one day business trip packing list

Packing Lists

Business Trip Packing List for Overnight, 3-Day, and 5-Day Trips

Published September 19, 2023

Written by:

Laura Lopuch

Laura’s first trip was when she was 3 months old, instilling an insatiable wanderlust. She hasn’t stopped traveling, or writing...

Fred Perrotta

Co-founder, tortuga.

Fred Perrotta is the co-founder and CEO of Tortuga. His first backpacking trip to Europe inspired him to start the...

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Table of Contents

Whether you’re heading out on a last-minute, overnight business trip, or a five-day conference abroad, packing for business travel is always different than prepping for a fun vacation.

Your work trip packing list will likely include more electronics and gear. So you’ll need to plan around the extra items and weight.

Also, traditional business clothes are notoriously delicate and wrinkle-prone, so they can be difficult to pack.

This article will break down how and what to pack for your business trip. We’ll cover men’s and women’s business clothing , advice on managing your electronics, and more.

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How to Pack for a Business Trip

Carry on plus personal item.

When packing for a work trip, use carry-on-sized luggage plus a personal item that can carry your laptop.

How to Pack Your Laptop for Travel

Pack your laptop in your personal item when you travel, ideally in a backpack, briefcase, or messenger bag with a dedicated laptop sleeve for protection. If you’re using a tote or other bag that doesn’t have a padded area for your laptop, invest in a laptop sleeve to protect it.

If you’re one-bagging, make sure you choose luggage that has a dedicated laptop compartment. Remove your laptop before stowing your bag in the overhead compartment so that you can work during your flight.

Whatever you do, never, ever put your laptop in a checked bag and risk it being broken, lost, or stolen while in transit.

Roll Your Clothes and Pack Them in Packing Cubes

Once upon a time, I didn’t use packing cubes . And my bag was a disaster. It took long minutes to find the shirt I was looking for or clean socks. Not anymore, thanks to packing cubes.

To look your best, you should fold your clothes along the seams then roll them . Yes, this even applies to most dress clothes. When you arrive, hang your clothes in the closet or even in the bathroom when you shower to release more wrinkles. Your hotel should have an iron for any necessary touchups beyond that.

For maximum organization, use packing cubes and assign each one a purpose. For example, a smaller packing cube holds underwear. A larger cube keeps your shirts organized and wrinkle-free. Then, roll them before zipping them away to make each item easy to find while preventing creases and wrinkles.

How to Pack Your Suit: Fold, Don’t Roll

A traditional, wool suit must be packed properly to keep its shape while in transit. To pack a suit in a carry on , fold it, don’t roll it.

Alternatively, you can try a wrinkle-free suit from Bluffworks or Ministry of Supply ( men’s , women’s ). Wrinkle-free, synthetic fabrics have improved dramatically from the early days of stiff, plastic-y dress shirts.

Stuff smaller, soft accessories like your socks, tie, and pocket square in your shoes to preserve their shape.

Business Trip Packing List

A good business trip packing list is built around a solid core, personalized to your needs and style. “Work clothes” can vary depending on your industry and the nature of your trip. You could be dressed anywhere from a three-piece suit to a shirt and slacks to a hoodie and jeans. Pack and dress as makes sense for your business trip.

Let’s start with the basics.

Copy of itinerary
Boarding pass
Transportation and accommodations

If your business trip takes you across borders, don’t leave home without your passport. If you’re traveling abroad for your business trip, know that some countries won’t let you in without a guarantee of when you’ll leave. Pack a copy of your complete itinerary, including evidence of when you’ll leave the country, to show border security.

After your passport, your boarding pass is your most important document. Mobile boarding passes are convenient, but make sure that you’ll have internet access via your phone if you plan to use one. Or, take a screenshot of the boarding pass and use it offline through your photo app.

For your own convenience, print out the details of your transportation from the airport to your accommodations (if you’ve booked anything), the address of where you’re staying (for customs forms and taxi drivers).

I use TripIt to aggregate all of my trip details in one place. Using the app is more convenient than carrying a stack of printouts with me. However, paper copies are better for border crossings and for when you don’t have WiFi access or a local SIM card.

Electronics

Phone and charger
Headphones or earbuds
Laptop and charger
Adapter (if traveling abroad)

Carry earbuds if you want to travel light or noise-canceling headphones if you want a quieter trip. For the latter, we like Bose’s QuietComfort line.

The Macbook Pro and Macbook Air are the most popular choices for Apple users. We recommend the lightest computer you can get that doesn’t sacrifice the performance you’ll need. Dave at Too Many Adapters wrote a helpful guide to choosing a laptop for work and travel .

Eye mask and ear plugs
Water bottle
Kindle or book
Pen and notebook

If you’re taking long flights or overnight trains, earplugs and an eye mask make for all-natural, compact sleep aids.

Get a reusable, refillable water bottle for your travels so that you can stay hydrated without generating the extra trash of plastic bottles.

I’m still old-school and read physical books instead of using a Kindle. Either way, don’t forget a good book to pass long hours waiting or traveling.

Clothes: Business Travel Wardrobe

When packing clothes for a business trip, look for items that pull double-duty and that can be dressed up or down.

Meaning: that black dress looks equally stunning with a scarf for a casual business meeting or a statement necklace for a client dinner. Whatever your personal style is, pack items that make you feel comfortable and confident.

Although the exact items will differ depending on your style and gender, the clothes section of a 3-day business packing list looks like this:

3 tops; 2 dress tops and 1 casual top
1-2 bottoms
3 pairs of underwear
3 pairs of socks
1 set of pajamas
2 pairs of shoes : 1 dress shoe and 1 athletic/casual shoes
Workout clothes (optional)

Women’s Business Travel Wardrobe

Use the above business trip packing list template and add the following for a 3-day business trip.

2 Blouses and 1 T-Shirt

1 lightweight t-shirt to dress up or down

Pack two business-appropriate blouses or collared shirts and wear the more casual t-shirt on the plane. I love J.Crew’s vintage cotton t-shirts as they look chic (and feel comfortable) with jeans or slacks.

Everlane has a range of modern, basic shirts that work for both business and casual attire. Their Japanese GoWeave line is especially good for travel since the fabric is durable, wrinkle-resistant, and comfortable.

1 dark-colored blazer or suit jacket

It’s no secret that I’m a huge J.Crew fan. Their women’s blazers fit well, look chic, and last a long time. Consider a wool blazer that keeps you cool in hot boardrooms and warm on chilly airplanes.

If you’re willing to make the investment, consider a wrinkle-resistant blazer, like the Kinetic Blazer by Ministry of Supply , that you can pack without worrying about it turning into a rumpled mess. En route, wear your blazer so it doesn’t get wrinkled in your carry on bag.

2 Bottoms and 1 Dress

1 pair of slacks or skirt
1 pair of dark-wash jeans , worn on the plane
1 dress (optional)

Opt for Betabrand’s Yoga Dress Pants for sleek black pants made from stretchy material like your favorite yoga pants. Alternatively, look at ADAY’s line of pants for a wrinkle, odor, and pill-resistant pair of business travel pants that are technical, travel-ready, and fashionable.

I live in jeans, and even on the dressiest business trip, I’d yearn for a pair. If you’re like me, wear your jeans on the plane. My favorites are Lucky Brand jeans with some stretch woven in.

Love your dresses? Pack a versatile dress like one from Draper James or any of the odor-and-wrinkle-resistant merino wool dresses by Wool& .

3 Pairs of Underwear and Socks

3 pairs of socks
3 pairs of underwear
2 bras

If you want to hand wash your underwear, you can get away with packing less. However, for a short 3-day business trip like this one, pack one pair per day. Because you’ll save more on time vs packing space.

2 Pairs of Shoes

1 pair of business-appropriate shoes
1 pair of athletic shoes, worn on the plane

Pack one pair of professional shoes that are small, light, and comfortable, like this pair of classic black heels from Clarks , or a simple and easy-to pack pair of flats or loafers by Rothy’s .

You can wear your heels through the airport, but I wouldn’t recommend it. Instead, I wear a pair of black athletic shoes that I can use for a run or workout at my destination.

1 Set of Pajamas

1 lightweight shirt
1 lightweight, athletic pair of shorts

My favorite packing light secret? Make your pajamas and workout clothes the same outfit. Snag a quick, sweaty workout in the AM and hand wash your clothes in the sink. By the time you’re ready for bedtime, your clothes will be dry and ready for you.

Man wearing backpack at Union Station in Los Angeles

Men’s Business Travel Wardrobe

Use the business trip packing list template and add the following for a 3-day business trip.

2 Dress Shirts and 1 Casual T-Shirt

2 wrinkle-resistant dress shirts
1 casual shirt that’s suitable for after-dinner drinks and on the airplane

Ironing dress shirts is a pain. Instead, opt for a wrinkle-resistant dress shirt (or two), like one from Bluffworks . They are made from 98% polyester (that’s a good thing), have lots of stretch, are breathable, and dry quickly. The best part is that they’re machine washable. Perfect for happy hour or the boardroom in any city you visit.

For your casual shirt, opt for a versatile merino wool t-shirt that will stand up to the rigors of travel.

2 Pairs of Pants

2 pairs of pants and/or jeans

For a pair of pants that can easily work for business and leisure alike, pack a pair of basic, but high-performance pants, like the good-looking Outlier Slim Dungarees . If you prefer jeans, try Bonobos’ Extra Stretch Travel Jeans which are made from lightweight, 10.5 ounce denim and have a 1% stretch.

Stick to 1-2 pairs of pants and wear your more casual pair on your flight.

Avoid doing laundry on a quick, three-day business trip and, instead, pack three pairs of underwear and three pairs of socks.

