file with your travel documents.

Step 6 Start sleeping on the local time before your trip.

  • If possible, give yourself a few days before you leave and start going to sleep and waking up at the times you will be waking/sleeping once you reach your destination.
  • Being aware of the time difference has professional implications as well. You'll need to ensure that you don't miss any important meetings or deadlines on your trip.

Step 7 Anticipate security precautions at the airport.

Taking Precautions to Avoid Jet Lag

Step 1 Stay hydrated.

  • Limit your caffeine and alcohol consumption, as both of these can leave you slightly dehydrated.
  • Try to drink two to three liters of water each day, but remember that you'll need more water if you're very active or in a hot environment. [10] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source

Step 2 Plan your first evening wisely.

  • Aim to arrive around dinner time, then plan to stay up until about 10:00 pm in local time.
  • When you get to your destination, avoid heavy meals. Instead, choose healthy snacks or a light meal that won't weigh you down. [12] X Research source
  • You will most likely be tired after traveling, so by getting in around dinner time and eating a light meal, you'll start to get sleepy in time for a regular night's rest.

Step 3 Try to get a good night's rest.

  • Limit your exposure to bright screens, like laptops and cellphones, for at least a half hour before bed. Bright lights can reset your circadian rhythm, making it harder to sleep.
  • Get as much sunlight as you can in the morning and early afternoon. This will help you remain wakeful and energetic during the day.
  • Try to get some light to vigorous exercise each day, but be aware of when you work out. Some people find that exercising too close to bedtime affects their ability to sleep. [13] X Research source
  • Bring earplugs and a sleep mask to help ensure that you get restful sleep each night, no matter what kinds of distractions present themselves at your hotel.

Expert Q&A

  • Consider shipping large presentation materials and other business items that may difficult to carry while traveling. Just make sure that you ship them with enough time to arrive at your destination. If you decide to ship to your hotel, make sure that you contact the hotel and let them know about your shipment. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
  • Opt for refundable tickets when you arrange your business travel, if at all possible. That way you have the ability to change your plans in case work or personal obligations get in the way of your scheduled flight. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

on a business trip

You Might Also Like

Cheat Royal Caribbean Drink Package

  • ↑ https://www.forbes.com/sites/jacquelynsmith/2012/08/27/your-basic-guide-to-business-travel-abroad/#1168ef394f50
  • ↑ https://www.huffingtonpost.com/kenny-kline/how-smart-entrepreneurs-prepare-for-business-travel_b_8533712.html
  • ↑ https://money.usnews.com/money/careers/slideshows/10-tips-for-efficient-business-travel
  • ↑ https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/236246
  • ↑ https://sleepfoundation.org/sleep-topics/jet-lag-and-sleep
  • ↑ https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/269947
  • ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/water/art-20044256
  • ↑ https://www.sleepfoundation.org/travel-and-sleep/jet-lag
  • ↑ https://sleepfoundation.org/excessivesleepiness/sleep-tools-tips/healthy-sleep-tips

About This Article

Michael R. Lewis

  • Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Mary Higgins

Mary Higgins

Jul 31, 2020

Did this article help you?

Mary Higgins

Sep 28, 2019

Do I Have a Dirty Mind Quiz

Featured Articles

Enjoy Your Preteen Years

Trending Articles

DnD Name Generator

Watch Articles

Make Fluffy Pancakes

  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Info
  • Not Selling Info

Get all the best how-tos!

Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter

on a business trip

The Travel Method

Expert Business Travel Tips for a Smooth Business Trip (40+ Ideas)

This post may contain affiliate links and advertising. Learn more

This article was originally published on our site Nomad Paradise. As part of a rebrand, we are publishing all our travel packing and tips content in one place for you to enjoy - The Travel Method. For world cuisine and recipes, you can keep visiting Nomad Paradise.

Business travel is a necessity. Whether you’re an intern or a CEO, the world of work is global. But where those traveling for leisure can afford the luxury of slipping into bed after a long flight, business travelers simply cannot. Important meetings will not be rescheduled because you made it in at 2 a.m. Conferences still expect you to speak, no matter how tired you are.

But in today’s age, business travel does not have to derail you. As travel has evolved, so have our methods of dealing with it. With the input of seventeen professionals who frequently travel for work, we’ve compiled a must-read list of over forty essential tips to help make your next work trip run smoothly.

Expert business travel tips (list of ideas 1-10 from the article)

Booking Tips

Dress for upgrades.  

Katherine Rothman, CEO of  KMR Communications , says it’s much easier to get upgrades when you board a plane or arrive at a hotel if you’re dressed smartly and look the part.

Always make sure you have an assigned seat. 

Katherine also says it is much harder for an airline to ‘bump’ you with an assigned seat, which could potentially be disastrous for your business trip.

Scan your accommodation’s Twitter posts. 

Nick Gray, founder of  Museum Hack , says it’s wise to scan your hotel’s Twitter posts before arriving. Many hotels run social media promotions that allow you to feel like a VIP without spending like one.

For example, sometimes, Kimpton Hotels post a social password on their Twitter account. When you say the social password at check-in, you’ll get a surprise, which could include a free bottle of wine, parking, a coffee mug, drinks at the bar, a room upgrade, dining vouchers, a hot chocolate kit, or an in-room movie.

Book your flight in incognito mode on your browser. 

Founder of  Talk Travel , Saurabh Jindal, always books flights through a new incognito window. Incognito mode does not store cookies (served by the website) on your system. Thus, it cannot track you.

Therefore, the website you are booking through cannot raise the price, which could be triggered when a user searches for the same thing more than once.

Check fares with Skiplagged.  

David Pike, founder of the  New York Trolley Company and advisor for startups at Founder Institute, always checks the Skiplagged app before booking. It shows you hidden fares to cities by missing the second leg of a flight.

For example, if you want to fly from New York to Nashville, Skipplagged might find a cheaper flight from New York to Chicago with a layover in Nashville. You wouldn’t board the second flight, hence saving money. You won’t, however, be able to check a bag.

Packing Tips

Pack as light as possible. 

Everything In Its Place  founder Eileen Roth packs skirts and dresses, as they are thinner than slacks. Blouses are also a good choice, as they are thinner than sweaters. Less weight means you can pack more.

If it’s cooler in conference rooms, add a sweater and suit jacket in a basic black to top off the outfit and change that every other day.

Wear the only pairs of shoes you bring. 

Frequent traveler Carmella says if you do, your shoes should be waterproof, airport-sensible, and business-appropriate everywhere from Canada down to Texas. Short black leather boots with the lowest heel are a sensible choice.

Even with TSA precheck, liquids are a gamble.  

Between reusable water bottles, mouth rinse bites, and solid shampoo bars, there is no need to carry liquids. Pare down the toiletries and replace them with dry products.

Leave your designer luggage at home.  

If you are traveling abroad, as much as you might treasure your designer luggage, leave it at home, says Katherine Rothman. Why advertise to thieves that you have money or make yourself more noticeable? This is not a time you want to stand out.

Keep a pre-packed travel bag at home. 

Emily Mandagie, photographer and one half of travel blog  The Mandagies , has a dedicated business travel bag on hand, pre-packed with travel essentials before any trip. Although you’ll need to pack certain things on-demand, like clothes and shoes, some items like toiletries, cosmetics, and other travel products will generally stay the same. This way, you can unpack quickly after a trip and repack, knowing you have exactly what you need for the next trip cycle.

These pre-packed items include a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, lotion, and even a small container of shampoo and conditioner. When it comes to tech, Emily will also stow away a phone charger, extra batteries, and headphones.

Time-Saving Tips

Book non-stop flights.

Katherine Rothman recommends that you try booking non-stop flights whenever possible, even if it costs more.

If you are on a business trip where you may be meeting with prospective clients or partners, saving yourself the stress of potentially missing your layover if the flight is delayed pays off in the long run.

Sign up for TSA pre-check .

If you’re a United cardmember, you can have global reentry and TSA precheck reimbursed, Carmella says. Skip lines and rack up miles!

Utilize ‘priority luggage.’ 

This means your luggage will be the first to come off the plane. When you check your bags outside, you can usually tip $5.00 and say, “will you ticket me for priority baggage” and 99% of the time it works – people just don’t know it can be done. Katherine Rothman has used this time-saving technique many times.

Save all appointments (including addresses, names, and phone numbers) on your agenda. 

Local Insiders  founder, Silke Wolf, says this will save you time and make your trip so much more worry-free. The same applies to the information you need to prepare for your appointments.

To travel light and paper-free, save all documents to a specific folder on your Google Drive. (Don’t forget to make it available offline). This way, you’ll stay organized, and you can access all the information you need on the go.

Pre-Flight Tips

Before leaving, download important maps offline. 

Make sure directions, itineraries, and maps are downloaded to your phone offline, along with some music and podcasts for potentially bad service areas and the plane ride.

Take photos of receipts with an app. 

Alternatively, save the photos of receipts to Google Drive. Being prepared pays off when you least expect, as you never know when you’ll need to show proof of purchase.

Keep a Xerox copy of your passport.  

Katherine recommends keeping a copy of your passport in a separate place from your actual passport. If you lose your passport, this makes things much easier.

Never board a plane without two bottles of water and snacks.

Katherine also recommends buying two bottles of water and snacks before boarding the plane. You never know when your plane can be held on the ground for hours or diverted to another airport, and the airline crew may run out of food and drinks or not be allowed to serve.

Get organized with a list. 

