Business Travel: How to Stay Productive on the Road

It’s not always easy to be as productive on the road as it is when you’re working from the home office. You spend more time getting from place to place, settling into your hotel and finding meals.

But there are ways that you can increase your productivity during business trips.

First, make the most out of your travel time. If it’s feasible, consider taking the train. You won’t have to arrive at the station as early as you would at the airport. Plus, train seats tend to be bigger and more comfortable. Try to get a table seat, so that you can open up your laptop to get some work done during the ride.

If you have to fly, find out if your company will allow you to upgrade to premium economy or business class, where you’ll have more space at your seat, making it easier to open a computer. Even if it costs more, taking a nonstop flight can improve your productivity by allowing you to reach your destination sooner. If you do have to make a connection, choose your airports wisely. Some are worse than others because of the long distances between gates.

Choose your accommodations wisely, too. Sure, it can be tempting to book a hotel in the city center, where you’ll have more to do in the evening and more options for restaurants. But to get the most out of your trip, it makes more sense to choose a hotel close to your meetings. Look for one that offers free breakfast and Wi-Fi, so that you can arrive at your first meeting of the day well rested, on a full stomach and on time.

Your Travel Leaders agent who specializes in business travel can assist with all of these aspects of your trip, from helping you pick the best airport and flight to searching for the accommodation that has everything you need.

Remember to give yourself time to breathe. If your business trip is scheduled right up to the last minute, you’ll be exhausted and you’ll find it difficult to be at your most productive. Build time into your schedule to have a coffee or meet with coworkers before rushing home. It’ll help you build relationships with colleagues you may not see all that often, but who are crucial to your business. Plus, the more energetic you feel, the better job you’ll do. You’ll get more work done than if you’re constantly stressed out and tired during your trip.

Springing for a hotel room the night before your first meeting may seem like an unnecessary expense, but it can pay off in the long run. Getting to your destination the night before, and getting a good night of sleep, will ensure that you’re ready to go the next day. If you have to take an early morning flight and head straight from the airport to your first meeting, there’s a chance that you’ll arrive tired and disheveled.

For help planning a business meeting, contact our corporate team.