For the modern businessman, air travel is a staple of most important positions. Whether you’re trying to wine and dine clients states away or simply attend an annual conference, most professionals find themselves spending a significant amount of time running around the country. Of course, all this moving about can lead to troubles such as lost luggage, damaged clothes, and tons of stress. Fortunately, there are a few simple rules to follow that can help make this busy life a bit more bearable.
Rule 1: Pack Smartly
Part of the challenge of going on a long business trip comes from making sure your suits, slacks, and other work clothes do not become torn. While most apparel is safe and secure when kept in hardside luggage and other travel bags, it’s when these containers are opened and closed that damage is dealt. If you’ve ever opened up your luggage to find that clothing made of soft material has become stuck in the zipper and now you have to untangle the threads, you’ll know what I’m talking about.
When preparing to embark on a trip, make sure to properly lay out your clothing and pack it as efficiently as possible. You should also learn how to fold your apparel so as to avoid causing wrinkles and creases from occurring. Taking a few extra minutes to make sure your bags are packed as smartly as possible can help you reduce the need to iron or mend clothes later.
Rule 2: Purchase Luggage that Suits your Needs
Of course you’ll want packing options that keep all your belongings safe and secure. Top quality hardside luggage tends to be what most professional men and women take on their trips. Most of these suitcases include wheels and a handle for easy transport and are built to withstand any mishandling from airport personnel.
Unfortunately, due to their size, this luggage doesn’t make for good carry-on bags. Most people will want to carry a separate, smaller bag with a few luxuries and immediate essentials in them to bring on the plane. The spacious design of the hardside bags makes them much better candidates for packing clothes and everything else.
Rule 3: Make all your Plans as Early as Possible
Although it goes without saying that everyone should set their trip plans well in advance, not everyone thinks ahead. Since most business trips are planned according to the demands of a client or visited firm, it’s essential that everyone has a clear idea of how they will spend their time and have their accommodations settled before they arrive. When in doubt, try to assemble a schedule of what you know you will need to do.
Jason Wesits is a part of an elite team of writers who have contributed to hundreds of blogs and news sites. Follow him @Debaser414