If you’re like me and have to jet away often for work, then you know that between time allotted for travel, eating, and business meetings, time taken for yourself can be slim to none. Although I always try to carve out some time to enjoy the location I’m heading off to, it’s not unusual for me to have to head straight from the plane to a business meeting or to a location to start work. In cases like these, I don’t have all the time in the world for a full outfit change after a long flight, or primp and preen before meeting with those I’m collaborating with.
With that said, this post today is for all you business travelers out there who have to head from airplane to business meeting without a moment to spare! But, I have a few tricks up my sleeve to make the most of those few moments you have between to-do’s on your calendar. Keep reading to learn how I go from A to B without skipping a beat on business trips…
Choose Your Wardrobe Wisely
As I’ve mentioned in previous posts, I always try to prepare my wardrobe carefully before I travel so I always have a fresh change of clothes without over-packing. A long-time habit of mine—especially on business trips—is to bring a change of clothes in my carryon luggage so that I can do a quick wardrobe change after stepping off the plane, so I feel fresh and clean before heading to meetings for the day when I don’t have time to head to my hotel first. (On red-eye flights I even pack a pair of PJ’s to change into on the plane so my street clothes stay fresh, and I get a few hours to be as comfy as possible on the airplane.) It may just seem like another thing to pack, but it makes a world of a difference when you don’t have to show up to a meeting in wrinkled, worn airplane clothes—trust me!
Bonus tip: Make sure to wear comfortable shoes on your flight, that are still stylish and appropriate for business. Packing another pair of shoes can take up too much room in a carry-on, so wearing a pair that fits both categories means you can go straight from plane to meeting without missing a step. ;)
Freshen Up Fast
On those days when I just don’t have time to freshen up at my hotel before a meeting, I know that I’ll only have a few minutes to clean up before getting down to business. Basically, this means two things: no shower, and limited resources (which means preparation is key). I’ve found that simply packing some facial cleansing wipes, deodorant, hand sanitizer, and travel cologne does the job when I’m in a time crunch. I also always make sure to bring along a toothbrush and travel toothpaste (or even these disposable brushes) to keep my breath fresh before talking with business contacts.
Pack Snacks
Another thing that can seriously interfere with getting to your meetings on time after a flight is a hungry stomach growling for food. Don’t rely on in-flight snacks and meals, as they are dicey and in some cases aren’t even served. Instead, pack a few healthy and filling snacks that will hold you over, in case you don’t have time to pick up a meal before heading into work. I especially like to bring a couple of protein bars, so I can get in a good dose of protein for energy, and avoid snacking on the often-unhealthy selection of airport food.
These tips are just scratching the surface, but I have to say these basics are tried-and-true and make a huge difference in making a seamless transition from airplane to work when I’m on a business trip. I hope you all find them helpful next time you jet away to get a little work done.
Do you guys have any business travel tips to add to this list?
xx GM
