travel checklist for business

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

The complete business travel checklist

• Passport/ID
• Boarding pass
• Laptop and chargers
• Phone charger
• Notebook and pen
• Cash and credit cards
• Reusable water bottle
• 1 set of workout clothes
• 1 suit with two matching shirts
• 1 pair of pants/jeans
• 2 nice tops
• Light fleece
• 1 pair of dressy shoes
• 1 pair of travel shoes
• Swim suit (depending on destination)
• Glasses/contacts
• Coat/rain jacket
• Razor & shaving cream
• Mini shampoo and conditioner
• Dry shampoo
• Prescriptions
• Pain reliever
• Tsa-approved first aid kit
• Moisturizer
• Portable charger
• Downloaded movies, music and podcasts
• Healthy snacks

How to create a business travel checklist

• Travel documents (forget your passport – or Real ID after October 2020 – and your trip will end before it begins)
• Business supplies/work documents
• Laptop and other tech gear and accessories
• Personal items (ID, cash, credit card)
• Personal tasks associated with getting ready to travel (itinerary planning, bookings, notifications to be made, etc.)
• It streamlines both trip planning and packing
• It keeps you focus on necessities (and ensures you forget nothing essential)
• It helps you say no to non-essential “might-needs”
• It allows you to continuously refine your business travel packing skills

What should you consider before creating a business travel checklist?

How do you know your business travel checklist is complete, best business travel checklists, what makes a good business travel checklist.

• There are the things that will vary according to the details of each trip (your wardrobe, business documents, etc.)
• And there are things that will always go, no matter what – things like toiletries. You can set yourself up for maximum business travel packing efficiency by pre-assembling these necessities so they are grab-and-go ready.

Before you use your business travel packing list

Invest in quality luggage, use suitcase accessories to your advantage, read up on how to boost your immune system before flying, consider a tech-forward travel bag, read up on hotel safety tips, buy a tsa-approved first aid kit, steps to preparing for business travel.

• Prepare to do business, whatever that entails for this trip  -- daily schedules, documents, presentation materials, etc.
• Prepare your itinerary and other travel documents  -- unless your trip will be a quick turnaround, be sure to build in some time to yourself to hit the gym, the pool, the local shops or the pillow for a nap. You’ll be happier and more productive if you’re better rested
• Prepare personally to travel  – booking your flight, hotel, etc. and making arrangements for whatever work must continue in your absence
• Prepare your trip-specific packing list  and get ready to fill your carry-on luggage

How do you know what you'll need for a business trip?

What travel documents will you need, what will you need to conduct business, what personal items will you need, how will you pay, will your phone work at your destination, will you need travel insurance, things to do before traveling on business, secure all necessary travel documents., secure travel insurance., decide which credit card to take., fully charge all electronic devices., prepare your trip-specific packing list., pack like a pro by sticking with carry-on luggage., purchase a travel wallet., research your destination ahead of time, use social media to connect with peers, plan your in-transit entertainment., set your home to “away” mode., what happens if you don't get everything done before you go on a business trip, how far ahead should you plan before going on a business trip.

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.

5 inefficient processes affecting your business and how to fix them

Duty of care in the workplace: everything you need to know

CEO Roles and Responsibilities: conquer your role as CEO

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

• Business Travel
• Home Inspiration
• Sustainable Living
• Wellbeing & Wellness
• Area Guides
• Whitepapers

Business Travel Guide

Essential business travel checklist [updated 2024].

Business travel comes with its own set of complexities and uncertainties. To navigate these successfully, you need careful planning and attention to detail. Our comprehensive business travel checklist will ensure that you’re well-prepared for every aspect of your business journey. From the moment you start planning your trip to the post-travel follow-up, we’ve got you covered.

So, whether you’re about to embark on your first business trip or looking to enhance your travel routine, read on to discover how to make your business travel experience efficient, enjoyable, and productive.

Let’s get started on the path to becoming a savvy business traveller with our ultimate business travel checklist.

Pre Business Travel Checklist

• Check and Validate Your Documents: Ensure that your passport, ID, and any required visas are up-to-date and valid.
• Budget and Itinerary Planning: If you are responsible for booking your travel, be aware of any budget constraints or itinerary requirements. In case someone else handles the bookings, submit your proposed itinerary to the designated person.
• Opt for Direct and Simple Travel: Consider your budget when booking your travel; aim for the most direct options available.
• Strategic Arrival and Departure Planning: Align your arrival and departure plans with the purpose of your travel, such as meetings or events. Assess whether arriving the night before or departing the day after is necessary based on your meeting schedule.
• Proximity Matters for Accommodations: Book accommodations near the location where your business activities will take place. This will save you time and streamline your schedule.
• Efficient Transport Planning: Arrange transport to the airport or train station, considering each leg of the journey. Plan and book transportation in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
• Utilize Loyalty Programs: If you are a member of airline or hotel loyalty programs , take advantage of them when making bookings to accumulate points. If not already a member, consider signing up, especially if you travel for business frequently.
• Fast-Track Your Travel with Programs: Explore programs like Global Entry , TSA PreCheck , or Clear for expedited security processes, making your travel experience faster and more convenient.
• Consider Trip Insurance: Evaluate the option of trip insurance to provide coverage for unforeseen circumstances, offering you peace of mind during your journey.

Business Travel “Packing” Checklist

When it comes to packing for your business trip, it’s important to be organized and ensure you have everything you need. Here’s a checklist of essential items to pack:

1. Travel documents

Travel documents are crucial for a smooth journey, ensuring you have the necessary paperwork to reach your destination and return home. These documents establish your identity, authorize your travel, and provide vital information to authorities. Having a complete set of travel documents is essential for a hassle-free trip.

Documents Checklist For Business Travel:

• Visa (if required)
• Driver’s License
• Travel insurance documents
• Business permits
• Itinerary with flight details and hotel reservations
• Photocopies of important documents
• Emergency contact information

2. Electronics and accessories

In today’s digital age, electronic devices and accessories play a pivotal role in staying connected, productive, and entertained during your journey. They enable you to work efficiently, communicate seamlessly, and stay organized while on the road. Packing the right electronics and accessories ensures you’re well-equipped for the demands of modern business travel.

Electronics Checklist For Business Travel :

• Laptop or tablet
• Chargers for all electronic devices
• Adapter plugs (if travelling internationally)
• Headphones or earbuds
• USB flash drive
• Travel surge protector
• Portable Wi-Fi hotspot (if needed)

3. Medications and personal care

Maintaining your health and personal care routine is essential to feeling your best during your trip. Medications and personal care items help you stay healthy and comfortable. Packing these items ensures you have the necessary supplies to address health needs and maintain hygiene, contributing to a worry-free journey.

Personal Care Checklist For Business Trave l:

• Prescription medications
• Over-the-counter pain relievers
• Allergy medication (if needed)
• First aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, etc.)
• Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap)
• Shampoo and conditioner (travel-sized)
• Razor and shaving cream
• Contact lenses or eyeglasses and solution
• Hand sanitiser

4. Toiletries & cosmetics

Toiletries and cosmetics help you maintain personal hygiene and grooming standards during your trip. They contribute to your comfort and confidence, ensuring you look and feel your best while conducting business and engaging with colleagues and clients.

Toiletries & Cosmetics Business Travel Checklist:

• Body wash or soap
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Face wash or cleanser
• Moisturizer
• Hairbrush or comb
• Makeup (if applicable)
• Makeup remover wipes
• Hair products (gel, hairspray, etc.)
• Feminine hygiene products (if needed)
• Perfume or cologne
• Nail clippers and nail file

5. Clothing For Men & Women

Selecting the right clothing is essential for business travellers. Your attire communicates professionalism and reflects your respect for the business environment. Packing appropriate clothing ensures you’re well-prepared for meetings, presentations, and other business-related activities. 

Checklist For Men:

• Dress shirts
• Suits or blazers
• Dress shoes
• Socks and underwear
• Casual clothing for downtime

Checklist for women:

• Blouses or formal tops
• Dresses or suits
• Comfortable but stylish shoes
• Accessories (jewellery, scarves, etc.)
• Undergarments

Bonus Business Travel Tips

While we’ve covered the essentials, here are some bonus tips to enhance your business travel experience:

1. During Your Stay

Explore local cuisine : When dining out, try local cuisine to immerse yourself in the culture regardless of your business travel destination . Ask colleagues or locals for restaurant recommendations to savour authentic dishes.

Network beyond meetings : Look for events, industry conferences, or local business gatherings during your stay. These can provide valuable connections and insights.

Cultural Awareness : Show respect for local customs and traditions. A small effort, like learning a few basic phrases in the local language, can go a long way in building rapport.

Stay Active : If your schedule allows, find time for physical activity. Some hotels have fitness centres, or you can take a morning jog to energize yourself for the day.

2. Staying Healthy and Safe

Travel insurance review: Before departure, thoroughly review your travel insurance policy to understand coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations and lost luggage.

Hydration reminder : In-flight and during your stay, prioritize hydration. Carry a reusable water bottle and drink regularly to stay alert and healthy.

Emergency contacts on speed dial: Save local emergency numbers, including the nearest hospital and embassy or consulate, in your phone for quick access.

3. Expense Tracking Tips

Expense Tracking Apps : Consider using digital expense tracking apps or software to log expenses in real-time. This simplifies the process and ensures you don’t miss any deductions.

Organize receipts : Keep all receipts in one place, such as an envelope or a designated folder in your bag. This makes it easier to account for expenses when filling out reports.

Currency conversion Apps : Install a reliable currency conversion app on your phone to instantly calculate expenses in your home currency. It helps you stay within budget.

Credit card statements : Regularly review your credit card statements online to spot any unauthorized charges or errors promptly. Notify your bank of any discrepancies.

Is travel insurance necessary for a business trip?

Yes, having travel insurance is highly recommended for business trips. It can provide coverage for unexpected events like trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage, offering you peace of mind during your travels.

How can I prevent jet lag during long-haul flights?

To minimize jet lag, adjust your sleep schedule before departure, stay hydrated, avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, and set your watch to your destination’s time zone as soon as you board the plane.

Are there any apps or tools to help me find local networking events?

Yes, several apps and websites can help you find local networking events, such as Meetup, Eventbrite, and LinkedIn. You can search for relevant business or industry events in your destination city.

How can I make the most of downtime during business trips?

Use downtime to explore the local culture, try new cuisine, or relax and recharge. You can also catch up on work tasks, read, or use the hotel’s amenities like the gym or spa to make the most of your stay.

This checklist has covered everything you need, from preparing before your trip to staying safe and tracking expenses. Each journey is a chance to grow and discover. So, pack wisely, embrace the adventure, and make the most of every moment. Remember, business travel is more than just reaching your destination; it’s about the experiences and connections you make along the way.

If you’re seeking top-notch hotels and serviced apartments for your business trips, explore our business travel accommodation options and take the first step toward seamless and comfortable travel. Click here to book your next business trip and experience the difference.

Read more Business Travel Guide articles

9 Corporate Credit Card Policy Best Practices

What is MICE Travel? Everything You Need to Know in 2024

A Complete Guide to Corporate Travel Allowance

9 Benefits of Organizing Company Trips for Employees

• 15 Offbeat Digital Nomad Destinations You Need to Visit Now
• Cancun vs. Tulum - Which Should You Visit Next?
• How to Play Video Games as You Travel the World
• 21 Unusual Places to Visit in Poland You Must See
• The Best Cenotes in the Riviera Maya
• The 7 Best Vacation Destinations for Nature Lovers
• Work With Us

The Ultimate Business Travel Checklist

Over the years, I’ve been on many business trips, and how successful they were almost always came down to how well they were planned.

There’s an awful lot to think about when planning a business trip, from where to stay to what to pack. You also need to prepare for your home and office while you’re absent.

In this article, I cover everything you’ll need to do to set yourself up for a successful business trip, including tips for accommodation, packing, transportation, preparing your home and work space, and purchasing your flight.

While getting to travel on the company’s dime sounds like the Holy Grail of great travel jobs , it can honestly be a lot of work to organize a business trip . Below you’ll find my complete business travel checklist so you’ll be able to plan the best trip possible, and avoid my mistakes!

In this article, you’ll find a:

• Business Travel Checklist , which covers all aspects of getting ready for a trip other than packing.
• Business Trip Packing List , with everything you’ll need for a successful trip. Scroll down for our printable business trip packing list!

Our business travel checklist

Click here to download a printable business trip travel checklist!

Your first steps

First, find out who’s responsible for your travel planning. Some businesses leave all the travel planning and flight booking to their employees, and have you submit your receipts later. Other businesses will handle every last detail of your travel planning (lucky you!) from pickup at the airport, to flights, hotels and accommodation.

Most businesses fall somewhere in between. It can save you a lot of hassle if you find out who’s responsible for what, early on.

Years ago, I had a last minute business trip to Amsterdam where I spent a few hours and a lot of stress trying to find affordable accommodation in the city. It turns out my employer had already arranged a place for me to stay with a colleague. Even if you think you know who’ll plan your trip, ask!

If you’re responsible for booking your flight, and you’re looking to save money, be sure to check out our post on six easy steps for nailing the cheapest flight . o start, we really love getting a quick price comparison on Google Flights (here are a few great tips for using Google Flights ) or Skyscanner .

Check flights on Skyscanner.

If you’re flying regularly for business, be sure to sign up for an airlines loyalty program, and book with them as much as possible. This can translate into some great upgrades and free flights as well as other perks.

Get your work place ready

So you don’t worry about work while you’re away, and to ease your transition back when you return, try to get your affairs in order at your office before you leave.

Make sure you finish the work projects you are currently working on.

Let coworkers and business partners know where you’re going, and how long you’ll be gone.

Set up an out of office email, if necessary.

Prepare the schedule for your business meetings on your trip; you should know exactly where and when each meeting will take place.

Make sure you’ve organized all the important documents for your trip, including the confirmations, copies of your travel documents, presentations and handouts. Print them out, if necessary, and insure they’re saved to a zip drive or on your hard drive. It’s a good idea to back them up to a cloud service (we like Amazon) to ensure that you can access them anywhere in the world.

Prepare your home for when you’ll be gone

Tell your family about your exact itinerary and leave your addresses and contact phone numbers.

Tell a trusted friend about your exact itinerary and ask someone to take care of your family pets and plants while you’re gone.  If you don’t have a friend or family member that can pitch in, consider getting a housesitter. Probably the most well known and largest place to find house and pet sitters is through  Trusted Housesitters .

Check sitters available on Trusted Housesitters here.

Take safety measures, such as locking all doors and windows, turning on the alarm and try to create the illusion that you are at home by turning some lights on or with a radio that has a timer function.

Suspend or redirect routine deliveries such as newspapers or milk, if necessary.

Give the house a quick clean before you leave. Normally, my house is kinda messy and chaotic, but I hate coming home to a dirty, messy house after a trip, so we give it a complete clean before we go. It’s nice to be able to relax a bit when you get back, rather than stress about how messy the house is.

Turn down the thermostat if it’s cold outside or turn it up if it’s really hot. There’s no point warming or cooling an empty house.

Make sure you check with your home insurance to see if you need to have someone check in on your house while you’re gone. Each home insurance policy is different, but many policies won’t cover damages from floods, water leaks, break ins or theft if the house is not regularly attended.

Travel preparations

If you are going abroad, make sure you have all the necessary travel documents.

If you need any vaccinations or medical documents for the country you are going to, take care of that, too.

Get some cash in the local currency. There are ATMs in nearly every airport in the world. however sometimes the lines are long or the machines are down. You don’t need money for your entire trip, just make sure you have enough on hand to pay for the taxi and a bite to eat when you get there.

Look into any specific workplace customs or practices for where you’re traveling. There’s a great article here on business culture in Singapore , and one for Japan here . A quick Google search should help you find others.

World Nomads Travel Insurance

Charge all of your devices the day before you leave on your trip. That way you won’t be caught flat-footed if your plane doesn’t offer outlets or USB charging ports.

Where to Stay

I’ve put these tips near the beginning, because I honestly believe that your accommodation is the most important part of your stay once your dates are set and your transportation is booked.

Start looking for accommodation early. It can be surprising how early accommodation books out. The earlier you start looking, the easier it will be for you to find a good place for a good price.