Monica Kang, founder of  Innovators Box,  says that when you travel for work, you have to think about your dress code, what you bring, and, in her case, also a lot of materials she uses for workshops. It’s not fun when you bring the wrong outfit or not enough materials.

Monica recommends piling a list of things you want to bring in a room at home over a few days. That way, when you pack things last minute, you already have the core things you need to take with you readily available and won’t have a chance of forgetting them.

Don’t plan too much.

Silke points out that planning too many activities is one of the biggest mistakes business travelers make. Always consider travel times. And add some extra time in between meetings to accommodate factors beyond your control (traffic jams, late arrivals, etc.).

This will make your business travels so much more relaxed as you won’t have to rush around to be on time. This will give you peace of mind.

Essential Gear

Buy a lightweight suitcase.

Carmella says to find a lightweight, durable suitcase. Keep it extra small to fit in an overhead compartment on the express planes. If you have to check luggage, you can’t change flights to get home faster or to avoid bad weather.

Many flight attendants seem to use TravelPro, but there are also other quality brands on the market.

Use a 4-wheel carry-on case.

Management consultant Layton Cox says he lives and dies with three travel bags. The first is a simple four-wheel hard-case carry-on. In a perfect world, don’t get black. Everyone has black.

It also doesn’t have to be a huge brand name. Ninety percent of your clients will never see your luggage. He also suggests you find a bag with cloth or leather around the zippers, as the plastic and rubber tend to break after a while.

Use a briefcase with a slide.

Layton says the second bag every business traveler needs is a simple briefcase that fits over the handles of your carry-on. If you get a normal briefcase that does not fit over the handles of your carry-on, it becomes nearly impossible to operate your cell phone as you walk through the airport since both your hands are busy.

Make sure it has a laptop pocket. Your client will see this briefcase, so get black or brown leather. Nothing else.

Buy an anti-theft backpack.

If you’re worried about expensive and essential items being stolen, such as your trusted laptop, an anti-theft backpack is definitely worth looking into.

Travel with an electronics holder.

Layton’s third and final bag he always travels with is a simple electronics holder. It can be a packing cube filled with electronics and cords or a simple wallet-esque item that can hold a cellphone charger, headphones, and various other cords.

By having just one item with all of your electronics in it, you don’t have to worry if you packed your charger or that HDMI converter, as it’s always in the bag.

Use a rolling computer bag.

Eileen suggests that if you carry a laptop, you should use a rolling computer bag to carry papers, files, conference info/workbook, a pad of paper, and even snacks.

You probably will have extra room to add your makeup, hairbrush, and maybe a third pair of shoes or an extra purse.

Pack a travel adapter.

Victoria Thompson, Social Media Manager at Haystack Digital, says to always plan ahead and have a spare adaptor depending on which country you are visiting.

This will save you time and money in the long run, as adaptors at the airport always cost a fortune.

Bring a travel pillow.

Victoria also says packing items that are going to help you sleep is a must. Invest in a travel pillow that will help you sleep either in the hotel or on the airplane.

Use packing envelopes.

Nifty garment folders can help keep blouses, shirts, skirts, and slacks more wrinkle-free than trying to roll things or pack them in packing bags. Instead, use packing bags only for underwear and sleepwear.

Travel with a micro-router.

Team Building CEO, Michael Alexis, says the most useful item he travels with is a micro-router. You can connect a router to a wifi connection, for example, at a hotel or on a flight or cruise, and then connect all of your other devices to the router.

This setup has two major benefits. First, in cases where you pay for a connection, you only need one connection to service several devices. Secondly, you save time. Once set up, your devices connect to the router automatically, so you are entering login information only once.

Programs & Loyalty Schemes

Get a Rewards Credit Card.

Nicole Sutherland, travel photographer and writer at  Eat Live Travel Drink,  recommends the American Express Platinum. This gives her access to a bevy of perks that include airport lounges around the world, including their own private Centurion ones, Priority Pass, and Delta lounges.

Companion Pass Hack on Southwest Airlines. 

Nicole also recommends applying for both the Southwest Airlines personal and business cards if you run a small business. Each card gives you bonus miles when you spend a certain amount of money.

And, if you earn a certain number of miles in a year, you earn the companion pass, allowing a companion to fly free with you every time.

Get TSA Pre-Check, Clear, and Global Entry. 

Dave Pike says TSA Pre-Check, Clear, and Global Entry can save you hours every time you fly. The $85-$110 investment is well worth it and is deductible if your employer requires it.

Score free upgrades using airline loyalty programs. 

Torben Lonne, diving enthusiast and founder of  Dive In,  says one of his favorite travel hacks is getting a free upgrade to business class. Your chances are lower than scoring a last-minute seat change in the same class, but it’s still possible.

If you have air miles or loyalty points with your preferred airline, this increases your chances of getting upgraded to business class in the event of an overbooking. The passenger with the highest loyalty points gets automatically upgraded when this happens.

If there are more overbookings on the same flight, they will choose the passenger with the second most loyalty points and move down the list accordingly.

Get a co-working space membership.  

Upflex  CEO and co-founder, Christophe Garnier, says the last thing you want to think about is being confined to a coffee shop or hotel room for work.

When it comes to business travel hacks, the ability to easily find and book a good co-working space is paramount. It will help you save time and money while making local connections and making you more productive.

This is why co-working booking platforms are becoming business travelers’ new best friend – they aggregate available workspaces from around the world and let professionals book them on an as-needed basis.

In-Flight and Transport Tips

Make your final seat selection at the last moment.  

Torben recommends waiting until the last moment before making your final seat selection. You can do this through your smartphone via the web or the airline’s app and guarantee a window seat with a little patience.

Every flight has cancellations and last-minute seat changes, so all you need to do is wait until 30 minutes before boarding to book your final seat.

This is perfect when you’re stuck with a bad seat from when you booked the flight initially as a zero-cost ‘upgrade.’

Book your parking beforehand.

Head of Digital Marketing at YourParkingSpace , Gregory Golinski, says one of the worst challenges faced by business travelers is finding a parking space. You don’t want to be late for a meeting with a client because you’ve been circling around for an hour looking for a parking space.

He suggests pre-booking a parking space via online parking marketplaces such as Spothero in the US, YourParkingSpace in the UK, or Parkhound in Australia.

These platforms can help you book a private driveway or garage in advance so that you don’t have to look for a parking space for hours and can be on time. This can help you save time, money, and your sanity while on a business trip.

Safety Tips

If you are a woman traveling alone, ask for a room closer to the elevator in your hotel.

A safety tip for solo female travelers from Katherine is that you book a hotel room closer to the elevator. This way, you are not walking through long hallway mazes at night.

Make sure you get enough sleep and downtime.

Monica is extra mindful of where she spends her time, how much she sleeps, and what she eats. If she’s booking her time to meet other people and socialize, she will be too tired to deliver her work.

She also recommends downloading a few shows to binge-watch to decompress and rest. At the end of the day, if you show up feeling tired to do your work, why would they want to invite you back?

Be careful with the hotel wifi.

Ben Sadeghipour of Hackerone says it’s so easy to make fake wifi networks to track everything you’re doing online. At a hotel, you might see “Hotel Wifi” and “Hotel Free Wifi” and not know which one to pick.

Pick wrong, and a criminal will be able to track when you’re on their network or out of your hotel room. Also, never trust something that requires software to be installed. This is a sure sign of malicious activity.

Don’t post your boarding pass on social media.

Even if you cross out the numbers, you’re still at risk. There’s information hidden in QR codes that can be used to steal your personal data.

Be wary of public charging stations.

Public charging stations are a godsend when you are constantly on the go or your flight is canceled. However, anyone can steal information from your phone via USB. Always make sure you bring your own charger to plug into outlets or use a USB data blocker.

No matter how important or time-sensitive your business trip may be, don’t let the stresses and strains of travel get in the way of your success. Use these expert tips from successful business travelers to plan a trip that runs smoothly, allowing you to deliver your world-class presentation or land that lucrative client.

We’d love to continue adding to this list. If you have a little-known expert tip, feel free to reach out to us and share your words of wisdom.

You Might Also Like to Read

  • My Favorite Packing Tips and Hacks

Save and Pin for Later

Want to keep this great list of business travel tips in a place where you can easily access them? Add this article to one of your Pinterest boards for safekeeping.

on a business trip

Author: Dale

Dale Johnson is a content creator from the UK. He has traveled full-time for over three years and to over 30 countries and writes on a number of travel-themed topics, including travel packing tips and the latest gear.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

15 Tips On How To Plan Successful Business Trips

Home » Guide » 15 Tips On How To Plan Successful Business Trips

Successful corporate ventures involve careful planning and execution in all aspects. And business travel is no different. Though it may sound easy, understanding the intricate details of how to plan a successful business trip is a bit difficult. There are numerous variables involved while planning a corporate trip such as dynamic flight fares, flight cancelation, employee unwillingness, emergencies, and many more. Hence, to ensure smooth business travel, let us discuss the basics on how to plan successful business trips.

How to plan successful business trips

We can divide the planning of a business trip into three sections: Pre-trip planning, during-the-trip plan, and post-trip planning. Let us explore these avenues differently.

I. Pre-trip planning

pre-trip-planning

1. Determine objectives

Every endeavor should have a clear purpose or aim. Corporate can define the outcome of a trip for the employees and brief them about it. It can be meeting new prospects, delivering customer support service, participating in an event, etc. A set guideline will help in evaluating the degree of success or failure of the trip.