1 Blazer or Jacket

Read the full Buyer’s Guide to Travel Blazers for all of our favorites. Or, jump right to our top pick, the wrinkle-free Bluffworks Gramercy Travel Blazer .

1 pair of dress shoes
1 pair of athletic shoes for workouts (optional)

Think small, light, and comfortable for your shoes. Like the Lenox Hill Cap Toe Oxfords from Cole Haan or Vivobarefoot Ra II.

Packing two pairs? Wear the heavier or bulkier pair through the airport and pack the lighter pair.

1 lightweight, athletic pair of shorts

5-Day Business Trip Packing List

For a longer, five-day business trip, be prepared to hand wash your clothes mid-trip. Or, have the hotel do it for you. Check with the front desk to see if they offer a laundry service for guests. Make sure to ask how long it will take and the price.

Not keen on doing laundry? Prepare to pack a little more in your luggage. You can still pack carry-on-only for a five-day trip. Some of our customers travel for weeks, months, or years out of just a carry on .

When your clothes get a little wrinkled or smelly, hang them up in the bathroom while you take a hot, steamy shower. The hot, moist air eases wrinkles and smells from your clothes.

What to add to the base list above for a five-day business trip:

2 pairs of socks
2 pairs of underwear
1 blouse or dress shirt
1 casual shirt to dress up or down

Overnight Business Trip Packing List

Ready for a quick, easy packing list for a one-night business trip? Reduce the number of items in your one-day work trip packing list by two.

Pack an outfit, wear an outfit, and add the non-clothing essentials.

What to pack for an overnight business trip:

1 dress shirt
1 casual shirt
1 pair of dress pants or skirt
1 pair of casual pants
1-2 pairs of shoes (one dress pair and one athletic)
1 pair of underwear
1 pair of socks
1 blazer or jacket
Book or kindle
Notebook and pen
Ear plugs and eye mask
Travel adaptor and passport (if international)

Steal a page from George Clooney’s well-refined playbook from Up in The Air and streamline your airport experience by packing only in a carry on bag . You’ll save time at the airport and feel more confident.

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Max Carry On Size

Laura’s first trip was when she was 3 months old, instilling an insatiable wanderlust. She hasn’t stopped traveling, or writing about it. As an expert in carry on travel, she’s flown on over 100 flights with only a carry on bag. Even on trips with her husband and kids.

She believes travel is the great educator — and vital to our humanity.

The Ultimate Packing List for Business Travelers

Marty Levart

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Business travel can be both exciting and stressful. Having the right items with you can make your trip more comfortable and productive. In this article, we will provide you with the ultimate packing list for business travelers, ensuring that you have everything you need for a successful trip.

Editor’s Note: This article was partially generated using AI technology.

When it comes to professional attire, it’s good to consider the level of formality of your trip. Business suits are a professional staple, providing a polished and put-together look for any occasion. For a more business casual situation, dress shirts and blouses paired with slacks or a skirt are a good option. Pieces that can be dressed up or down, like a linen blazer or a black dress , allow you to create multiple outfits with minimal packing.

In terms of outerwear, consider the climate of your destination. Blazers and suit jackets are popular choices, providing a structured and put-together look. Sweaters can be worn over dress shirts or blouses for a relaxed yet professional appearance. For colder destinations, a tailored option like a peacoat or a well-fitting lightweight puffer jacket will do the trick.

For footwear, consider dress shoes such as oxfords, loafers, pumps, flats, or dressy boots. It is important to choose shoes that are appropriate for the workplace while still being comfortable enough for any sightseeing you have planned.

In addition to business attire, pack a few casual items for after-hours activities and for the flight. These can include comfortable pants , jeans , t-shirts , and sweaters .

The ultimate business trip packing checklist should always include:

Business suits
Professional dress shirts and blouses
Slacks and dress pants
Skirts and dresses
Jackets and sweaters
Shoes (at least two pairs)
Socks and underwear
A tie and belt (if applicable)
A scarf (if applicable)
A hat (if applicable)

It is essential to pack toiletries for a business trip, especially if you will be away for more than a few days. Consider packing items such as:

Toothbrush and toothpaste
Shampoo and conditioner
Soap and body wash
Razors and shaving cream
Hairbrush and comb
Facial cleanser and moisturizer
Makeup and cosmetics
Menstrual products
Skincare products (including facial cleanser and sunscreen )
Contact lenses and solution (if applicable)
Prescription medications

When it comes to personal hygiene and self-care, it is essential to have a few items on hand. The most basic necessities include a toothbrush , toothpaste , shampoo , conditioner , soap, body wash , deodorant , and any skincare products part of your typical routine. For those who prefer a clean-shaven look, don’t forget your razors and shaving cream.

For hair care, bring along a hairbrush or comb , hair styling tools , and any hair products you use on a daily basis.

Lastly, individuals who require prescription medications should always have them readily available. Pack any necessary medication in your carry-on or personal item to ensure that they reach your destination safely.

Electronics

Staying connected on-the-go is never more important than when traveling for business. Make sure to bring the following items:

Cell phone and charger
Any necessary external hard drives or flash drives
Power cords and adaptors
Portable Wi-Fi device
Portable charger

A laptop is a must-have for any business traveler as it allows you to work on important tasks and stay connected with your colleagues and clients. Additionally, a cell phone is essential for communication and a tablet can be useful for reading documents or presentations on the go.

Headphones can be useful for listening to music on the plane or taking calls in noisy environments. A portable Wi-Fi device can provide you with reliable internet access while on the move. Lastly, a portable charger can be a lifesaver when you are running low on battery power without an outlet in sight.

Be sure to bring important travel documents on your business trip, such as your passport, driver’s license, copies of your itinerary, and tickets. In addition to these typical travel necessities, make sure to print out any contracts, reports, or presentations you may need for your trip. Keep all of these documents in a folder or bag that you can easily access.

Miscellaneous Business Essentials

When traveling for work, make sure to pack all the business travel essentials needed to complete your job for the duration of the trip. This can include additional accessories like a briefcase or laptop bag , business cards, notebooks , and pens . If you’re giving a presentation, make sure to bring all the necessary equipment and materials, such as presentation notes, cables, and extra batteries .

Lastly, make sure to bring any industry or job-specific items that your work may require, such as name tags, ID cards, building keys, specialized gear or equipment, or uniforms.

Miscellaneous Travel Items

There are a few items you’ll want to have in your suitcase no matter the type of trip. These include:

Travel-sized laundry detergent
Travel pillow and blanket
Travel-sized umbrella
Snacks and water bottle
Travel-sized first aid kit
Travel adapter for charging devices
Travel-sized sewing kit
Travel-sized stain remover

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Perfecting the One-day Business Trip: Tips and What to Pack

Written by Becca

Updated on August 14th, 2024

I took a very short one-day business trip, flying back the same day! Here are my best tips for how to survive and what to pack, to make this work travel worth it and easy.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Table of contents

What to pack for a same-day work trip
Tips for taking a one-day work trip
Final thoughts on a one-day business trip

I was recently presented with the opportunity to take a one-day business trip. I departed in the morning to St. Louis from Newark Airport, and returned home before my bedtime.

As a woman in my mid-thirties, I am glad to travel halfway across the US for a single in-person meeting, and go home to sleep in my own bed the same night.

How do you take a same-day business trip, though? Is there any secret hack or tip I needed to uncover? How do you survive the early morning flight, the late night return and looking fresh and put-together in between?

Take it from me: I first researched the other tips out there from business travelers who nailed the one-day business trip, and these are my best suggestions of how to do it and what to pack.

A group of people walking through an airport.

What to pack for a same-day work trip

Packing for a same-day work trip isn’t hard, but I thought through it a few times. Here’s what I went with, from the bag I strategically chose to the back-up smart items I packed in there.

Your business travel bag or luggage

While business travel websites and pro business travelers out there recommend a short carry-on suitcase like the Daily Carry-On from Away , I found it perfectly appropriate to take a professional laptop travel backpack.

I took the Troubadour Bivy Tote on this trip (it was discontinued shortly after). As an update, I swear by the Troubadour Apex Everyday Tote as a replacement for the future–it’s one of the best travel totes combined with a padded laptop tote that’s great for getting on the road.

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With room for a laptop and a central cavity that fits a slim packing cube , accessories and chargers, it was a no-brainer to take a laptop backpack on my business trip.

In this photo of my packing setup, you’ll see my travel laptop backpack and my belt bag, all chic and in black. I’m ready to step off the plane and into my meetings.

A black bag sitting on a table next to a person's feet.

Travel (waist pack) accessory bag

I’ve mentioned in other gear articles of ours that I really like having a waist pack during travel days. During a same-day business trip, you do quite a bit of travel in just a few hours!

Shop my picks

Great for stylish women travelers (or men travelers!), it can be worn in a cute “waist” location rather than at your hip.

It fits all my daily “stuff” from hand cream, hand sanitizer, keys, cards, wallet and phone, to more random items like even an entire water bottle.

I appreciate its sleek, expandable design and multiple pockets, ideal for daily essentials and travel, with a stylish silver buckle adding a touch of elegance.

On this trip, I took the Public Rec Belt Bag , which I used both in its fanny pack method and its sling bag setup. I find this bag is to be so convenient for keeping my passport, wallet, phone and AirPods handy and close to my body. I keep it in my lap during the flight as well.

Not interested in the look of this convertible fanny pack? Check out the list of my best fanny packs for travel to see more options.

An airplane seat with a Public Rec Adapt Belt Bag and a cup of water.

Work items to pack

Make sure to take your work laptop, laptop case (I use a simple neoprene one I bought on my own) and your laptop cable or charger. I usually pack these the night before.

