Firstly, there is, of course, carry-on-sized luggage. You probably know this already since going on a business trip might not be your first time flying on a plane. So what does this need to be mentioned on this list? Well, having a carry-on gives you the security that your most important essentials won't get lost. Let's face it, there's always a big chance that your airline can lose your luggage. And it's worse if you packed your important documents or vital gadgets there. At least, if you packed them in your carry-on, you'll ensure that your most crucial belongings will be with you the moment you arrive at your destination!
Of course, there's your laptop. Only a fool won't take this to a business trip! Again, this is an already well-known and obviously essential, so why the need to include it on this list? Actually, you'll be surprised by how many people out there still neglect to bring their own laptops when going on a business trip. They think that the company they're visiting might lend their own laptops or let them use their computers in their office. And even if this is true, wouldn't it be better to just stick the device you're most used to?
So, since you already have your laptop, this means you're all set, right? Well, not quite! You never know what might happen to it during your flight or during your trip. And if you don't safeguard your important files in it, consider yourself out of a job the moment something happens to your device! In order to protect your career, bring a hard drive! Every time you make a file, a presentation, or a document, put some copies inside your hard drive immediately after! This can't be stressed enough!
Now, here's something many travelers, business class or not, tend to overlook! It's important to note that many countries generate power differently from one another. This, in turn, makes their sockets also different from the ones back home. European countries, in particular, have different types of sockets. So if you don't bring an adapter here, it's either you spend more money buying a new phone/laptop charger here or you simply don't use your devices when they run out of battery. And how are you going to work if you're faced with the latter?
Right before you take off, you should make sure that your phone is unlocked. You might not know it yet, but it's highly likely that your device is unlocked, meaning it can only support certain networks in your country. And if you don't unlock it before your trip, you won't be able to use the sim cards from the different network providers in your destination. And without a sim card, how will you be able to communicate with your co-workers here and at home? Use wifi? When you're not at your hotel, you'll still need a local sim card for that!
Now for an essential that's mostly for you! Business trips, especially those that will take you across the globe, can be as mentally draining as it is physically taxing. You'll need some time to relax, meditate, or simply focus on another thing that's not work-related for a little while. With a good set of earphones or AirPods, you can do this easily. Watch a movie, listen to your favorite album, or browse through your favorite internet videos without disturbing anyone else. Also, when you go on important business calls, you'll hear the other person better with your earphones or AirPods!
Some Office Supplies
Again, don't think that just because the company(or the international office of your company) will have their own stock of office supplies, you can easily use them when you go to work there. Even if they're just as simple as pens or paper clips. It's always important to show your professionalism by bringing your own supplies. Think about how the executives of that office will think of you if they see that you don't have something as simple and as essential as a pen for yourself?!
If you think that a business trip will only entail the couple of hours you spent in the office, you're sadly mistaken! More often than not, having to travel to a different part of the world will entail a few social occasions, especially if you're in a high position within your company. Even if it wasn't in your plans before traveling there, expect that you might get invited to an evening gala or a cocktail party. So for men, it's always better to pack a tuxedo in your luggage. And if for women, pack both a cocktail dress and simple evening gown just to be safe!
There are two benefits to packing workout clothes for your business trip. One for your personal health and another for your career. For the former, a good workout can better physically and mentally prepare you for the tasks ahead. This is especially if your flight going there was long and exhausting. For the latter, on the other hand, a good way to impress and build a stronger relationship with your clients is to exercise with them. You'll realize that business is done just as often in a gym as it is inside an office.
Finally, when going off somewhere for business, it pays to have many business cards handy! Remember, a business trip is as social as it is a professional endeavor. You will likely meet a lot of important people, some holding high positions in companies you want to work with or even work for in the future. Look forward to your career by bringing business cards to give to such individuals. Don't think of its as "betraying your current job," but rather preparing for what the future may hold for you! In the world of business, there's always a way to up. This is just one of those that's easy and often effective!
When it comes to going on a business trip, always be more than 100% prepared! Bring all the essentials that will not only make your trip comfortable but will ensure that you safeguard your career no matter what happens!
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