How to stay stress free whilst on a business trip

Travelling for business may sound glamorous – after all you get to fly to new places across the world – and for the most part it is. But it can also be extremely stressful. From finding cheap flights to cheap Heathrow parking to accommodation, going on a business trip can be quite the stressful experience. Find out our top tips on how to stay stress-free whilst on a business trip below.

Be prepared

Before jetting off, prepare yourself. Stress-free travel starts at home. Make sure you have the relevant documents you need in order before you set off into the sky. Ensure your passport is valid and your business visa has been processed before you go. Make a checklist of any other items you might need on your trip including Wi-Fi keys. Find out prior to your trip if you will have access to the internet in your hotel or at the conference. If you won’t, set up a mobile hotspot you can use or discuss alternative options with the host.   

Top tip: Arrive at the airport in plenty of time to ensure you don’t have to worry about missing your flight!

Create a trip itinerary

Triple check your hotel is in good distance to the conference and that your flight lands at the closest airport to it. If you opt for the fly nonstop option, you’ll experience less stress than if you stop over elsewhere to board another aircraft. Despite direct flights being more expensive, they do save time and are more convenient. Creating a trip itinerary will help you identify what will happen when and remind you of the reasons you are there for.

Identify the perks

Business trips do have their perks. They’re not your enemy, so don’t treat them like one – no matter how many you have to go on. Despite the early mornings (and late nights) you can make time to do things you enjoy too, whether it’s going for a 3 course meal at a restaurant of your choice or indulging in a full-English breakfast each morning.

Take a well-deserved break

Don’t spend your entire flight time packing in overdue work or getting ahead. Flight time should be time to unwind and relax. Take time out to de-stress preparing for your business trip by enjoying the experience and pointing out what you’ll gain from it. If you’ve embarked on a long-haul flight, make sure you adjust you watch to the time where you’ll be landing. No matter if you flight is eight or twelve hours long, you can use this time to adjust your body to a new sleeping pattern to avoid severe jet lag on touchdown.

Some of us are more than familiar with the stress revolved around taking a business trip abroad whereas for others, they might be about to embark on the first overseas business experience. No matter how many times you’ve travelled, making your experience as stress-free as possible is vital for a relaxed journey.