One tip is to make sure you don’t take your personal laptop instead of your work computer, as that would be an unfortunate mistake. Pack these while you’re not in a rush, ideally not in the minutes before you’re running out the door.

Other travel accessories

In addition to the standard “travel things” like a phone cable and an external battery pack or power bank (great for when you have an old plane with no outlets!), you could consider bringing compression socks for the flight and a neck pillow (I recommend this easy one from BCozzy ).

You’ll also want a reusable travel water bottle! Pack the one you’d take on any trip. I recommend the YETI or the S’well bottles . Fill up your bottle at a water fountain before you board your inbound flight, so that you’re not parched and tired upon arrival.

A backpack sits on a table next to a water bottle.

Toiletries to bring

When leaving home for just a day, you might think, do I need toiletries?

I opted for “yes” on this question, after reading some recommendations of bringing a toothbrush and travel-sized toothpaste for these reasons:

So that you can freshen up by brushing, after a flight, if you fall asleep and feel groggy
In the rare case that your return flight is cancelled, you’ll be glad to had a spare toothbrush and toothpaste

I also brought aromatherapy scented travel-sized hand cream for battling the dryness of the plane, plus having an attempt at smelling nice before my meeting. I packed one tube of mascara as a quick makeup fix, one lip balm and one mini Vaseline , also to combat airplane dryness.

One more thing: a last-minute item I threw in my backpack was a travel-sized hairbrush to use post-flight in case I looked messy.

For men, you could consider bringing a beard comb or small set of travel-sized grooming items .

If you often perspire during flights, or just tend to feel smelly, opt to bring along deodorant and apply it either in the airplane bathroom before the descent, or in an airport bathroom right when you arrive.

The inside of an airplane with people sitting in the seats.

Clothing, accessories and shoes

As my trip was during the fall, I was lucky to be able to wear a sweater as my casual top that doubled as a layer on the flight and a base that I could “dress up” before landing.

How did I do my “dressing up before landing?”

I packed a set of a matching necklace and bracelet that I could put on, along with a solid-colored pashmina that could add a pop of color to what I was wearing (which was dark jeans and gray Allbirds Pipers ).

I also expertly applied mascara as the plane was landing, by using my phone as a mirror. Luckily, I did fine.

A person's feet on the seat of an airplane.

I should mention I also wore my black leather band travel watch by Victorinox , which is always a classy item to have on my wrist in professional environments.

In a small packing cube , I packed one extra pair of underwear and one extra top, along with a pair of leggings, for two possible reasons:

In case I wanted a change of clothes for the flight home the same night
For the same reason of (in a rare case) my return flight getting cancelled and my needing to spend a night in my destination

Tips for taking a one-day work trip

Remember: this business travel guide is for anyone taking a work trip that lasts only one calendar day, not a 24-hour trip that involves one night in a hotel. I’ve recently done one of those as well, and the difference is that you really do require a whole night’s worth of things.

For anything I mention here, it’s in regard to leaving in the morning, going to a meeting or event out of town, and coming back the same night. I’m not really speaking to red-eye flights , which would start the night before and get you into your destination in the morning, essentially. The tips here speak to waking up at a “more or less” normal morning time and getting home before midnight the same day.

Here are my best tips for making your trip successful and not getting too tired!

Get a good night of rest the night before

I really recommend trying to go to bed at 9, 10 or 11 pm the night before your same-day work trip, depending on if you have a 6, 7 or 8 am flight.

I had a 9:30 am flight out of an airport not too far from where I live, so I lucked out. I went to bed around 11 pm the night before (and of course didn’t sleep very well because I always fear I’ll miss my early morning alarm!). I left home a little after 7, and was already through security and grabbing a latte 45 minutes later.

Check into both your flights the day before

Because your flights are both on the same calendar day, you can check in online the day before you leave and save a lot of time at the airport.

Perfect that one-day work trip packing list

Despite being such a brief trip, as you can see from the packing I did above, you may be challenged by fitting all these “what-if” items into only a backpack or mini carry-on.

Pack your trip bag beforehand

Pack your entire carry-on or backpack the night before your trip and make a short list of the finishing touches for the morning. For me, this list tends to be my phone charger, phone, battery backup power bank and a few other things.

A black power bank connected to a charger.

Keep in touch with colleagues or clients

If your flight is delayed, or even if it takes off early, ping your coworkers also traveling or your client/partner on the ground at your destination to let them know your status.

I texted my coworkers as soon as I landed, and we texted the business partners with whom we’d be meeting, nearly immediately, to tell them our ETA at the office campus.

Have a freshen-up plan

For me, my plan was to put on my jewelry, fix my hair and have my makeup done before landing, as I was meeting colleagues immediately in the airport and heading right to the meeting with another company!

Your plan could look different. Think about if your tight schedule allows time to change clothes in an airport bathroom, have a meal before picking up your rental car, etc., so that you can have a game plan.

Regarding meals, we’re talking about that in just a second!

Make sure to eat on the way in

Luckily, I picked up both breakfast and snacks at airport shops in the morning and ate enough to hold myself over for a while, as well as have snacks for the afternoon if food wasn’t available or being planned. Truth is, you never know if others came from having lunch and assume everyone has eaten.

It was fortunate that I prepped in this way because I headed with colleagues to our meeting, forty minutes outside the city we landed in, and we wound up not going out to lunch for another two and a half hours. If I hadn’t been able to sneak a snack, I would’ve been starving!

(As you can see here, I’m a bit of a health nut, and I focus on nutrient-rich foods full of protein and fiber on travel days. I try to avoid chips and pure sugar junk as long as possible.)

A variety of snacks and drinks are sitting on a table.

Be communicative about your time frame

What with departing the same night back home, keep your coworkers and business partners at the meeting or event informed of your departure timeline so that no one encounters any stress.

We were in luck that we went out to a business lunch after meetings were done, and our timeline for getting in an Uber and being en route to the local airport for the flight home was absolutely perfect.

Plan around that flight back home

Sleeping in your own bed tonight is surely the end goal, so make it a priority to not miss that flight back to your origin airport!

Calculate the distance between where you’ll be spending the day, to the airport, so that you can get through security and to your gate on time. Hopefully you’ve had a chance by then to have a successful business meeting or event, and even sample some local cuisine!

For me, I went right from the airport to a meeting at an office campus in a suburb, and then went right back to the airport with coworkers to make our return flight to NYC .

Prepare for delays

This is standard travel advice and also standard business travel advice, of course. Would you ever know it? While I was with colleagues waiting for our flight home to board, we got a notification from the airline app that our flight was delayed more than 90 minutes.

I had a moment of agony and then was thankful I wasn’t alone, but surely could’ve been if I had been heading to a different home airport than the others.

Fortunately, there were food options nearby, as well as WiFi. Eventually, our delayed flight wound up being able to board earlier than expected and we made a mad dash for that!

Final thoughts on a one-day business trip

I think my same-day work trip went fairly well, considering that I did travel halfway across the US and return home in the same period of less than 16 hours. Air travel really never ceases to amaze me for how it gets you from Point A to Point B, so fast .

A few things that brought me success were staying relaxed, keeping an eye on the time and knowing that I had everything with me that I needed in case of an unexpected scenario.

I hope your same-day trip for business goes swimmingly and that these recommendations were good reminders of what you can do!

The Ultimate Business Trip Packing List

Here’s what our experts say to pack for your next work trip.

Packing Checklist for a Business Trip

Clothing for women, clothing for men, shoes for women, shoes for men, other essentials, frequently asked questions.

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Travel + Leisure / Alli Waataja

Packing for a work trip can be a stressful task if you’re not prepared. You’re limited by luggage space, fewer standard care tools, and dress requirements. Traditional business attire is known to get wrinkly between wears (especially after being stuffed in a suitcase for hours on end) and it isn’t known to be the most comfortable apparel. On top of that, you may want to go to the gym while you’re away, so that requires a different set of gear. Rather than trying to bring your whole closet in one suitcase, the winning strategy is to pack pieces that you can get the most use out of. Every cubic inch matters, and a few staple pieces go a long way — all of which should create a full wardrobe that’ll last you the whole visit.

To help us make sense of this packing conundrum, we’ve commissioned two writers who’ve been on plenty of business trips to help us plot out exactly what should go in your suitcase — from blazers and cardigans to dressy slacks and loafers. These items include the essentials that run the gamut of every work trip scenario (think long meetings, presentations, team outings, and networking events). See our curated list below.

Best Day-to-night Dress: Boden Joanna Cap Sleeve Wrap Dress
Best Trousers: A Day Turn It Up Pants
Best Skirt: Banana Republic Asymmetrical Midi Slip Skirt
Best Blouse: Quince Washable Stretch Silk Notch Collar Blouse
Best Sleeveless Top: Amour Vert Zola Doubled Tank
Best Cardigan: Amazon Essentials Women's Lightweight Open-Front Cardigan
Best Blazer: Spanx The Perfect Oversized Blazer
Best Trench Coat: Uniqlo Trench Coat
Best Dress Shirt: Ministry of Supply Men’s AeroZero Dress Shirt
Best Polo Shirt: Vuori Strato Tech Polo
Best Chinos: Lululemon ABC Classic-fit Pant Warpstreme
Best Dressy Slacks: Bonobos Weekday Warrior Dress Pants
Best Blazer: Rhone Commuter Blazer - Slim Fit
Best Travel Suit: Bonobos Jetsetter Stretch Wool Suit
Best Overcoat: Mack Weldon Stormchaser Mackintosh Jacket
Best Flats: Vionic Willa Slip-On Flat
Best Heels: Nine West Kuna 9x9 Pointed Toe Pump
Best Travel-day Shoes: Dr. Scholl's Shoes Women's Madison Sneaker
Best Loafers: Tecovas The Monterrey
Best Dress Shoes: Cole Haan Men’s Original Grand Wingtip Derby
Best Travel-day Shoes: Koio Capri
Best Portable Phone Charger: Anker PowerCore Select 20k mAh Power Bank
Best Tech Folio: Ekster Tech Case
Best Wallet: Ridge Wallet
Best Portable Laptop Charger: Anker Laptop Power Bank
Best Laptop Tote: Quince Italian Leather Triple Compartment Work Tote
Best Cosmetics Pouch: Leatherology Travel Organizer

T+L's Top Picks and Tips

“Packing for a business trip is all about functionality. A clothing piece should not be in your luggage if it isn't versatile. I often leave for three- or four-day-long business trips and only take a carry-on, so I need to be very strategic when I pack. Opt for comfortable clothing that looks the part, too — stick to classic colors, neutrals, and wrinkle-resistant fabrics that don't easily show dirt or stains.” — Dobrina Zhekova

Best Day-to-Night Dress

Boden joanna cap sleeve wrap dress.