2. Establish a budget

As corporate travel makes up the second largest expense of corporate after salaries, budgeting becomes a crucial step of planning. Travel managers should coordinate with partnered TMCs to find the best flights, connections, and accommodations. Further, They should allocate a budget for transportation, meals, and other expenditures.

3. Research destination and make an itinerary

While planning a trip to a foreign land, travel managers and traveling employees need to know about the destination. They should be aware of the local geography, local customs, and business etiquette. Additionally, they should understand the local laws and special considerations of the location. Another important aspect of a business trip is defining a clear itinerary. Travel managers should maintain departure dates, business meetings and events schedules, and other such details and share them with the employee and TMCs.

4. Transportation

Choosing a suitable transport can help travel managers save highly on trips. They should also ensure a good travel experience and minimize connecting flights. Moreover, if trains are possible and the schedule allows for it, travel managers can also use railways, which will cost much lesser than flights.

5. Accommodation

Booking hotels can be a tough job for travel managers. The travel admins should consider budget, location, and amenities while selecting accommodations for their employees. They should make reservations for securing top discounts and ensuring the room’s ready availability.

6. Travel documents

Admins can provide brief guidance about the travel documents required to travel to a particular country. Employees should produce all the necessary documents such as passports, visas, or other documents beforehand. The validity of these documents should be ensured before travel and any discrepancy should be filed for correction if needed.

7. Travel insurance

Travel insurance is essential to protect employees against unforeseen or unfortunate circumstances. Moreover, corporates should ensure that TMCs provide support and look after the travel insurance of the employee. Travel managers should read the terms and conditions of the insurance policy to avoid future hassles and disputes.

8. Contact and schedule meetings

All the involved parties should have each other’s contact information to establish better communication. Sometimes it may be possible that meeting schedules can change on the go; hence, stakeholders should remain in mutual agreement for fulfilling the purpose of travel.

9. Prepare meeting materials

Gathering and providing the right presentations, documents, or contracts to the employee is essential. Employees should remain prepared for the meeting and organize their relevant material to avoid any miscommunication or delay. These documents should provide prompt solutions to any problems raised during or after the meeting.

10. Create a packing checklist

Travel managers should prepare a comprehensive list of essential items to pack. This can include business attire, electronics, adapters, business cards, and any specific materials required for the trip. They can also create and share the packing list as per the location, weather, and culture.

II. During the trip

corporate-trip

12. Time management

Employees should understand the importance of the schedule and should strictly adhere to it. They should arrive at the meeting venue earlier than the set time. Maintaining a personally enforced schedule for exercise, lunch, dinner, outings, etc. will help in enhancing the overall experience of the trip.

13. Networking opportunities

On the trip, employees become the ambassadors of the company. Therefore, it is crucial to train the employees with the soft skills required to aptly represent the business. They can build a network of potential clients and contributors while carrying out simple meetings or participating in corporate events.

14. Expense tracking

Employees should record all of the expenses made during the corporate travel and keep the receipts handy with them. Doing this will help them get reimbursements for any out-of-pocket expenses that were necessary during the trip.

III. Post-trip follow-up

15. recap and evaluation.

A business trip report should be shared with the higher management to analyze and evolve with the prior trips. The feedback loop creates the opportunity to know about the personal experiences of the employees and build on a constructive path.

Corporate trips are essential to expand the reach and potential growth of businesses. Therefore, knowing the details about how to plan a successful trip is highly important for ensuring adequate ROI, both tangible and intangible. And planning for the trip and ensuring that the following through of the plan is of optimal importance to ensure the least amount of creases in a Business’s growth trajectory.

How To Plan Successful Business Trips FAQs

What constitutes business travel planning.

Business travel planning constitutes pre-trip planning, during the trip planning and adjustments accordingly to pre-trip plans and creation of a post-trip plan of recapping and objective evaluation.

What is pre-trip planning?

Pre-trip planning involves determining key objectives, budget allocation and itinerary creation. These are to be done well in advance of the trip if timings and internal tasks allow for it and little if not none of the planning must happen last-minute.

What is during the trip planning with respect to business travel?

Not all circumstances are foreseeable and plans rarely go pitch-perfect. Therefore assessment of the current scenario and planning as required during the trip and making necessary adjustments to the plan or adopting contingencies is necessary in most cases.

What constitutes post-trip evaluation in business travel planning?

After the completion of a business trip, the entire picture can finally be seen and studied. All considerations and plans made before and during the trip can be reflected upon, recorded and improvements that are possible should be considered. These constitute post-trip evaluation and it is very integral to do these evaluations whether a corporate is outsourcing its travel management or whether it is dealt with internally. Because efficient expenditure and smooth execution of plans is of extreme importance to running a business.

' src=

Pratyush is a traveling enthusiast who always looks for innovations in business travel management. He has 5 years of experience writing content on corporate travel management and working closely with expert business travel facilitators.

Related Posts

business-travel-attire

8 Best Business Travel Attire Ideas To Leave A Lasting Experience

Personality is an intangible yet crucial asset of every individual. However, it does have a tangible aspect to it which incorporates looks and fashion. Altogether, it boosts an individual’s general aura and helps them stand Read more…

business-travel-management-companies-india

Top 10 Business Travel Management Companies In India

Crafting efficient business trips require a great deal of research and experience. From planning a business trip to executing it for a higher ROI, corporates have to be on the forefront of every moving part Read more…

car-rental-tips

Car Rental Tips: Planning, Booking, And Returning A Car

Traveling to foreign lands is exciting and yet somewhat distressing at the same time. While one gets the opportunity to explore new locations, uncertainties at every corner are a tough hurdle to deal with. One Read more…

Let's get started!

Corporate Travel Requirements

Thanks for submitting your details.

We'll get back to you shortly.

The top business travel tips for the first time business traveller

10 essential tips for the first time business traveler

Heading off on your first business trip and not sure how to prepare?

From packing like a pro to working and adapting to the local time — we've got the top business travel tips to help you master it all! These travel tips will help you save time and avoid the most common issues. Just sit back, relax and keep reading to get ready for the first of many business trips.

1. Pack like a pro

Start with proper carry-on luggage and take the time to pack light. Packing cubes and internal pockets can make all the difference for business travel. Bypass the lineups and head straight to your destination – you're on a roll! Read our packing personalities tips to find out which packing personality  you are.

Here are a few key tips for carry-on luggage:

  • Good quality materials
  • Lightweight
  • Easy to maneuver (4 spin wheels are the best!)
  • Security lock

2. Papers, please

As a first-time business traveler, you might be nervous about forgetting important documents. Let's do a quick review. For international travel, you need a current passport with at least six months until expiry.

And there's more. Do you need a visa or other authorizations? Do you have the correct type of visa for business travel? Starting in 2025, US passport holders traveling to Europe will need to apply for visa authorization through the European Travel Information and Authorization System ( ETIAS ).

There are many potential paperwork disasters on business trips, but lucky for you, your dedicated agent knows it all.

Check out the Traveler Resource Hub for more helpful information on travel visas.

3. Is your business travel covered?

Before you take to the skies, check business travel insurance off your to-do list. Whether it's a short trip or a long one, on a first business trip, we want to make sure you're covered.

Money may not buy happiness, but it can get you an annual policy – saving you time, money and many headaches later. One last thing: don't forget to scope out the risk landscape of your destination to make sure it's in policy. Questions? Your dedicated Travel Consultant is in the wings.

Ask about business travel insurance coverage for trip interruption and emergency medical treatment. Corporate Traveler offers a range of insurance products both for single-trip and multi-trip annual plans. Contact your Travel Manager for more information . 

4. Level up your airport experience

Airline lounges can reduce the stress of flying and lift you out of the chaos and noise of the main concourse. Step into peace and quiet, showers, healthy snacks and drinks for free (hello, morning mimosa!).

Business Class fares generally include lounge access, but some are available for a fee. Credit card rewards programs can also give you access to airport lounges. There is no better place to be if you're riding out flight delays or prepping for important business meetings.

If you're on a business trip during a busy time of year, this guide to airport survival for the holidays shares the top airport tips.

5. Going the distance

The carry-on bag is stowed and you're settling in. If you're on a business trip to a different time zone, try to eat and sleep during the flight based on the local time zone you're heading to. Body clocks are hard to reset, and it's better if you can start the transition mid-air.

While sleeping in Economy Class can be a challenge, earplugs and noise-canceling headphones may help. If your business meeting is crucial, upgrading to a Business Class fare could be the thing you need if your travel policy allows.  

For long-haul trips, make sure your member numbers are locked and loaded so you can maximize loyalty programs . Once you land, eat a meal, stay hydrated and move around a bit to beat jet lag.

6. Take advantage of tech

Apps exist for almost everything, and they can make your first business trip more relaxed, too. Keeping all of your travel itinerary together, finding a place for dinner, or translation apps are all at your fingertips.

We've selected the 9 best travel apps to help you plan ahead and stay organized while traveling. Get travel tips from other travelers and locals too!

7. Always ask about amenities

Global travel is a huge industry, and many operators are adopting sustainability programs. Small changes can make a big difference, especially on business trips.

It's now common for certain services and supplies to be on request at business travel hotels as part of efforts to reduce waste. Daily housekeeping, razors, lotions, and other amenities are still available, but they might not be stocked in the hotel room by default. Pack light and ask what's available when you check in.

What's the strangest perk we've seen? A full set of gym clothes and shoes to borrow while staying at a hotel.