Look beyond a hotel room. Hotel rooms are often small, impersonal and honestly, overpriced. You’ll probably be surprised at how favorably the price of a fully furnished, serviced apartment compares. Corporate apartments also have the advantage of having essential business amenities like fast WiFi.

For example, corporate serviced apartments are often more comfortable and private than a hotel. Singapore’s well known as being one of the most expensive destinations for business travel in the Asia-Pacific region, making value for your dollar especially important.

Stay close to work. Look for accommodation that is not far from the place where most of your meetings will take place to avoid having to commute in a foreign city. I’m often surprised how bad traffic and subway crowding can be, even during off peak hours.

Make it work friendly. Make sure your accommodation has a work space where you can use your laptop and make phone calls. A small table and chair will work perfectly.

At the airport and in the air

Savvy business travelers suggest signing up for Global Entry and TSA Precheck . Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection program that pre-qualifies you for faster customs, while TSA Precheck will get you boarded faster, as many US airports have special (and faster!) precheck lines where you can skip needing to remove shoes, laptops, liquids, belts or light jackets.

Double check any baggage requirements.  You never know when the rules will change. The USA has even floated the idea of banning laptops in the cabin for all flights that depart, land, or even touch down in the USA.

Try to travel carry on only. Checked bags have a potential to be lost or delayed, adding to your stress. If you can do with just a carry on you’ll be more flexible if there are problems and out of the airport quicker once you land.

If you do check a bag, be sure to keep essentials like your laptop, any business documents and tech, some underwear, and prescriptions in your carry-on bag in case your checked luggage is lost or delayed.

Get a lightweight, sturdy carry on bag with wheels, and carry a personal item as well. You can find more tips on choosing a carry-on here , and our tips for choosing the best business laptop backpack here .

Get clothing designed for travel. If you’re short on space, consider getting a travel jacket or travel gear with hidden pockets or that is wrinkle resistant. We like the SCOTTeVEST women’s trench coat or the streamlined men’s Revolution jacke t.

Stay hydrated on the plane . It’s amazing how much a flight can dehydrate the body. Drink more liquids than normal, and go easy on the alcohol to stay hydrated.

Go to bed normally. Studies have shown that the best way to reduce jet lag is to get as much sunshine as possible at your destination and to sleep normal hours. Tempted to take a quick power nap? Chances are it will just extend your jet lag.

Packing tips

When you pack, use a list with everything you need (see our handy packing list below). Focus on clothing items, toiletries, personal documents, money and banking cards, chargers and the items you need for your business meetings and give yourself time to add and remove items from the list. Try to limit the items you pack to the ones that you will really need.

Tip: Check out our favorite toiletries bags for travel here!

Don’t forget to take weather into account. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve forgotten to check the rain forecast and wished for my handy travel umbrella.

I love packing cubes, because they make organizing my luggage a snap. Check out more in our blog post on how to use packing cubes .

Make sure the liquids in your carry-on luggage (such as your shampoo or your soap) are in bottles that are not larger than 3 oz. (100 ml), otherwise you risk getting them removed by airport control.

Put your shampoo and conditioner, and any other liquids that may leak, in a zip-lock plastic bag. Changes in air pressure on the plane have made liquids come gushing out of bottles more than once on my flights, and the zip-lock bags have saved my clothes from many a spill.

Don’t pack what you don’t need. If you’re certain your hotel will have a hair dryer, shampoo and conditioner, there’s no need to pack these items. If there’s none in your room, ask for one to be brought to you.

Business Trip Packing List

Your business culture will determine exactly what to bring (whether it’s formal business attire like suits or business casual), but these tips should work either way.

Click here to download a printable business trip packing list!

Personal items

Credit cards and bank cards

Any other banking or personal ID you’ll need

Business cards to hand out

Find out what business functions you’ll need to attend (e.g., formal business dinners, or giving a presentation) and include clothes for those.

Bring layers, and make sure all your clothes coordinate by sticking to colors and patterns that all mix together.

Shirt. I recommend one top per day, if possible.

Pants or skirt. I recommend one pair for every two days. If you’ve color co-ordinated your clothing, you can get away with wearing a neutral colored bottom at least two days in a row.

Underwear. I recommend one pair per day, if that’s possible, so you won’t need to bother washing them.

Jacket. Check out our favorite  casual women’s hoodie travel jacket here . For more formal business travel, we like the SCOTTeVEST women’s trench coat, men’s travel blazer, or the streamlined  men’s Jacket .

Outerwear. Depending on the weather, you may need extra gear like sunglasses and a sun hat, or a scarf and gloves.

Footwear. Make sure that you pack at least one pair of comfortable business appropriate shoes, as you never know if you’ll have to walk between offices. If you enjoy working out, make sure you bring some proper footwear for that as well.

Pantyhose. I am NOT a fan of these devices of torture, but if you’re in a very conservative business environment, they may be expected.

Tech and business

WiFi hotspot. Hotel WiFi can be unreliable, so we bring our GLocalMe portable WiFi with us wherever we go. I love having internet at our fingertips across the globe, and it saves us a fortune in roaming charges.  Check out our review of GlocalMe mobile WiFi here.

Tip! Too much gear? We understand. Read our article on how to travel lighter with electronics .

Laptop or tablet

Cell phone charger. Consider both a wall plug charger and a portable external battery charger.

Bring noise cancelling headphones. They’re not only fantastic for shutting out the chatty seatmate next to you when you’re trying to work, but they also do a wonderful job in loud hotel rooms, cafes, and new workplaces.

Tip! If you’re looking for a place to work while you’re away, check out our article on how to find the best places to work while traveling .

Plug converter. Depending on the country you’re in, you might need a different electrical plug. To make life easier, make sure all your chargers and devices are usable with 110-240 volts.

Toothbrush and toothpaste

Earplugs. You’ll thank me for this one, whether it’s for the plane or the hotel room. These affordable  Flents Contour Ear Plugs  get great reviews.

See prices and reviews.

Prescription and non-prescription drugs

Skincare products

Electric razor or disposable razor

Spare contact lenses, a case and contact lens solution if required

Prescription for eyeglasses

For women only

Bring your own tampons and pads, or use a menstrual cup like the Diva cup. In some countries, tampons can be especially hard to find, and brands can be quite a bit different away from home. Trust me, as a female traveler, the last thing you want is to overestimate the absorbency of a new product.

Optional extras

If you have the room and want to take along a few extras that’s fine. Here are a few examples.

Wide scarf in your carry on. This can double as a blanket during flight, and a fashion accessory later.

A small first aid bag with items you think you’ll need like pain relievers, band aids and cough drops. It’s never a bad idea to pack Pepto Bismol and Ex-Lax (or, as we call it, the stop and go duo).

Birth control

Voltage converters. We like this  Universal World Wide Travel Charger Adapter .

See prices now.

Tip! Check out our article on How Not to Fry Your Electronics overseas for more tips.

Travel clothes steamer or travel iron

Tide stain remover pen

Lint roller

Small compression bag for laundry

Breath mints. Avoid gum, as it’s considered rude in many countries.

Travel pillow and or blanket

Baby wipes or facial wipes. We always travel with a small pack of these, as they’re wonderful for freshening up before leaving the plane.

Snacks. We often carry small packets of trail mix or protein bars in our carry on. They’re fantastic if airplane food service is sketchy, or if our hotel doesn’t have an affordable minibar.

Was this list helpful? What do you pack on a business trip? Let us know in the comments below!

Need some more packing list tips?

Check out our  beach packing list and our road trip packing lists!

I suggest to check your wallet. Nothing is more evanescent than the title “best travel credit card.” The competitive balance is always shifting and just this month Chase seized the high ground with two of the first Visa Infinite cards issued in the United States

Thanks for the perfect checklist, Ms Micki Kosman. I use to travel often, but do not know that there is such a huge mandatory checklist to be noted. One tip “earplugs” are some useful tips for a traveller. Your tips on “easy tips for nailing the cheapest flight” were really very useful. Also, the travel Preparation tips were very useful.

You shared very important information and I read it carefully and gain amazing knowledge. Thanks and keep it up.

If I were to go on a business trip, I would make sure to find the right limousine since this will provide convenience. Well, I also agree with you that it would be a great idea to hire a person that will plan the travel. Thank you for sharing here as well the importance of talking to a family member who will take care of my house whilst I’m gone.

This is an awesome blog on travel checklist, very helpful and full of resources that will save you time and money when you travel.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Your ultimate packing list: business travel checklist

Nothing is worse than a business trip that catches you by surprise. With this ultimate packing list, business travel was never easier; get going with all the necessities.

By Jessica Freedman

February 9, 2024

Don’t let a business trip catch you by surprise, having a packing list for a business trip is crucial to save time and make sure you don’t leave home without the essentials. Use a checklist; business trips are easier and more productive when you’re prepared. In this article we’ll walk you through everything you need to plan a business trip and create a business trip packing list:

• The must-haves

The work essentials

The personal items you can’t leave without, the nice-to-haves.

When it comes to making your business travel checklist, you want to make sure you have the necessities to ensure that you can work just as comfortably and effectively as if you were at the office (whether that be a physical office or your home office). 

The benefits of a packing list for a business trip

There are many benefits of having a packing list for business travel. Let’s take a look at what they are.

A business travel checklist streamlines the packing process

For starters, it streamlines the planning and packing process, meaning that you can easily and quickly put together your things for a business trip, even if a trip is decided at the last minute. When you are traveling for business, you are already eating into your personal time during the week with your friends and family, so the last thing you want to do is waste even more time pondering what you are going to bring with you. With a packing checklist, business trips are hands down a piece of cake. 

Ensures you only take the necessities

Sometimes when you are packing at the last minute you throw in items that are not necessary, weighing you down, and forcing you to check a bag. Checking a bag is anything but productive because it slows down the time it takes to get out of the airport, and hence get to your hotel or meetings. With a packing list you can be sure you only take the essentials, which are more or less the same no matter where you go. 

Keeps you organized

With a nicely defined list that is divided into the must-have documents, work essentials, personal items you can’t leave without, and other items that might come in handy, you can be sure to stay organized. Certain items like your toiletries you can even keep packed in your toiletry bag, making sure not only you don’t forget a thing, and cutting down on the time it takes to pack your suitcase.

Creating a work trip checklist

So now that you know why a business trip checklist is such a good idea let’s get started on tips to create a checklist for your business trip. We’ll start with the must-haves, then move on to the work essentials, the personal items you can’t leave without and the nice-to-haves.

The must-haves 

It’s time to start preparing for your business trip, so what is it you can’t leave home without?

The must-have business travel checklist:

• Passport or ID
• Proof of Covid vaccination – consult our other helpful pointers for traveling safe
• Boarding pass
• Work credit card
• Work laptop and charger
• Work cell phone and charger
• Personal cell phone and charger
• Headphones – they come in handy if you have to conduct phone calls while in transit
• Notebook (to jot any important information down)

When it comes to preparing the work essentials, you want to make sure you have everything necessary to work comfortably from anywhere (whether that be from the airport, the train station, on the plane or from your hotel room). Thankfully most documents are now available on the cloud, but just in case, you may want to have a backup on a flash drive of your presentation, and any printout flyers or documents you need to share with your colleagues or potential clients. Lastly, on your checklist for a business trip preparation list, make sure that you put your business cards. 

Everyone has their own ideas of what they can’t leave without, but then of course there are also some basics (think toothbrush) that anyone will agree you must have no matter what. Don’t leave home without your pajamas, socks, underwear, change of clothes for each day of your work trip, sunglasses, toothpaste and toothbrush, floss, shampoo and conditioner, hairbrush, cream, and chapstick.

Sometimes it’s a good idea to prepare for the unexpected. For example, why not pack some pain killers? Going to a meeting with a headache is the last thing you want to do. Or why not pack an extra pair of underwear? It doesn’t take up space and you never know, if your flight gets delayed you may end up having to stay another night. Another “nice-to-have” is some healthy snacks like almonds or a protein bar. If you’re in a hitch and you’re running to a meeting or in your hotel room with nothing nearby to eat, at least you have something to tide you over until the next meal.

A portable charging dock is another “nice-to-have” because when you’re on the go, you don’t want to be left without a charged cell phone to help you navigate and keep track of your meetings. 

related article

Planning a business trip 101

5 tricks & tips for preparing for your next business trip.

We’ve covered the steps to plan your business trip in the above article, but there’s more to planning your business trip. A business travel checklist goes beyond just a packing list but is more a comprehensive road map to preparing for your business trip in order to make it a success.

The idea of making it a comprehensive checklist for business trip preparation is the fact that it can be easily replicated for any type of business trip, whether it be overnight, an extended trip or to an international destination. 

As you become a seasoned business traveler, it will get easier, and your checklist will change. Think of it as a work in progress to alleviate any stress related to packing or not knowing what to bring. For those of you working as HR or office managers guiding others to prepare for their business trips, it’s important to have your own comprehensive checklist that can easily be shared with your travelers, to make things easier and more productive.

1. Review business trip checklist prior to packing for your trip

Once you’ve made a comprehensive checklist for your business trip, you can fine tune as you go. Create a digital version of the checklist so that you can virtually check off as you go, and you don’t waste paper printing it out. You may consider creating separate work trip checklists for each kind of business trip: short or long, multi-destination, an international business travel checklist, winter business trip, or for a summer business trip, to make it easier. Review the list and see what will be necessary prior to packing.

2. Pack your important items in your carry-on

If you decide to check a bag, be sure to have all your most important personal items in your carry-on in case your luggage gets lost. Put your laptop, chargers for phone and laptop, business cards, a change of clothes and a toothbrush. That way if you are caught without your bag, you are prepared.

3. Just because it’s on the list doesn’t mean you have to take it

With a comprehensive work travel packing list, there will be a lot of items on there “just in case” but that doesn’t mean you have to pack them no matter what. It’s more of a reference to help you in the decision-making process. With more practice it will be easier to understand items that will change based on the details of your trip, and other must-haves that must be packed no matter what.

4. Double check documents

Travel documents are the most important item on your list, but beyond making sure you have all the necessary documents, it’s also important to ensure that they are up-to-date. Imagine you get to the airport only to discover that your passport has expired yesterday. To avoid this nightmare, be sure to set alerts in your phone to renew your documents with enough time in advance to avoid potential travel nightmares.  

Keep in mind that if you’re traveling internationally, you may want to make sure that your passport isn’t going to expire within six months as some countries won’t let you in. Check if there are necessary business visa entry requirements. You may also want to check for extra Covid-related requirements although a lot of countries have already relaxed these requirements in recent months. Check our guide to traveling safe for more information. 

5. Read up on your destination

Researching your destination before traveling is a great idea, especially if you are traveling to a country with a different religion or cultural norms. This way you make sure to avoid doing anything that is culturally taboo. For example in Japan, it’s just as disrespectful to arrive too far ahead of time as it is to arrive late. Reading up on your destination will ensure you avoid cultural faux pas. Be sure to include research as part of your ultimate packing list. 

Check out our etiquette guides for more tips: APAC Business Etiquette , Americas travel etiquette and tips and tricks to do better business in EMEA .

And that’s how packing lists simplify business travel 

We’ve looked at everything you should keep in mind when it comes time to create a packing list for a business trip in order to simplify business travel. Of course, the more organized you are, the more effective you can be when it comes time to hit the road. 

Looking for ways to optimize your business travel?

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

An Exhaustive Business Travel Documents Checklist

Home » Guide » An Exhaustive Business Travel Documents Checklist

In today’s globalized world, business travel has become an integral part of corporate operations. From attending meetings and conferences to exploring new markets, professionals often find themselves on the move. To ensure successful and hassle-free trips, proper planning and organization are paramount. This guide presents a comprehensive checklist of essential documents for business travel, covering everything from passports and visas to health documents and COVID-19 requirements. By being well-prepared with the right documentation, business travelers can navigate through their journeys with confidence, focusing on their objectives and making the most of their international ventures.

How to create best business travel checklist?

Here are essential steps to create a comprehensive business travel checklist:

• Include details of your flight, accommodation, and any scheduled meetings
• Pack appropriate clothing for your destination and the nature of your business activities
• Bring necessary documents, presentations, business cards, and any materials relevant to your meetings
• Keep track of receipts and ensure you have a system for managing business expenses
• Include any required medications, a basic first aid kit, and health insurance information
• Ensure your laptop, phone, and other devices are in working order
• Arrange transportation from the airport to your accommodation and between business meetings
• Have information about your hotel reservation, including check-in and check-out times

Complete business travel checklist:

1. visa and passport.

