The UK is a business centre, so it’s no stranger to business travellers. The last recorded number of travellers was 6.6 million to the UK and 8 million from it. However, a business trip can be tiring because there’s much to do in often little time. You have to find an airport taxi or car rental, find a hotel, navigate new places, etc. A lot can go wrong, so we’ve compiled a list of tips to ensure you have a successful and organised business trip.
1. Plan Ahead
The more you plan in advance, the more things you’ll be able to stop worrying about as the business trip gets closer. Booking travel and accommodation in advance will get you better rates. You’ll also have time to research your destination and plan for when you have time to explore. If you’re a resident of the UK and are travelling abroad, make sure to check the foreign travel checklist when planning.
2. Have a Flexible Itinerary
While it’s important to plan ahead of time, it’s also necessary to be flexible in terms of itinerary. If there are any changes in the plan, unexpected delays, bad weather, etc., you won’t be thrown off course. This will also free up some time in your schedule and allow you to explore places you didn’t think about before.
3. Luggage Restrictions& Packing Tips
When you confirm your flight reservation, don’t forget to check the baggage weight restrictions because it varies depending on your destination and your flight. When you pick your luggage, consider its size and material if you’re carrying delicate items. Before you pack, make a checklist of everything you need to take so you don’t forget to pack anything important. Sometimes flights lose the luggage, or there might be a delay. Keep all your important documents, electronics, toiletries, and a change of clothes in a carry-on. Then, even if the flight loses the luggage, you’ll still have all the important items.
4. Use Apps & Websites
Make use of available technology for a smooth and organised business trip. First, you must check airport transfers that will get you to and from your destination. For this, you’ll need to check different websites and apps to ensure you get the best deals. In addition, when you’re checking out different hotels to see which one to book, look at comparison websites. In just London alone, there were 121 additions to the hotel market from 2019-20. Comparison websites will also assure you that you’re paying the right prices. From booking flights to finding attractions, there’s an app or website for just about everything.
5. Watch your expenses
It’s always good to create a budget before you travel anywhere. Then, when you’re on a business trip, keep your expenses in check so you don’t go over budget. Save your receipts and track how much you spend each day. As important as it is to enjoy yourself, overspending will stress you out later.
6. Dress the part
If you’re travelling with colleagues or meeting up with your clients as soon as you arrive at your destination, make sure you dress the part. This means no casual outfits like tracksuit bottoms. Instead, wear something comfortable but put together. If you’re travelling with colleagues, find out with the sleeping arrangements will be. Bring something comfortable yet modest to wear if you’re sharing a hotel room.
7. Travel Insurance
According to a survey, two out of three people in respondents said they always get travel insurance when going on a holiday. You can’t predict what will happen even if you’re going to or from the UK on a short business trip. This is why you should get travel insurance as well. Your health coverage or credit card might cover it, but you can also get it separately. In some countries, it’s a requirement. If you’re travelling from the UK to another country, check if it’s one of the requirements for entry.
8. Stay Safe
Travel insurance is just the first part of ensuring your safety in a different country. It’s important to be aware of your surroundings to stay safe. Before your business trip, research the local laws and customs of your destination to avoid trouble. Moreover, keep your valuables close and be cautious when using credit cards or ATMs in unfamiliar or sketchy-looking places. The crime rate in the UK is 96.4 crimes per one thousand people. Research the area you’ll be staying in to ensure you don’t become part of the statistic.
9. Focus on time management
Business trips often last a few days or weeks. Time management is key if you want to get your work done on time and enjoy yourself. Make sure to plan your days and allocate time to get everything done in the short trip. Try to do some free time on your schedule so you can relax.
10. Keep Your Energy Up
Travelling is exhausting, to say the least, even more so when you’re working during it. Make sure to keep your energy up by eating healthy meals and getting plenty of rest in between. This will keep you productive during your work too. Carry snacks or energy bars to fuel up throughout the day.
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