Techblog
Top Tips for Business Travellers
Find out how you can make the most of your business trip with useful tips for planning ahead, packing light, staying connected while on-the-go, making the most of your frequent flyer miles, and more.
Business travel is set to see an exponential rise as more businesses look to capitalise on opportunities around the world for growth and diversification. If you're looking to embark on some business travel of your own, then go prepared with these tips.
1. Plan Ahead
Before anything else, make sure your credit cards, passports, visas and other documents are ready to go (this means that they should not be expiring anytime soon, and that credit card companies should be informed to expect unfamiliar overseas charges on your account). Your travel insurance should be up-to-date and someone should have quick access to your home and/or office to deal with any emergencies that should arise in your absence.
Get the details of a contact person (ie: your client, business partner or a manager in your foreign office) so you can update them on any changes along the way, such as a flight delay. It's also helpful to set up an itinerary for the trip beforehand so that you are well-prepared work-wise and can make any necessary arrangements (such as making reservations for a business lunch or dinner) before you arrive at your destination.
2. Make your Flight Bookings
It's also important to plan your connecting domestic flights in advance: make sure you allow enough time between connections to account for potential traffic jams, flight delays etc. When booking domestic flights, it's always a good idea to have local support in Singapore and China. With myBusiness Group Deals - Business Air Travels, members can search and book domestic airline tickets for flights within China; receive access to an extensive network of cities and airports, in addition to partnerships with 26 airlines in China; obtain up to 50% cheaper rates because members are getting exclusive domestic prices; and also utilise travel support in both Singapore and China - so you can rest easy regardless of schedule.
3. Pack Smart
Always take note of weight allowances and pack accordingly to avoid hefty fees at the check-in counter. If you're going on a short trip, consider just taking carry-on luggage.
Packing a carry-on doesn’t have to be complicated. Simply stick to the basics:
- toiletries,
- clothing (basic business attire and a casual outfit for when you're spending time outside of the office - keeping in mind that most hotels offer a decent laundry service),
- accessories (sunglasses, a jacket, an extra pair of shoes),
- and any extras (medication, a foldable umbrella, etc.).
Do also take note of the size of your luggage: you want your luggage to fit into the overhead compartment or under the seat. One tip is to pack two smaller carry-ons instead of one bulky bag.
If you're traveling regularly, consider keeping a bag packed with essentials and ready to go at any time so that you never worry about forgetting anything at the last minute. Just remember to refill the contents whenever you're back from a trip.
One last thing: keep important travel and work documents easy to locate in a special compartment or in folders in your bag so you can easily reach for them.
4. Technology on the Go
Stay connected throughout your trip - bring your USB and charging cables and a power adapter to keep your electronic devices charged. It pays to do your research before you fly so that you know which adapter is suitable for your location. If possible, charge everything even before you leave.
Consider streamlining the devices that you bring with you. Instead of relying on multiple electronic gadgets, just one laptop and your smart phone should keep you covered. Leave the Kindle, music player, iPad, etc. at home. Some travel adapters come with one or more USB ports, meaning you can leave multiple chargers at home.
5. Data Roaming & Internet Access
Before you travel, find out how much it costs for data roaming service or an international data plan on your cell phone. Consider buying a local SIM card to save on data-roaming expenses. You could also subscribe to a data-roaming plan. These often come with unlimited data capped at reasonable fixed prices: Bridge Dataroam is one worth checking out. Alternatively, use wireless internet instead to communicate - internet-based apps or even Skype are useful tools. Before you go, find out where you can get free (or cheap) wifi, ie: at the business lounge of your hotel. Some hotels only provide in-room internet access through LAN, so you can consider packing a small wireless access point to turn that in to wifi that can be shared.
6 . Join a Frequent Flyer Program
Before booking your flight, sign up with an airline's frequent flyer program - all members reach elite status after clocking certain mileage. The more elite you are, the more upgrades and benefits you’ll enjoy - from priority booking and check-in to upgrading, airport lounge access and more. To maximise your miles, try sticking to an airline alliance, such as Star Alliance, where miles can be transferable. Another way of making the most of frequent flyer programs is to sign up for, and use, an airline credit card.
7. Adjust Your Routine
Make the most of your time on the plane. If you're expecting to go into the office and start work immediately upon landing, get some sleep while you're in the air to avoid feeling tired and lethargic when you land. Consider time differences too; if you are concerned about jet lag, forcing yourself asleep (or stay awake) during a flight can help in readjusting your body clock temporarily. Stay away from alcohol and drink lots of water to keep hydrated and alert.
Do you have your own thoughts, tips and learnings from business trips? Share them by posting a comment below.