Business travel can mean different things for different people, but the necessities remain the same. Check out our top 10 must haves for your next international business travel adventure!
1. Your Passport and a Copy of Your Passport
It’s also important to make sure that your passport is valid at least 6 months past your scheduled return date.
When we help get your trip booked CARE Travel will ask for a copy of your passport as well, as an extra precautionary measure in case you do happen to lose it. We also notify you when your passport is approaching it’s expiry date.
2. A Visa (If the Country You’re Traveling to Requires One!)
Every country is different – some allow you to purchase your visa upon arrival, others don’t and require applications months in advance. It’s definitely better to know the difference ahead of time. Use our “Need a Visa?” tool to see if need one for your upcoming travel.
*Good news Sparkle, Hustle, Grow: US → Mexico, all you need is your passport if you’re staying less than 180 days!*
3. Your Travel Documents
ALL of them! Your flight details, hotel confirmation, transfer info, insurance, passport copies, etc. Keep them in a place that you can easily access WITHOUT internet or even if your phone dies!
When you’re filling out you customs papers on your international flight the form typically requests a local address, (the location you’ll be staying) so it’s very helpful to have these documents in an easy to reach place especially on the plane. Also super handy for transfers upon arrival, and easy access to your insurance info.
4. An International Cell Phone Plan
Check your international usage allowance and assess what you think you’ll need for the duration of your trip. Most providers have an option that allows you to pay by day as you need it which is great!
Hopefully you’ll have wifi for the majority of the trip, but if not it’s nice to know that you’ll have to ability to make calls, check maps, and access your email if you need to.
5. A Power Adapter
One of the most important things to take with you, especially if you’re going to be using your laptop or other electronics. We would suggest getting a universal adapter that will work in a larger number of countries that way you’re covered for future trips as well. This one is great because it also has 4 usb ports so you’ll be dealing with less actual plug ins!
*Sparkle, Hustle, Grow – The US and Canada have the same outlets, so there’s no need to get an adapter for this trip!*
6. Pre-Travel Research
Be familiar with some of the more common local customs, traditions. Pack professional and respectful clothing, and learn a few common phrases if English isn’t the main language spoken.
These things can make a huge difference if you’re interacting in a business setting with locals from this culture.
*Sparkle, Hustle, Grow – Check out the “Dualingo” app! It’s a fun way to brush up on some common Spanish phrases. You don’t need it for the business portion of your trip, but you’ll be “mas impresionate” (most impressive ;)) at the resort!*
7. Travel Insurance – Always!
You never know what could happen but this is an effective way to provide peace of mind and cover your all of your bases. It’s also important to really understand what your policy covers you for and how travel insurance works, especially if you’ve never really looked into it before.
Make sure you have easy access to the emergency contact number and the policy details throughout the duration of your trip. I’ve even kept a small card in my wallet with those details.
8. The Basics
Pack less and I guarantee you’ll smile more. Trust me on this guys, you don’t need to take your full wardrobe with you on an international business trip! Think your days through, what basic/statement pieces will you need? Only pack what you need, it’ll make your life so much simpler.
Do make sure you have all the necessities in your carry-on in case there are any luggage mishaps. That means at least one change of clothes, electronics, travel documents, and basic toiletries (toothbrush, deodorant, hairbrush, hand sanitiser, basic makeup, etc.)
9. A Local Weather Check
Do you need an umbrella? Should you pack an extra jacket, or leave it at home? We love a good travel umbrella! If it’s little enough it’s something that can just be added to your carry-on bag.
Checking the weather just before you leave can make a surprisingly big difference!
10. Local Currency
This definitely applies more outside of North America. In my experience it’s really helpful to have at least some US cash to exchange if needed. It can save a bit of money to do this prior to airport arrival though. You can check out the current exchange rates here.*
*Sparkle, Hustle, Grow – no need to worry about exchanging currency for Mexico! 🙂 A few All-inclusive tipping guidelines are listed below for you from CARE Travel owner, Niki Rakowitz:
- $1 per bag for any assisting with bags
- $5 -10 for shuttle drivers for transfers
- $10-$25 for private transfer drivers
- $5 per day for housekeeping
- $1-2 per person at meals at all inclusive
- $1 per person if using a “cart” to get around resort
- $1 per drink for bartenders/servers
A lot of these tips apply not only to business travel, but to all kinds of different trips! It’s especially important to stay organized if you’re heading into a professional setting or are going on a trip in hopes of professional growth. That definitely starts by being well prepared for your trip and setting up that positivity going in.
For more detailed information about the logistics, check out CARE Travel’s Resource Page, or reach out! We’d be happy to answer your travel questions and help plan your next international vacation.