8. Counting costs

A greasy burger or room service? Should you use a limousine, take a taxi, or use public transportation? Check with the boss before you travel on what counts as travel expenses rather than return to a chilly reception and a bill you have to pay.

Hold onto all your receipts and make a note on them if they're low on details, like a taxi ride.

9. Work smart and stay refreshed

It's easy to go from meetings to drinks to dinner to bed and repeat. It's important you keep a check on your mental and physical health while you travel. Jet lag can sneak up on you. The first day, you feel fine, and then, to your surprise, you wake up at 4 am every day. 

With the rising trend of digital nomads, business travelers have come up with new ways to find balance while on the road. A physical change of scenery can help.

Instead of working in the evening in your hotel room, why not answer emails in the lobby or patio of the hotel? Set a clear divide between work and travel, then your mind will be clearer, and you'll look and feel fresher.

10. Flawless first impressions

When you travel on business trips, you're representing your company and yourself. And your country. But a few travel tips can help you make a good impression. Know the local laws, be courteous and tip when needed.

Pro travel tip: watch what you eat and drink on a business trip. It may be fun to experiment on the deep fried delights from a street food vendor but why take the risk? Stick to bottled water in some destinations and avoid ice if you can.

Want to learn more? Subscribe to the CT newsletter   to get ready for your next business trip. 

Stay up to date so you never miss a beat!

  • English (CA)
  • English (UK)
  • Deutsch (DE)
  • Deutsch (CH)

The ultimate guide to travelling for work: 35 best tips for business travellers

Before you travel…, 1. check your company’s business travel policy, 2. stick to carry-on bags only, 3. keep your essentials packed and ready to go in your suitcase, 4. keep your essentials handy when on the road, 5. pack both business attire and casual clothes, 6. keep security checks in mind when you pack, 7. make comfort a priority, 8. sign up for rewards programmes, 9. make sure you charge your electronic devices, 10. fly non-stop, 11. make use of airport lounges, 12. use a suit bag, 13. bring a power bank, 14. bring your (travel size) toiletries, 15. pack healthy snacks, 16. choose your plane seat wisely, 17. do your research on foreign business etiquette, 18. download helpful apps, 19. bring a power adapter, 20. check in beforehand, during your business trip…, 21. choose water, skip alcohol, 22. if you have a meeting shortly after landing and need to be fresh, try drinking coffee two hours before the meeting, 23. layover tip: take the time to connect, 24. stretch, 25. adapt to meal times as soon as possible, 26. beat jet lag with exercise, 27. don’t be tempted to sleep as soon as you arrive, 28. try to stick to your most important daily routines, 29. take pictures of all your receipts, 30. store your receipts properly, 31. use a firewall when using public internet, 32. there are alternatives to working in your hotel room, after your business trip…, 33. don’t forget to report your expenses, 34. send thank you emails, 35. leave reviews, did you find this article useful.

Woman riding train

Make business travel simpler. Forever.

  • See our platform in action . Trusted by thousands of companies worldwide, TravelPerk makes business travel simpler to manage with more flexibility, full control of spending with easy reporting, and options to offset your carbon footprint.
  • Find hundreds of resources on all things business travel, from tips on traveling more sustainably, to advice on setting up a business travel policy, and managing your expenses. Our latest e-books and blog posts have you covered.
  • Never miss another update. Stay in touch with us on social for the latest product releases, upcoming events, and articles fresh off the press.

Amsterdam Rijksmuseum Pexels Pixabay 208733

Top 10 best corporate meeting venues in the Netherlands

Amsterdam Pexels Chait Goli 2031706

10 awesome places in the Netherlands for a corporate retreat

Switzerland Fun Activites 1 Scaled

10 awesome places in Switzerland for a corporate retreat

Ppc Expensemanagement Leader Leader

  • Business Travel Management
  • Offset Carbon Footprint
  • Flexible travel
  • Corporate Travel Resources
  • For Travel Managers
  • For Finance Teams
  • For Travelers
  • Careers Hiring
  • User Reviews
  • Trust Center
  • Help Center
  • Privacy Policy
  • Cookies Policy
  • Modern Slavery Act | Statement
  • Supplier Code of Conduct

A Beginner's Guide to International Business Travel

By Amanda Wowk

May 09, 2019

Business Travel

international business trip

Heading overseas for your first international business trip? You're probably feeling a mix of excitement with a slight pang of dreading the unknown. Not to worry! Whether this is your first business trip , first trip overseas, or a combination of the two, I’ve got you covered with what steps to take before you go.  

Consult Your Company’s Travel Policy

To get the most out of your international business trip—like, knowing exactly how much you can spend on meals, lodging and airfare—consult your company’s travel policy. There, you might also discover that you can get reimbursed for known traveler programs like Clear or TSA PreCheck, or entry fees to airport lounges. Plus, if your company uses SAP Concur, you might be one of the many travelers with a complimentary subscription to TripIt Pro (normally $49/year). You can visit the SAP Concur App Center to connect your accounts.  

Secure Your Passport and Visa

Packing your passport to travel internationally may seem obvious, but with just 42% of the US population possessing a passport, I’m not jumping to any conclusions. Plus, as a passport carrier, there are some important stipulations you should know. For starters, check your passport expiration date. Many countries require six months of validity upon arrival; a number of others require anywhere between one month and four months, with a remaining few allowing you to visit their country right up until the expiration date.    Next, do your visa research. Every country differs in its visa requirements , and a valid passport doesn’t always equate to guaranteed entry. Americans can travel to many countries without needing a visa for their trip, but that’s not always the case. Sometimes travelers may need to purchase a short-term visa at the point of entry; other times, you must apply for one well ahead of time. Variables such as the nationality of your passport, trip length, whether you will leave the airport, the nature of your trip (i.e., business vs. leisure), your point of entry, the areas you will be visiting and possessing a return ticket can all impact your ability to enter a country or need for a visa. To determine whether you do need a visa for your business trip, visit your destination country’s visas and immigration website. For instance, the U.K. offers a quick online survey to help you determine whether your business trip would require a visa. The visa requirement for a short trip related to a work event—such as a conference or speaking engagement—would vary from a visa needed for a work assignment lasting longer than six months. Still not sure whether you need a visa? Consult your Human Resources department for guidance with your company’s travel policy.  

Check Your International Travel Tools

Ahead of a business trip to a foreign country, you’ll likely need to sort out details like: What’s the local currency? Where is the US Embassy located? Will I need an adapter for sockets and plugs? What is the appropriate amount to tip a server or taxi driver? Fortunately, TripIt Pro makes this part easy on you—presenting all of this pertinent information in the International Travel Tools feature. There, you’ll find all of the answers to these questions (and more!), helping you to know ahead of your trip what plug you’ll need in order to use your coveted hairdryer and how much local currency you’ll need to tip the driver picking you up from the airport.  

Order Foreign Currency

Speaking of tipping, obtaining some local currency ahead of your trip should also be on your to-do list. Not sure where to change your currency? There are a number of options here. To start, many banks allow you to order foreign currency at a banking center if you’re a customer. You can also visit a foreign currency exchange—ideally before you head to the airport, or you can visit a kiosk in the airport, as well. Some restricted currencies, such as the Moroccan dirham and Cuban peso, are not available outside of their respective countries. In this instance, you don’t have a choice but to exchange your currency when you arrive at your destination or withdraw cash from a local ATM. Bear in mind that each of these options charge a fee per transaction. Try to take out exactly what you anticipate you’ll need to avoid multiple withdrawal fees and/or losing money on conversion once your trip is done.  

Sign Up for Global Entry

You’ve probably heard of Global Entry by now—either from your globetrotting friends or veteran road warrior colleagues. And if you’re not yet a member yourself, here are a few reasons to sign up: (1) TSA PreCheck membership is included; (2) some travel rewards credit cards issue statement credits if you charge the $100 application fee to your card; and (3) that feeling of breezing through customs after a long-haul international flight. Global Entry membership is good for five years. To sign up, travelers submit an online application, attend an in-person interview, provide fingerprints, and complete a background check. A complete step-by-step overview of the application process can be found on the US Customs and Border Protection site . As a member of this Trusted Traveler Program , you won’t have to fill out any customs paperwork upon landing back in the US and can head straight to Global Entry kiosks. There, you’ll scan your fingerprints and complete a customs declaration. Transaction receipt in-hand, you can then head to baggage claim or the exit—no waiting in line needed.  

Brace Yourself for Jet Lag

Whether it’s a domestic flight to the West Coast, or a long-haul journey to the Middle East, crossing time zones gets us all. And while there’s no sure-fire way to defeat jet lag , there are a number of ways to prepare for and bear it. For starters, get a good night’s sleep before you leave. This may seem impossible if you’ve booked an early morning departure, but the last thing you should do is pull an all-nighter right before you leave. This will only set your sleep schedule back. Get as many restful hours of sleep as possible, and you’ll be better prepared for the impending battle against jet lag. Second, skip the wine on your flight. I know, it pains me to say it—especially when it’s free! However, the reduced air pressure in the cabin already places pressure on your body, and alcohol will only stress your body even more. It’ll cause dehydration, too—leading to disrupted sleep patterns, and a drowsy start to your trip. Pass on the wine and ask your flight attendant for water. Your body will thank you for it later. Lastly, when you land, push yourself to take advantage of your destination’s daylight for as long as you can. While you might be exhausted after your flight, try to forego a nap and, instead, keep your body moving . This will help you get adjusted to your new time zone and sleep more soundly your first night—setting you up for success when your big meeting or speaking engagement rolls around.  

