Science suggests that travel makes people more creative – so, how can you make business trips work for you?
The idea of exploring a new setting with all expenses paid is a common daydream for deskbound employees, and besides the uptick in physical movement, trips promote personal well-being and bonding. Travel is one facet of business that has radically changed in recent years, and post-pandemic airport gates are more populated by masked families traveling to visit loved ones than by business men and women in pressed suits. As the world slowly and safely reopens, the excitement of a work trip is picking up across industries. It may feel like vacation, and while this isn’t the opportunity for a “When in Rome” mindset, there are still ways to maximize your experience.
Living out of a suitcase while trying to keep up a productive routine isn’t always easy, but it doesn’t have to wear you down. No matter how flashy your destination, there are fun ways to take advantage of being alone or with colleagues in a new place. In between meetings and before or after work hours are your windows of opportunity to rethink your free time. And the option to expand the length of your stay – think: three day weekend – can transform a work trip into a getaway with a healthy dose of ‘me time.’
Your key objective might be to come home from a work trip with a signed deal or a new client, but with our suggestions you can also return refreshed with more memories, connections and inspiration than when your plane first took off. Sit back, relax, and get ready to start daydreaming about your next biz trip…
Keep your essentials packed
If you’ll be jetting off for your company often, save time by keeping travel-sized necessities in a pre-packed carry-on. A packing routine will not only ensure that you don’t forget the smaller things – including a hairbrush, toothbrush and a razor – but will also save time when you’re scrambling to catch a plane, train, or automobile…
Sign up for loyalty programs
Flying with one airline will grant you frequent flier miles, TSA pre-check, access to an airport lounge, free Wi-Fi, caffeine and sometimes even showers. Plus, if you fly enough, you can earn a discounted fare or a complimentary upgrade for your next vacation!
Plan ahead
There’s more that you can do to feel prepared than charging your electronic devices and storing your passport in a reachable pocket. Pre-planning your downtime destinations will save you hours of wandering around or wondering where to go. Try saving locations in Google Maps under the tag “Want to go” to keep a list of the places you’d like to try out while in the area. Check for events or outdoor activities while you’re there, too. If you have the liberty to choose where you stay, pick a neighborhood near your business meetings and that restaurant you found on Instagram. With enough time on hand, exploring on foot is a great way to discover fascinating local holes in the wall.
Dine while socializing
While meals alone are considered an inevitable part of solo travel, use this time to socialize with new peers. Contact colleagues or clients who you’d like to discuss ideas or create a better bond with to share a meal together. While ordering room service and eating in bed wrapped in a fluffy hotel bathrobe may sound enticing, the local fare is a major part of the travel experience. Remove yourself from your comfort zone and arrange to meet up with a collaborator, chat up new faces at the bar, or people watch from the window seat.
Remind(fulness)
Inner awareness is all about being in the moment, and the many distractions that come with travel – traffic, jet lag and being away from home being a few – can make it easy to get stuck in our emotions. Some things you can do to reflect are: write in a journal, slow down when you eat, go offline, pack comfy socks, prepare a skincare routine for your flight, get some movement and pause when you need to. Drink water! This will not only combat jet lag but will ease stress. Do what makes you feel taken care of and lend the space to check in with yourself throughout the day.
Take the scenic route
As long as your schedule and boss allows it, over-planning the days of your trip is a great way to get extra time to yourself while away. Pay for an extra night to explore the city or attend a concert or art exhibition, and get to know the spots on your own terms.
Business travel can be a rewarding experience if you optimize your time with preparations and incorporate a good measure of fun. Simple ways to keep your body happy while away are giving attention to proper diet, sleep and exercise, and maintaining a work-life balance. Whether it’s when you’re taking off or returning home, the excitement of travel is inviting, and can be great for your mental health and imagination. Let the planning begin – now you’re ready!
