Business trips can be vital for one’s job and career, but in order to make them pleasant, you need to look your best. Now, looking your best for work-related occasions and a fun night out isn’t the same thing, but with a bit of effort, it can be achieved. The most important thing is to bring everything you need so you’ll feel ready to dedicate your time to business matters. Therefore, here’s a packing checklist that you should need every time you travel for business:

1. Clothes you’ll wear during the meetings

The first and most important item on your checklist: whether you prefer skirts, trousers or blazers, you’ll surely need something elegant to wear during the business meetings. Wearing elegant clothes will help you feel more self-confident and prepared. Make sure to wear what you usually wear to work, or, in case you want to take things a bit further, wear something more stylish, but don’t forget to choose something that won’t cause you any inconvenience or discomfort. Furthermore, be sure to bring a pair of classic pumps so you’ll feel ready to tackle any business challenges that might come your way. 

2. Some more casual garments, if you choose to relax

Sometimes, business trips can also consist of free time that you can use to explore the city and learn something new. In that case, wearing something more casual will surely come in handy, as no one wants to go on a sightseeing tour in a business suit and heels. So, make sure to pack a more casual pair of shoes or a pair of sneakers, maybe some jeans or a jacket that could be worn during various occasions without making you look out of place. In case there’s an excursion planned, feel free to pack an umbrella so you won’t be surprised in case of the rainfall. 

3. Accessories that will make you look well put together

Business suits can be a bit boring, so if you ever feel like adding something extra, don’t forget to add various accessories that can surely spice up your outfit, to an extent appropriate for the business environment, of course. Therefore, opting for small earrings or a brooch can significantly contribute to your outfit while still making it look toned-down. Also, a floral scarf will surely be a great addition to your monochromatic suits, and if you prefer to experiment with vivid colors, you can pick an orange or bright green scarf, but be careful not to let it upstage your whole outfit.

4. All the necessary cosmetic products

Even though hotels offer mini bottles of shampoos and shower lotions, some people prefer to bring their own cosmetic products, which is quite understandable, since we all have different skin types and concerns. Hence, it’s necessary to pack all the products you usually use, but if you’re traveling only for a day or two, make sure to use travel-sized bottles and packages, so you’ll have enough space in the suitcase for the rest of your things. 

5. Makeup is important

Some women prefer to wear more makeup, which is fine, so even if you don’t like it that much, you can opt for the makeup essentials that will cover your imperfections and accentuate all the positives on your face. For example, wearing a foundation can sometimes clog your pores and cause further skin issues, that’s why it would be much better to wear a BB cream that will cover the blemishes and moisturize your skin. Aside from that, you can bring mascara and lipstick, since these are more than enough to make you look fresh while you’re on a business trip.

6. Your work supplies

There’s no business trip without work supplies, such as a laptop, an external hard drive, a tablet or maybe even a regular notepad that will help you keep notes and stay on track. And if you’re traveling long distances, it’s important to protect your gadgets from getting damaged, so don’t forget to pack protective cases. Additionally, make sure you have chargers and additional batteries, especially if you’re going to use your devices for business presentations. And in case you need to keep track of your expenses, make sure to bring enough envelopes for the receipts. 

7. Your purse (with all the essentials)

Even if you’re bringing a business bag with all the documents, it’s important to have a purse where you’ll be able to keep your passport and other personal essentials that will help you while you’re away from home. Now, you can use a hotel safe to store your valuables, but it’s still necessary to make sure everything safe so you’ll feel at peace without worrying about your prized possessions. Additionally, you can take a bit of cash and keep it in your suitcase in case of an emergency. 

8. The most necessary medications

Nobody likes the idea of getting sick during the business trip, but sometimes a headache or the mild flu happen and there’s nothing to be done. In that case, bringing the most necessary medications can greatly relieve your symptoms and help you finish all your work. Pain relievers, fever-reducing meds, and seasonal meds will definitely help you in case you suddenly feel a bit unwell. 

Conclusion

Packing all the necessary items can be a bit stressful, especially if it’s your first business trip. But, if you pack all the items from this list, you’ll surely have a pleasant and safe traveling experience. And in case you forget something at home, you can always go to the nearest pharmacy/grocery store or a shopping mall and get everything you need. 

Bio: Fiona is a lifestyle blogger based in Melbourne, Australia. She’s in love with good coffee, croissants, and fashion magazines. In her spare time, she plays tennis and travels around the world. You can read more from her on her blog High Style Life.