One of the most important documents required for international travel, a visa acts as an official authorization. This provides transit permission within foreign borders to carry out business or tourist activities. It also sets the duration of travel for the visitor. The visa may take time for approval; hence, one should ensure to apply for the visa well before the date of travel. Working as the primary identification, a passport is issued by the domestic country. It has important information such as name, DOB, nationality, and more.

2. Travel itinerary

Corporate travelers should be aware of the plan and itinerary for maintaining an efficient schedule. The itinerary should contain the date and time of the flights, booking details of the hotels, transportation arrangements, and more. This will help travelers ensure productive trips and high ROI.

3. Identification (Driver’s License, National ID, etc.)

Besides your passport, carrying additional government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license or national ID card, is recommended. These IDs can be useful for various purposes during your trip, such as renting a car, age verification, or completing certain transactions. Having a backup form of identification is always a good idea in case your passport is misplaced or not readily available.

4. Business invitation/letter

If your trip is for business purposes, having a formal business invitation letter or supporting documents can be beneficial. Such documents may be required for visa applications or to show the purpose and duration of your visit to immigration authorities. They should include details about your host company, the nature of your business engagements, and any planned meetings or events. Always check the specific requirements of the country you are visiting to ensure you have the necessary documents.

5. Travel insurance

Travel insurance provides financial protection and peace of mind during your trip. It covers unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and travel disruptions. Purchasing comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended, as it can save you from significant financial losses and inconvenience in case of unforeseen circumstances while traveling.

6. Company ID and business cards

Your company ID establishes your affiliation with your organization and may be required for certain business-related activities during your trip. Additionally, carrying business cards with your contact information is a professional way to network and exchange details with potential business partners, clients, or colleagues.

7. Currency and payment methods

Having local currency for your destination is essential, as not all places may accept credit or debit cards. Before traveling, notify your bank about your trip to avoid any issues with using your cards abroad. Carrying some cash in the local currency for initial expenses upon arrival is also advisable.

8. Health documents (Vaccination records, medical prescriptions, etc.)

Depending on your destination, specific health documents may be required. This can include proof of vaccinations, medical prescriptions, or health certificates. It’s important to research and comply with the health regulations of your destination to ensure a smooth entry and stay.

9. Local contact information

Keeping contact details for your company’s local office or representatives at your destination is essential. These contacts can assist you in case of emergencies, provide local support, or offer guidance during your stay.

10. Emergency contacts

Always carry a list of essential emergency contacts, including your company’s emergency hotline, local emergency services, and contacts of friends or family back home. Having this information readily available can be critical in case of any urgent situations during your trip.

11. Meeting materials

If you have materials needed for business meetings, presentations, or conferences, ensure they are well-organized and easily accessible. Having all the necessary materials ready will help you make a professional and effective impression during your business engagements.

Suggested read:  Fun And Productive Things To Do During A Long Flight

12. COVID-19 documentation (if applicable)

During the pandemic, certain countries may have specific COVID-19-related requirements for entry. This may include presenting negative test results, vaccination certificates, or health-related documents. Stay updated with the latest travel guidelines and ensure you have the necessary documentation as per the destination’s regulations.

13. International driving permit (if needed)

If you plan to drive during your trip, check if an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required in your destination country. An IDP translates your driving license into multiple languages, allowing you to legally drive in foreign countries.

14. Customs declarations

Familiarize yourself with the customs regulations of your destination country and be prepared to complete any required customs declarations. This includes declaring certain items you are carrying to comply with import/export regulations and to avoid any customs-related issues during your trip.

What makes a good business travel checklist?

Here are key factors that contribute to an effective checklist:

• Customize the checklist based on the nature of your business, destination, and individual preferences
• Arrange items by priority, focusing on crucial aspects like travel documents and essential business materials
• Create a checklist that can be easily adjusted for different types of business trips and destinations
• Ensure the checklist aids in streamlining your travel preparations and reduces the chances of forgetting critical items
• Make the checklist easily accessible, whether in digital form on your device or as a printed document
• Regularly review and update the checklist based on your travel experiences, incorporating lessons learned from previous trips

A well-prepared travel document checklist is the key to a smooth and productive business travel experience. From securing a valid passport and appropriate visas to carrying essential health records and emergency contacts, each document plays a crucial role in ensuring seamless travel. Additionally, adhering to COVID-19 requirements and obtaining international driving permits when necessary adds an extra layer of preparedness. By following this comprehensive guide, business travelers can embark on their journeys with confidence, leaving them better equipped to seize opportunities, forge new partnerships, and achieve success in the global business arena.

Suggested read: 15 Tips On How To Plan Successful Business Trips

Business Travel Documents Checklist FAQs

What is a business travel document checklist.

A business travel document checklist is a comprehensive list of essential documents and items required for a successful business trip. It helps travelers organize and ensure they have all necessary paperwork and materials before departure.

Why is a business travel document checklist important?

The checklist is essential to avoid last-minute hassles and potential issues during the trip. It ensures that all necessary documents are in order, reducing the risk of delays, rebooking fees, or denied entry at immigration.

Are visa important for international travel?

Yes, visa provides the primary authorization to carry out international travel.

Do you require travel insurance for business trips?

No, travel insurances are not mandatory for carrying out business trips. However, it is highly recommended to get yourself insured before going on personal or business trips.

What to include in your business travel checklist?

For efficient business travel, pack essentials like travel documents, clothing, and technology. Set up expense management, arrange transportation, and be prepared for emergencies with essential contacts and a contingency plan.

What documents should be included in a business travel documents checklist?

Documents to keep in business travel checklist are passport, visa, tickets, itinerary, accommodation details, insurance, and relevant IDs.

What should I do if I encounter issues with my documents during my trip?

Stay calm check your digital copy of documents. Contact your country embassy and explain all situation. They will help you get new document.

How can I keep my business travel documents organized during my trip?

Always keep digital copy of documents saved on cloud. Apart from that you should use travel organizer folder to keep your documents safety with you. Get hard copy of your documents kept in a different place than original.

What should you consider before creating a business travel checklist?

Destination and purpose of travel, company policy, personal needs, duration of the travel, and the activities involved.

How to know your business travel checklist is complete?

You can perform simple checks such as review, feedbacks and online comparison.

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

Benefits Of Cloud-Based Corporate Travel Management Platform

Long gone are the days of bulky server setups and standalone offline computer applications. The world has moved on to the advanced technology of execution and storage also known as cloud-based systems. Almost no industry Read more…

What Are The Benefits Of Hotel Dynamic Pricing?

The hospitality industry is recuperating steadily from the pandemic hit in 2019-2022. The industry has shown an upward trend and several adaptations in the way of conducting business. Hotel suppliers are evolving with numerous pricing Read more…

Guide On How To Start A Corporate Travel Agency In UAE?

Starting your corporate travel agency can be ecstatic in imagination; but tedious in reality. While the profits may seem enticing, the work needed to earn them can be daunting. However, the labor is worth every Read more…

Let's get started!

Thanks for submitting your details.

We'll get back to you shortly.

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

The Ultimate Packing List for Business Travelers

Marty Levart

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

Business travel can be both exciting and stressful. Having the right items with you can make your trip more comfortable and productive. In this article, we will provide you with the ultimate packing list for business travelers, ensuring that you have everything you need for a successful trip.

Editor’s Note: This article was partially generated using AI technology.

When it comes to professional attire, it’s good to consider the level of formality of your trip. Business suits are a professional staple, providing a polished and put-together look for any occasion. For a more business casual situation, dress shirts and blouses paired with slacks or a skirt are a good option. Pieces that can be dressed up or down, like a linen blazer or a black dress , allow you to create multiple outfits with minimal packing.

In terms of outerwear, consider the climate of your destination. Blazers and suit jackets are popular choices, providing a structured and put-together look. Sweaters can be worn over dress shirts or blouses for a relaxed yet professional appearance. For colder destinations, a tailored option like a peacoat or a well-fitting lightweight puffer jacket will do the trick.

For footwear, consider dress shoes such as oxfords, loafers, pumps, flats, or dressy boots. It is important to choose shoes that are appropriate for the workplace while still being comfortable enough for any sightseeing you have planned.

In addition to business attire, pack a few casual items for after-hours activities and for the flight. These can include comfortable pants , jeans , t-shirts , and sweaters .

The ultimate business trip packing checklist should always include:

• Business suits
• Professional dress shirts and blouses
• Slacks and dress pants
• Skirts and dresses
• Jackets and sweaters
• Shoes (at least two pairs)
• Socks and underwear
• A tie and belt (if applicable)
• A scarf (if applicable)
• A hat (if applicable)

It is essential to pack toiletries for a business trip, especially if you will be away for more than a few days. Consider packing items such as:

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Soap and body wash
• Razors and shaving cream
• Hairbrush and comb
• Facial cleanser and moisturizer
• Makeup and cosmetics
• Menstrual products
• Skincare products (including facial cleanser and sunscreen )
• Contact lenses and solution (if applicable)
• Prescription medications

When it comes to personal hygiene and self-care, it is essential to have a few items on hand. The most basic necessities include a toothbrush , toothpaste , shampoo , conditioner , soap, body wash , deodorant , and any skincare products part of your typical routine. For those who prefer a clean-shaven look, don’t forget your razors and shaving cream.

For hair care, bring along a hairbrush or comb , hair styling tools , and any hair products you use on a daily basis.

Lastly, individuals who require prescription medications should always have them readily available. Pack any necessary medication in your carry-on or personal item to ensure that they reach your destination safely.

Electronics

Staying connected on-the-go is never more important than when traveling for business. Make sure to bring the following items:

• Cell phone and charger
• Any necessary external hard drives or flash drives
• Power cords and adaptors
• Portable Wi-Fi device
• Portable charger

A laptop is a must-have for any business traveler as it allows you to work on important tasks and stay connected with your colleagues and clients. Additionally, a cell phone is essential for communication and a tablet can be useful for reading documents or presentations on the go.

Headphones can be useful for listening to music on the plane or taking calls in noisy environments. A portable Wi-Fi device can provide you with reliable internet access while on the move. Lastly, a portable charger can be a lifesaver when you are running low on battery power without an outlet in sight.

Be sure to bring important travel documents on your business trip, such as your passport, driver’s license, copies of your itinerary, and tickets. In addition to these typical travel necessities, make sure to print out any contracts, reports, or presentations you may need for your trip. Keep all of these documents in a folder or bag that you can easily access.

Miscellaneous Business Essentials

When traveling for work, make sure to pack all the business travel essentials needed to complete your job for the duration of the trip. This can include additional accessories like a briefcase or laptop bag , business cards, notebooks , and pens . If you’re giving a presentation, make sure to bring all the necessary equipment and materials, such as presentation notes, cables, and extra batteries .

Lastly, make sure to bring any industry or job-specific items that your work may require, such as name tags, ID cards, building keys, specialized gear or equipment, or uniforms.

Miscellaneous Travel Items

There are a few items you’ll want to have in your suitcase no matter the type of trip. These include:

• Travel-sized laundry detergent
• Travel pillow and blanket
• Travel-sized umbrella
• Snacks and water bottle
• Travel-sized first aid kit
• Travel adapter for charging devices
• Travel-sized sewing kit
• Travel-sized stain remover

Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

You Might Also Like:

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

Porto to Lisbon: 7-Nt, Small-Group Portugal...

Indus Travels

Greenland: Luxe, All-Incl. 11-Nt Exploration Small-Ship...

Swan Hellenic

Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati

Trending on SmarterTravel

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

Creating a business trip packing list

Even in our post-digital world, there are some physical items you can’t do without – especially on a business trip. Forget your passport and you won’t be getting on your flight. Forget your phone or laptop and you’ll struggle to communicate with your colleagues and clients. Forget important business documents and you could be risking anything from your professional reputation to a client relationship. These are all easy mistakes to make, but you can see how much they would cost your business to put right – and cause you stress in the process.

This handy guide explains how to pack for a business trip – giving you more time to focus on acing your meeting or that big conference you’re presenting at. Here are 10 essential items to include on your packing list for a business trip.

1. Travel documents

The most important item on your business trip packing list is your passport, without which you won’t be able to set foot on an airplane. It’s a good idea to keep all your travel documents – including any airline reservations, hotel confirmations and rental car details – in one safe place. That way, you can access them quickly as soon as you need them, avoiding that moment of panic when you can’t find your boarding pass.

2. Laptop or tablet

Taking a laptop or tablet with you on your trip is a great way to stay productive. Whether you’re reviewing a presentation or typing up post-meeting notes, using a laptop or tablet to work while you’re on the move will really make your travel time count. Whatever electronic devices you find most useful – don’t forget to pack the relevant chargers. Adapters are a must if you’re travelling abroad, so try and pick up one before your trip – it’ll save you time and money compared to buying one at the airport.

Phones are an essential in modern business life. Without one you’ll really struggle to communicate with your colleagues or your client, and they can also help you stay organized. Download a corporate travel app such as myCWT   and you’ll be able to sync your phone with your work calendar to give you the reminders you need to stick to your work schedule and travel itinerary.

4. Wi-Fi access

Think about wireless options if you need to work remotely, navigate your way around your destination, or speak to your family back home. Wi-Fi access in hotel rooms is not always free. At certain hotels, in-room internet can come with a heft daily charge, one that’s equivalent to what you might pay in a month with a wireless card. All major phone carriers sell internet cards – and you can also use them across different devices, whereas a hotel’s Wi-Fi will often only cover one device. Alternatively, sign up to CWT Hotel Intel  and you’ll be able to browse a directory of global hotels and read travelers’ own reviews. This will let you see which hotels rank highest in terms of Wi-Fi options – enabling you to make an informed choice about where to stay.

5. Clothing and accessories

Bring the right clothes. Being armed with the most appropriate jacket, pair of shoes or accessories can make all the difference when you’re preparing for a jam-packed itinerary – and even those spontaneous, last-minute drinks which are great for networking. You’re likely to need to pack a mixture of formal business attire and casual clothing, along with underwear, socks and pajamas. Bear in mind the weather at your destination – if it’s wet and windy, you’ll wish you’d packed a travel umbrella and a raincoat. Remember that toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner and toothpaste might not be provided in your hotel – so bring your own just in case.

6. Wallet or purse

Remembering your wallet or purse is an absolute must. Without it you’ll struggle to pay for anything on your business trip, causing yourself unnecessary headaches. Even if you’re likely be making most of your payments by card, it’s always good to have loose change and small notes for smaller items. As a general rule of thumb, only take what you need, like the cards you need to use, and take just a small handful of local currency – it’ll limit the damage if your wallet or purse gets lost or stolen. Make sure you have your wallet or purse close to hand – perhaps in a jacket or trouser pocket – so you can easily retrieve it when you need to.

7. Breath mints

When you’re meeting someone for the first time in the business world, it’s important to make a strong first impression. You never know who you might meet – and if this person is a client or potentially important connection, you don’t want to worry about bad breath. It’s easy to overlook this essential – so don’t forget to pack some mints to chew at regular intervals and particularly after meals.

8. Printed handouts

Ask yourself: what work documents do you need for your business trip? Whether it’s presentation handouts or meeting agendas, they’re an important part of any business travel checklist. Sure, there will probably be somewhere to print them at your destination, but don’t leave that to chance. It won’t take a minute to print and pack the handouts you need, and you’ll feel much better knowing you have them with you when you arrive at your destination.

9. Office supplies

Think about what kind of stationery you’ll need to take with you. It sounds simple, but if your business trip involves a client meeting, you’ll need a pen and notepad to record any action points and make sure you look organized. Think about what other office supplies you need to include on your business trip packing list – sticky notes to set yourself quick visual reminders, paperclips to keep your documents together, and folders to protect them from damage. You don’t need to take an entire office supply store with you – but a few useful items will really help.

10. Business cards

Even if you’re only intending to meet with familiar faces, you can’t leave business cards off your business trip packing list. You never know when you’ll bump into someone who could be a great addition to your network – and in those cases, you’ll want to be sure they can get in touch with you. Bring a generous supply of business cards so you don’t run out, and tuck them in your pockets, briefcase, wallet or purse so you’re always prepared when you make a connection. Business cards are essential if you’re going to a conference – and they make great name badges too.

