8 Tips for a Stress-Free Work Trip

I just got back from one of my longest business trips ever. Five days, four nights in Dallas, Texas which you can probably tell from Instagram. It was my first time to Texas, but I didn’t have much free time to explore. The trip was meant to be as stress-free as possible with events planned back to back.

While it’s nearly impossible to have a stress-free work trip – it is work, not pleasure – here are a few ways to ensure the trip will be at least a little less stressful.

• Get work done. As much as possible before leaving for your trip. If you have to stay late in the office a few nights before, do it.
• Book everything ahead of time. All cars, hotels, flights, rental cars, restaurant reservations, etc. Don’t leave anything to book once you reach your destination.
• Have a detailed itinerary. Plan every hour of every day. Include all details in the itinerary including flight, hotel and car confirmations so that you don’t get lost or miss any steps.
• Pay for what you can ahead of time. So you don’t freak out having to swipe your credit card a million times.
• Have all contacts handy. Put everyone you may need to reach in your phone as a contact. Don’t leave it up to having to scroll through email.
• Pack well. Something I didn’t do on this trip. Who knew it would be colder in Dallas than NYC? Make sure you look at the weather ahead of time so you know what to pack for each day. Make a list of things you need and don’t pack any valuables you don’t need.
• Use your free time wisely. Time on the plane and in-between meetings should be used as time to catch up on emails and any client correspondence. Otherwise you’ll leave yourself even more behind.
• Get sleep. With time differences and running around all day, you will be exhausted. Get as much rest and sleep as possible so you don’t burn out by the time you get back from your trip.

How do you ensure your work trips are less stressful?

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