Business trips can be exciting opportunities to explore new places while advancing your career, but the packing and preparation process often feels overwhelming. Whether you’re a seasoned road warrior or packing for your first trip, having a reliable checklist can make the process more efficient and less stressful.
Update your list during or after every trip!
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Packing checklist
Before you begin, consider the following:
- Check the weather: Pack according to the forecast at your destination.
- Know your itinerary: Will you need business formal attire, casual wear, or a mix? Are you attending dinners or social events?
- Travel light: With a touch of Marie Kondo folding magic, aim to pack just a carry-on and personal item. This saves time at the airport and keeps all your essentials within reach.
Now, onto the checklist!
Clothing essentials
- Suit or blazer: A sharp jacket or blazer is a must for professional meetings.
- Dress shirts/blouses: Choose neutral colors or patterns that can be easily paired.
- Comfortable jeans or trousers: These can double as casual wear or dress down a blazer.
- Special occasion outfit: If you have a dinner or event, pack something appropriate for the setting.
- Comfortable shoes: Pack one pair of dress shoes and one pair of casual shoes or sneakers.
- T-shirts or tops: Great for lounging or hitting the hotel gym.
- Sleepwear: Something lightweight and easy to pack.
- Undergarments and socks: Pack one per day, plus an extra pair just in case.
Toiletries & personal care
Most hotels provide the basics, but it’s always good to have your own travel-size toiletries, especially for plane travel where size restrictions apply.
- Toothbrush, floss, and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Face wash and moisturizer
- Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
- Razor and shaving cream
- Hairbrush or comb
- Makeup or grooming products
- Melatonin for sleep
- Prescription medications (enough for the trip, plus a day or two extra)
Have a hard time sleeping in new places?
Pack a few all-natural melatonin tablets to help you get to dreamland faster. Melatonin is a natural product found in plants and animals. It is primarily known in animals as a hormone released by the pineal gland in the brain at night and has long been associated with control of the sleep–wake cycle.
Electronics & work gear
- Laptop
- Phone
- Portable keyboard/mouse, if needed
- Headphones: Essential for travel and virtual meetings
- Power bank: For recharging on the go
- Travel adapters (if going international)
- Notebook and pens
- Chargers for the above
- Chromecast: In case you get bored
- HDMI cable and USB-C adaptor: In case Chromecast doesn’t work
- Extension cord: This will save you more often than you’d think
Comfort & entertainment
- E-reader or Kindle: A compact way to bring books without the bulk.
- Travel pillow: Great for long flights or unfamiliar hotel beds.
- Sleep mask and earplugs: Essential for quality rest on the plane or in noisy environments.
- Snacks: Granola bars, nuts, or dried fruit can help you avoid overpriced airport food.
- Water bottle: Staying hydrated is key to feeling good, especially when traveling.
Invest in a Kindle!
If you’re a studious and avid reader, your investment in an e-reader will go a long way. Many of us enjoy the experience of a real book; however, books take up a lot of space in your luggage. One, small e-reader will give you access to countless books and can be read in the sun or at night without worrying about blue light.
Travel day outfit
When it comes to your travel outfit, comfort is key. You’ll want something that’s not only comfortable but also appropriate in case you meet clients or colleagues immediately after landing.
- Sweatpants and hoodie
- Short or long sleeve shirt
- Comfortable shoes: Sneakers or slip-ons that are easy to take off at security.
- Watch, phone, and e-reader: All the essentials within reach.
By using this checklist, you’ll be fully prepared for your next business trip, leaving you more time to focus on work and enjoy your travels. Safe journey!