Once you’ve ticked off each of these elements of your business travel checklist, don’t forget to check and double check.

Packing for an overnight trip

If you’re packing for an overnight trip, pack for carry-on luggage only. This will save you time when you arrive and eliminate the risk of losing your luggage. As such, you should aim to keep your business trip packing list to a minimum, taking a change of clothes and essential toiletries, your phone, laptop and a notepad and pen. You should also let key people know where you are, making sure your travel manager knows your business trip itinerary, and carry minimal cards and currency in your wallet or purse.

Travelling for 3, 4 or 5 days

Your business travel checklist will clearly be more extensive for a trip that’s a few days long. As well as the overnight trip essentials above, you’ll need a combination of smart and casual clothes. If you’re travelling between different destinations, consider where your internet access is coming from – a Wi-Fi card or hotspot is your key to staying productive and connected with the right people.

More publications

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

Traveler help

Help me manage my travel

Careers at CWT

Explore career opportunities

Careers @ CWT

Learn more about travel management

Contact CWT

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,

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Products
• Packing Lists

The Ultimate Business Trip Packing List

Here are the best clothes, shoes, luggage, and more for your next business trip.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

Packing Checklist for a Business Trip

T+l's top picks and tips.

• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Alli Waataja

Traveling for work isn't as relaxing as going on vacation , but it can certainly be exciting. The key to helping your business trip run as smoothly as possible is planning ahead. So, what do you need, and what should you bring? We have you covered.

"When traveling on a business trip , you're going to be meeting a lot of people, you might have long nights (including a few nightcaps), and you're probably going to be on the go," says travel expert Sarah Dandashy of Ask a Concierge.

With this in mind, you'll want to bring pieces you can mix and match for different events, as well as comfortable footwear, practical accessories, and lightweight luggage. Find expert business travel tips and our curated recommendations below.

We rounded up everything from wrinkle-free apparel and supportive shoes to must-have accessories and thoughtfully designed bags to get you through your next business trip.

Daywear for Women

• Best Slacks: Everlane Tencel Way-High Taper Pant
• Best Business-casual Trousers: Athleta Brooklyn Ankle Pant
• Best Blouse: Quince Washable Stretch Silk Notch Collar Blouse
• Best Sleeveless Top: M.M.LaFleur The Nora Top

Eveningwear for Women

• Best Day-to-night Dress: Modern Citizen Iman Cotton Twill Split-Hem Dress
• Best Sweater: Banana Republic Bella Merino Sweater Polo
• Best Blazer: Spanx The Perfect Blazer
• Best Overcoat: Loft Two Button Coat

Daywear for Men

• Best Trousers: Lululemon Commission Classic-Fit Pant
• Best Chinos: Bearbottom Stretch Chino Pant
• Best Button-down: UntuckIt Wrinkle-Free Performance Gironde Shirt

Eveningwear for Men

• Best Dress Shirt: Bonobos Desk To Dinner Shirt
• Best Slacks: Suitsupply Pleated Vigo Trousers
• Best Blazer: Zara Stretch Blazer
• Best Overcoat: Charles Tyrwhitt Cotton Classic Raincoat

Best Shoes for Women

• Best Flats: Naturalizer Samantha Half d'Orsay Flat
• Best Loafers: Nisolo Emma Loafer
• Best Heels: Marion Parke Classic Pump 45 Leather Kitten Heel
• Best Travel-day Shoes: Vionic Zinah Slip On Sneaker

Best Shoes for Men

• Best Loafers: Cole Haan Osborn Grand 360 Penny Loafer
• Best Dress Shoes: Allen Edmonds Park Avenue Oxford
• Best Travel-day Shoes: Moral Code Kai Sneaker

Accessories

• Best Belt: Nordstrom Marco Burnished Leather Belt
• Best Wallet: Leatherology Slim Zip Travel Wallet
• Best Travel Tech Kit: Mark & Graham Essential Tech Folio
• Best Portable Charger: Nimble Champ Portable Charger
• Best Water Bottle: Monos Kiyo UVC Water Bottle
• Best Carry-on: July Carry On Pro
• Best Checked Suitcase: Solgaard Check-In Closet
• Best Packing Cubes: Away The Insider Packing Cubes (Set of 4)
• Best Toiletry Bag: Dagne Dover Hunter Toiletry Bag
• Best Laptop Bag: CalPak Haven Laptop Tote Bag

When deciding what clothes to pack for a business trip, make sure you have something to wear to every scheduled event while still avoiding overpacking . The key is to bring versatile pieces you can mix and match for various occasions that easily transition from day to night. Also, wrinkle-free materials are always a plus.

Best Slacks

Everlane tencel way-high taper pant.

Our favorite women's slacks for travel come from Everlane. As the name suggests, Way-High Taper Pants have a high-rise waist with side pockets and flattering, professional-looking pleats. Sustainably sourced from wood pulp, the ultra-soft, wrinkle-resistant Tencel lyocell fabric is perfect for packing.

Best Business-casual Trousers

Athleta brooklyn ankle pants.

For something that leans more business-casual, go with the Brooklyn Ankle Pant. These soft, stretchy trousers are comfy enough to wear on the plane yet sophisticated enough to wear to a business meeting or networking event. We also love that they come in an inclusive range of 16 sizes in regular, tall, and petite fits.

Best Blouse

Quince silk notch collar blouse.

Made of 90 percent silk and 10 percent spandex, this blouse drapes perfectly, and has a subtle sheen and a nice stretch. It's easy to tuck into skirts or pants, while the tailored collar elevates any professional ensemble. Best of all, the washable design is nowhere near as delicate as most silk shirts.

Best Sleeveless Top

M.m.lafleur the nora top.

M.M.LaFleur

If you're traveling to a warmer climate or just need more daytime options, this one's for you. The Nora Top is a drapey, boat-neck, sleeveless shirt that promises to resist wrinkling, while an anti-odor finish helps prevent smelly armpits during your next meeting. It also layers beautifully under a blazer and is conveniently machine-washable.

Best Day-to-night Dress

Modern citizen iman cotton twill split-hem dress.

Modern Citizen

The best clothes for business travel transition seamlessly from day to night — that's why we love Modern Citizen's super-versatile Iman Dress. The flattering silhouette is slightly fitted but definitely not too tight, with ruching at the waist and a split hem in the back that ensures you can move around with ease. You can wear this dress on its own, with a blazer, or under a long coat.

Best Sweater

Banana republic bella merino sweater polo.

Banana Republic

It's always good to have a nice sweater on hand during a business trip. We love this one from Banana Republic, which is made of 100 percent merino wool. It features a pull-over design with a folded camp-style collar and a slightly relaxed fit that's easy to tuck into pants, or wear untucked if you prefer a more casual look.

Best Blazer

Spanx the perfect blazer.

Saks Fifth Avenue

Appropriately dubbed "The Perfect Blazer," this versatile outerwear piece from Spanx is just the thing for your next work trip. It's made of stretchy, smoothing ponte fabric and features a slightly longer cut that layers beautifully over virtually any top. The easy-going material is also machine-washable and a breeze to care for — no dry-cleaning necessary.

Best Overcoat

Loft two button coat.

For something a bit warmer, reach for the Two Button Coat. It has a relaxed fit that layers effortlessly over any professional outfit, while notched lapels, flap pockets, and a button closure offer a professional appeal. This coat is also machine-washable, so you don't have to worry about dry-cleaning.

Best Trousers

Lululemon commission pant.

You'd be hard-pressed to find a guy who doesn't prefer these pants over regular trousers — lululemon knows a thing or two about travel pants . And in true lululemon fashion, they're made of a breathable, sweat-wicking, non-wrinkling performance material. But thanks to the traditional fly, belt loops, and snap-button pockets, they look just like any other business-ready pants.

Best Chinos

Bearbottom stretch chino pant.

If the perfect chinos exist, you're looking at them. Woven from cotton with a hint of spandex, these midweight pants are structured and breathable with just the right amount of stretch. The tapered ankle makes them an ideal choice to wear with business-casual sneakers, loafers, Oxfords, or Chelsea boots.

Best Button-down

Untuckit wrinkle-free performance gironde shirt.

If you're looking for wrinkle-proof shirts for business trips, UntuckIt has you covered. Not only does the Gironde Shirt never need ironing, but it also wicks away sweat and is the perfect length to wear untucked with your work pants of choice. You might want something that tucks in for evening looks, but this is undoubtedly a great daytime option you'll be glad to have at the ready.

Best Dress Shirt

Bonobos desk to dinner shirt.

As the name implies, the Desk To Dinner Shirt can be worn all day at business meetings, then into the night while schmoozing with clients over dinner or drinks. The slim-fit design can be tucked into pants or worn untucked for a more laid-back look, and you can count on the collar to stay in place no matter how you wear it — or how long.

Suitsupply Pleated Vigo Trousers

Suitsupply's Vigo Trousers feature a high-rise waist and a tailored, slim-fit cut with a single pleat down the front and modern cuffed ankles. They're formal enough to wear to a nice dinner with loafers and a crisp dress shirt but also versatile enough to rock with a pair of clean leather sneakers.

Zara Stretch Blazer

This straight-fit men's blazer from Zara is great for layering over button-down shirts, polos, crewneck sweaters, or crisp T-shirts. The material is wrinkle-resistant and lightweight, making it a go-to for business trips or wearing on the plane.

Charles Tyrwhitt Cotton Classic Raincoat

Charles Tyrwhitt

This is technically a raincoat because of its water-repellent finish, but it works perfectly as a versatile and lightweight overcoat as well. The hoodless design is made of an extra-stretchy, wrinkle-proof material that's easy to pack and unlikely to stain if you spill coffee or a cocktail.

Shoes take up a lot of space in a suitcase, so you'll want to bring no more than two or three pairs, including what you wear en route to your destination. Think ahead to the meetings or events you'll be attending, consider the formality of each occasion, and prioritize comfort.

Naturalizer Samantha d'Orsay Flat

These sleek pointed-toe flats are more than just flattering and versatile — they're also exceptionally comfy. Boasting contoured footbeds with arch support, cushioning, and full-foot flexibility, they'll keep your feet happy for hours on end.

Best Loafers

Nisolo emma d'orsay oxford.

Nisolo makes our favorite women's loafers. Featuring a feminine d'Orsay silhouette, the Emma is a polished, easy-on loafer that goes with just about any professional attire. These shoes also have cushioned, shock-absorbing insoles, and you can bet the genuine leather uppers will conform to the shape of your feet for the perfect fit.

Marion Parke Classic Pump 45 Leather Kitten Heel

Neiman Marcus

These timeless pumps from Marion Parke can be worn with everything from ankle pants and pleated trousers to pencil skirts and dresses. What's more, the slim silhouette won't take up much space in your suitcase. This footwear brand is expensive, but it's known for its remarkably comfortable styles, each featuring contoured insoles with adaptable cushioning and pressure relief for the balls of your feet.

Best Travel-day Shoes

Vionic slip-on sneaker.

If you need comfortable shoes to wear on the plane but still want to look put-together, Vionic's Zinah Sneaker might be your best bet. The laceless, slip-on design boasts a sleek, laid-back aesthetic resembling a cross between a tennis shoe and a flat. Thanks to the brand's podiatrist-designed arch support, you can bet these shoes won't hurt your feet.

Cole Haan Osborn Grand 360 Penny Loafer

When it comes to men's loafers , you really can't go wrong with Cole Haan. This classic, clean-cut pair features smooth leather uppers and a structured silhouette with traditional stitching. With OrthoLite footbeds, you can count on next-level cushioning, arch support, and antimicrobial odor resistance.

Best Dress Shoes

Allen edmonds park avenue oxford.

Featuring traditional cap toes with six-eyelet laces, these gorgeous leather oxfords are the ideal dress shoes for business trips. While they pair well with a suit, you can also rock them with chinos, slacks, suit separates, and everything in between.

Moral Code Kai Sneaker

For travel days, we recommend the Kai Sneaker from Moral Code. These laid-back yet professional-looking shoes have smooth leather uppers that wipe clean in a pinch, durable rubber outsoles, and padded footbeds that promise to conform to the shape of your foot to keep you comfortable with every step.

The right accessories are crucial for business trips. Still, you want to avoid bringing more than you'll actually use, as overpacking will just weigh you down during your busy schedule. Here's what we recommend.

Nordstrom Marco Burnished Leather Belt

Don't forget to pack a belt for your business trip. Even if you're not sure which outfit you'll need it for, you'll be glad to have it when the occasion arises — plus it takes up almost no space in your suitcase. Consider this classic burnished leather one, and order it one size larger than your typical pants size.

Best Wallet

Leatherology slim zip travel wallet.

Leatherology's Slim Zip Travel Wallet is made of buttery-soft, full-grain leather and comes in your choice of several tasteful hues. It has seven card slots, three bill compartments for things like cash and receipts, and a spacious main compartment big enough to fit your phone, boarding pass, or passport. We also appreciate that it zips up to keep everything secure.

Best Travel Tech Kit

Mark & graham essential tech folio.

Mark & Graham

This clever leather pouch makes it easy to stay organized when traveling with lots of tech gadgets. With multiple compartments, sleeves, and pockets, you'll have a designated spot for your phone, tablet, charging cables, earbuds, stylus pen, important cards, and then some.

Best Portable Charger

Nimble champ portable charger.

"I always travel with a portable cellphone battery charger," Dandashy says. With this in mind, we recommend packing the Nimble Champ. This compact, on-the-go charger weighs less than half a pound and boasts super-fast charging that takes you from zero to 80 percent battery life in just 30 minutes. It can even charge two devices at once.

Best Water Bottle

Monos kiyo uvc bottle.

Dandashy says she always brings a reusable water bottle on business trips. We like this one from Monos, which calls on ultraviolet technology to kill over 99.9 percent of bacteria in your drinking water. We admit this is a lot to spend on a water bottle, but it might be worth it for the built-in purification system, plus it's backed by a two-year warranty.

The best luggage for business trips is lightweight, functional, and professional-looking. Whether you opt to carry on or check your baggage, we strongly suggest keeping your valuables with you, whether in a carry-on suitcase or "personal item" bag .

Best Carry-on

July carry on pro snapsleeve.

July's Carry On Pro was built for business travel. This compact yet spacious suitcase flaunts a crush-proof polycarbonate shell, an extra-long telescoping handle, and smooth-rolling spinner wheels. There's a hidden laundry bag inside, an ejectable USB power bank, and an external magnetic compartment for your laptop that detaches with the press of a button when you need to remove it when going through security. The price is a little steep for the size, but it's backed by a lifetime warranty.

Best Checked Suitcase

Solgaard check-in closet.

For those who want to check their bags, we suggest the Solgaard Check-In Closet. This mid-sized suitcase has a nearly unbreakable polycarbonate shell and a built-in shelving system with five compartments and compression straps that help you pack as much as possible. We like that you can remove and hang up the closet system for easy access during your trip.

Best Packing Cubes

Away the insider packing cubes.

Away is a go-to for high-quality luggage at reasonable price points. Designed to compress your belongings, the brand's Insider Packing Cubes allow you to fit more into your suitcase while simplifying the packing and unpacking process. Made of nylon with mesh panels on top, they're breathable and water-resistant while making it easy to see what's inside.

Best Toiletry Bag

Dagne dover hunter toiletry bag.

Dagne Dover

The Hunter Toiletry Bag is made of water-resistant neoprene with large, smooth-gliding zippers that'll never get stuck. Available in two sizes, this multi-compartment satchel is just the thing for packing and organizing your toothbrush, razor, shampoo, deodorant, skin care products, comb, contact lenses — you name it.

Best Laptop Bag

Calpak haven laptop tote bag.

If you need something to carry your laptop on the plane or to and from meetings, the Haven Tote is an excellent choice. Made of easy-to-clean faux leather, it has a spacious main compartment, a large pocket for your computer or tablet, and three smaller pockets for all the little things you want to keep within reach. "I always pack hand sanitizer, a water bottle, a few packs of gum, and vitamins," Dandashy says. There's also an external trolley sleeve for when you want to slide it onto the handle of your suitcase.

According to Dandashy, the best way to pack a suit is to put it in a garment bag and bring it as your carry-on. This will help you avoid folding it up and having to iron it when you arrive. Of course, this may not always be an option.