  • 10 Safety Tips for the Solo Traveler
  • What to Know About Visas Before Traveling Internationally

About the Author

on a business trip

Amanda Wowk

Amanda Wowk is a freelance writer, founder of Amanda Wowk Creative — a content writing services company — and avid traveler. Her experience spans the travel industry, supporting clients in travel tech, luxury travel, and consumer brands. When she's not helping clients tell their stories, Amanda writes about her own experiences to inspire others to travel as far, wide, and frequently as possible.

MarketBusinessNews_Logo

What is a business trip? Definition and examples

If you visit somewhere for work purposes, i.e., on behalf of your company, that is a business trip. The term applies to both the journey to your destination and your trip back. In most cases, the trip is not a short one.

a Business trip image 1 999

Collins Dictionary has the following definition of the term :

“A journey made somewhere and back again for business purposes in one’s working capacity.”

Business trip vs. business travel

The two terms refer to the same action or activity. However, their uses are not the same.

Business travel

Business travel refers to traveling on behalf of your employer generally. Although it is a singular term, i.e., business travel and not business travels , it refers to all trips for work purposes. It is a general term .

I might say, for example: “Business travel is becoming a significant part of our airline’s income.” In this case, we are talking in general.

I cannot use business travel for just one journey. For example, I cannot say: “I’m sorry, Jane is away. She is on a business travel.” I would have to say: “I’m sorry … She’s on a business trip.”

Business trip

This term refers to just one journey. We need to use the plural if we are talking in general.

For example, if I wanted to talk about my airline’s revenue, I would say: “Business trip s are becoming a significant part of our airline’s income.” I would not be able to use the singular form.

Reasons for business travel

Business trip image for article 493992993

In all the examples below, your employer is paying for travel, accommodation, etc.

  • Meeting with customers or clients.
  • Visiting suppliers.
  • Attending a conference.
  • Attending a course.
  • Identify new markets, trends, and consumer traits elsewhere.
  • Visiting somewhere to check the progress of a project.
  • Visiting a prospect. A prospect is a company or person that you think could turn into a paying customer.
  • Apologizing to a customer.
  • Your purpose is PR or public relations , such as taking part in a press conference.
  • The ROI from the trip is more than its cost. ROI stands for return on investment .
  • Your employer sends you somewhere to fix, for example, equipment.
  • Networking. There are many people you can meet away from work with whom you or your company could do business.
  • Face-to-face meetings are usually more effective than using email, VoIP, texting, etc. Sometimes they are necessary.

Business travelers typically claim their expenses by filling a report , in which they list how much they spent on local public transport, meals, taxis, phone calls, etc.

Negatives and positives of business travel

Business trips may be extremely rewarding experiences. However, for some people, especially if they have families, there is a price to pay.

Regular business travelers frequently feel loney. Some of them may show signs of deteriorating mental health and even depression. According to Adam Perotta in a Business travel News article in December 2019, over 20% of business travelers said they experienced negative mental health effects.

Regarding the survey, Perotta wrote :

“22 percent of respondents reported that business travel had a “very” or “somewhat” negative impact on their mental health. Twenty-one percent indicated that even thinking about an upcoming work trip caused stress. Factors causing that angst include the toll travel takes on physical health, sleep schedules, personal relationships, personal finances and productivity.”

Traveling regularly on behalf of your company may mean missing major family events, which can contribute significantly to relationship problems.

Jet lag can play havoc with our body clock, productivity, and mental and physical health. Eating small meals before and during your flight, refraining from consuming alcoholic drinks, drinking plenty of water, and getting plenty of rest beforehand can help reduce the negative effects of jet lag.

In a Small Business Trends article, Samson Haileysus wrote that the vast majority of small company owners enjoyed their work-related trips. Approximately fifty-five percent of small business owners travel for work purposes at least once each month. Sixty percent of them spend three nights away from home during each trip.

Haileysus added:

“Surprisingly enough almost all (88%) small business owners who travel for business do enjoy traveling. In fact, just under three in four (72%) say they wish they traveled for business more often.”

Corporate travel is a huge market

Business travel is worth hundreds of billions of dollars each year globally. The biggest spenders on business trips are the United States and China.

In the United States, there are over 405 million business trips annually (long distance). For every working day, approximately 1.1 million Americans are traveling for work purposes.

The world’s most popular destination is New York City, while Shanghai is the fastest growing. Trondent Development Corp. made the following comment regarding the importance of business travel for airlines:

“Business passengers represent 75 percent of an airline’s profits despite only being 12% of their total passengers. But the money is well spent: every $1.00 spent on business travel creates $15 of profit for increased sales.”

Share this:

Jamaica Observer

  • Latest News
  • North & East
  • Environment
  • International
  • Social Love
  • Horse Racing
  • World Champs
  • Commonwealth Games
  • FIFA World Cup 2022
  • Art & Culture
  • Tuesday Style
  • Food Awards
  • JOL Takes Style Out
  • Design Week JA
  • Black Friday
  • Relationships
  • Motor Vehicles
  • Place an Ad
  • Jobs & Careers
  • Study Centre
  • Jnr Study Centre
  • Supplements
  • Entertainment
  • Career & Education
  • Classifieds
  • Design Week

Business Trips 101

We operate in the context of a global marketplace where goods and services are exchanged across borders. Businesses are therefore required to look beyond their borders for business opportunities, advice, goods, services and labour.

The Foreign Nationals and Commonwealth Citizens Act (“the Act”) provides that where a foreign national or a Commonwealth citizen intends to engage in any occupation in Jamaica for reward or profit or be employed in Jamaica, they are required to have a valid work permit. To do otherwise is an offence under the Act for which both the employee and the entity shall be liable on summary conviction before a parish court to a fine not exceeding five hundred thousand dollars or to imprisonment with or without hard labour for a term not exceeding six months or to both such fine and imprisonment. A foreign national means a person who is not a citizen of Jamaica, a Commonwealth citizen or a Caricom national. A Commonwealth citizen means a person who has the status of a Commonwealth citizen under the Constitution of Jamaica and who is not a citizen of Jamaica.

An application for a work permit must be made to the Ministry of Labour and Social Security accompanied by the relevant supporting documents. The Foreign Nationals and Commonwealth Citizens (Employment) Regulations (‘the Regulations’) does however provide for an exception from the requirement to possess a work permit, where the visit qualifies for a short-term business visit.

A short-term business visit is available where a foreign national or a Commonwealth citizens falls within one of the classes of persons specified in the Regulations conducting business in Jamaica and the visit, for that purpose, does not exceed thirty 30 days or where it is more than one visit, not exceeding 30 days on each occasion and six months in the aggregate in one calendar year.

Categories covered in the regulations include:

i. Directors, inspectors and auditors of any company, association, organisation or body that:

a. operates in Jamaica or

b. controls any company, association, organisation or body which operates in Jamaica.

For these purposes, this applies where the company, association, organisation or body is incorporated or registered in Jamaica or elsewhere.

ii. Persons who visit Jamaica, on behalf of a principal who is not in Jamaica in connection with the appointment of, or for the purpose of having business consultations with, a business agent or distributor that is based in Jamaica.

iii. Persons visiting Jamaica to inspect the plant, machinery or equipment of any factory or other industrial worker or to give technical advice on the operation of any undertaking, business or enterprise or whatever kind is based in Jamaica.

Travellers intending to rely on the short-term business visit exemption must also either hold a valid visa prior to entry or be exempt from the requirement to possess a visa prior to entry to Jamaica for business purposes. These requirements will vary based on the traveller’s nationality and should be reviewed prior to each entry as the requirements are subject to change.

While not a requirement, when entering Jamaica, it is recommended the traveller should also travel with a letter, outlining the relationship between the traveller and the relevant entity, state the traveller’s position, the purpose of their trip and the relevant category in the Regulations they are seeking to base their entry on. Travellers and entities seeking to rely on the short-term business visit must be prepared to prove to the immigration authorities their activities fall within the relevant category under the Regulations.

Utilisation of overseas expertise provides a number of benefits to local entities, including upskilling and training of their existing local labour force. For businesses seeking to pursue this avenue, it is crucial to seek advice and ensure that foreign nationals or Commonwealth citizens are working in Jamaica pursuant to the Act, to reduce the risk of any liability under the Act along with any reputational damage that could arise.

Joanna Marzouca is an associate at Myers, Fletcher & Gordon, and is a member of the firm’s Commercial Department. Joanna may be contacted via [email protected] or www.myersfletcher.com. This article is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

ALSO ON JAMAICA OBSERVER

HOUSE RULES

  • We welcome reader comments on the top stories of the day. Some comments may be republished on the website or in the newspaper; email addresses will not be published.
  • Please understand that comments are moderated and it is not always possible to publish all that have been submitted. We will, however, try to publish comments that are representative of all received.
  • We ask that comments are civil and free of libellous or hateful material. Also please stick to the topic under discussion.
  • Please do not write in block capitals since this makes your comment hard to read.
  • Please don't use the comments to advertise. However, our advertising department can be more than accommodating if emailed: [email protected] .
  • If readers wish to report offensive comments, suggest a correction or share a story then please email: [email protected] .
  • Lastly, read our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy

Recent Posts

  • Privacy Policy
  • Editorial Code of Conduct

nra

  • National Security
  • Matthew Continetti
  • Men of the Year

on a business trip

  • Men Of The Year

on a business trip

Illicit Chinese Vapes Are Flooding the US Market—and Becoming a Leading Choice for Children, Survey Finds

on a business trip

The Struggle To Contain Communism … in One Book

Watch: joe biden's senior moment of the week (vol. 25), multimillionaire obamas haven't donated to joe biden's campaign, dialing it in, obamas make offer for multimillion-dollar martha's vineyard estate, tim walz's china travel business was dissolved for failing to pay $26 operating tax, records show, as governor of minnesota, walz oversaw some of the most aggressive corporate tax hikes in the country.

on a business trip

Corporate tax hike advocate Tim Walz had his China travel company shut down by the Nebraska government for failing to pay a minor business operating tax in 1998, according to corporate records.

