As glamorous as it may sound, travelling around the country, schmoozing with clients and living off room service is sometimes not all it’s cracked up to be. Particularly when extended business trips often involve the living-out-of-a-suitcase factor. Here are 5 essential business travel accessories that will have you jet-setting like a pro in no time.
#1 – A Wi-Fi Hotspot
With technology always changing and improving, being consistently connected to Wi-Fi is pretty easy these days. However, in terms of preparing for a business trip, it’s worth remembering that airport and aircraft Wi-Fi can be expensive. It can also be notoriously unreliable and in some cases even unsecured.
Of course, mobile phones themselves can be used as hotspots for other devices, but with the number of calls, text messages and emails most business professionals send and receive, battery life can also be an issue.
That’s why investing in a separate hotspot device is worth considering. A Wi-Fi hotspot is portable, efficient and allows you to stay connected regardless of your location. It’s important to choose your product well, however, as with many consumer electronics these days, they can become practically obsolete in a matter of months. So do your research first!
#2 – A Portable Charger
Phones, laptops and tablets all have a certain battery life, and unfortunately, a dead battery can often occur at the most inconvenient of times. Investing in a portable charger or ‘power bank’ can save you time, as well as the hassle of having to find an alternative power source.
But before you invest in what’s considered to be one of the more important travel accessories out there, there are a number of key features you should consider:
- Size: Portable chargers come in all shapes, sizes and weights and unfortunately physical size and battery capacity often go hand in hand. If you’re after an ultra-portable option, you may have to sacrifice battery size.
- Battery capacity: Work out how much power you’ll need and how often you want to charge your power bank. If it’s just for emergencies, 5000 mAh may suffice. If you want to use it multiple times before recharging, aim for one over 10,000 mAh.
- USB Ports: The more ports a power bank has the more devices you can charge at one time, and most chargers come with two.
- Charging output: Many portable chargers come equipped with either a 1A or 2.1A output port or both, and these figures denote the maximum rate of charging in amps. The higher the amperage, the faster the device will charge. A 1A output port is generally suitable for most Smartphones, whereas older phones require a 0.5A port. Tablets and iPads require a 2.1A output port and those capable of charging laptops require a 3A port.
- Casing: If you need a portable charger that’s uber-durable, look for one constructed of either silicone or aluminium.
#3 – A Suitable Carry-on Bag
Time is precious on a business trip, so one of the important business travel essentials worth investing in is a decent carry-on bag. The check-in/check-out process won’t just be smoother, you’ll also be confident that your bag conforms to airline baggage size restrictions. In terms of weight, carry-on baggage allowances for all domestic and international flights is generally around 7kg, and the size allowed depends on your carrier, so check their websites for details.
Additional features to consider before you purchase:
- Construction – look for a carry-on that’s made from a durable fabric (possibly water-resistant) with handles that are firmly attached to the body of the bag.
- Handles – if you prefer these to be extendable, make sure they are comfortable to grip and extend to a reasonable height. Additional handles at the base or sides will help with lifting.
- Wheels – your bag should roll easily and not tip or bounce. A four-wheel spinner model is ideal as you have the option to either pull it behind you or push it alongside you.
- Compartments – expandable compartments are great for squeezing in additional items.
- Pockets – internal pockets will help keep everything organised, and external pockets allow easy access.
- Zips – should open and shut easily and zip tags should have holes to enable padlocking.
#4 – A First Aid Kit
Yes, efficient packing is important, however so is ensuring you have all the First Aid essentials with you in the event that you need a Band-Aid or some headache relief on your way to an important business meeting. First-Aid kits can be bought pre-prepared, however, it’s also easy enough to create your own compact travel version.
In terms of essentials for business travel for short domestic journeys consider including:
- Adhesive bandages – of various sizes to treat minor cuts
- Antiseptic wipes – to clean wounds
- Antihistamines – for allergies
- Hand sanitiser – to keep hands super-clean
- Paracetamol and ibuprofen – for pain relief
- Antacids – for upset stomachs
- Bandages – for strains or sprains
- Prescriptions – for any medicines you currently take
- Tools – scissors, tweezers and safety pins (although make sure these pass airport restrictions)
Then it’s simply a case of packing it all in a pliable, zip-up bag that’s compact enough to fit into a spare compartment in your carry-on.
#5 – Travel-Sized Personal Care Products
Yes, hotels often supply soap, shampoo and conditioner, but there’s more to maintaining a presentable, professional appearance than just winging it with the basics. Here are a few other travel-sized personal care products you should consider taking with you:
- Deodorant – roll-ons can leak in reduced cabin pressure, so consider a stick or a liquid spray
- All-in-one wash – if you’re serious about space-saving, choose an ultra-concentrated product that will wash your face, hair and body
- Moisturizer – choose one that contains SPF so that it both moisturizes and provides sun protection
- Lip balm – to help combat dry lips as a result of cabin pressure
- Manicure kit – including tweezers, a nail file and nail clippers
Shop around for a compact wet pack to store everything in, and when preparing for a business trip, there will be no need to worry about packing personal care items ever again. Simply grab your pre-prepped kit and go!
Another important travel essential? A reliable airport transfer company! Car Australia has all your business travel needs covered with our range of chauffeured cars and coaches! Get in touch today on 1300 661 119.