"If you must pack it in a suitcase, carefully fold your suit with tissue paper," says Dandashy, explaining that this helps prevent wrinkles and keeps the fabric looking immaculate. "Pop out each shoulder, and fold the suit backward so that the lapels touch. Place tissue paper on either side of the jacket, carefully folding it into thirds." Then fold the pants lengthwise, placing tissue paper in between the folds.

Wrinkle-free clothing materials are usually made at least partially of synthetic fibers, like spandex, nylon, and elastane. This gives a garment more stretch and flexibility, which ultimately prevents wrinkling and creasing. Ponte and other jersey knits also resist wrinkling. If you prefer natural fabrics, consider bamboo-derived textiles or lyocell, which is sourced from wood pulp.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Theresa Holland is a seasoned commerce writer specializing in travel, apparel, footwear, and packing essentials. For this roundup, she searched high and low to find the best items for business trips, narrowing it down to versatile apparel and practical products travelers will be glad to have on hand. While researching business trip packing lists, we spoke with travel expert Sarah Dandashy of Ask a Concierge.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

The Ultimate Travel Packet for Your Executive’s Business Travel

A journey of a thousand miles may begin with a single step, but a successful business trip begins with a kick ass travel list. This goldmine checklist, complete with useful tips organized by category, was created specifically for traveling executives after a Ninja asked what to include in a travel packet for the boss’s upcoming trip. So of course, we went straight to the experts: the OfficeNinjas Ambassadors.

This list is comprehensive, packed with Ninja-approved items and hacks for every possible situation we could imagine. But you should feel free to edit and make it your own go-to guide for business travel. Pare down, make tweaks, and add special exceptions tailored specifically to your company and team. Once you have the Ultimate Packing List customized to your boss’s specific needs, prepping for an upcoming trip will be the easiest part of your day.

• Include the confirmation/reservation numbers, phone numbers, and addresses for flights, trains, rental cars, cabs, and hotels.
• Include estimated travel time from the airport to the hotel or other destinations, as well as information on potential delays due to traffic, road construction, and inclement weather.

Ninja Tip: Send your boss a meeting request with airline details (terminals numbers, flight and seat numbers, departure and arrival times, etc.) in the subject line so that travel time is blocked out and the information is instantly accessible. For example-  Subject: Alaska 309 (SFO-SEA): lv 735pm arr 924pm, conf# AP35IRE Location: Seat 24A (window).

Ninja Tip: Once you’ve hammered out all the details, funnel them into PackPoint  so you and the traveler can both access the full spread on a convenient app.

LUGGAGE TAGS

Ninja Tip: Keep a pack of affordable luggage tags in the office as a backup.

MAPS & DETAILED DIRECTIONS

Ninja Tip: Install a map app, like Waze  or Google Maps , on your boss’s phone. You can even download an area for offline use in Google Maps, in case of a poor signal. Screenshots of entire routes can also be saved.

LOYALTY MEMBERSHIP NUMBERS

Track all frequent traveler membership numbers for airlines, hotels, dining, and rental car companies in one place using TripIt or Points .

PARKING INFO & COSTS

Use Spot Hero to reserve parking spaces in advance, and ParkMe  to locate spots.

LOCAL HOST CONTACT INFO

e.g. the client’s admin, office manager at satellite office, etc.

LOCAL SPOTS TO DECOMPRESS

Download one of these apps to your boss’s phone. They allow users to book hotel rooms by the hour so your exec can catch up on emails or even take a nap:

• Hotels by Day

TRAVEL DICTIONARIES & PHRASEBOOKS

Ninja Tip: Purchase travel dictionaries/phrasebooks or download a translation app to your exec’s phone (for international travel). Popular options include:

• Google Translate
• Lonely Planet Phrasebook & Dictionary ( Spanish , French , Mandarin , Japanese , German )

PROTOCOL FOR LAST-MINUTE ITINERARY CHANGES

Clarify who should take the lead on resolving conflicts and rescheduling travel.

PROVIDE TRAVEL ITINERARY TO EXEC’S FAMILY/PARTNER

Meeting Prep

BRIEF BIOS ON MEETING ATTENDEES

Download Charlie  on your exec’s phone. Charlie combs through a bunch of online sources and will send your exec a one-pager on who they’re going to meet before even seeing them.

Ninja Tip: Include suggested topics of conversation as well as personal details that may cause someone to be distracted or unengaged (like a recent birth or death in the family)

NOTES ON BUSINESS ETIQUETTE

Appropriate behavior varies greatly from culture to culture, refer to this infographic to ensure your exec is properly informed.

EXTRA BUSINESS CARDS

An obvious item but one that’s commonly forgotten!

LOCATIONS FOR SMALL MEETINGS & ONE-ON-ONE CONVERSATIONS

These apps identify and reserve on-demand meeting space:

Ninja Tip: Walk Score will tell you if they need to travel by car to get there.

DRESS CODE FOR MEETINGS & SOCIAL ENGAGEMENTS

From casual to white tie, this attire guide breaks it down for you.

HEALTHY SNACKS FOR HEAVY MEETING DAYS

Try these healthy options:

• Love With Food
• Quest Nutrition Protein Bars and Chips
• And don’t forget mints , pocketmist , gum , or breath spray

Financial Considerations

CORPORATE CREDIT CARDS

Remind your exec of these tips for traveling with plastic overseas.

CLEAR, ZIPPERED ENVELOPES

Pouches  for receipts and small miscellaneous items.

EXPENSES REPORTS OR APP

Blank expense reports or ensure that your office’s expense reporting app has been downloaded to your boss’s phone.

Ninja Tip: Download an app that lets your boss scan documents or receipts and save them as PDFs, such as Tiny Scanner , Smart Receipts , Expensify , Abacus , or Shoeboxed .

CURRENCY CONVERSION APP

Download a currency conversion app to your boss’s phone for international travel. Popular options include XE Currency , Currency Converter , and Convert Pad .

Local Points of Interest

HIGHLY REVIEWED BARS AND RESTAURANTS

Check Yelp , Opentable , TripAdvisor , and Zagat before providing your exec with recommendations.

STORES THAT SELL SOUVENIRS AND COLLECTORS’ ITEMS

Ninja Tip: Does your exec’s loved one have an affinity for snow globes or any other trinket? Let your boss know where he/she can purchase these personal items. Boom. You’re now a hero to your boss.

ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES WITHIN WALKING OR SHORT DRIVING DISTANCE

• Parks and historical monuments
• Museums and theaters
• Fun/quirky exhibits

Ninja Tip: Check out AroundMe for nearby amenities.

There you have it, Ninjas! The Ultimate Exec Travel Packet. Let’s recap:

The Ultimate Exec Travel Packet:

• Travel itinerary
• Luggage tags
• Maps and detailed directions
• Loyalty membership numbers
• Parking info and costs
• Local host contact info
• Local spots to decompress
• Travel dictionaries & phrasebooks
• Protocol for last-minute itinerary changes
• Provide travel itinerary to exec’s family/partner

MEETING PREP

• Brief bios on meeting attendees
• Notes on business etiquette (for international travel)
• Extra business cards
• Locations for small meetings and one-on-one conversations
• Dress code for meetings and social engagements
• Healthy snacks for heavy meeting days

FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS

• Corporate credit cards
• Clear, zippered envelopes
• Expense reports or app
• Currency conversion app

LOCAL POINTS OF INTEREST

• Highly reviewed bars and restaurants
• Stores that sell souvenirs and collectors’ items
• Attractions and activities within walking or short driving distance

Do you have any additional items or Ninja Tips to add to the Ultimate Exec Travel Packet? Leave your ideas in the comments section!

I provide full itineraries for any of my traveling staff via PDF to their email. This way, they can have it on their smart phone, iPad, etc., as well as providing copies to family as needed. I post a copy in my office so when someone asks “Where is _____?” I don’t have to go searching. The itineraries always have all flight details, any car rental info, hotel confirmation numbers, any necessary phone numbers, email addresses, addresses for the offices/conference centers, etc. When I have multiple staff traveling to the same place from different locations, everyone has the full itinerary of arriving/departing flights so they know they can meet up at the airport and share a cab or a car. I’ve spoiled everyone with the itineraries. I even do them for myself when I travel.

Spoken like a true Ninja! It definitely sounds like those spoil your team… who knows what they would do if you set them up with some apps too! Do you start each itinerary from scratch for each trip, or keep a template somehow?

I use a 8 1/2 by 11 clear envelope for our CEO and put a copy of his flight itinerary on one side and his hotel on the other. This way he never has to open the envelope but flips from airport side to hotel side until he arrives. When he gets there, he pulls out the hotel portion and behind it is all his papers for his conference/meeting. He slips all his receipts in the envelope throughout the trip and brings the envelope back to me when he returns to fill out his reimbursement. I recently filled out a more detailed one page itinerary for another one of our executives with all her information of where she needed to be – flight numbers, hotel details etc. She preferred this method and I sold her on the clear envelope to carry everything in.

Great tip. Thanks for sharing, Lisa!

This is what I do, Lisa.

This is great! Thank you :)

You’re welcome, Carole! How often do you plan business travel?

Comments are closed.

The Essential Business Travel Checklist

There are a lot of things to remember when you’re travelling for business. Did you finish the presentation? Do you have your phone charger? What was your contact’s name again? Being so, we’re here to help you remember all the essentials with our ultimate business travel checklist.

This business travel checklist can help you stay organised and ensure that you don’t forget something important when you’re travelling for work. Below, we cover what you need to remember before, during, and after you travel. We also share some useful hacks from seasoned travellers to make things a bit easier for you, as well as provide links to helpful resources.

But before getting started, remember that there's no one-size-fits-all approach to business travel. Every destination — and every company that requires travel — is different. With that being the case, some of the below tips (such as booking accommodations or purchasing trip insurance) may not be applicable. But no matter what, we encourage you to cover your bases and ensure that the essentials are taken care of, and this guide is a great place to do just that.

Your complete business travel checklist:

Research your destination

• Read about the area  you’ll be travelling to, even if you've been there before. Consider things that will be important to know on your trip, such as the current political situation, cultural differences, crime, business hours, and business attire.
• Research the top attractions and foods to try at your destination. You may end up with some free time to see more than you expected. You may even turn it into a bleisure trip.
• Talk to friends and colleagues who have been to the location before in case they have any tips.

Make travel arrangements

• Check that your passport, ID, and appropriate visas are valid.
• If you’re responsible for booking travel yourself, find out about any budget or itinerary requirements. If you’re not responsible for booking travel, submit your proposed itinerary to the appropriate person.
• Book the most direct and simple travel that your budget will allow.
• Plan your arrival and departure with your reason for travelling (i.e. meetings) in mind. Consider whether you’ll need to arrive the night before or leave the next day based on your meeting times.
• Book accommodations close to where your business will take place.
• Book transport to the airport or train station. Think about each leg of the journey and what you’ll need to book ahead of time.
• If you’re a member of  airline or hotel loyalty programs , consider booking with those brands to get points. If you travel for business frequently and aren't signed up for these programs, make sure to do so.
• Sign up for  Global Entry ,  TSA PreCheck , or  Clear , if appropriate. These will make travelling a bit faster and easier.
• Consider  trip insurance  to cover unforeseen circumstances.

Create your itinerary

• Communicate with the people you’ll be meeting with to make sure there's an itinerary for your trip. You should know who you’re meeting with, and when and where those meetings will take place. 
• Check if there’s anything out of the ordinary that you need to bring with you. Confirm whether you will have access to Wi-Fi, power, a presentation screen, and other necessary equipment.
• Know your schedule and what functions you're going to attend so that you can pack appropriately (more on this later).

Prepare for your meetings

• Establish some quick  goals and objectives  for each of your meetings.
• Review the names, roles, and titles of the people you’ll be meeting with.
• Prepare necessary documents and presentations in a shareable format and send them ahead of time if necessary.
• Review the key information that you’ll need to share.
• Save a map and directions to your meetings on your phone or computer or print them out if you prefer. If you have to drive or take public transportation, be sure to plan ahead and take traffic and other delays into consideration.
• Check whether you need to purchase any travel supplies to restock from your last trip.
• Check  TSA and other appropriate regulations  restricting the size and weight of your luggage, and any restrictions on personal items like toiletries.
• Try to limit yourself to a carry-on suitcase if possible. You’ll save yourself the time and stress associated with checking a bag. If you do check a bag, make sure you have essentials like your electronics, medications, and a change of clothes in your carry-on just in case.
• Consider using  packing cubes  to organise and streamline your belongings.
• Put toiletries in a clear plastic bag that you can seal to prevent leaks.
• Bring clothes that are wrinkle-resistant and easy to layer. Stick to solid and neutral colors so that they're easy to combine into various outfits. This will make planning your outfits easier for a multi-day trip.
• Consider bringing a wide scarf to use for cold weather. It can double as a blanket on the plane and a cover-up for modesty in certain countries or cultures.
• Passport/visa for the location(s) you’re visiting, credit cards, bank cards, and a personal ID (consider storing a high-res image of these on your phone as a backup).
• Vaccination record with the appropriate immunisations for the location(s) you’re visiting.
• Enough local currency for transportation and a bite to eat when you arrive. You can change more money later if necessary.
• Business cards.
• Notebook and pen.
• Appropriate gear for the weather at your destination.
• Chargers (and plug converters if necessary) for all of your devices.
• Noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs for the plane and noisy spaces.
• Necessary medications.
• “Deal with anything” kit, including band-aids, stain remover pen, lint roller, breath mints, allergy medication, upset stomach medication, pain relievers, cold medication, hand sanitizer, face mask, and baby wipes.
• Casual clothes for evenings and weekends.
• Workout gear.
• Water bottle.

Get ready to leave

• Save all of the documents you need to a hard drive or the cloud so that you have an extra copy.
• If needed, print your tickets and confirmations for transport, lodging, and flights.
• Set up your  out-of-office message  for the days you’ll be travelling.
• Let your coworkers know where you’re going and for how long.
• Make sure you have coverage for office responsibilities that you’ll miss.
• Find someone to  take care of your pets  and water your plants while you’re gone.
• If you’ll be gone for more than a few days, consider  pausing your mail  and packages.
• Give your itinerary and contact information to a trusted friend or family member so they know where you are.
• Consider cleaning and putting a meal in the freezer so that you come home to a clean house and easy dinner.
• Charge all of your devices the night before so that you don’t end up with unexpected outages.
• Check the weather forecast for your destination so that you can add any necessary gear, like an umbrella.

On travel day

• Lock your doors and windows, adjust your thermostat, and turn on your alarm.
• Clean out the refrigerator and take out the trash.
• If there is a time difference at your destination, try to get as much sunlight as possible during the day to  reduce jet lag .
• Make sure to hydrate more than usual. This will help with travel fatigue and jet lag.
• Keep a printed version of this checklist and your packing list in your suitcase so that you have it for all your future trips (or store a digital version on your phone or computer).
• Do your best to take a short walk outside, take a scenic route to a meeting, or visit a restaurant at your destination. You don’t want the only things you see to be hotel rooms and conference centres!

Put this business travel checklist to good use!

Travelling for work doesn't have to be stressful. With this business travel checklist, you'll be well on your way to a streamlined trip that may just turn into a vacation along the way.

Laura Fredericks

Laura brings a decade of insight to improving marketing, as she has been working in the technology sector since 2010. She has experience in starting and scaling a business, driving customer marketing, and speaking at live events, including WeDC Fest 2018. She founded Describli and Paradigm Labs, and currently works with companies to improve their customer relationship management and content strategy.

LinkedIn | Website

More Reading

The complete guide to rfp response automation, hotel kpis: a deep dive into the essentials, what are blackout dates the comprehensive guide to booking blackouts.

Subscribe to our newsletter

The complete business travel checklist

It seems like a dream, travelling for work. But as any regular can tell you, it’s more demanding than it looks.

There’s a lot to think about when you’re travelling for work. Not only do you have the normal pressures around packing and getting to the airport on time, you also have to think about the functions you’re attending, the meetings you have, and making sure you’re organised from the work perspective too.

From planning the trip to getting home again, this article is the ultimate business travel checklist, for a seasoned pro or first-time traveller alike.

Before you book

Make sure you know who is booking your travel

If you’re travelling for work, you might have a travel co-ordinator at work, or be expected to book everything yourself. Find out who’s booking what – flights, transfers, insurance, accommodation. You don’t want to double-book, or worse, not book at all.