Educational Travel Adventures, Inc., which Walz founded with his wife in 1995 to run group trips to China, was dissolved by Nebraska’s secretary of state for "non-payment of occupational taxes"—just $26 annually—in April 1998. The company was left defunct for years, even as Walz continued to organize group tours to China.

In 2008, after Walz was elected to Congress, he repaid 10 years of back taxes and interest, amounting to $235, to get the company reinstated, records show.

The tax slip-up is at odds with Walz's policies as governor of Minnesota, where he oversaw some of the most aggressive hikes on businesses in the country. House Republicans are investigating his former company, Educational Travel Adventures, as a potential target of Chinese government influence operations.

Walz continued to lead student exchange trips to China for four years after the company was shut down, before founding another corporation with the same name in Minnesota in 2002. News reports indicate that he stopped running the trips one year later.

Nebraska corporate attorney J.L. Spray said Nebraska businesses are required to pay the occupational tax to remain in good standing. He said business owners sometimes fail to pay the fees due to "negligence, and the fact that they’d just as soon have the company dissolved."

The registered agent for Walz's company, Nebraska attorney Terry Curtiss, did not respond to a request for comment.

Walz’s company, Educational Travel Adventures, Inc., has drawn scrutiny from House Republicans. Oversight Committee chairman James Comer said he was concerned about reports that the student exchange trips were subsidized by the Chinese government and that Walz may have been "targeted by or recruited for CCP influence operations."

Allen Shepherd, a former history professor at Chadron State College who traveled to China with Walz in 1998, told the Washington Free Beacon that it was "quite an eye-opening tour for all of us to be over there and see how much of the rest of the world lives."

Shepherd said Walz organized the trip because he "had the contacts over there" in academia and government.

"It was my impression that our guides were somehow connected with the government," said Shepherd.

"To a certain extent I think you have to have touch with the government over there, because the government didn’t just let you walk around the country."

Shepherd said the tour was largely educational, and he and Walz met with Chinese academics who were seeking advice on how to build their country’s university system.

After Educational Travel Adventures was shut down, Walz continued to organize student trips to China, including at least two tours in 1998 and 2001. In 2002, he incorporated another company under the same name in Minnesota but stopped the trips a year later.

When Walz ran for Congress in 2006, he highlighted his record as a local businessman who "established a small business called Educational Travel Adventures, Inc. through which he conducts annual educational trips to China for high school students," according to an archived version of his campaign website.

One year after he was elected to Congress, Walz cleaned up the tax error by paying 10 years of back-taxes and interest to get Educational Travel Adventures reinstated in Nebraska. He then immediately filed an application to dissolve the company, according to corporate records.

Walz has a long record of pushing for aggressive tax hikes on businesses. In a speech to labor unions this month, Walz said the government needs to force "corporations [to] pay their fair share."

As governor, he "doubled down on [Minnesota’s] status as a high-tax state even as most states have moved in a different direction," according to the Tax Foundation, becoming the only governor to institute a surtax on capital gains income, and raising taxes on corporate foreign income, wages, and transportation.

Walz’s tax policy led the left-leaning Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy to name Minnesota’s tax system as the most "progressive" in the United States.

Published under: China , Minnesota , Nebraska , Tax Hikes , Tim Walz

What are you looking for ?

What are you looking for.

Popular searches:

Select your country and language

on a business trip

  • Travel Upgrade
  • Easy Upgrade

Upgrade your economy ticket at a low price! 

Upgrade from our comfortable Economy Class cabin to our award-winning luxurious Business Class cabin in just a few clicks. Using our new Upgrade Bid feature, guests with valid Economy Class tickets will have the opportunity to upgrade their ticket to Business Class.

on a business trip

Step 1: CHECK YOUR FLIGHT ELIGIBILITY FOR AN UPGRADE

Our Upgrade Bid function is only accessible on certain routes. Check if you qualify by entering your booking information in the panel below.

Step 2: PLACE A BID TO MOVE ONE CABIN CLASS HIGHER

You will be able to see the strength of your offer while bidding. If your offer is accepted, you will be charged the amount of your bid and will receive a confirmation email starting from 48 hours up to 6 hours prior to departure.

Step 3: ENJOY YOUR UPGRADE

You will be able to enjoy our award-winning Business Class services after your Upgrade is confirmed

Terms & Conditions

Enter your booking details

on a business trip

Get Instant Upgrade for an enhanced travel experience

on a business trip

For Neightbour-Free Travel Experience

on a business trip

Upgrade your Business Class travel to Business Studio

  • MyUHart MyUHart Blackboard Self-Service Hawkmail Compass UNotes UHartHub
  • Healthy Hawks
  • Self-Service

Barney Offering Study Abroad Trip in Northern Spain

The Barney School of Business is excited to offer our annual Study Abroad program in Northern Spain again from March 14–22, 2025 .

The course is based primarily in Northern Spain again with a couple of days visit to Madrid. Students will visit the Mondragon Cooperative Corporation businesses and at least one other sustainability-focused business. Barney undergraduate, graduate, Arts & Sciences undergraduate students, MSOP students, and CETA students have participated in the past. The course will be 3 credits for IB310 or IB610. UISS and UISC credits are possible.

Barney student Kylar Maldonado ‘25, M’26 didn’t think he would ever have the possibility to study abroad while being a full-time student and having a full-time job, but he reflects on his experience attending this past spring’s trip by saying “I encourage everyone: Step out of your comfort zone and explore! You'll meet such kind people, experience beauty, and create memories, while gaining credits for your courses. From first-years to grad students in different levels of their established careers, it was smiles and laughs galore.”

Undergraduate Barney students pay no additional tuition. The travel portion of the course costs $3,600 (maximum) this year and each Barney undergraduate student will receive a $1,000 scholarship from the Dean’s office—reducing the cost to $2,600. Graduate students pay only half of the usual graduate tuition for the course.

A deposit is needed no later than Dec. 1 and is refundable before the flight deposit date or if the course does not fill.

Write to Daphne Berry (Barney School of Business) [email protected] or to UHart International Center at [email protected] for more information.

Search Jobs

What would you like to do?

  • Administration
  • Animation and Visual Effects
  • Architecture and Design
  • Asset Management
  • Building, Construction and Facilities
  • Business Strategy and Development
  • Call Center
  • Communications
  • Data Science and Analytics
  • Engineering
  • Finance and Accounting
  • Food and Beverage
  • Gaming and Interactive
  • Governmental Affairs
  • Graphic Design
  • Health Services
  • Horticulture and Landscaping
  • Hotel and Resorts
  • Human Resources
  • Legal and Business Affairs
  • Maritime and Cruise Operations
  • Marketing and Digital Media
  • Merchandising
  • Project Management
  • Quality Assurance
  • Research and Development
  • Retail Operations
  • Sciences and Animal Programs
  • Social Responsibility
  • Sports and Recreation
  • Stage Productions
  • Supply Chain Management
  • Theme Park Operations

Brand Select ABC News ABC Owned TV Stations Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa Disney Advertising Disney Branded Television Disney Cruise Line Disney Direct to Consumer Disney Entertainment Disney Entertainment & ESPN Technology Disney Entertainment Television Disney Experiences Disney Music Group Disney Store Disney Theatrical Group Disney Vacation Club Disney's Hilton Head Island Resort Disneyland Paris Disneyland Resort ESPN FX Networks Hong Kong Disneyland Resort Industrial Light & Magic Lucasfilm Marvel Entertainment Marvel Studios National Geographic Partners Federal Credit Union Pixar Animation Studios The Walt Disney Company (APAC) The Walt Disney Company (Corporate) The Walt Disney Company (EMEA) The Walt Disney Company (India) The Walt Disney Company (LATAM) The Walt Disney Studios Walt Disney Animation Studios Walt Disney Imagineering Walt Disney World Resort

Job Level Select Business Support / Administrative Executive Internships / Programs Management Operations / Production Professional Talent

Where would you like to work?

