Intro:
Business travel is a nice perk some careers provide. However, keep in mind the purpose of the trip, especially on the first one. It’s an opportunity to experience a new state. But your itinerary will dictate how much free time you’ll have at your disposal.
The following are seven tips for preparing for your first out-of-state business trip.
1. Understand the Company Travel Policy
Before you head out on the road for business travel, ensure that you have read your company’s travel policy. It outlines expectations as a representative of the brand, such as conduct. If there’s a dress code, adhere to it.
The company policy also outlines the financials. Many companies provide employees with a travel expense account. At the least, they’ll reimburse expenses incurred while on the road.
Hotel Engine provides additional business travel reimbursement information here.
If you receive a stipend or other financial compensation, double-check that you’re aware of the limits. Most companies follow a reimbursement procedure. Keep all your receipts and other relevant expense information.
2. Confirm Your Accommodations
Your company’s travel policy also outlines how to book your accommodations. Sometimes there’s a business relationship between companies and hotel chains or airlines. Thus, they receive discounts in return for their business.
Where you book your accommodations and travel might impact your reimbursement. Therefore, book according to company policy.
It’s also a good idea to confirm your travel accommodations. It helps hotels and airlines keep their records organized.
3. Update Your Identification
Before you travel out of state, check your government identification cards’ expiration date. If it’s getting close, apply for a new one promptly.
The level of security you incur during business travel depends on your destination. Cities that receive lots of traffic, such as New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, have stricter security.
If you’re driving or taking the train, agents will request to see your non-expired government-issued ID too.
4. Pack Accordingly
Even on a vacation, it’s best to pack light. You’ll avoid excess baggage fees, long wait times at the luggage pick-up carousel, and having to pull your things around.
With your company’s travel policy in mind, pack accordingly. The bulk of your baggage should contain your business attire. Even your travel outfit should be professional. If you’re spending a few nights away, pack an outfit for lounging in your hotel room.
After you find out the predicted weather, pack outerwear for cold climates and sunscreen for sunny ones too.
5. Bring Your Business Cards
Most business trips offer networking opportunities. They also have a set purpose. Meetings, conventions, and team-building gatherings are common reasons for business travel.
Whether you’re meeting with business clients, professionals in your field, or colleagues, bring your business cards and pass them out when appropriate.
Every employee can contribute to their company’s bottom line. Making connections with other professionals provides opportunities for business and professional growth.
6. Double-Check Your Itinerary
Most business travelers remain on a tight schedule. As you prepare for your first out-of-state business trip, double-check your itinerary.
If the company sends a car to pick you up at home, be ready several minutes before it arrives. By staying on top of your schedule, you can figure out when there are gaps to squeeze in some free time to relax or grab a cup of coffee.
Being late to anything is not the impression you want to make.
7. Update Your Tech
One of your best travel companions is your tech. People rarely leave home without their smartphones. Therefore, update your tech and download some travel apps.
The calendar, weather, and calculator apps come in handy for checking the temperature, staying on schedule, and keeping track of your expenses. You can also prepare a music playlist to pass the air travel and download your favorite show or movies.
If you need to review a presentation, write a document, or stay up to date on the news, download the apps that help you work while on the go.
Conclusion
Your first out-of-state business trip provides an exciting opportunity. You represent the company while you travel. The best way to make it a successful trip is to prepare before you leave. For the first trip, stay focused on the travel’s purpose. Once you gain some experience, you can build on it for future trips.