It’s worth understanding travel policies well in advance, too. Do you have a per-diem allowance? Is there a limit on expenses? What can you claim, or not? If you have to book flights, is there a preferred airline, or restrictions around how much you can spend? It’s good to be friends with the person who books your travel, too, so you can arrange for slightly more gentlemanly hours, instead of the 4am red-eye flights.

Sign up for everything you can

If your company travel policy permits, sign up for loyalty programmes (many airlines and hotels commonly offer these). If you’re allowed, buy a flight lounge membership – the ultimate win for more pleasant travel.

Sign up for global entry

If you fly a lot internationally, apply for Global Entry or TSA Precheck. They make your journey through the airport easier – you won’t have to remove your shoes or belt in security, well worth it if you travel a lot.

Before you fly

Business travel packing checklist

Once you’re a seasoned traveller, you don’t have to spend a lot of time packing – it becomes automatic. However, if you’re new to business travel, make sure you pack :

Passport (if travelling internationally)

• Business cards
• Driver’s licence
• Laptop and cellphone charging cables and converters
• An external battery charger
• Jewellery and watch
• Medications
• Professional clothing options for all events
• Work-out clothes
• Sleepwear and comfortable clothes for downtime
• Liquids in containers less than 100mls, if you’re not checking luggage
• Enough clothes so you can avoid doing laundry while you’re away

Business travel luggage

If you travel a lot, you’ll know how important it is to get the right business luggage. Think about the size you need, if you want carry-on, checked-in or just garment and laptop bags.

Get work sorted

Arrange all your work meetings before you leave, and if you can, make them in locations that are convenient to where you’re staying. Prepare your schedule and make sure you have enough travel time between meetings. Arrange all relevant paperwork, samples, contracts and presentations, and have it all organised and packed.

The nitty gritty for overseas travel

If you’re heading to another country, there might be extra things to arrange.

• Tell your bank you’re travelling, and make sure your VISA card will work
• Ensure your phone is enabled to work overseas
• Arrange any necessary visas
• Make sure your passport has enough space for stamps and won’t expire within six months
• Check what vaccinations you may need
• Get a note from your doctor with information for customs about your medication
• Check if you need travel insurance. Your company may have a policy already
• Take photos of all documents with your phone, including your visa and passport

Use travel apps

There are so many great travel apps that can make your business travelling life easier. Download them in advance.

• Google Maps – you can download maps of areas in advance if you’ll be out of WiFi range
• Airline, AirBNB, and hotel apps, if you’ll be using them regularly
• Uber, Ola, or Pick Me taxi apps
• Google Translate, if you don’t understand the local language
• Time Buddy for time at multiple locations
• XE Currency for live-time currency conversions
• TripAdvisor, Zomato, Yelp, to judge local vendors
• Skype, so you can make overseas calls over WiFi
• A Podcast app, to download and save something to listen to on the flight
• The Corporate Traveller Serko app for flight status updates, gate changes, and so much more.

While you are travelling

Don’t hold up the queue

There are some things you can do to be a little more organised, saving yourself time and frustration, and making your fellow passengers’ lives better.

When checking in, have everything you need ready to go: passport, flight info, and luggage all packed.

When going through security, wear flat, slip-on shoes with minimal metal (most heels have metal soles that set off the metal detector). Laces, heels, bulky jewellery or belts will slow you down – and everyone else. Have your laptop and other devices stored so they’re easy to unpack and replace. Don’t carry liquids if you can avoid it.

Workout on the day

If you’re going on a long-haul flight, do some exercise the day before you leave, and aim to do some the day you arrive. Most hotels have gyms, and worst-case scenario: you can go for a walk around the block.

This makes you feel better after being jammed into a plane for hours, and also helps reduce your jetlag.

Travel comfortably

Especially for long haul flights, dress for comfort. Layers allow you to navigate both the cold aeroplane and the hot stuffy airport. Onboard, make sure you have entertainment like a book or Kindle, toothpaste and toothbrush, eye mask, ear plugs, travel pillow, face wipes and a pen!

Jetlag isn’t helped if you’re tired before you get on the plane, so make sure you’re well-rested when you board. Some people take sleeping tablets on long haul flights, but this may increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis.

To help minimise jetlag, swap wine for water to stay hydrated. When you reach your destination, stay awake until 9-10pm then go to bed, to help you get into the right time zone. Resist the urge to nap or to stay up late.

Travel can be simple

There’s no need to be stressed or worried about business travel . A bit of planning makes life a lot easier, and the experience a lot more pleasant.

Subscribe to stay up to date with industry insights

The Post-Pandemic Business Travel Checklist

This travel checklist walks you through the business traveler’s journey in a world that is still recovering from covid-19..

Business travel in 2022 is completely different than it was in 2019. Yes, we’ve recovered a great deal from the start of COVID-19, but the pandemic is still affecting travel in ways big and small. Expect this to continue for the foreseeable future.

To help you navigate through a transformed business travel landscape, we’ve created a post-pandemic travel checklist that aims to answer common questions and help you create trips that are as productive, comfortable and hassle-free as possible.

Travel Checklist for All 5 Phases of Your Trip

Business trips go through 5 distinct phases. Here’s a look at what you should be thinking about and doing during each phase.

1. Planning the Trip

When planning a trip, the most important thing right now is to determine the travel requirements. Do you need a vaccine? Do you need a negative test? Are there other constraints that could limit your ability to visit a specific destination? Platforms like Sherpa are invaluable in helping answer these questions.

Duty of care is a hot topic in a world that has experienced COVID-19. All companies have a duty-of-care responsibility to support an employee’s health, wellness and safety while he or she travels away from the office. But employees must do their part to help their employers live up to that duty-of-care responsibility.

For example, all employees should update their travel profiles and emergency contacts before hitting the road. Also, compliant booking helps companies find their Travelers if something goes wrong during the itinerary. 

2. Booking the Trip

As noted above, booking within compliance helps employers keep Travelers safe and live up to their duty-of-care responsibility. Be sure you’re booking within compliance so you stay as findable as possible if the company needs to lend assistance.

Part of any company’s compliance is getting approval to travel. Before you book, ensure you have proper internal approvals in place. This will help streamline the booking process, and it will also prevent any post-booking issues — like trying to get retroactive approval.

Be prepared for travel requirements to surface during the booking process. Many companies use booking platforms that include integrations that check to ensure requirements are met before travel plans are ticketed. Make sure you have everything needed to meet requirements before jumping into the booking process.

Finally, check your company’s policy on attaching personal time to a business trip. Many companies are now approving bleisure , which simply means extending a trip so that you can relax, sightsee or otherwise enjoy your destination. It’s common for Travelers to stay over the weekend and enjoy a city after working there to end the week.

3. Prepping for the Trip

Prep for your trip by huddling with your Travel Manager. Travel Managers should be able to provide information related to:

• What personal protective equipment is reimbursable.
• The documents and technologies that might be helpful specific to the trip.
• Arranging any needed COVID-19 tests before or during a trip.
• Any other guidelines that would help you travel safely.

It’s helpful to review travel policies prior to a trip. But a conversation with your Travel Manager can yield actionable, helpful guidance that ensures the best experience possible for the Traveler.

4. Traveling

Stay in close touch with your home office as you travel. Specifically, you should know how to get in touch with your Travel Manager whenever possible. 

Other considerations when traveling include:

• knowing your meal per diem,
• keeping updated on itinerary changes,
• connecting to resources and alerts,
• understanding what modes of transportation are available,
• and knowing where to go and what to do should you fall ill during the trip.

Again, staying safe while also enjoying a comfortable and productive trip is a partnership between the Traveler and the Travel Manager. Get all of the information needed for your trip ahead of time, reference it as needed during the trip, and contact your Travel Manager whenever needed with questions.

5. Getting Home

COVID-19 has introduced a series of return-trip tasks and considerations that did not exist before the pandemic. For example, you may need to quarantine away from the office after traveling. You may also need to get a COVID-19 test to ensure that you are virus-free before interacting with your co-workers again.

Travel Managers may request that you put more time between trips to ensure health and safety. They may also request that you complete a post-trip survey so that they can learn more about the experience. Travel Managers and Executives are doing their best to create travel policies and procedures that support business objectives and that respond to Traveler needs. But these policies are dynamic, and your feedback may help improve the next iteration.

Support Throughout the Travel Process

As COVID-19 has transformed business travel, organizations are struggling to keep up in a rapidly changing environment. The right travel management company can help through all 5 phases of the travel process: planning, booking, preparing, traveling, and returning.

At JTB Business Travel, we support a wide range of organizations that rely on business travel to drive revenue. Behind every service we provide and every recommendation we make is a common-sense approach to business travel.

Contact us for help keeping up with changes to the travel landscape.

Related Post

How to Get Over Your Fear of Flying

Wondering how to get over your fear of flying so you can travel for work? Try these ideas. Traveling for work has a glamorous reputation, one that includes piling up frequent flier miles, sitting in Read more

What is Essential Travel? When to Fly and When to Click

The definition of essential travel has changed in recent years. Here’s a guide to help you decide when to travel and when to go virtual. Cost containment is top of mind for Travel Managers and Read more

COVID Protocol: What Happens if You Test Positive While Traveling?

Before you leave home to travel, be sure you know the COVID protocol if you test positive on your trip. Getting COVID-19 while away from home is a great fear for Travelers. But what is Read more

How Does the Vaccine Work?

Everything you need to know to answer the question: How does the vaccine work? Plus historical information on vaccines and how they’ve impacted society. The news was met with relief by many and skepticism by Read more

Do You Love Business Travel? You’re Not Alone

About 70% of business Travelers would rather be on the road than in the office. Here’s how you can get back on the road safely if you love business travel.   Various business travel-related surveys Read more

Leave a Comment

Add to the conversation or ask a question: cancel reply.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Post Categories

• For Executives
• For Travel Managers
• For Travelers
• Press Release

Recent Posts

What is Skiplagging? Think Twice Before You Skip!

Prioritize Traveler Mental Health and Wellbeing with Stress-Free Travel

The In’s and Out’s of Carbon Accounting

Meet Peggy Regan: Advocating for Clients and Supporting Traveler Goals

Stay up to date.

The Choice Is Yours - Get the exact Business Travel information you want delivered directly to your inbox.

TravelConcierge News

TravelConcierge News (Japanese)

• Travel Risk Alerts

Waypoint Monthly News

JTB Event Updates

The latest from JTB Business Travel

• What is Skiplagging? Think Twice Before You Skip! Plenty of travel hacks aim to help you travel further, for cheaper — but many come with downsides. So what is skiplagging, and is it worth the risk? Are you familiar with the travel influencer community on social media? If so, you’re likely well aware of just what lengths these individuals will go to, toRead […]
• Prioritize Traveler Mental Health and Wellbeing with Stress-Free Travel Ensure your Travelers are more productive on the road and willing to take that next business trip. Prioritize more positive and stress-free travel experiences. It’s no secret that much of the world is living in a stressful state as of late. According to an Ipsos report from late 2023, 62% of survey respondents said theirRead […]
• The In’s and Out’s of Carbon Accounting Take your sustainability efforts to the next level with carbon accounting. Here’s everything you need to know about getting started. More and more employers and employees alike have begun considering their impact on the planet both while at home and while traveling for work. If you’re among them, you may have come across a rangeRead […]
• Meet Peggy Regan: Advocating for Clients and Supporting Traveler Goals For this senior account manager, travel is simply in her DNA. Chicago-based Peggy Regan started working in the travel industry in the 1980s. Today, she’s one of the newest members of the JTB Business Travel team, joining us as a senior account manager in October 2022. Keep reading to learn more about how Peggy gotRead […]
• 5 Tips for Business Travel Expense Management Whether you’re a Traveler, Executive, or Travel Manager, travel expense management comes with its challenges. It’s no secret that the global economy hasn’t exactly been in spectacular condition over the last few years. According to a World Bank January 2024 press release, the end of 2024 will cap off the slowest half-decade of GDP growth inRead […]
• Credit Cards That Cover Baggage Delays Baggage delays can derail your business trip; luckily, credit cards that cover baggage delays can alleviate some of the stress. When you’re traveling, there’s a whole host of things that can go wrong. Your flight could be delayed, resulting in you missing a connecting flight. Public transit can break down, making it difficult for youRead […]
• The Trouble with an Airline Targeting Business Travelers Directly You may have recently come across an airline targeting business Travelers directly. But is it really a good idea to bypass the middleman and book directly?  Airlines benefit from direct sales. Yes, airlines do commonly sell airfare via a third party, such as through a distributor like a Travel Management Company, travel agent or onlineRead […]
• Meet Sandi Morton: Finding Resolutions for Clients “When All Heck Breaks Loose” A travel industry veteran shares her favorite things about the job, insights from the biz, and how a healthy work-life balance keeps her going. Here at JTB Business Travel, we love introducing and celebrating members of our team and, with International Women’s Day coming up on March 8, there’s no better time than now toRead […]

SAP Concur Partner | TMC Elite

Privacy Statement

GDPR and Privacy Statement Europe

GDPR Privacy Statement

CCPA Privacy Policy

Copyright 2022 JTB Business Travel. All Rights Reserved. CST#2031531-50

Site by Ruff Haus

JTB Business Travel Services:

    •  Home

    •  For Travelers

    •  For Travel Managers

    •  For Executives

    •  Contact Us

Stay Connected:

• Trip Disruption Assistance
• Travel Ready, Travel Safe
• Book Travel Anytime
• Before Your Trip
• During Your Trip
• After Your Trip
• Business Intelligence
• Duty of Care
• Traveler Care
• Account Management Services
• Cost Saving Programs
• Full Content
• Travel Technologies
• Cost Avoidance
• Virtual Payments
• Risk Mitigation
• Travel Management 2.0
• Our Expertise
• Spend Management
• Corporate Meetings & Events
• JTB AnswerCenter
• Business Travel InSight
• Traveler Training
• Video Library
• Waypoint Blog
• Go Like a Pro with National
• eSIM Phone Services
• eVisa Assistance
• Global Entry Locations
• Print My Invoice
• Travel Requirements Help
• Travel Reports
• Traveler WorldCue
• TSA PreCheck Map
• JTB Business Travel
• JTB Business Travel Brand Resources

• Travel management Toggle submenu Egencia Overview Travel management solutions Amex GBT Neo1 Amex GBT Select Amex GBT Ovation Amex GBT Lawyers Travel Manage your corporate travel program Corporate travel policy Travel risk management Travel expense management Reporting Travel management consulting Industry Solutions Transportation & Logistics

Egencia reviews

See how Egencia works

• Customer center Toggle submenu Travelers Help center Business traveler center Download the app Travel arrangers Help center Travel arranger center Training resources Travel managers Connect community Product updates Customer training
• Watch a demo
• Request a demo
• About Egencia

Complete Executive Assistant Travel Checklist for Business Travel

The executive assistant complete corporate travel checklist.

As an executive assistant, you know when it comes to making travel arrangements, it’s important to get it right. Missing an important detail can result in a loss of corporate funds or dissatisfied employees. And there are many details involved.

The planning process of complex travel itineraries includes organizing visas, reviewing travel insurance, and prioritizing everything from hotel preferences to seating preferences. Not to mention having to be on call to remedy any type of travel cancellation.

Download the “The executive assistant complete corporate travel checklist” to review if your current travel solution provides what you need to thrive. You’ll learn about the following:

• How to update the travel planning process to save time and money
• How to manage the travel needs of different types of travelers
• How a corporate travel platform can help save on increasing costs of hotel accommodation, car rentals, and airfares.
• How to approach change management when adopting a corporate travel platform

It’s likely you wear many hats in your organization, and your time is valuable. Managing the travel details of business trips takes away precious time from your other responsibilities. So, you need a travel booking process that works smarter.

The corporate travel landscape also keeps changing. So, organizing travel as an executive assistant might be a little different from how you previously managed it for C-suite-level staff members. Staying aware of emerging needs by taking the time to bring your travel program up to speed will serve your travelers and your company well. Check out this guide and learn why office administrators of organizations big and small are switching up how they book travel.

Download the checklist

Recommended for you.

The 5-point business travel checklist you need

When you’re travelling for work , you have important company objectives to meet. Forgetting to pack essential items means delays and increased costs. It can even cause you to miss opportunities.

