Taking the Stress Out of Business Travel

Traveling can be a stressful experience especially when the purpose is for business. Many businessmen and women can attest that flying across states or the globe for a meeting or to seal a contract can be the most agitated and stressful experience. These days jet-setting business travelers are increasingly seeking balance during their work-related journeys and taking specific measures to find it.

Here are some great tips you can take with you on your next business-related excursion.

Before Flight

• Make several copies of your itinerary and contact numbers
• Gather the files you want to take and arrange them efficiently. If you'll be meeting with clients or co-workers, you may want to organize your papers chronologically, according to the dates of your meetings. Attach your business card or other identification to each.
• Keep a well-organized record of your travel documents, credit cards, and other vital information. Include photocopies of your passport and driver's license, the numbers of credit cards and traveler's checks, and a list of emergency contacts.
• If you'll be traveling by car, work out your route before you leave town. Get a map and familiarize yourself with it, or call someone at your destination for directions.
• Finish the preparations for your trip before you leave.
• If you travel frequently, create a master list of items to take with you on every trip, such your cell phone and charger, your calendar or organizer, and a device for steaming the wrinkles out of clothes.
• Use online or automatic billing to take care of your bills while you're on extended travel.

During and After Flight

• Wear comfortable clothes and practical shoes. Dress in layers so that you can stay comfortable at various temperatures.
• Drink Plenty Water and take healthy meals or snacks to eat instead of airline meals, which tend to be high in fat, calories, and preservatives.
• Get up and walk around the plane at least once an hour, or do a few stretching exercises.
• Plan ahead for long flights. If you hope to sleep on the plane, pack a few items that may help, such as an eye mask, earplugs or sterile cotton balls, and an inflatable neck pillow.
• Develop a routine. Find a place where you can buy your favorite kind of coffee in the morning, or where you can enjoy a pleasant jog after work.
• Ask co-workers, customers, or the hotel concierge for suggestions on dining out, entertainment, and how to enjoy your time in their area.
• Leave time for fun. On a short trip, you may need to devote almost all your time to work. But you'll burn out if you don't build time for fun into an extended stay.
• Stay connected to family and friends. Many business travelers say that much of their stress comes from missing important family or social occasions.
• Make your absence easier for children. Make a recording of special stories for young children. Or use a Webcam and make a video recording of them. This will help them to remember and enjoy the sound of your voice.