Country/Region Select Argentina Australia Austria Bahamas Canada France Germany Hong Kong India Indonesia Ireland Italy Japan Mexico Netherlands New Zealand Philippines Portugal Shipboard Singapore South Korea Spain Switzerland Taiwan United Kingdom United States Vietnam

State/Province Select Auckland Bavaria British Columbia Buenos Aires F.D. California Canton of Zurich Chiba Connecticut DC England Florida Hawaii Ho Chi Minh Île-de-France Region Illinois Indiana Islands District Jakarta Special Capital Region Leinster Lisbon District Lombardy Lower Saxony Madrid Maharashtra Massachusetts Mecklenburg-Vorpommern Metro Manila Mexico City Missouri Nevada New Jersey New South Wales New York North Carolina North Holland Ontario Oregon Pennsylvania Seoul South Carolina Taipei Taiwan Telangana Tennessee Texas Tokyo Victoria Vienna Washington

City Select Amsterdam Anaheim Auckland Bay Lake Branson Bristol Buenos Aires Burbank Canutillo Celebration Charlotte Chessy Chiba Chicago City of Taguig Commerce Coupvray Cypress Destin Dublin Elizabeth Emeryville Fresno Glendale Greater Manchester Hilton Head Island Ho Chi Minh City Houston Hyderabad Jakarta Kapolei Kissimmee Lake Buena Vista Lantau Island Las Vegas Lisbon Livermore London Los Angeles Madrid Makati City Marne-la-Vallée Melbourne Mexico City Milan Minato-ku Montévrain Moore Park Morrisville Mumbai Munich Myrtle Beach New Taipei City New York Nicasio Orlando Papenburg Paris Philadelphia Raleigh Richmond San Antonio San Francisco San Marcos Santa Monica Seattle Secaucus Seoul Serris Sevierville Singapore Sydney Taipei City Tampa The Woodlands Tlalpan Toronto Tulalip Vancouver Vienna Washington Wismar Woodburn Zurich

Turn your career path into an incredible journey. Only at Disney.

Already applied?

Sales Business Development Manager-Travel Agency Sales

This role is considered remote, which means the employee will work remotely on an ongoing basis and will not have an assigned workspace at a Company designated location.

Job Summary:

About the role & team:.

As a Sales Business Development Manager (SBDM) for Travel Agency Sales with Disney, you will be responsible for key accounts in an assigned territory. The SBDM is responsible for crafting and implementing multifaceted sales and marketing plans that drive portfolio revenue growth. The SBDM will actively handle a set of Authorized Disney Vacation Planners, in addition to, rising star and growth accounts. The SBDM will focus on all 6 domestic Disney Destinations products. Join this remarkable team!

This is a Full-Time position.

As a Sales Business Development Manager, you will report to the Regional Sales Director, Travel Agency Sales.

What You Will Do:

Drive Annual Business Results

Conduct sales calls to agencies within given territory assignment to maintain and grow relationships with clients who currently sell the portfolio of Disney products

Build and implement strategic sales & marketing plans to hit annual operating plan targets

Identify and develop new sales growth initiatives that are measurable and actionable. Be able to develop a case and solve sophisticated business issues.

Provide product knowledge to clients through product and technology trainings for the portfolio of Disney products

Handle program budget and be accountable for timely forecasting, tracking and reporting

Improve all product and promotional opportunities through client tactics and communication

Conduct regional training or assist in the training of agents at events including Agent Education Programs, Familiarization trips (FAMs) ship tours, etc

Required Qualifications & Skills:

At least five years of shown Travel Industry experience, specifically in a sales business development role

At least three years of Disney experience/processes

Consistent record of relationship building with C-Suite level contacts as well as front line and operational leadership as well as shown success with internal contacts

Confirmed history of product training facilitation for both small and large groups (75+)

Proficiency in negotiating and implementing annual marketing plans, co-operative investments and growth incentives

Validated experience in driving revenue for key brand priorities/multiple brands

Strong understanding of field level/remote selling

Deep knowledge of the Disney brand and portfolio of products

Strong planning and analytical skills to enhance business results

Broad understanding of marketing principles and ability to build strategic plans, creative problem solving skills

Broad understanding of travel industry and key trends in the territory and marketplace

Build, implement and measure unique marketing programs, social media tactics, consumer events and training initiatives

Excellent relationship skills and the ability to be a credible business partners, both internal and external

Proven track record to manage and secure confidential information

Preferred Qualifications:

Previous field sales experience in travel or entertainment industry

History of proven over achievement in roles/responsibilities

Working knowledge of all Disney Travel products (Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Adventures by Disney, Aulani, and Disney Cruise Line and National Geographic)

Knowledge of computer software, such as Tableau, SharePoint, and SHIELD

Existing relationships with travel agencies in Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Midwest territory

Preferred Education:

Certificate/Licenses: CTA or CTC desired

Additional Information:

Benefits and Perks: Disney offers a rewards package to help you live your best life. This includes health and savings benefits, educational opportunities and special extras that only Disney can provide. Learn more about our benefits and perks at https://jobs.disneycareers.com/benefits.

About Walt Disney World Resort:

Since opening in 1971, Walt Disney World Resort has played an important role in many childhood and family memories. Today, hundreds of millions of guests from around the globe visit this magical place to enjoy a Disney vacation. Through a combination of creativity, innovation and technology, the resort immerses guests in classic Disney tales and new kinds of family entertainment. Drawing from a rich heritage of storytelling, Walt Disney World Resort cast members bring Disney magic to life through unmatched attention to detail and superior guest service.

About The Walt Disney Company:

The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise that includes three core business segments: Disney Entertainment, ESPN, and Disney Experiences. From humble beginnings as a cartoon studio in the 1920s to its preeminent name in the entertainment industry today, Disney proudly continues its legacy of creating world-class stories and experiences for every member of the family. Disney’s stories, characters and experiences reach consumers and guests from every corner of the globe. With operations in more than 40 countries, our employees and cast members work together to create entertainment experiences that are both universally and locally cherished.

This position is with WDW Services II, Inc. , which is part of a business we call Walt Disney World Resort .

WDW Services II, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, military or veteran status, medical condition, genetic information or disability, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state or local law. Disney champions a business environment where ideas and decisions from all people help us grow, innovate, create the best stories and be relevant in a constantly evolving world.

Working Here

on a business trip

The Disney Look

Watch our jobs.

Sign up to receive new job alerts and company information based on your preferences.

Job Category Select a Job Category Administration Animation and Visual Effects Architecture and Design Asset Management Banking Building, Construction and Facilities Business Strategy and Development Call Center Communications Creative Culinary Data Science and Analytics Engineering Finance and Accounting Food and Beverage Gaming and Interactive Governmental Affairs Graphic Design Health Services Horticulture and Landscaping Hotel and Resorts Human Resources Legal and Business Affairs Maritime and Cruise Operations Marketing and Digital Media Merchandising Operations Production Project Management Publishing Quality Assurance Research and Development Retail Operations Sales Sciences and Animal Programs Security Social Responsibility Sports and Recreation Stage Productions Supply Chain Management Talent Technology Theme Park Operations

Location Select Location Amsterdam, Netherlands Anaheim, California, United States Auckland, New Zealand Bay Lake, Florida, United States Branson, Missouri, United States Bristol, Connecticut, United States Buenos Aires, Argentina Burbank, California, United States Canutillo, Texas, United States Celebration, Florida, United States Charlotte, North Carolina, United States Chessy, France Chiba, Japan Chicago, Illinois, United States City of Taguig, Philippines Commerce, California, United States Coupvray, France Cypress, Texas, United States Destin, Florida, United States Dublin, Ireland Elizabeth, New Jersey, United States Emeryville, California, United States Fresno, California, United States Glendale, California, United States Greater Manchester, United Kingdom Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, United States Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Houston, Texas, United States Hyderabad, India Jakarta, Indonesia Kapolei, Hawaii, United States Kissimmee, Florida, United States Lake Buena Vista, Florida, United States Lantau Island, Hong Kong Las Vegas, Nevada, United States Lisbon, Portugal Livermore, California, United States London, United Kingdom Los Angeles, California, United States Madrid, Spain Makati City, Philippines Marne-la-Vallée, France Melbourne, Australia Mexico City, Mexico Milan, Italy Minato-ku, Japan Montévrain, France Moore Park, Australia Morrisville, North Carolina, United States Mumbai, India Munich, Germany Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, United States New Taipei City, Taiwan New York, New York, United States Nicasio, California, United States Orlando, Florida, United States Papenburg, Germany Paris, France Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States Raleigh, North Carolina, United States Richmond, Australia San Antonio, Texas, United States San Francisco, California, United States San Marcos, Texas, United States Santa Monica, California, United States Seattle, Washington, United States Secaucus, New Jersey, United States Seoul, South Korea Serris, France Sevierville, Tennessee, United States Singapore, Singapore Sydney, Australia Taipei City, Taiwan Tampa, Florida, United States The Woodlands, Texas, United States Tlalpan, Mexico Toronto, Canada Tulalip, Washington, United States Vancouver, Canada Vienna, Austria Washington, DC, United States Wismar, Germany Woodburn, Oregon, United States Zurich, Switzerland

Job Level Select Professional Operations / Production Internships / Programs Management Executive Business Support / Administrative Talent

Email Address

Country/Region of Residence Select Afghanistan Aland Islands Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Anguilla Antarctica Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Aruba Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia, Plurinational State Of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Bouvet Island Brazil British Indian Ocean Territory Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile Christmas Island Cocos (Keeling) Islands Colombia Comoros Congo Congo, the Democratic Republic of The Cook Islands Costa Rica Cote D'ivoire Croatia Cuba Curacao Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Falkland Islands (Malvinas) Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Gibraltar Great Britain Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guernsey Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Heard Island and McDonald Islands Holy See (Vatican City State) Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran, Islamic Republic Of Iraq Ireland Isle of Man Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jersey Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Korea, Democratic People's Republic Of Korea, Republic Of Kosovo Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Lao People's Democratic Republic Laos Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macau Macedonia, the Former Yugoslav Republic Of Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Micronesia, Federated States Of Moldova, Republic Of Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands Antilles Netherlands New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Island Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestinian Territory, Occupied Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Pitcairn Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Reunion Romania Russian Federation Rwanda Saint Barthelemy Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan Da Cunha Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Martin (French Part) Saint Pierre and Miquelon Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Sint Eustatius Sint Maarten (Dutch Part) Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Svalbard and Jan Mayen Swaziland Sweden Switzerland Syrian Arab Republic Tahiti Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania, United Republic Of Thailand Timor-leste Togo Tokelau Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States United States Minor Outlying Islands Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic Of Viet Nam Vietnam Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, U.S. Wallis and Futuna Western Sahara Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe

Confirm Email

IMAGES

  1. 7 Business Travel Tips to Make Traveling Easier

    on a business trip

  2. 6 Great Tips for the Perfect Business Trip

    on a business trip

  3. Tips You Need To Know For A Smooth Business Trip

    on a business trip

  4. 5 Luxury Travel Tips for Your Next Business Trip

    on a business trip

  5. 10 tips for a successful business trip

    on a business trip

  6. How to Stay Productive and Sane During Business Travel

    on a business trip

VIDEO

  1. Business trip but make it ✨fun ✨

  2. Meri London Road Trip Shayad Yaha Khatam Ho Jayegi (EP : 21)

  3. Why We Have To Apply For New Driving Licence In China ? (EP : 19)

COMMENTS

  1. 12 Key Steps When Planning A Business Trip

    4. Plan For Unexpected Delays. Planning for travel (essentials plus backup headphones, hefty power sources for recharging, etc.) is key for a smooth trip. Unexpected delays are often the greater ...