As a business traveller, you want to focus on your important tasks. And being held back by the nitty gritty, such as forgetting your toothpaste or downloading the wrong ride-hailing app is not one of them! That’s why we’ve compiled this business travel checklist containing everything you need to check before boarding that flight.

Whether you do corporate travel frequently, or it’s your first time, this handy checklist will help you mentally structure all your tasks so you don’t miss a thing. Keep in mind that every travel situation is different. You’ll have to shortlist the tasks under each category. With repeated trips, your basic checklist will become second nature.

In this article, we'll take a look at:

Your luggage 

Regarding luggage, some items, such as your outfits, will vary with every trip, while others will remain the same.

You can save time by assembling your constant items in a travel bag so you can pick them up and be ready to go. Ensure you don’t use these items when you’re not travelling. Otherwise, you’ll leave them out and forget to put them back! 

• Toiletries: Keep a mini-size version of every item you use in a separate toiletry bag. Pack them in TSA-approved sizes so you can take them in your hand luggage. The containers must have a maximum capacity of 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) for carry-on luggage. This capacity increases to 3.4 ounces or 100 millilitres per item for checked luggage. Remember to pack a hand sanitiser too! 

In the interest of sustainability, refill the bottles when you get home instead of discarding them and buying mini packs. This will also help you reduce travel costs.

• Chargers and universal adapters: The same rule applies to technology- keep a separate charger for your mobile, laptop and/or tablet in your travel bag. Go a step further and buy a power bank, data cable and a ‘universal travel adapter.’ This handy item will save your life in settings which have different sockets.
• Travel bag: Invest in a high-quality and high-safety travel bag, especially if you travel a lot. You can go for a tech-forward backpack with mobile apps or fingerprint ID to lock/unlock, internal scales, GPS and built-in chargers. This will come in handy if you’re travelling in remote or rough terrains.
• TSA-approved first-aid kit: You can buy a pre-assembled TSA-approved safety kit online or assemble your own . A safety kit should include, at the minimum; plasters, rubbing alcohol, safety pins, scissors, sterile gauze and tape, a thermometer, tweezers, painkillers, anti-nausea medicines, anti-allergics, antiseptic creams and fever medications.
• Your business items, including your briefcase, files, flash drives, notebook, pens, business cards, etc.
• Miscellaneous travel items: These include those items that are easy to forget because they don’t fall under any category. We suggest you keep them permanently stored in your travel bag. These include; a water bottle, umbrella, travel pillowcase, noise-cancelling earplugs, lint-remover, cloth-stain removers, a face mask, etc.

When it comes to your clothes, pack wrinkle-resistant items and easy to layer. Solid colours and neutrals can easily be reused for various outfits, so you’ll have to pack fewer clothes. Don’t forget your workout clothes and your shoes!

Handy tips: 

• Global business travellers favour carry-on luggage because it saves you time before and after your flight and can’t get lost. Invest in a smart carry-on suitcase that is light and allows you to pack more items.

Your travel documents

Here is a list of all the travel documents you’ll need:

• Passport and Visa if there are any, credit cards, bank cards, and a personal ID
• Covid certificate and vaccination record (if needed)
• Enough local currency to eat something when you arrive and to travel to your hotel. If your international payment method stops working, having cash on hand will be a lifesaver.
• Travel insurance (if needed)
• Driver’s license (if needed)

Handy tips:

• Keep high-resolution photos of all your travel documents on your phone, just in case you lose any of them. 
• Keep physical photocopies of your travel documents in a separate location from the originals.
• Keep an eye on expiration dates. Some countries don’t accept a passport that is within 6 months or 3 months of expiry. Renewing can take up to 2 months, so it isn’t something you can leave till the last minute.
• Buy a travel wallet: With a separate international travel wallet, you can leave behind all your local cards, which will be redundant in the new location. Buying a large travel wallet can also double as a folder, in which you can place the rest of your travel documents. A high-security travel wallet with a cut-resistant exterior and an interior RFID-deflecting lining (which protects cards from illicit scanning) will provide safety.

Your research

• Read up on important facts about the area you’re travelling to, such as cultural differences, business norms, political situations, etc.
• Look up a few local attractions close to your accommodation for you to visit after your trip. Your travel experience doesn’t have to be business only!
• If you’re going abroad, talk to colleagues or friends that have travelled there before and ask them for tips.
• Look up important apps that you may need (for example, local ride-hailing or food-delivery apps). Download Google Maps for the particular location and save the pin locations and directions on your phone.
• Look up the helplines of the particular country and any emergency apps that are used there. Download them on your phone in advance.

Your business travel itinerary

• Communicate with the people you’re meeting to confirm dates, locations and timings. Ask if you’ll need to bring anything out of the ordinary that you may not have access to over there. 
• Know your schedule so you can pack outfits accordingly.
• After confirming dates, consider whether you’ll need to reach a day in advance or the same day, to book your travel accordingly.
• Prepare for your meetings in advance: Look up the names and titles of the people you will meet. Review your meeting goals and objectives. To be super-efficient, send the pitch decks/documents to all meeting members before you leave so they can go through them before the meeting.

Your travel arrangements and bookings

• Book your trip: Are you booking your travel yourself, or is your company registered with a business travel management company such as TruTrip? If you’re booking yourself, find out about any budget or itinerary requirements. If you’re not responsible, simply submit your proposed itinerary to the right person.
• If you’re booking yourself, remember to book your accommodations and transport to-and-from the airport. When choosing accommodations, pick one close to where your business meetings will take place.
• Consider signing up for airline or hotel loyalty programs if you haven’t already. The points will help you save costs. When booking accommodations, check if you have any accumulated points or vouchers on booking apps such as Agoda.
• If you’re interested in travelling sustainably , go for direct flights over connecting ones because the short journey means consuming less fuel. Also, economy class seats are better for the environment because they take up less space than business class. This means more people can travel on the same plane, thus reducing fuel consumption.

There you have it! This comprehensive business travel checklist covers everything you need to do before a business trip. We know it’s a lot to take in! 

As a business traveller, the work’s stress is enough without worrying about delays and cancellations. That’s why we created TruTrip – an all-in-one business travel management platform to give you the peace of mind you deserve. 

Travel safely and seamlessly with TruTrip

TruTrip allows you to book flights and accommodation with multiple options due to our partnership with Sabre, TravelFusion, SkyScanner, Agoda and more. With travel restrictions and live travel information built into our platform, you can stay safe and prepared whilst travelling. 

Above all, you get flexibility. You can cancel and reschedule all your bookings from the platform with a minimal fee and get an instant cash refund. Want to learn more about how we can make your travel experience better?  Book a demo with TruTrip or set up a free trial to try our services.

Upgrade your travel management programme now!

TruTrip streamlines booking, management, and reporting for hassle-free business trips.

Why TruTrip?

• Reducing Travel Cost
• Saving Time
• Delivering More Value
• Service and Support
• For Travel Managers
• For People Managers
• For Business leaders
• For Business Travellers
• Corporate Travel Management
• Sustainability
• Travel Reporting
• Finance Management
• Compliance and Control
• Travel Risk Management
• Traveller health and wellbeing
• Group Bookings
• Partnerships

Copyright © 2024 TruTrip. All rights reserved

• Terms of use
• Privacy Policy
• Service Levels

This site is auto-translated. Please excuse any errors. Thank you.

Privacy Overview

International Business Travel Checklist:  Things You Need to Plan, Do, and Pack Before  Your Work-Related Trip Abroad

A comprehensive overview of everything you need to prepare and take with you to make your trip productive and successful, important: please read.

Traveling abroad for work can be exciting and rewarding. However, since it can involve a host of unpredictable situations, it can also be a bit stressful. When you don’t have an organized system to follow through before leaving, it’s very easy to miss out on essential things.

As the famous quote goes, “failing to plan is planning to fail”, so plan ahead to reduce uncertainties and arrive at your destination fresh, well-prepared, and set to ace it. Whether you travel frequently or only once in a while, read our checklist and tips so you will be fully prepared for your next journey.

Let’s start!

Step 1: Read the General Travel Checklist

VERY IMPORTANT : Before diving into the unique components of business travel preparations, please carefully read our  ‘general’ international travel checklist. It covers the essential aspects of traveling abroad, be it for business, pleasure, or any other purpose. The ‘general’ checklist covers the basic issues of any trip out of the country, like essential documents, pre-trip booking arrangements, administrative tasks, transportation, mobile communication, detailed packing lists, and so much more. After reading it and ensuring that everything is in perfect order, come back to this page and continue reading to confirm that your upcoming business trip will go as smoothly as possible.

Step 2: Work Materials

When you’re flying overseas to fulfill your professional duties, you will be far away from your convenient domestic business environment, so you will have to take whatever you’ll need for work with you. Here are a few examples:

• Business cards
• Work documents
• Presentation materials
• Printed handouts
• Appointment schedules
• Contracts and legal documents
• Meeting agenda
• Catalogs and product samples
• Promotional items
• Basic office supplies
• List of contact details

Step 3: Tech and Accessories

Your packing list needs to include tech gear and accessories that will help you work productively remotely (from a hotel or an airport) and on the go. The right gadgets can help you get the job done anywhere, anytime, seamlessly, and efficiently.

• Smartphone + charger
• Mobile hotspot
• Laptop / Tablet
• USB flash drives
• Presentation pointer
• Remote slide advancer
• Multi USB charger
• Foldable Bluetooth keyboard

Step 4: Clothes

For most travelers, this is probably the trickiest part of their packing checklist. As you probably know, your business attire can influence the impression of your superiors, customers, employees, or partners about your professional capabilities, authority, and trustworthiness.

Obviously, your travel wardrobe needs to contain work clothes that correspond with your industry, position, company culture, the nature of your trip, and your personal style. You will also need to check which business functions you’ll need to attend (meetings, formal dinners, conferences, etc.), and pack suitable clothes for those events.

Needless to say, a Fortune 500 CEO or a senior executive will need different types of clothes compared to a tech support professional or a junior account manager, so be sure to pack items that suit your pay grade and make you feel comfortable, representative, and confident.

Prefer bringing machine washable, wrinkle-resistant clothes you can easily layer, mix and match, preferably in dark colors that help to hide stains or dirt. Combine formal suits and business outfits with comfortable casual clothes for your time off.

Whenever possible, pack a few extra clothing options in case the weather suddenly changes or if you get invited to an event or activity that wasn’t on the original itinerary.

Step 5: Tie Up Loose Ends At The Office

Before you go, leave things in good order at the office: wrap up unfinished work, leave a clean desk, and make sure the team is prepared for your absence and knows how to reach you if needed.

• Let coworkers know where you’re traveling to and for how long.
• Complete or delegate time-sensitive project tasks.
• Make sure all your pending appointments are rescheduled.
• Set up an out-of-office autoresponder message in your email for the days you’ll be abroad.
• Make sure you have adequate coverage for ongoing office responsibilities.

Step 6: Try Premium Travel Services… For Free

Many commercial programs, subscriptions, services, and mobile apps can deliver terrific benefits to business travelers in various areas. And the good news? Some of them offer a free trial so you can test out their service.

• Tablet Plus Receive VIP upgrades and amenities at the world’s most exciting hotels. Free 30-day trial
• ClassPass Worldwide access to thousands of top-rated gyms, fitness studios, salons, and spas. Free 1-month trial
• ExpertFlyer Pro Find information on awards, upgrades, flight availability, seats, fares, and more. Free 5-day trial

Click here to access more travel-related free trial offers.

VIP Extras: Ways to Make Your Work Trip More Convenient

Traveling internationally for meetings, conferences, and other types of global work can be fun. Although, as any seasoned business traveler will testify, it also has a darker side. At some point, you’re bound to encounter some rather awful travel experiences. Things like the infamous world of delayed or canceled flights, missed connections, getting stuck in the airport, lost luggage nightmares, not finding a taxi when you need it the most, jet lag, unexpected medical issues, or foreign culture shock are some of the possible scenarios you may experience during a trip. However, there are ways to make traveling faster, safer, easier, or more convenient. If you’re willing to invest money in minimizing business travel discomfort, frustration, and inconvenience and maximizing your comfort, efficiency, and enjoyment, there are a few options you may want to explore.

• Airport lounges Airport lounges can make business travel much more pleasant and relaxing as they provide comfortable work and rest space, decent food and drinks (including alcohol), free magazines and newspapers, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and other extras that make the airport travel experience feel much more elegant and luxurious. Some facilities even offer shower rooms, spas, sleeping pods, and a variety of other high-class amenities and perks, which can be beneficial during long layovers, delayed flights, or when you just want to kill time before boarding. Priority Pass is a popular subscription-based program that grants members lounge access to 1300+ airports in over 600 cities and 148 countries around the world.
• Chauffeur service Premium private car services offer safe, reliable, and convenient chauffeur-driven transport to and from a chosen destination, including airports, hotels, business meetings, corporate events, conferences, etc. Many senior executives and other corporate VIPs use this service, which enables them to travel in comfort and style in a luxury vehicle driven by a professional private driver. Read more about private airport transfers and chauffeured car services and how to book them.
• A local personal assistant Would you like to receive concierge services and lifestyle management help from a local professional during your trip? MeetnGreetMe is a global platform for finding a personal assistant among local people at your destination who can meet you upon arrival, accompany you during your stay, and complete administrative tasks for you. Their services cover business matters, entertainment, food, health, fitness, shopping, translation and interpretation, travel arrangements, and more.
• Travel credit card Some premium travel credit cards come with many helpful incentives, exciting perks, and free upgrades that can take your next trip from basic to luxurious without spending extra money. Big sign-up bonuses, rewards, points redeemable for airfares, hotels, dining or cash, travel insurance, free checked luggage, priority boarding, airport lounge access, TSA PreCheck or Global Entry fee credit, and others can be extremely useful for any seasoned business traveler. Top cards cost over $500 in annual fees. However, if you’re a frequent traveler, simply do the math: the value of the benefits can be much greater.

If you’re a real mover and shaker who belongs to the inner circles of the corporate world’s elite and can afford to charter a luxury private jet for your business trip, consider using Private Jet Finder to get a free quote for a private flight.

Final Thoughts

Every day, millions of global entrepreneurs, business executives, salespeople, project managers, technical trainers, and professional specialists are on the road, far from their workplaces in their home countries.

Traveling for work may serve countless purposes and goals: sales and marketing, attending a conference or an industry tradeshow, conducting job interviews, project management, professional training, tech support, and many others.

In a global business world, face-to-face communication is still the most efficient way to build constructive relationships with clients, employees, and suppliers overseas. Even though virtual communication technologies are an important asset, digital platforms can’t replace in-person meetings, conferences, and events entirely.

Real-life human interaction is the best way to negotiate, sign a contract, close a deal, build a powerful brand, network, share ideas and solve problems, which is why international business travel remains an indispensable component of the global economy.

Best of luck with your business trip. Enjoy it!

Home | About | Terms | Privacy | Contact ©2023 Checklist2Go.com All Rights Reserved.

Home | About | Terms | Privacy | Contact

©2023 Checklist2Go.com All Rights Reserved.

• GENERAL CHECKLIST

General travel checklist

This checklist helps you decide what to pack for your travels. Select the items you still need to pack (or already packed). Next time you visit this page, your browser remembers your selections automatically. Missing an important item? Please leave a message!