What happens when you combine two of fashion's most iconic and flattering styles? The answer is this little black wrap dress, which is on constant rotation in my work wardrobe. I can show up in it at the airport (it's stretchy and super comfortable to travel in), a business meeting, or a restaurant (I accessorize it with some sparkly evening jewelry) — it's a multitasking powerhouse. If you're worried about the V-neckline opening up, don't — it closes completely and sits flat. The dress is also available in a variety of lengths (petite, regular, and tall) and sizes (from zero to 22), and if you're into colors, then you'll love the bold prints it's available in.

Best Trousers

Aday turn it up pants.

This pair of ultra-stretchy pants are so comfortable that you can easily work out in them. In fact, you can do pretty much anything in them, because the Italian-made fabric was made with performance and functionality in mind. They’re made of nylon and elastane for maximum comfort. Let's not forget that they’re also wrinkle- and pill-resistant and quick drying, transforming these into the perfect pair for travel days and pretty much any climate.

The silhouette is another strong point — the high waist is flattering, while the delicate front pleats are a chic add-on. You can dress this pair up or down depending on your shoes and top: a white t-shirt and sneakers for casual outings and a silk blouse and heels for a business meeting.

PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Morgan Ashley Parker

Banana Republic Asymmetrical Midi Slip Skirt

With its delicate silk-like construction and flattering wrap-inspired detailing, this skirt epitomizes quiet luxury without the high price tag. It has a comfortable and work-appropriate midi length and a classic silhouette to be styled with everything from elegant evening wear tops to more casual pieces. But what makes it a really good addition to your travel wardrobe is the material — durable, long-lasting, and quick-drying polyester that feels soft, drapes, and looks like silk but doesn't require weekly runs to the dry-cleaner.

And because comfort and flexibility are everything on the road, the slip-on elastic waist delivers ease of movement without compromising the skirt's sophisticated look.

Best Blouse

Quince washable stretch silk notch collar blouse.

Nothing symbolizes the idea of versatility and timelessness more than a silk blouse. I own at least ten versions of this long-sleeve collar button-down, but I pack Quince's styles for trips because they are packable and affordable (easy to replace), and I can wear them with absolutely everything. I've paired this shirt with denim and cotton pants, as well as skirts, and the result is the same — a polished, classy, and professional look that never looks out of place.

Another pro is the fabric — yes, it is silk, but it is washable silk, which makes all the difference (namely, in your bank account because you don't have to dry clean it). Before I put it on, I hang it in my hotel bathroom for ten minutes with the hot water running because the steam fixes any mild wrinkles or creases from the trip.

Best Sleeveless Top

Amour vert zola doubled tank.

Sleeveless tops can be tricky when worn in a business environment, but this one by sustainable San Francisco-based label Amour Vert is equally elegant and comfortable. The reason? The crew neckline and the A-line silhouette are complemented by smart tailoring, in this case, a faux "layered" look that adds coverage and a chic element. And I love the loose fit for travel days when sitting through a long flight requires comfortable clothing.

This tank could be the perfect support piece — tuck it inside pants and under a blazer, or let it assume a leading role when you style it with heels, tailored trousers, and a necklace.

Best Cardigan

Amazon essentials women's lightweight open-front cardigan.

A beautiful, long cardigan like this one is always an excellent addition to your business travel wardrobe. There are countless occasions in which this elegant and functional piece will come in handy, from chilly aircraft cabins to air-conditioned offices to work events requiring more conservative attire.

Two things make it a winner in our book — the construction and the design. It's made from a perfectly soft and durable blend of cotton, modal, and polyester, transforming it into the ultimate travel-friendly, breathable layer that takes up almost no space when folded. And I love the open-front silhouette because I can style it with a belt for an eye-catching look. Another bonus: there are so many colors to choose from — classics like black, white (which is more ivory), and navy to bold yellow and red.

Best Blazer

Spanx the perfect oversized blazer.

It may be a personal choice, but close-fitting and body-hugging styles are not my definition of travel-friendly. Loose, well-tailored pieces provide freedom of movement, which is essential if I am on the road for hours. Case in point? This Spanx single-button blazer is a modern take on a time-tested classic that delivers the same chic looks and comfort in one easy-to-wear-and-style package.

The length perfectly complements midi skirts, dresses, or pants, while the roomy silhouette means you can wear several layers or a sweater underneath it. And I am especially fond of the collarless design — it's an unexpected detail that elevates its look. Lastly, I love a piece that doesn't require much effort to clean. This one is machine washable (you're welcome).

Best Trench Coat

Uniqlo trench coat.

A good trench is not just a spring and fall-time necessity; it is a timeless statement of style and an essential part of business attire. While trench coats come in many shapes and sizes , this one by Uniqlo blends travel-friendly features and sophisticated design elements for a flawless look.

The silhouette is strongly influenced by the trench coats of the 20th century — think double-breasted design, wide lapels, cuffs around the wrists, and a waist bell. I like this style's pockets and slightly loose fit (size down if you're looking for a more tailored look) because I can wear it over a chunky sweater without making me feel and look like the Michelin man. The length is also perfect for travel as it balances functionality (I am always cold on planes, so I appreciate the extra coverage) with style.

“The standard protocol for work wear is a nice button-up shirt, a clean pair of slacks, and perhaps a blazer for dinner. The only issue is that brands typically use cotton or wool fabrics that aren’t very breathable and are prone to wrinkling, while performance fabrics are reserved for workout clothes. The pieces below meet in the middle, offering moisture-wicking and wrinkle-resistant fabric in silhouettes perfect for professional settings. Best of all, taking care of them is effortless as they’re a bit more durable.

I recommend always packing more pairs of boxer briefs and socks than you think you’ll need. Although it takes up more space, you never know when you may step in a puddle or have an emergency. Essentials are an item, and you certainly don’t want to have to buy extras in between important meetings.” — Joe Niehaus

Best Dress Shirt

Ministry of supply men’s aerozero dress shirt.

Ministry of Supply’s AeroZero Dress Shirt combines the best of performance apparel and professional looks — this button up is created for travel. It’s made of a proprietary 100 percent polyester fabric that’s wrinkle resistant and lightweight, great for transitioning between warm weather. A unique ventilation area under the armpits helps you combat sweat and body odor when you don’t have a chance to shower before your next meeting. Finally, its no-warp 3D collar has built-in stays to remain in tact no matter how much movement your trip brings you. The AeroZero Dress Shirt is the world’s first carbon-neutral dress shirt and is derived from plastic bottles, milled under solar power.

Best Polo Shirt

Vuori strato tech polo.

A simple, sharp, and breathable polo shirt is one of our work-trip must haves. Vuori’s best selling model fits the bill perfectly. In fact, I snagged one (in the pleasantly neutral White Sage Heather colorway) earlier this year and it has quickly become my go-to polo for most movement-heavy activities, from casual nights out to quick flights across the country. It’s insanely soft, feeling almost like pima cotton, and has a nice four-way stretch from its polyester-elastane composition. The durable odor resistance, quick-dry capability, and flattering slim fit make this a perfect all-around polo — so good that you may want to grab a few different colors.

Best Chinos

Lululemon abc classic-fit pant warpstreme.

Lululemon’s ABC pants are iconic for a reason : they blend the practicality of workout joggers with the look of chinos. So, if you’re tired of stuffy pants that can’t seem to stop wrinkling and bunching up, give these a try on your next getaway. The brand’s signature Warpstreme fabric is made to be hyper versatile and provide a full range of motion, while also helping you up your smart-casual game. This pair boasts five pockets with an extra hidden zip pocket above the back right pocket, great for stashing away extra cash or your hotel key. The ABC is available in over 10 colors and has a wide range of waist and length sizes.

PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jack Bibi

Best Dressy Slacks

Bonobos weekday warrior dress pants.

Looking for something a bit more formal, but still want to prioritize comfort? The Weekday Warrior Dress Pants from Bonobos may be just the pair for you. The cotton-elastane blend provides a classic shine with a slight amount of stretch. Feel free to leave behind the iron — these pants can be washed in the machine and don’t require any special maintenance to get them looking crisp again. They’re available in six different fit options from classic to tailored and have a wide variety of colors to match any shirt you may want to pair them with.

Rhone Commuter Blazer - Slim Fit

Blazers are a quick and convenient way to maximize your impact in the boardroom and we recommend Rhone’s everyday-wear Commuter Blazer for its flexible four-way-stretch fabric. It has a two-button closure, three pockets in the front, and plenty of extra storage in the interior. They say “dress for the job you want, not the job you have” and this blazer will have you climbing the ranks in no time. Please note, Rhone recommends dry cleaning this piece only.