  2. The Ultimate Business Trip Packing List: What to Pack for 3 Days

    I spoke to Mats Klingberg, founder of menswear boutique Trunk Clothiers (and a master of elegant business attire) on this very subject, and he had just returned from a trip that started in 10 ...

  3. Top tips on how to plan a business trip

    Learn how to make travel arrangements, select accommodation, create an itinerary, research your destination, prepare your documents and get ready for your meeting. Follow these 6 steps for an effective and successful business trip.

  4. 20 business travel tips

    10. Enjoy your time at the airport. If you can, opt to spend your hours before departure in the airport lounge. There, you can enjoy free food and drinks, do some work if you need to, or simply relax before your flight. 11. Use travel apps. Travel apps can help you make business trips easier than ever before.

  5. Business Travel: The Beginner's Guide

    Learn how to book, prepare, and manage your business trips with this comprehensive guide. Find out what business travel is, how to comply with company policies, and how to optimize your expenses and time.

  6. 26 Business Travel Tips & Hacks [Packing, Hotel, & More]

    The best hotels for business travel are centrally located and offer amenities like free Wi-Fi, meeting rooms, guest laundry, and shuttle services to the airport. 3. Loyalty programs. Sign up for airline and hotel rewards programs so you don't miss out on perks like access to airport lounges, priority boarding, and upgrades. If you travel ...

  7. 15 Tips for Your Next Business Trip (Plus FAQ)

    Learn how to prepare for domestic and international business trips, from packing essentials to securing a visa. Find out what to expect and how to handle common challenges and opportunities while traveling for work.

  8. Planning business trip 101: Tips for business travelers

    Learn how to plan a business trip efficiently and productively with this guide. Find out how to set a goal, create a master itinerary, store documents, pack smart, and search for deals.

  9. How to Plan a Business Trip

    A copy of your detailed itinerary. Travel documents, such as your passport and driver's license, plus a physical and digital copy of these important documents that you pack in your carry on. Back-ups of presentations, sell pieces, brochures, and other important business materials. Extra business cards. Credit cards and cash.

  10. The Ultimate Guide For Business Travel

    There are plenty of apps on the market with both free and subscription offerings for keeping track of business travel expenses. Two apps for expensing business travel stand out in the field: Expensify and Zoho. While keeping physical receipts is still a good practice, these make tracking expenses a breeze. 4. Plan & Debrief

  11. How to Plan Your Business Travel: 13 Steps (with Pictures)

    Keep a backup copy of all your important information on your laptop or a USB flash drive. If you really want to cover all your bases, you can also print out hard copies of any important paperwork and keep those papers in a file with your travel documents. 6. Start sleeping on the local time before your trip.

  12. 10 Business Travel Tips You Probably Forgot Since Your Last Trip

    9. Pack a Backup Battery. In this era of conveniences, it stinks to be inconvenienced by a delayed flight, stalled train, stuck elevator, and what have you. Having a backup battery on hand, also ...

  13. Expert Business Travel Tips for a Smooth Business Trip (40+ Ideas)

    Invest in a travel pillow that will help you sleep either in the hotel or on the airplane. Use packing envelopes. Nifty garment folders can help keep blouses, shirts, skirts, and slacks more wrinkle-free than trying to roll things or pack them in packing bags. Instead, use packing bags only for underwear and sleepwear.

  14. 15 Tips On How To Plan Successful Business Trips

    Maintaining a personally enforced schedule for exercise, lunch, dinner, outings, etc. will help in enhancing the overall experience of the trip. 13. Networking opportunities. On the trip, employees become the ambassadors of the company. Therefore, it is crucial to train the employees with the soft skills required to aptly represent the business ...

  15. 7 Productive Things You Can Do on a Business Trip

    Now that you have a little extra free time, set some goals to make your life better when you get back to reality. Set deadlines so you can hold yourself accountable, too. 5. Get Organized. Just as we lack the time to set goals, we don't have a lot of time to get ourselves organized on a daily basis, either.

  16. A beginner's guide to business travel

    Cut your carbon. Business travel can be a big contributor to a company's carbon footprint. To be more sustainable, travel managers might be responsible for finding greener alternatives to employees' travel arrangements. A solution like. GreenPerk. can help you streamline efforts to be more eco-conscious.

  17. How to Plan a Business Trip? 9 Essential Tips

    Get Free Travel Policy Template. 9. Prepare for your Meeting. Lastly, don't forget why you are going on a business trip. The aim of the business trip is to make new business deals and contracts, meet potential clients, and build a long productive relationship to achieve the company's goals.

  18. 10 essential tips for the first time business traveler

    These travel tips will help you save time and avoid the most common issues. Just sit back, relax and keep reading to get ready for the first of many business trips. 1. Pack like a pro. Start with proper carry-on luggage and take the time to pack light. Packing cubes and internal pockets can make all the difference for business travel.

  19. The ultimate guide to travelling for work: 35 best tips for business

    15. Pack healthy snacks. For many business travellers, a work trip often means irregular meal times and unhealthy snacks. With a little preparation, you can actually avoid this: pack enough healthy, balanced snacks to keep with you not only on the plane but also whenever you're on the go. 16.

  20. A Beginner's Guide to International Business Travel

    Consult Your Company's Travel Policy. To get the most out of your international business trip—like, knowing exactly how much you can spend on meals, lodging and airfare—consult your company's travel policy. There, you might also discover that you can get reimbursed for known traveler programs like Clear or TSA PreCheck, or entry fees to ...

  21. Business travel

    Business travel. Business class seats (pictured aboard an Emirates aircraft) in aircraft usually provide more space and facilities than the standard class. Business travel is travel undertaken for work or business purposes, as opposed to other types of travel, such as for leisure purposes or regularly commuting between one's home and workplace.

  22. The 20 Worst Mistakes You Can Make On A Business Trip

    Whatever you do, don't make the same mistakes. Credit: Newscom. 1. Not getting enough sleep. The worst thing you can do on an overseas business trip is conduct a meeting in a lounge with ...

  23. What is a business trip? Definition and examples

    Business travel. Business travel refers to traveling on behalf of your employer generally. Although it is a singular term, i.e., business travel and not business travels, it refers to all trips for work purposes. It is a general term. I might say, for example: "Business travel is becoming a significant part of our airline's income.".

  24. Business Trips 101

    A short-term business visit is available where a foreign national or a Commonwealth citizens falls within one of the classes of persons specified in the Regulations conducting business in Jamaica ...

  25. Visiting China in 2024: A guide to visas, mobile payments and more

    Gabriela Correia, 25, a doctor from Portugal, visited Shanghai and Beijing in June this year with her American boyfriend, entering the country under the 144-hour visa-free transit policy.

  26. Tech firms halve business travel in 2023 but Alphabet, Apple lag, study

    Sept 11 (Reuters) - Global tech giants halved their business flight emissions in 2023 compared to 2019, but companies like Apple , opens new tab and Google's parent Alphabet , opens new tab are ...

  27. Tim Walz's China Travel Business Was Dissolved for Failing To Pay $26

    Corporate tax hike advocate Tim Walz had his China travel company shut down by the Nebraska government for failing to pay a minor business operating tax in 1998, according to corporate records.

  28. Easy Upgrade : Oman Air

    Upgrade your Economy Class ticket to our luxurious Business Studio cabin with just a few clicks. Use our Upgrade Bid feature to enhance your travel experience. Check your flight eligibility, place a bid, and enjoy award-winning Business Studio services. Get ready for a seamless and comfortable journey with Oman Air's easy upgrade options.

  29. Barney Offering Study Abroad Trip in Northern Spain

    The Barney School of Business is excited to offer our annual Study Abroad program in Northern Spain again from March 14-22, 2025. The course is based primarily in Northern Spain again with a couple of days visit to Madrid. Students will visit the Mondragon Cooperative Corporation businesses and at least one other sustainability-focused ...

  30. Sales Business Development Manager-Travel Agency Sales

    Sales Business Development Manager-Travel Agency Sales Apply Now Apply Later Job ID 10100490 Location Indiana, United States / Remote, United States / Florida, United States Business Walt Disney World Resort Date posted Sep. 10, 2024 . This role is considered remote, which means the employee will work remotely on an ongoing basis and will not have an assigned workspace at a Company designated ...