Let me guess, you’re here because you just got an email from your boss about a business trip in a couple of days? I know the feeling. 

Starting to panic? Don’t know what to bring on business travel? Long or short trip – you need a few essentials to bring along on any business travel adventure. Lucky for you, we’ve been there and done that enough times to come up a list that will have you thanking us. 

Continue reading to discover 7 unexpectedly essential items to bring on your business trips to – start travelling like a pro!

1. Business cards (just because we always forget these)

Here’s a pretty important one that often gets overlooked. You need to bring a sizeable stack of business cards. There’s no point in going to networking events or meetings without some great business cards. If you’re heading on an important trip it may even be worth updating your cards. 

Make sure you invest in some high-quality ones that give a good impression. Remember, to pack this in your carry on luggage or even keep a couple in your wallet. You’ll never know who you will meet while travelling to your destinations. 

Make a good first impression and get one foot through the door with a great business card – always important but always overlooked. Let’s move on to the next item.

2. Casual shoes 

Okay, this may seem like a strange suggestion, but hear us out! 

Obviously, when you’re going on a business trip you will pack a pair of professional work shoes. However, it’s also important to bring something more casual. When you’re on a business trip you never know what’s going to happen. 

You may end up going for a game of golf with some new colleagues, heading to the local bar for a few drinks, or even just grabbing a morning cup of joe. Whatever it is, you need to pack pairs of shoes that are more versatile, casual and comfortable. Yet, you still need to look presentable and elegant. 

A pair of boat shoes or Nike sneakers would be a perfect alternative to your business ones. If you don’t have room to pack an extra pair of shoes don’t worry! You can always head to the local shopping district to pick up the right pair of shoes.

3. Packing cubes 

If you regularly travel for work, a set of packing cubes are essential to organize your luggage. Packing cubes are small rectangular bags that compartmentalize your suitcase. They are a great way to fit several things in a small space and also make it easy to find what you need in seconds. 

Packing cubes are usually organized by categories such as laundry, electronics, shoes, pants, t-shirts, underwear, etc. You get the idea. This is also a nice way to keep everything smelling fresh and looking clean.

You can find packing cubes at luggage and travel stores or even online! It’s a great option for the professional traveller who needs to squeeze in their essentials into small carry-on luggage. Once you start using packing cubes on work trips you’ll never be able to travel without them. You can thanks us later.

4. Noise-cancelling headphones 

Here is one item that you may have never considered packing before. Yet, once you start travelling with a set of noise-cancelling headphones you’ll never be without one. 

Firstly, this is a great way to enjoy a podcast or some music while you’re travelling. Secondly, and more importantly, it’s also an easy way to block out noise on a busy flight or when you’re trying to get some shut-eye and your neighbouring serviced apartment is throwing the worlds loudest party. 

On a business trip, you need to be well-rested and feeling your best. Headphones can give you a little bit of privacy when you’re travelling. This makes them absolutely priceless. Make sure you invest in a high-quality pair to truly block out the world and feel Zen! 

5. Versatile basics 

As mentioned earlier, it’s important to be ready to dress for a variety of different occasions. The problem is that travellers often only have a tiny carry-on suitcase. So what’s the solution to this problem? Pack versatile basics! 

Bring clothes that have neutral colours and can be dressed up or down. This means a dark set of jeans, a plain white shirt, a simple black dress, or plain grey cardigan. For instance, black jeans can be worn to business meetings or to a casual restaurant depending on how you accessorize them. This is a great way to have a variety of outfits with only a few simple articles of clothing. This is a real lifesaver.

6. Comfortable pants (a personal favourite)

When you’re heading on a business trip the last thing you will be thinking of is sweat pants! However, you won’t be in meetings for the whole trip. You need a pair of comfortable pants while you’re travelling. 

Also, after a long day of work, there’s nothing better than ordering take-out and lazing around your hotel room and watching T.V. When you want to relax and unwind just throw on your pair of baggies and you’ll be all good.

7. Travel documents folder

Make sure you have all of your important documents organized in a travel folder or wallet. Keep this at easy reach in your briefcase or bag. You can put in your passport, flight confirmation, and even rental car documents. 

The more you’re organized the more seamless and stress-free your trip will be. Also, if you’re heading abroad make sure you pack a travel adaptor and a power bank. There’s nothing worse than arriving at your destination without any way to charge up your laptop or phone. 

Make sure you pack this next to your travel documents so that everything important is close by! 

These are just a few of our business travel tips to get you ready to go! Business trip packing lists really depend on where you’re going and what your itinerary is. Just remember to make a list of what you need and pack the night before. 

There’s nothing worse than rushing the morning of your trip and forgetting something essential. When you’re on a business trip it can be difficult to find the time to stop at a shopping district and pick up items. This is why it’s essential to get organized!

Are you on the lookout for a cool co-living space that suits your travelling lifestyle? Check out these amazing images of Singapore serviced apartments!