Best Travel Suit

Bonobos jetsetter stretch wool suit.

With a name like “Jetsetter,” you know this suit was made with business travel in mind. Bonobos’ tailored set is made mostly of wool, with a hint of elastane for added flexibility. It comes in slim, athletic, and standard blazer fits and even more options for the dress pants. Mix and match the top and bottom with six basic colors. Even if you don’t wear a suit everyday, you’ll appreciate the comfort and travel-focused features — like its interior passport pocket — on your next business trip.

Best Overcoat

Mack weldon stormchaser mackintosh jacket.

You never really know what elements you’ll come into contact with when going to a new city, and the last thing you need is to show up to an important meeting drenched in water. Modern menswear brand Mack Weldon brings hardcore technical protection to a classic silhouette with this jacket. It has a 10K waterproof rating with sealed seams on the inside and magnetic welt pockets on the outside. Though it’s made of 65 percent polyester, it still feels like soft cotton so your colleagues will never suspect its next-level durability.

“Casual elegance and versatility are the hallmarks of business footwear for travelers. Pack shoes that look professional and are in a classic or neutral color so you can take them from the boardroom to a nice restaurant. That doesn't always mean heels — a pair of loafers can do the trick, too, if you pick them with high quality and comfort in mind. As a general rule of thumb, I never travel in any laced-up shoes because nobody wants to be that person at airport security who takes forever to take off their shoes.” — Dobrina Zhekova

Vionic Willa Slip On Flat

Many brands have a version of this slip-on loafer , but Vionic beats the competition with what you don't see on the outside — the superior cushioning, arch support, and supple materials that make the shoes fit perfectly straight out of the box, no break in time required.

Whether rushing to catch a train or a flight or running around town for meetings and events, this shoe has you (and your feet) covered with its simple, minimalist, but most of all comfortable — design.

Skirts, dresses, pants, and jeans — this loafer goes with everything, and it's super compact, so you can carry it in your tote bag if you need to change into heels for a formal work event.

Nine West Kuna 9x9 Pointy Toe Pumps

Heels and travel-friendly may be words that don't belong in the same sentence, but wait until you spend a few hours in these Nine West pumps. While they look fairly classic — they have an elegant pointy-toe silhouette and slim two-inch heels — what makes them different is the memory foam cushioning that’s ideal for long periods on your feet and a pretty much non-existent break-in period.

The style is available in four beautiful and timeless hues, including beige, so whichever you choose is guaranteed to go with various outfits and pieces. Also, be advised that Nine West shoes usually run a bit large. And if your feet are a bit on the wider side, then these pumps are definitely for you.

PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox

Best Travel-day Shoes

Dr. scholl's madison slip on sneaker.

It's really hard to argue with these viral sneakers , and we're not here to do it, anyway. The truth is that these popular slip-ons are the stuff of travel dreams — easy to slip into and take off at security and comfortable to walk or run in. Their trendy looks — sports casual, is how we would describe it — is just an added bonus for business travelers.

The sneakers are flexible, lightweight, and have padding that hugs your foot and helps with all-day comfort, regardless of where your travels take you. And it doesn't hurt that the style is available in so many colors, materials, and prints that you may end up ordering more than one pair.

PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Bridget Annear

“The last thing you want on an important trip is to look sloppy and your shoes can make or break your whole outfit. Thankfully, modern styles have evolved to bring sneaker-like comfort to dressy styles — a must when you have a full day in transit or walking around a city. I like differentiating between styles: one pair for formal meetings and another pair for casual use that are still nicer than the athletic shoes I wear everyday back home. The footwear below is everything you need when you’re traveling for business.” — Joe Niehaus

Best Loafers

Tecovas the monterrey.

Tecovas has been crafting leather goods for almost a decade and The Monterrey is the brand’s popular slip-on. Made of high-quality bovine leather (the same type used in boots), these will only get better with time and wear. Constructed with a blake stitch, padded leather insole, and interior suede heel grip, this loafer feels like a house slipper but still has enough support for wherever your journey takes you. Available in five colors and a wide range of sizes, be sure to carefully consult the fit guide as some customers have noted sizing can be a bit inconsistent depending on your typical selection.

Best Dress Shoes

Cole haan men's øriginalgrand wingtip oxfords.

Coming off as traditional wingtips and padded with a supportive EVA midsole, the OriginalGrand Wingtip Oxfords are our favorite dress shoes specifically designed to keep you comfortable on the go. They have a tailored out-of-the-box fit complemented by a removable cushioned insole that adds to its already strong base. We also love the grooved rubber sole, which provides great traction both on long city strolls and short walks between meetings.

Best Travel-day shoes

Koio capri triple white sneakers.

I’ve tried my fair share of sneaker brands. Some were more casual athletic kicks, while others were dressier leather shoes. I have settled on the Koio Capri for all settings that don’t require proper dress shoes. I got my first pair last year and have since worn them at work conferences in Barcelona, Bangkok, Dubai, and more — if I’m getting on a plane, they’re coming with me. They’re made in Italy with full-grain leather and a rubber sole. The leather is flexible, while still being able to handle the elements, and the cushion rivals even my favorite running shoes. They’ll certainly cost you, but you won’t have to venture to find another pair of clean, simple, white travel-day sneakers.

Staying organized is critical when traveling for business. Investing in accessories that keep your belongings in order and easily accessible will help you focus on your job instead of wasting time rummaging through your carry-on . Here are our other essential items to pack to keep your items sorted, secure, and fully charged.

Best Portable Phone Charger

Anker powercore select 20k mah power bank dual-port portable phone charger.

Running out of juice is probably the biggest work-trip hiccup, but it’s the easiest thing to prevent. Your cards, emails, and plane tickets are likely all housed on your phone, so make sure to keep it running. Anker’s PowerCore line offers your iPhone and Android devices several additional charges, ideal for a full day outside the hotel. I have a less powerful Anker model, which still has plenty of support, and couldn’t imagine leaving home without it. The PowerCore Select 20k takes about 7.5 hours to recharge and comes with a 1.9-foot cable — I recommend getting a shorter cord as the extra slack can get in the way when you’re moving.

Best Tech Folio

Ekster tech case.

When you have computer chargers, smartphone chargers, headphones, adapters, and more, things that get a bit overwhelming. Especially in your carry-on suitcase if you’re trying to quickly access an accessory. Ekster’s Tech Case is a clean and compact organizer that has nifty mesh pockets, elastic organization cables, and durable foam padding to tidy up and protect everything to the last detail. I switched over to this case from haphazardly jamming everything in my luggage, and the peace of mind is unbeatable. I took this on a weekend getaway recently and even left my dopp kit at home because I had some extra space for my toiletries.

Best Wallet

Ridge wallet.

If you’re looking for a slim, no-fuss wallet to store only your most essential cards and ID cards, then I can’t recommend the original Ridge Wallet enough for business trips. It’s not the prettiest, but it gets the job done and is great for managing just a few items, compared to being at home when you may be carrying more cards. It’s available in a wide range of materials, colors, and designs, but the classic aluminum models offer simple durability and you can choose between a cash strap or money clip add-on. Ridge offers a 99-day risk-free trial and a lifetime warranty — if anything happens when you’re on the go, just send it in for a replacement.

Best Portable Laptop Charger

Anker laptop power bank.

I rarely run out of battery on my phone as I always travel with a mini iWalk phone charger. However, I have run out of battery on my laptop several times, which was a major inconvenience. That's why I invested in this Anker power bank, which charges my Macbook Pro in a couple of hours. But its best feature, in my opinion, is that, unlike some other power banks of this caliber, this one is pretty compact and fits in my travel tote. It is also compatible with other brands and types of devices, so it can easily replace your go-to, high-powered travel charger.

Best Laptop Tote

Quince italian leather triple compartment work tote.

Traveling with a separate laptop bag is not an option for me, because it only makes me more stressed out about forgetting it at a train station or the airport. At the same time, I am not a fan of the classic "laptop bag" aesthetic that tends to be sportier and lacking in style. But this gorgeous Quince tote is none of these things. In fact, I doubt that anyone would be able to guess you're carrying a laptop inside unless you have to take it out at airport security. The reason? The padded laptop pocket remains hidden between two other compartments, adding to the tote's storage and organizational capacity. I appreciate the duo of longer shoulder handles that make carrying it a breeze even through a few bulky winter layers.

Best Cosmetics Pouch

Leatherology large travel organizer.

I always travel with bottles filled with my favorite face cream, serum, and cleanser, in addition to a hand cream, sunscreen, and a few beauty essentials that I like to have in one place. I love this Leatherology organizer, because it comes in multiple sizes, so you can purchase the one that fits your needs, but it also has an excellent interior organization with elastic straps stitched to the bottom panel where bottles can fit. The top has a mesh zippered pocket for beauty tools or other toiletries, and everything remains visible and easily accessible. Lastly, the pouch has a handle, so it's easy to carry around.

I am a huge fan of Leatherology's high-quality materials, and this pouch is made from beautiful pebbled leather that will develop a gorgeous patina over time.

There’s no one perfect way to pack a suit on your next trip—you have options. For shorter trips when you may be going to a meeting directly from the flight, your best option may be to simply wear your suit on the plane. If you’ll be gone for longer and are bringing a checked bag, a garment bag offers better protection, but takes up more space. Take into consideration how much extra space you have, your meeting schedule, and your clothing needs.

While I normally wear cotton and linen clothing, when I travel, I always pack pieces made from wrinkle-resistant fabrics that look just as good when I unpack them in my hotel room. And the best wrinkle-free materials are usually synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, spandex, or elastane. Companies will also sometimes treat materials with anti-wrinkle finish, but I try to avoid these as they may release toxic chemicals that the skin can absorb.

