Depending on how you approach it, traveling for business can be a chore… or it can be exciting and fun. Instead of just sucking it up and finding the only pleasure in racking up the miles on your card, try one of these steps to help make business travel a more enjoyable experience:
Pack Light but Be Prepared
If you’ve traveled extensively on business you’ve probably noticed that in most cases, it’s really not that important to make sure you have EVERYTHING you think you’ll need, as you will most likely be able to pick things up as you go. Don’t stress out about packing every little thing but do make sure you’re prepared for long layovers or cancellations. Keep a simple set of essentials in your carry-on (toothbrush, underwear) as a “just in case” preparation.
Be Flexible and Have a Sense of Humor
The most frustrating part of being at the whim of airlines is the lack of control you have over your time. So instead of fighting it, embrace the lack of control by being flexible and not letting it get you down. Download apps, games or music onto a device and try your best to just enjoy the moments you’re forced to have with yourself. It won’t help anything to get frustrated with the staff or the process. You can even spend the time preparing for your arrival by checking into your hotel online or even reserving your car service for your impending landing.
Try Something New
One of the best ways to keep business trips tolerable is by putting a little effort into keeping things fresh and new, especially when you have to make the same trip repeatedly. If you travel to the same destination every week, change up some of your plans. Stay someplace different, wander around the town/city, take in whatever sites you can.
Restaurant bars are great for single travelers. The bartenders make you feel welcome and you have someone to talk to. Most other business travelers do the same and are in the same situation.
Invest in the Good Stuff
TSA Pre-check, airline clubs with membership perks, sturdy accessories… these are all worth the investment if you plan to be on the road a lot. Try to keep your memberships to one or two specific companies in order to reap the most benefits possible.
Whether you’re traveling for your own business or someone else’s, being away from home often can wear you down quickly. If you’re beginning to feel burnt out (or want to prevent it from happening) give one of the above tips a try and you’ll be on your way to feeling like a road warrior in no time.
Source: Huffington Post