Passport, visa Tickets for airline,boat,train,bus Copies of passport, tickets etc Boarding pass Drivers licence Health insurance card List of medications, letter prescriber Travel insurance Student card

Travel aids

Suitcases , backpack Itinerary Maps and directions Language guide Travel guide Travel pillow, sleeping mask, earplugs Travel locks Luggage tags Pens and paper Snacks, drinks Small pocket knife (not in carry-on!) Rope, expandable clothesline

Foreign currency Emergency money Credit card, debit card Extra wallet Money belt

Cellphone, charger Photo camera, memorycard, charger Laptop, iPad or Tablet , E-reader , chargers Travel adapter and converter Travel iron Flashlight Headphones

Underwear Socks Sleepwear Shirts, polos Jeans, trousers, shorts Dresses, skirts Shoes, sneakers Flipflops, slippers Jackets, coats, raincoats Belts, ties Scarves, hats, gloves

Toothbrush, paste, dental floss Deodorant Tweezers (not in carry-on!) Soap, shampoo, conditioner Towels Nailcare Tissues, toilet roll Feminine hygiene Makeup, makeup remover Shaving supplies Skin products Brush, comb, hairproducts Glasses, contact lenses, supplies

Medications, pain reliever First aid kit Insect repellent Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) Mosquito net Birth control, condoms Vaccines, health/dental checkup Vitamins Hand sanatizer/desinfectant

General activities

Swimsuit and big towel Walking shoes Sunglasses Sunscreen Umbrella Daypack Books, e-books, magazines

We make use of advertising by Google and other companies. They may place cookies on your computer to ensure the correct functioning of this website. For more information read  this article . By visiting our website or using the information you agree to these conditions. As an Amazon and Ebay affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Our other services

• CHECK POWER PLUG ADAPTER
• CHECK CURRENCY EXCHANGE

More information

• Cash or Card
• Copies of passport, tickets etc
• First aid kit
• iPad or tablet
• Passport, visa
• Travel adapter and converter
• Travel pillow, sleeping mask, earplugs
• Travel quide
• Walking shoes

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. By using this website you approve of this. Read more . Close

Small Business Trends

18 travel safety tips for women.

Whether it’s international business travel or leisure travel, it’s always important to keep safety a priority . Business travel can often entail long trips to unfamiliar places and can often be daunting, especially if it’s the first trip you’ve taken. We’ll go through some of the top business travel tips for women and how to keep safe when traveling solo.

Solo Female Travel for Business Travellers

For females traveling solo, business travel safety is crucial, and being proactive can help reduce some of the risks of traveling alone for business. Personal safety often gets overlooked when traveling solo, but it’s a really important consideration. Solo women, unfortunately, are often seen as an easy target by many, and staying safe needs to be a top priority. Here are some of the top travel safety tips for women to help you stay safe and stay aware when traveling.

Top Travel Safety Tips for Women

For solo female travelers, there are a lot of different elements to keep in mind to travel safely. The main thing to bear in mind, though, is to stay alert and aware as much as possible and also stay connected. There are some things you can do before leaving to make your trip safer, as well as some keeping some tips in mind when you’re at your destination. Let’s look at some top travel safety tips for women to ensure your solo trip goes well.

Read More: Business Travel Tips

1. Always plan ahead

The best thing you can do for solo travel is to plan ahead as much as possible. By planning ahead, rather than leaving things to chance or going last minute, you can keep people informed about your plans and stress less.

That means researching the area, where you’re staying, public transportation, specific safety tips for your destination, and more. Of course, you’ll likely deviate from your plans to a certain extent, but having a solid foundation for your travel plans helps avoid a lot of issues down the line.

2. Research local customs

Many countries have their own local customs, traditions, and distinct cultures that may differ from what you are used to. Understanding the differences beforehand can help you navigate the country better when you arrive and help you blend in more rather than sticking out as a visitor.

Before going to a new destination, look up what appropriate clothing might be there, traditions, even simple ones such as direct eye contact, and what’s expected of women to help you avoid unwanted attention during the trip.

3. Keep in touch with a family member

While it’s important to enjoy your trip and get work done, staying in touch is just as important! Keep in touch with a family member regarding your whereabouts, locations, and plans as a general rule. That way, even in worst-case scenarios, there is someone that can account for your plans and location.

4. Purchase travel insurance

Travel is hard to predict, and there might be instances and scenarios such as a missed flight or even a natural disaster where you may require additional protection. Purchasing travel insurance is a relatively inexpensive way to give yourself added peace of mind while traveling solo. If possible, also keep a first aid kit with you when traveling for added safety.

5. Identify the local embassy

Identifying your local embassy gives you another layer of protection when traveling solo. In scenarios such as a stolen passport, missing ID, or flight issues, your embassy can help you with leaving the country and emergency exits as needed.

6. Try to learn some of the local languages

As part of the travel experience and to help blend in better, knowing the local language definitely helps. Obviously, learning an entire language is pretty difficult before leaving, but even knowing some helpful phrases can help you get by. Use an app like Google Translate to help, or just keep a note on your phone with a language cheat sheet such as greetings, basic questions, and phrases to help you get by.

Read More: Business Travel Safety Tips

7. Share your accommodation details with a trusted family member or friend

Always share your accommodation details with friends and/or family wherever you decide to stay. To be safe, don’t just share the name but send the address and neighborhood to give them more details. Certain communication apps such as Whatsapp also allow you to share your location with a pin on a map, which can be helpful. If traveling in a taxi, make a note of the license plate by taking a photo and sending it.

8. Look up local scams

Unfortunately, solo women are seen as easy targets for local scams in many countries. To stay safe, do some research beforehand on the country on common types of scams that you can be on the lookout for. As a general rule, always rely on your gut feeling if approached by a stranger, and it’s okay to steer clear from crowded places to avoid unwanted attention. However, if someone does approach you, it’s okay to walk away or disengage if they make you feel uncomfortable. Look up taxi scams in particular, as that tends to be a common one that most travelers fall victim to.

9. Additional research may be needed for developing countries

While there’s always advice around using common sense when solo traveling internationally, but it’s also crucial to remember each country’s context and history when traveling as that can help you navigate as well. If you’re traveling to developing countries where there may not be as much infrastructure or resources, additional research such as firsthand travel experiences and travel blogs can help you prepare better for the trip.

Read More: international business travel

10. Purchase a money belt

Protecting your money is vital whether you’re relying on cash or credit cards. Pickpocketing and theft are unfortunately very common in many parts of the world, and they can leave you vulnerable if stolen. Purchase a money belt and a dummy wallet for added protection during solo travel, especially if you’re often on crowded city streets.

11. Separate your money

If you travel solo often, it can also help keep your money divided across different bags (e.g., emergency credit card in your backpack, a small amount of cash tucked away in your suitcase) for added protection.

12. Use the hotel safe

Most hotels will have a safe, so take full advantage! Any valuables you don’t absolutely need on a daily basis (e.g., passport, ID, emergency money, and/or credit card) should be kept in the safe. It’s peace of mind, and since you’ll be locking your hotel room before leaving anyway, you’ll be more relaxed.

13. Keep an eye out for travel advisories

Some countries are safer than others, but generally, keep an eye on travel advice – more specifically for solo female travelers. Always look for travel advisories before the trip, and try to follow local news and events while you’re there in case emergencies come up so you can leave quickly.

14. Create a detailed itinerary

If you’re traveling internationally as a solo female traveler, designing an itinerary can help you keep safe and stay organized. For example, what’s your intended destination, and what other countries are you thinking about visiting versus the ones you have concrete plans for? How many days are you planning on staying, tentatively, and what are you planning? Plans change, of course, but it makes solo travel safer since people will know your general plans and how to find you if needed.

15. Don’t pack too many valuables

It’s tempting to pack a lot when traveling solo, but it’s best not to. Keep valuables such as expensive jewelry and electronics to a minimum to avoid losing costly items. If you do have to carry them, make sure to buy secure suitcases and backpacks that you can lock and keep items in the safe as mentioned above.

16. Resist oversharing

As many travelers do, it’s fun to post and share information about your trip on social media sites, but it can also make you an easy target. Try not to post your exact location when traveling on social media to make it harder to track exactly where you are, and stagger your posts from different locations to make it difficult to pin you down. For example, you can post a photo of your dinner with the location after leaving the restaurant rather than while you’re at the restaurant.

17. Purchase a local SIM

Having internet access is crucial, and it’s easy to skip out on getting a local SIM as a way to save money – but resist the urge! A local SIM or phone number can make it easier to get in touch with you and ensures you always have access to the internet and phone wherever you are. However, don’t rely on trying to find free wi-fi everywhere as it’s not always possible and will make it harder to contact people in emergencies.

18. Get in touch with other solo travelers

If you’re feeling nervous or apprehensive about your trip, you can also get in touch with other women and solo travelers to make the trip a little easier. Many communities on Facebook and Reddit are dedicated to solo female travel, both international and domestic, where you can reach out to others when planning the trip, exchange safety tips, and meet up in your intended destination if possible.

In the realm of travel, whether for business or leisure, safety must always take precedence. Solo female travel, especially for business purposes, demands a heightened focus on personal safety and proactive measures. The travel safety tips outlined encompass a wide range of considerations, from meticulous planning and cultural awareness to staying connected and vigilant. These measures aim to empower women to embark on solo journeys confidently while prioritizing their well-being and security. With these precautions in place, solo female travelers can navigate the world with greater assurance, embracing the adventure while safeguarding their safety.

Solo travel, particularly for women, necessitates careful planning and awareness of the destination’s customs and potential risks. Staying connected with trusted contacts and learning local phrases can enhance communication and security. Additionally, understanding common scams and using secure storage options for valuables are crucial precautions. By incorporating these safety measures into their journeys, solo female travelers can experience the world with confidence and peace of mind.

Image: Depositphotos

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

© Copyright 2003 - 2024, Small Business Trends LLC. All rights reserved. "Small Business Trends" is a registered trademark.

America still has the world's busiest airport

• New data on the world's busiest airports in 2023 reveals the latest trends in global travel. 
• 8.5 billion passengers traveled by plane last year, almost marking a return to pre-pandemic levels.   
• Airports in Asia and the Middle East became busier, but the US has once again clinched the top spot. 

International travel is almost back to pre-pandemic levels, according to the just-released list of the world's busiest airports in 2023.

8.5 billion passengers traveled globally by plane last year — up from 7 billion passengers in 2022 .

The rise in air travel marks a recovery to 93.8% of levels in 2019 before the world shut down, according to preliminary data published by the Airports Council International (ACI), a trade association that includes 2,600 airports worldwide.

Increasing travel to airports in Asia and the Middle East was one of the key trends to emerge from the data, with Dubai International Airport jumping from the fifth to the second busiest airport in the world.

Airports in India, Japan, and Turkey also made it into the top 10 and were some of the biggest movers in terms of annual gains in passenger numbers.

As the world's largest domestic market for flights , US airports still make up five of the busiest airports in the world, with Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport retaining its No. 1 position.

Despite tough global economic conditions, there was "a growing inclination towards travel," Luis Felipe de Oliveira, the ACI's world director general, said in a press release.

"Airports continue to demonstrate their resilience and adaptability amidst the challenges posed by the ever-evolving landscape of global travel," said Oliveira.

Here's a closer look at the top 10 busiest airports in the world.

10. Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi, India

Passengers: 72.2 million

2022 ranking: 9th

Delhi's main airport, Indira Gandhi International Airport, saw a 21.4% increase in year-on-year traffic. While it has dropped a place this year, Delhi has grown significantly as a transport hub since 2019, when it sat at number 19 in the rankings.

9. Chicago O’Hare International Airport, USA

Passengers: 73.9 million

2022 ranking: 4th

Travel through Chicago O'Hare jumped by 8.1% throughout 2023. O'Hare is a hub airport for domestic travel, particularly for United and American Airlines flights. It is also a focus city for low-cost rivals Spirit Airlines and Frontier Airlines.

8. Los Angeles International Airport, USA

Passengers: 75.1 million

2022 ranking: 6th

Travel through LAX was up 13.8% in 2023, however, compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019, passengers at the West Coast airport decreased by 14.8% — the largest decrease of any airport in the top ten rankings. LAX is a hub for a number of carriers, including Alaska Airlines, United, American, and Delta. But domestic travel at the airport shrunk dramatically as airlines cut the number of flights following a series of meltdowns in 2022.

7. Istanbul Airport, Turkey

Passengers: 76 million

2022 ranking: 7th

Passenger numbers at Turkey's Istanbul airport have increased by 18.3%, making it the only transit hub to keep level with its previous ranking in the top 10. Notably, traffic through the airport has jumped by 45.7% since 2019.

6. Denver International Airport, USA

Passengers: 77.8 million

2022 ranking: 3rd

Denver Airport has dropped down several places on the list but still shows strong signs of growth in terms of passengers. In the last year traffic through the Colorado airport was up 12.3%, and it has also grown 12.8% from pre-pandemic levels.

5. Tokyo Haneda International Airport, Japan

Passengers: 78.7 million

2022 ranking: 16th

Japan's Tokyo Haneda Airport saw the largest increase in traffic by far, with passenger numbers surging by 55.1%. Some of that jump can be explained by a lag in tourism as Japan only reopened its borders in late 2022. Despite the jump, Tokyo Haneda is still 7.9% under its 2019 level of traffic. This January the airport made headlines after a fatal collision involving a Japan Airlines plane and a coastguard vehicle killed five people.

4. London Heathrow, UK

Passengers: 79.2 million

2022 ranking: 8th

Travel through the UK's largest airport shot up by 218% in 2022 and has once again made strong gains throughout 2023, jumping by a slightly more modest 28.5%. The airport has credited travel from the Asia-Pacific region as a major factor in its increased passenger numbers. It hopes to supersede its pre-pandemic level of traffic in 2024 and hit a record 81.4 million passengers, the airport said in a report published in December.

3. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, USA

Passengers: 81.8 million

2022 ranking: 2nd

Dallas/Fort Worth airport , known as DFW, is American Airlines' busiest hub and the departure city for many of the airline's international flights. Last year traffic through the airport jumped by 11.4%.

2. Dubai International Airport, UAE

Passengers: 87 million

2022 ranking: 5th

Dubai took the number 2 ranking in the list for the first time, thanks to a significant 31.7% increase in passenger numbers. Dubai's new position reflects the heavy investment that has gone into the aviation industry and boosting tourism in the region.

1. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, USA

Passengers: 104.7 million

2022 ranking: 1st

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport comes in at No. 1 as the busiest airport in the world, a position it has held for more than two decades. In 2023, the Atlanta airport saw an 11.7% increase in passenger numbers.

Here's a look at what it takes to be an air traffic controller at the world's busiest airport.

• Main content

• WEB STORIES New
• ENTERTAINMENT
• CAREER & CAMPUS
• INFOGRAPHICS
• ISL 2023-24

• Manorama Online
• Manorama News TV
• ManoramaMAX
• Radio Mango
• Subscription

Giottus, Veriscope join hands to augment crypto travel rule compliance

Bengaluru: Giottus, one of India's top crypto investment platforms, has announced its partnership with Shyft Veriscope to ensure FATF Travel Rule compliance. This strategic partnership underscores Giottus’ unwavering commitment to compliance, anti-money laundering, and combating financial terrorism (AML/CFT).

The move will help ensure a more transparent, secure, and safer environment for the investor community by making crypto transactions more traceable.

Giottus has already established itself as a reporting entity under the purview of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU-India) of the Union Ministry of Finance and is a member of the Alliance of Reporting Entities for AML/CFT (ARIFAC).

Giottus announces zero-fee trades for all customers

Crypto lender BlockFi files for bankruptcy, cites FTX exposure

Veriscope, the Shyft Network’s one-of-a-kind Travel Rule Solution, makes counterparty VASP discovery convenient and non-intrusive and allows VASP-to-VASP data transfer without the need for intermediate or third-party storage.

The FATF Travel Rule is a requirement for Virtual Digital Asset Service Providers (VDA-SPs). Under this rule, VDA-SPs must be able to identify and exchange data during crypto asset transfers. The entities also should be capable of assessing risks with counterparties, all the while ensuring that they transact with trusted parties. Giottus now becomes part of a global network of VASPs who can share data seamlessly and transact with confidence.

Vikram Subburaj, Giottus CEO, said since its inception in 2018, Giottus has been at the forefront of innovation and compliance in the Indian VDA space.

Zach Justein, Veriscope co-founder, shared similar enthusiasm: “This is a significant development for the entire crypto ecosystem, as with this integration, both Veriscope and Giottus are setting a new standard for unwavering commitment to safety, transparency, and user experience."

• Cryptocurrency
• Finance Ministry

Aster DM Healthcare declares Rs 118 special dividend, shares zooms 7.50%

Byju's founder to take over firm's daily operations after CEO quits

Gold prices continue at record-high; Rs 52,520 per sovereign in Kerala

Pro-rata provision was not intended for high PF pension, here is the proof

RBI retains repo rate at 6.5 pc for 7th consecutive time

Sara George Muthoot makes history as first Kerala woman included in Forbes World's Billionaires list

30 crore beneficiary cards generated through the Ayushman Bharat Health Insurance (PMJAY) Scheme

DGCA seeks daily report from Vistara on flights cancellations