INSIGHTS
Improve your productivity on work trips with these tips
Remember that time you were about to fall asleep and thought, "Oh, I can't forget that," only to wake up the following day, be on your way to the airport, and realise that something has completely slipped your mind? Now, you've left something essential behind. Whether you're a seasoned business traveller or a first-timer, having a list of must-packs for any trip is the key to smoother travel.
But you can't bring everything, right? You might only have carry-on luggage and need to travel light. Or you might be going overseas and have a limited luggage allowance.
Our business trip packing list can be your go-to or just serve as a tool to jog your memory for business trips.
I am easily forgotten about:
Before jumping into the main checklist, here is a quick preview of commonly overlooked items.
- Passport or ID: For both domestic and international travel.
- Chargers and adapters: Don't forget an adaptor if traveling overseas.
- Medications: Prescription, pain relievers, and allergy medications.
- Business cards: You never know who you'll meet.
- Reusable water bottle: Sustainable and hydration.
- Essential toiletries: Items packed the morning of, like toothbrush, toothpaste and deodorant.
- Power bank: Not everywhere will have a power socket
Business travel tips from our experts
Daniel Senyard
CEO, Shep (an FCM company)
Group similar tasks
Daniel Senyard, CEO of Shep (an FCM company), talks about the importance of time-blocking and grouping similar tasks during business travel.
“I use time-blocking in my day-to-day job, but grouping similar tasks to remain “in flow” is even more important when travelling. I try to combine all my calls into one solid chunk on a single day. This ensures that I can do back-to-back team calls and online meetings in a quiet location with good WiFi, instead of having to find spots for one-off meetings as they pop up.”
Eve Smith
Change Management and Communications Lead, FCM Consulting
Maintain physical activity
Eve Smith, Change Management and Communications Lead at FCM Consulting, finds physical activity a game-changer during her work trip.
“It’s easy to go straight from hotel to meeting and back again when travelling for work, but to stay productive, I find I need to get out for a walk or a run before work starts for the day. It helps to focus my mind, and the benefit is you get to see something of the city you’re travelling to!”
Oz Desai
Managing Director, FCM Ireland
Stick to your routine
Oz Desai, Managing Director of FCM Ireland, believes maintaining a routine while travelling creates productivity and makes all the difference.
“It’s all about the routine for me. Always review your plans and to-do list before you set out for the day; it means you are always prepared, and it kicks off the morning as planned. Try and carve out time to respond to urgent queries or emails, as that will ease you back in when you return home. I believe it’s important to maintain your usual routine as close as possible, which can be challenging while travelling. But if you exercise and eat breakfast as normal, then your mind and body will thrive on it.”
Trudie Earle
Events and Partnerships Manager, FCM Travel
Take breaks
Trudie Earle, Events and Partnerships Manager at FCM Travel, emphasises the importance of taking breaks and using notebooks to avoid screen distractions.
“I find I’m more productive and focused on what’s at hand when I’m not looking at my laptop and seeing emails pop up, so I always pack a notebook for taking notes. Take breaks and allow yourself time in a quiet place – not just to work but to refresh your eyes and your brain! The best time to clear emails is at the airport; clearing those unessential ones so your inbox is less clogged when you get back to the office.”
David Sykes
Director, Solutions Engineering EMEA
Use travel time wisely
David Sykes, Director of Solutions Engineering EMEA, suggests bringing a portable charger and using travel time to stay on top of emails.
“Pack a portable charger as some airports, trains, and planes surprisingly lack plugs. Travel time is a good time to catch up on emails! For extra productivity, I recommend paying for in-flight Wi-Fi so you can work on the plane.”