Another option is wool, one of the only natural fibers that is wrinkle-resistant and is perfect for travel.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Joe Niehaus is a T+L contributor who has been traveling for work for almost a decade. Whether it’s to Atlanta or Asia, Joe has honed in on his travel essentials. This list consists of items he has extensively used on trips both domestically and internationally, in addition to goods our broader T+L team has tested in our New York City lab and on their adventures.

T+L contributor Dobrina Zhekova is a lifestyle journalist based in Alexandria, Virginia, with over a decade of editorial experience in print and digital media in Europe and the U.S. Dobrina has extensively written about travel-friendly fashion and shopping. For this story, she gathered insight from online product reviews and item descriptions and included products that she has tested herself during her business trips that span over a decade.

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Business Trip Packing List: Checklist for Stress-Free Travel

By Status.net Editorial Team on December 12, 2023 — 12 minutes to read

Sample Checklist to Help Organize Your Business Travel Packing

Business travel packing checklist.

Carry-On Essentials: – Passport/ID and travel documents (e.g., visas, travel insurance, itineraries) – Wallet (credit cards, cash, frequent flyer cards) – Mobile phone and charger – Laptop/tablet and charger – Earphones or noise-cancelling headphones – Portable power bank – Travel pillow and eye mask – Reading material or e-reader – Pen and notepad – Business cards – Hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes – Face masks – Essential medications and a small first aid kit – Snacks and a refillable water bottle – Travel-sized toiletries (in compliance with TSA liquid rules if flying) – Change of clothes (in case of luggage delays)

Clothing: – Suits or business attire for the number of workdays – Business casual outfits for less formal meetings or dinners – Dress shirts or blouses – Ties or scarves – Belts – Undergarments and socks – Sleepwear – Casual clothes for off-duty hours – Workout clothes and athletic shoes – Comfortable walking shoes for business – Dress shoes – Light jacket or coat (depending on weather) – Sweater or cardigan for layering – Swimsuit (if applicable)

Toiletries: – Toothbrush and toothpaste – Shaving supplies – Deodorant – Hairbrush or comb – Shampoo and conditioner – Body wash or soap – Moisturizer and skincare products – Makeup and makeup remover – Hair styling products and tools (e.g., hair dryer, straightener) – Sunscreen (if appropriate) – Insect repellent (if traveling to a location with mosquitoes or bugs)

Tech and Accessories: – International adapters or converters (for overseas travel) – USB cables and portable USB hub – HDMI or VGA cables for presentations – Portable Wi-Fi hotspot or Ethernet cable (if needed) – Camera (if not using a smartphone)

Other Items: – Umbrella or raincoat – Sunglasses – Travel sewing kit – Laundry bag – Collapsible tote bag for day trips or extra items

Additional Items to Consider:

Office Supplies: – Highlighters and markers – Stapler and staples – Paper clips and binder clips – Folders or document organizer – Envelopes and stamps (for mailing documents)

Health and Wellness: – Vitamins and supplements – Prescription glasses or contact lenses and solution – Sleep aids (e.g., melatonin or prescribed medication) – Pain relievers and fever reducers – Motion sickness medicine (if applicable)

Entertainment: – Playing cards or small travel games – Travel guidebooks and maps – Language phrasebook or translation app (for international travel)

Security Items: – Luggage locks (TSA-approved for air travel) – Money belt or neck wallet – Photocopies or digital copies of important documents (in a separate location from originals)

Travel Comfort: – Compact blanket or travel throw – Compression socks (for long flights)

Personal Items: – Jewelry and watches (keep to a minimum for security) – Glasses and sunglasses case

(When planning your business trip, consider the climate and cultural norms of your destination. Researching the weather can help you pack accordingly.)

Essentials for Every Business Trip

Travel documents.

Ensure you have all necessary travel documents, such as:

Passport: Make sure it’s valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
Visas: Check whether you need a visa for the country you’re visiting and apply well in advance.
Driver’s License: Carry it with you, especially if you plan to rent a car during your trip.
Travel Insurance: Protect yourself against unforeseen events like accidents, flight cancellations, and lost luggage by getting travel insurance.
Itinerary & Flights: Print or save your itinerary, along with your flight details and boarding passes.

Travel Gear

The right gear can make all the difference in keeping you organized and comfortable during your business trip:

Carry-On Luggage: Opt for a high-quality, lightweight luggage piece that fits airline specifications.
Packing Cubes: Use these to keep your clothes sorted and wrinkle-free.
Comfort Items: Pack a travel pillow, eye mask, and earplugs for more pleasant flights.
Toiletry Bag: Choose a clear, TSA-approved bag for hassle-free security checks.
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated by bringing your own refillable water bottle.

Electronics & Accessories

You’ll need your devices and gadgets to stay connected and productive:

Laptop & Charger: Don’t forget your workhorse, along with a suitable charger.
Smartphone & Charger: Keep your phone charged with the right cable and plug.
Power Bank: A portable charger can save you from your devices dying when you need them the most.
Adapters & Converters: Double-check what type of plug/socket is used at your destination and pack the appropriate adapters.
Noise-Canceling Headphones: These help you focus and reduce stress on noisy flights or in busy environments.

Health & Hygiene Items

Taking care of your well-being while traveling is paramount:

Hand Sanitizer & Wipes: Keep germs at bay by regularly sanitizing your hands and wiping down surfaces.
Face Masks: Bring a few comfortable and breathable face masks for use on public transport and in crowded spaces.
First-Aid Kit: Take a compact first-aid kit with essential items like band-aids, pain relievers, and any necessary prescription medications.
Personal Toiletries: Bring travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, and so on to maintain your routine.
Packable Laundry Bag: Separate your dirty clothes from the clean ones with a foldable laundry bag.

Packing for Professional Needs

Attire planning.

When packing for a business trip, consider the dress code of your destination. If the trip involves formal meetings or conferences, pack suits or blazers, dress pants or skirts, dress shirts or blouses, and ties or scarves. Don’t forget comfortable yet stylish shoes to match your outfits. It’s also a good idea to bring a few casual outfits for downtime or less formal events.

Tips for packing clothes :

Choose versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched.
Opt for wrinkle-resistant fabrics to minimize ironing.
Roll your clothes or use packing cubes to save space.
Pack a small laundry bag for used garments.

Climate-aware packing

No one wants to be caught off-guard by unexpected weather changes. So, here’s a quick list to help you pack:

Cold weather : Warm coat, sweaters, long sleeve shirts, thermal wear, gloves, woolen socks, and waterproof shoes
Warm weather : Light clothes, short sleeve shirts, comfortable shoes, and sunglasses
Rainy weather : Waterproof jacket, umbrella, and waterproof shoes

Don’t forget to check for any extreme weather conditions or seasonal changes while packing.

Dressing for cultural norms

Consider the local guidelines of your destination’s dress code, especially if they differ from your own. Some countries have strict cultural dress codes that you’ll need to follow to show respect and avoid offending locals. For example, if you’re visiting a conservative country, you might need to avoid revealing clothes and pack more modest attire.

To help with understanding cultural norms, here are a few considerations:

Business meetings : When attending business meetings, you must wear formal or semi-formal clothing, unless specified otherwise.
Site visits : If your trip involves visiting certain venues or work sites, make sure to pack any required safety gear or specific clothing in your luggage.
Social events : Understand the dress code for any social events you’ll be attending, like galas or networking activities, and pack appropriate attire.
Religious sites : When visiting religious sites, it’s vital to show respect by dressing modestly and following their specific guidelines.

Work Equipment Necessities

Besides your clothes, you’ll need to pack essential work equipment. Ensure you have your laptop, charger, smartphone, and any necessary accessories, like a portable mouse or USB drive. Don’t forget power adapters if you’re traveling internationally.

Here’s a checklist of work-related items to pack:

Laptop and charger
Smartphone and charger
Portable power bank
International power adapter
Earbuds or noise-cancelling headphones
Small notebook and pen
Business cards
Portable Wi-Fi hotspot (optional)

Smart Packing Techniques

Layered packing.

One great way to pack efficiently is by using the layered packing technique. Start with heavier items at the bottom of your suitcase, then work your way up with lighter items. For example, place shoes, toiletry bags, and heavy electronics first, followed by clothing layers like jeans and jackets. Finally, place lighter items like shirts, underwear, and accessories on top. This method helps to distribute the weight of your items evenly and prevent delicate items from being crushed.

Rolling vs Folding

When it comes to packing clothes, the age-old debate is often between rolling and folding . Both methods have their merits, but we recommend giving rolling a try. Rolling your clothes saves space and helps to prevent wrinkles. To roll your clothes, lay each item flat, fold it in half, then roll it tightly from the bottom up. Rolling works best for lightweight and wrinkle-prone items like t-shirts, dresses, and blouses. However, for bulkier items like jeans and sweaters, folding may work better and provide a neater appearance in your suitcase.

Utilizing Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are another fantastic tool for keeping your belongings organized and compact. These lightweight and durable cubes come in various sizes and can be used to separate different types of items. For example, you can use one cube for your shirts, another for pants, and another for accessories. They make it easy to locate items quickly and help keep everything tidy throughout your trip. You can even color-coordinate your packing cubes for an extra level of organization.

Staying Organized on the Move

Packing for a business trip requires careful planning and organization to ensure a smooth experience. Here are some tips and examples to help you stay organized while traveling for work:

1. Create a packing list: Before you begin packing, create a comprehensive packing list to ensure you don’t forget any essential items. Include clothing, toiletries, electronics, work-related items, and travel documents. You can save time by keeping a digital list that you can reference and update for each trip.

