How to Prepare for Your First Business Trip

Perfect Preparations:

1. Mile Master: If you’re booking the ticket, acquire airline miles by using a credit card such American Airlines Citicard or Capital One Rewards that provides free miles with every purchase.
2. Limit Luggage: If it’s a 2-3 day, limit luggage to a carry-on. Pack smart by selecting basics in neutral colors to alternate, downsizing to travel-size toiletries, and minimizing extra items such as books or cumbersome electronics.
3. Itinerary Mastery: Even if the company booked the trip, compile the itinerary into a tracker such as TripIt to organize your travel plan. TripIt syncs with your calendar,  provide maps and weather reports for the journey.
4. Eliminate Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Avoid the dread of compiling your expense report by keeping all receipts in an envelope in your wallet, purse, or briefcase. This will make it easier to keep track of what you spent and when, so you avoid paying out of pocket for business expenses.

Business First, Pleasure Later:

1. Schedule Smart and give yourself enough time between meetings and appointments so that you don’t inadvertently overbook yourself. Factor in travel time, traffic, and any inclement weather that may impede expedient arrival. Plan dinners a little later than usual until you can navigate the city with ease.
2. Know Your Limits: Remember you’re not there to enjoy the nightlife- business is priority. While you may be excited to experience a new city, save the crazy adventures for pleasure travel. Know your limits before you hit the town with your coworkers, and don’t drink as though you’re out with your buddies. Remember that you’re representing your company, and any misconduct reflects poorly on them, and can be reported to the CEO.
3. Nix the All-Nighters: Keep your morning agenda in mind and get a full 8 hours of rest before the first meeting. If that means cutting the night short so that you’re ready to go the next day, so be it.

Roomie Colleague:

1. Sharing Space: It may be awkward to share quarters with your colleague, but take it in stride and make the best of it. Be polite and give them privacy when they ask. Avoid using shared spaces such as the bathroom for extended periods. Get dressed and undressed in a private space to avoid awkward encounters. Offer to leave the room for a half-hour or so while they get ready. Hopefully they’ll get the hint and return the favor.
2. Plug It In: Pack earplugs or headphones just in case your co-worker snores so that you’re not up all night. Likewise, if you know you snore, offer your roommate a pair of fresh earplugs.
3. Couchsurfing: If there’s only one bed, offer to alternate between the bed and the couch. If they offer to take the couch for more than half the nights, treat them to breakfast or cover the housekeeping tip.