If you are like most salespeople, you wind up either too prepared or not prepared enough for your business trips. Most of us rarely get somewhere without realizing that we forgot something or that we have completely overpacked. I think many of us find this particularly difficult for day trips where you need to strike a balance between being prepared but not having to carry a ton of stuff for the whole day. Through a lot (A LOT) of trial and error, I’ve compiled a short list of essentials for a day trip.
Packing for business travel
Notebook and Pen
As obvious as this may seem, it is surprising how many times this is forgotten. We live in a digital world where notes are taken via tablets and laptops. There is no substitution for taking notes by paper and pen. Also, It gives off the impression that you are paying attention to your customers (which you should be).
Mobile Charger
MORE JUICE. I can’t speak for everybody but I am slightly obsessive when it comes to having a full charge on my mobile devices. I use low battery mode whenever possible but nothing gives me more anxiety than being below 50%. Never travel without one or two of these. I recommend getting one that has multiple ports to charge more than one device at a time.
Deodorant
One of the worst feelings when traveling, especially when meeting with clients is to worry that you are sweating too much. Between the smell and the stains it is enough to distract you from your primary goal. Pack a spray or small travel stick.
Hand Sanitizer
A must if using mass transit. Germs are everywhere and people are pretty damn disgusting. This is a small step in the right direction.
Ibuprofen
A long day of transit, meetings, stress, coffee, and alcohol usually leads to headaches.
Bottle of water
Hydration, hydration, hydration. One of the best ways to avoid headaches (mentioned above) is to drink a ton of water. Aim for no less than 64 ounces in a day. If you’re at an airport, you can reuse your plastic bottle as there are typically hydration stations (fancy water fountains) at most airports.
Almonds
This superfood doesn’t take up a lot of space but a couple of handfuls are packed with protein to keep you going between meals.
There are many other items to consider, but true road warriors usually get it down to a science. If you are using anything bigger than a backpack, you have over prepared. If you can fit everything in your pockets, you probably forgot something.