2. Use packing cubes: Invest in a set of packing cubes to help keep your belongings organized within your suitcase. Packing cubes are small, lightweight bags that come in various sizes, making it easy to sort your clothes and accessories efficiently.

3. Roll your clothes: To save space and keep your clothes wrinkle-free, consider rolling your attire instead of folding them. Rolled clothing takes up less space and helps prevent wrinkles, which is especially important for business attire.

4. Limit your footwear: Shoes can be bulky and take up a lot of space in your suitcase, so it’s beneficial to minimize the number of pairs you bring on your trip. Aim to bring two versatile pairs of shoes – one for formal meetings or events and another for casual outings.

5. Keep your essentials in your carry-on: Prepare for unexpected scenarios, such as lost or delayed luggage, by keeping your essential items in your carry-on bag. These items include important documents, medication, a change of clothes, and any items you might need to work during your flight.

6. Organize your electronics: Use a small organizer or pouch to keep your electronic accessories, such as charging cables, adapters, and headphones, in one place to prevent them from getting tangled or misplaced.

Coping with Common Travel Hurdles

Lost luggage? First thing’s first, make sure you pack a small bag with essentials (like toiletries, important documents, and a change of clothes) and keep it with you as a carry-on. This way, even if your main luggage gets lost, you’ll still have your most crucial items with you.
Jet lag got you down? Stay hydrated, and try to get on local time as quickly as possible. Drinking plenty of water during and after the flight can combat dehydration, a stealthy contributor to jet lag. To help you adjust faster, expose yourself to daylight for brief periods and focus on getting a good night’s sleep.
Wrinkled clothes? Pack smart by rolling clothes instead of folding them. This saves space and helps reduce wrinkles. Invest in a decent travel-size garment steamer or carry wrinkle-release spray to keep your clothes looking fresh and professional upon arrival.
Forgot an adapter? Make a mental note to pack a universal adapter for all your electronic devices, so you don’t have to stress when it’s time to charge. In case you forget, don’t panic! Most hotels will have adapters available for guests to use or purchase.
Managing expenses: Keep track of all your receipts and expenses on the go. Take photos of receipts with your phone and use an app to help you organize them. It will simplify the reimbursement process and save you the headache of managing slips of paper.
Feeling under the weather? It can happen, especially with all the stress and germs hiding in airports and airplanes. Make sure to pack a small first-aid kit with the most commonly used over-the-counter medications, band-aids, and antibacterial wipes or gel for quick sanitation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the essentials to include in a 2-day or 3-day business trip packing list.

For a short business trip, you should focus on the essentials. Pack a few clothing items appropriate for your meetings, such as suits, blouses, or dress shirts, and versatile pants or skirts. Bring undergarments, sleepwear, and a spare change of casual clothes for non-business activities. Don’t forget your toiletries, chargers, and any essential medications. Keep travel documents handy and consider a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.

What items should women consider while packing for a 4-day work trip?

For a 4-day work trip, women should pack clothing items that can be mixed and matched, like blazers, skirts, or pants in neutral colors. Include a few blouses or tops to complement the bottoms. Comfortable shoes for walking, as well as a pair of dressier shoes for meetings, are also important. Be sure to pack makeup, personal hygiene items, and any additional accessories (like tights or scarves) to complete your outfits.

How can you effectively pack for a 10-day business trip?

When going for a longer trip, consider packing clothing items in a color palette that can be easily mixed and matched. Bring enough undergarments and sleepwear for each day and plan to do laundry if needed. Include casual clothes for downtime, workout gear if applicable, and a lightweight jacket for fluctuating temperatures. Keep all your essentials – toiletries, chargers, medications – in a separate small bag, so they’re easy to access.

What are some helpful tips for packing light on a 1-week work trip?

To pack light for a 1-week work trip, use packing cubes or compression bags to save space and organize your suitcase. Stick to a minimal, neutral wardrobe that can be mixed and matched, and choose versatile shoes that work with multiple outfits. Select travel-sized toiletries to reduce bulk, and consider doing laundry at your destination if needed.

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Pack like a pro with this business trip packing list [Downloadable checklist PDF included]

Post author: Dikshant Mehta
Post published: August 25, 2023
Post category: Blogs

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To master the art of packing for a business trip, one must pay close attention to every last detail. Meetings, presentations, and networking events can all go off without a hitch when you have a well-thought-out business trip packing list (like this one) to rely on.

A business trip requires you to pack more strategically, taking into account your professional responsibilities and the image you hope to project.

Introducing the Essential Business Trip Packing List

This packing list is designed to make your business trip preparations simple and efficient , whether you’re attending a short domestic meeting or an extended overseas conference. Everything from business attire and electronics to passports and toiletries is here.

With TaxiVaxi, we not only facilitate your transportation needs but also care about your overall travel experience.

Understanding the Essentials for Business Trip Packing List

Clothing: what to wear for different business occasions.

Trying to figure out what to pack for a business trip can be difficult, especially if you have to attend multiple events with wildly varying dress codes. Some essential things to keep in mind are:

Formal Wear : For meetings, conferences, and dinners with clients, suits or business attire are often required.
Smart Casual Wear : For networking events or casual meetups, smart casual outfits offer a more relaxed yet professional appearance.
Accessories : Don’t forget ties, belts, shoes, and cufflinks to complement your attire.

Gadgets: What Tech Do You Need on the Go?

Being online and equipped with the right tech tools is crucial in the modern world. Include the following in your business trip packing list:

Laptop and charger : essential for presentations and work on the go.
Mobile Phone and Charger : To stay connected with your team and clients
Adapters : Consider the plug types at your destination and carry the necessary adapters.
Power banks are a lifesaver when you need to charge your devices and no outlets are available.

Documents: What Papers and IDs Are Crucial?

Don’t forget about the documents. Make sure that you have all the necessary paperwork so that the trip will go off without a hitch.

Passports and visas : Required for international travel.
Identification Cards : such as a driving license or any government-issued ID
Business cards : for networking and building connections
Itinerary and Hotel Confirmations : Having a physical copy can be handy.

Personal Care: What Toiletries and Health Items Are Must-Haves?

Your personal care items contribute to a comfortable journey:

Toiletries Kit : including toothbrush, toothpaste, razor, etc. Make a list of other items that goes into it, according to the days your are going on the trip.
Medications : Carry essential medicines and prescriptions if required.
Sanitizers and Masks : To ensure hygiene and safety, especially during the current global health scenario.

Understanding these essentials is the first step in crafting a foolproof business trip packing list. It allows you to look professional at all times and be ready for any business situation that may arise throughout your trip.

Packing strategies and tips

Packing for a business trip requires not only the right items but also the ability to neatly pack them. Here are some tips to help you travel light while still bringing along everything you’ll need:

How to Pack Efficiently and Keep Items Accessible

Use Packing Cubes : Packing cubes, a small, lightweight container designed to organize and compartmentalize clothing and other travel essentials within luggage, help segregate different categories, making it easier to locate items.
Roll, Don’t Fold : Rolling clothing can save space and reduce wrinkles.
Utilize Shoe Space : Pack small items like socks or chargers inside shoes to utilize space.
Pack a Laundry Bag : Keep dirty clothes separate and organized.

What Should You Always Carry in Your Hand Luggage?

Essential Documents : Passports, tickets, IDs, and essential business documents should always be in your carry-on.
Valuable Gadgets : Laptops, phones, and other valuable electronics.
One Set of Clothing : In case of lost luggage, it’s wise to have an emergency outfit in your hand luggage.
Essential Medications : Carry necessary medicines within reach.

Tips for Packing According to the Climate of the Destination

Check Weather Forecasts : Pack appropriate clothing for expected weather conditions.
Include Layers : Layers work well for varying temperatures.
Consider Local Customs : In some regions, clothing might need to align with local cultural norms.

By applying these strategies, you can make your packing process smoother and more effective. Think of these as essential additions to your business trip packing list. You’ll not only save time but also ensure that you have everything you need at your fingertips.

Special Considerations for International Trips

International business trips bring additional challenges and requirements. As you prepare your bags, remember the following:

What Extra Items Do You Need for International Business Trips?

Travel Adapters and Converters : Different countries may have varying plug types and voltage requirements.
International SIM Card or Roaming Plan : Stay connected without exorbitant fees.
Local Currency : Carry some local currency for places that might not accept cards.
Travel Insurance Documents : Ensure you have copies of your travel insurance for any unexpected situations.
Vaccination and health documents : Some countries may require specific vaccinations or health documents.

Understanding cultural sensitivities and packing accordingly

Research local customs : In some countries, clothing might need to align with local cultural norms and sensitivities.
Carry Business Etiquette Guides : Understanding local business etiquette can make your meetings and interactions smoother.
Language Assistance : A translation app or phrasebook could be helpful if you’re visiting a place with a language barrier.

International travel doesn’t need to be overwhelming. By adding these considerations to your business trip packing list, you’ll be prepared for a variety of scenarios and able to focus on your business goals.

How TaxiVaxi can Enhance your Appearance?

It’s not just about what you wear but also how you arrive. With TaxiVaxi’s premier car services , you can arrive at your meetings in style and comfort. It adds to your professional image and complements your carefully chosen business attire.

At TaxiVaxi, we understand the unique challenges of business travel. Our services are designed to make your journey as seamless as possible. From transportation to personalized guidance on local customs, TaxiVaxi is your trustworthy travel partner.

There is no need to stress out over business travel packing. If you plan ahead and pay close attention to the little things, you can make your trip as pleasant and stress-free as possible.

From tailored suits and essential gadgets to vital documents and personal care items, your business trip packing list is a blueprint for travel success. Remembering to include everything will make your trip smooth and productive.

