Business trips can be stressful, and the last thing you want to add to your plate is the worries of forgetting something that you really needed. That’s why it’s important to have a packing strategy in place. Of course, if you do forget something you can always use it as a business expense when you need to purchase a replacement.
No one wants to have to always buy a bunch of stuff when they get to their destination, though, just because they forgot things that could have been easily remembered. Here are some things that can help your pack smarter, and not forget stuff, when you get ready for your next business trip.
Bring The Right Gear
Consider what you’re going to be doing while you’re on the business trip, and make sure that you pack accordingly. If you have meetings to go to, you want meeting attire and you want any supplies needed for that meeting. Supplies could be business cards, your tablet or notebook, and maybe even some show and tell items you created to introduce your business or new products.
You’re also going to want to have the right things to carry your stuff in. For a woman, a big bulky “mom” purse isn’t going to cut it when you step into a meeting. Instead, invest in a nice professional looking clutch that fits just what you need.
Know Weight Limits For Luggage
Before you start packing too many things, if you’re flying you need to know the luggage weight limits and dimensions for the airline you are going through. You can look this information up on their website. You’ll definitely want to pull out a measuring tape too (better safe than sorry).
Look at the info for what you can carry on as well. You may also want to know the rules when it comes to your beauty products and medications, depending on where you are flying to. You may find rules for luggage if you are taking a bus or train as well.
Make A List
Never pack for any kind of a trip without making a complete list of the things that you need to take with you. Make the list, then put a checkmark by the items as you move them into one area. Once you have them all in the same area, cross the items off the list as you actually pack them.
This is a business trip, not a vacation, but that doesn’t mean you’ll be taking fewer things. You need clothing and accessories. You’ll need all of your work gear and some tech equipment as well. These can be expensive, or even irreplaceable if you forget them.
Fit Everything In
Keeping the weight of your luggage in mind, you want to make sure you fit everything you need in the amount of luggage space you have. One good trip is to roll clothing, instead of folding. Done strategically, this can save you some wrinkles as well.
Find places to cram extras. Keep things that might leak sealed up in plastic bags. And don’t be afraid to sit on your suitcase to zip it!