Adjust the “Business Trip Packing List” According to Your Specific Needs

Your packing list can be customized to suit your unique needs and preferences. Whether it’s a domestic or international trip, knowing your itinerary and the local customs can help you pack efficiently.

In conclusion, it’s important to make sure you have a thorough packing list for your business trip. It’s a strategic tool that enables you to focus on what really matters—your business goals. If you’re going on a trip and want to be sure you don’t forget anything, follow this blog and print out a copy of the checklist.

You can tweak the list to fit your needs, and then when you set out on your next business trip, you will have all you need to succeed.

Have a safe trip!

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The Ultimate Business Trip Packing List (Separate List If Have Kids)

Posted on Published: September 1, 2022 - Last updated: September 8, 2022

Categories Travel

A man with passport and accessories for a business trip.

Packing for a business trip can be daunting, especially if you’re not used to traveling for work. But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. This packing list will ensure that you have everything you need to make your trip a success.

Whether you’re going on a weekend trip or an extensive international journey, be sure to pack the following items:

Passport and visa (if necessary)
Travel insurance documents
Tickets and boarding passes
Money (cash and/or traveler’s checks)
Credit cards and ATM card
Laptop and charger
Smartphone and charger
Tablet and charger (if you plan on using one)
Work documents
Business cards
Notepad and pen
Folders or a portfolio to keep your documents organized
An empty suitcase or duffel bag (for bringing home any souvenirs!)

Of course, you’ll also want to pack clothing and personal items appropriate for your destination. In this article, we’ll go over all the essentials you need for a long or short trip.

Choosing the Right Luggage

A man with a checklist and his luggage bag.

Before you can begin packing, you need to make sure you choose the right type of luggage for the trip. If you’re only going for a few days, a small carry-on bag should suffice. But if you’re traveling for a week or longer, you’ll need to pack more items and will likely need a larger suitcase.

When selecting luggage, keep the following in mind:

The size and weight restrictions of the airline you’re flying
Whether you need a bag with wheels
If you want a hard-sided or soft-sided bag
How many people are traveling with you (you may be able to share a larger suitcase if you’re traveling with someone else)

1. Weekend Trip

A group of young people going on a trip.

For a weekend business trip, the first thing you need to do is ask yourself what the dress code will be. Is it a casual environment or business casual? If you’re not sure, err on the side of caution and pack clothing that is appropriate for a meeting or presentation.

Assuming that you’ll need to pack for two days, we recommend bringing the following items:

Charger for each device
Headphones (optional)

Travel Documents

Visa (if necessary)
Boarding pass
Cash (in the local currency)
Credit cards
2 collared shirts or blouses
1 pair of trousers or a skirt
1 pair of comfortable shoes
1 sweater or jacket
Socks and underwear

Personal Items

Medications
Contact lenses and solution (if applicable)
Glasses (if applicable)
Makeup (optional)
Jewelry (optional)

Office Supplies

You’ll also want to bring some work supplies with you so that you can be prepared for any meetings.

Pens/pencils

Other Items

Laundry bag (if you plan on doing any laundry while on your trip)
An empty suitcase or duffel bag (for souvenirs!)
An umbrella or raincoat (depending on the forecast)

This list is just meant to get you started. Be sure to add any other items that you think you’ll need, based on your own needs and preferences.

Weekend Trip With Children

A happy family inside a car on a business trip.

If you are bringing your children with you for this business trip, you’ll obviously need to pack for them as well. Here are a few additional items to pack, in addition to the items on the above list:

Babies/Toddlers

Children’s clothing
Diapers and wipes (if necessary)
Formula or baby food (if necessary)
Children’s toys and books
Child car seat (if renting a car)

Children Ages 5 and up

Schoolwork (if applicable)
Electronics and chargers (if applicable)
Game console (if applicable)

If you’re bringing your pet with you on the trip, be sure to pack:

Their food and water bowls
Enough food and water for the entire trip
A leash or harness
Any medications they are taking
Their favorite toys

This is just a basic list of items that you’ll need to pack for your business trip. Be sure to add any other items that you or your family members may need

2. Week Long Business Trip

A woman sitting beside a bottle of wine.

For a longer business trip, you’ll need to pack enough clothing and personal items for the entire duration of your stay. Most people prefer to travel with a carry-on bag and a checked bag, but it’s ultimately up to you. If you’re traveling with a lot of technology, you may want to consider bringing a backpack as your carry-on, so that you have more room for everything.

Here’s a list of items to pack for a week-long business trip:

To pack for a week-long business trip, you’ll need to bring enough clothing to last you the entire week, plus a few extra items just in case.

Let’s start with the basics:

Underwear and socks for each day
Pants or skirts for each day
Tops for each day
A jacket or blazer
A pair of comfortable shoes

Toiletries and other essentials:

You cannot assume that your hotel will provide you with toiletries. While most do, not all do, and it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Toiletries bag
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Shampoo and conditioner
Soap or body wash
Makeup and makeup remover
Hair brush or comb
Contact lenses and solution, if you wear them
Extra glasses, if you need them
Feminine hygiene products

These days, it’s hard to imagine traveling without some form of technology.

Chargers for all of your devices
External hard drive

A man wearing suit standing next to his luggage.

There are a few other items you might want to consider packing as well.

Passport and travel documents
First aid kit
Water bottle
Books or magazines
Empty bag for souvenirs
Any medications you take regularly
An umbrella
A travel pillow
A scarf or shawl (for chilly offices)
A blanket (for long flights)
Noise-cancelling headphones (for long flights)
A book or movie (for long flights)
Snacks (for long flights)
An adapter, if you’re traveling to a country with a different type of electrical outlet
Portable charger or battery pack

If your child is coming with you on your week-long business trip, you’ll need additional items for them.

Babies and toddlers:

a diaper bag packed with diapers, wipes, extra clothes, and any other necessary items
formula or breast milk, if you are not able to nurse
baby food and snacks
a comfort item such as a blanket or toy

Children aged 5 and up:

a small backpack packed with snacks, a water bottle, any necessary medications, and a change of clothes
entertainment such as books, coloring books, or handheld electronic games
a comfort item such as a blanket or stuffed animal

If you’re bringing your furry friend along on your business trip, you’ll need to pack a few extra things for them as well.

food and water bowls
enough food and water for the entire trip
a collar or harness with ID tags
toys and treats
a bed or blanket
any necessary medications

You’ll also need to be sure that your hotel allows pets before you book your stay.

3. Month-Long (or longer) Business Trip

Business persons on the airport with their luggage.

If you’re going on a business trip that will last a month or longer, you’ll need to pack accordingly. This means bringing enough clothes to last the entire trip, as well as any toiletries and other items you may need. Here is a packing list for a month-long business trip:

10-14 shirts/blouses
7-10 pants/skirts
2-3 dresses
10-14 socks/hosiery
1-2 outerwear (jacket, coat)

You’ll want to make sure you work out where you can do laundry – whether at a laundromat or with your hotel. To figure out how much laundry you’ll need to do, consider wearing clothes more than once and packing items that can be easily washed (like jeans or skirts).

Again, you’ll want to make sure that you have enough of everything to last the entire trip. This includes:

toothbrush/toothpaste
shampoo/conditioner

Don’t forget any medications you may need, as well. If you have allergies, be sure to pack your EpiPen!

A person holding her passport and a map.

Of course, you’ll need to make sure you have all of your travel documents in order before you go. This includes:

visa (if required)
hotel reservations
rental car information

Be sure to pack these items in a safe and easily accessible place. A travel wallet is a great option to keep everything organized.

If you’re traveling for business, chances are you’ll need to bring some technology with you. This may include:

laptop/tablet
memory cards/sticks
external hard drive (if needed)

Pack these items carefully to avoid damage. You may also want to consider investing in travel insurance for your electronics.

If you’re presenting at a conference or meeting, you’ll also need any materials related to that (e.g., slides, handouts).

If you’re traveling for business, you’ll likely need to bring some office supplies with you. This may include:

pens/pencils

Depending on your trip, you may need to pack other items. For example:

a travel pillow and blanket if you’re flying
books or magazines for entertainment
snacks and drinks for the plane or car
an umbrella or raincoat
a swimsuit if you’re staying in a hotel with a pool
formal clothing if you’re attending a business dinner or event

If you’re traveling with family, you may need to pack items for them as well (e.g., diapers, formula, toys).

Babies and toddlers

If you are traveling with a child aged 5 or younger, you’ll need to bring the following items:

child car seat
formula/food
toys/entertainment
portable game console
blanket/sleeping bag

You’ll also want to make sure you have a diaper bag packed and ready to go at all times. This should include diapers, wipes, a change of clothes for the child, and snacks.

Children Aged 5 and Up

If you’re traveling with a child aged 5 and up, you’ll need to bring the following items:

You’ll also want to make sure you have a bag packed with snacks and drinks, as well as any medications the child may need.

If you’re travelling with a pet, you’ll need to bring the following items:

crate/carrier
harness/leash

You’ll also want to make sure you have a travel plan for your pet, including where they will stay while you’re away and how you will get them there.

The most important thing to remember when packing for a business trip is to pack what you need. This means bringing enough clothes and toiletries to last the entire trip, as well as any technology or other items you may need. By doing this, you can avoid having to buy anything while you’re away, which can save you time and money.

This is just a basic packing list for a month-long business trip. You may need to add or remove items depending on the specifics of your trip (e.g., if you’re flying or driving, if you’re staying in a hotel or an apartment, etc.).

Making the Most Out of Your Luggage Space

Different accessories wrap inside a luggage bag.

When packing for a business trip, it’s important to make the most of your luggage space. This means packing efficiently and using all available space. Here are some tips for doing this:

Use packing cubes or bags to organize your clothes. This will help you fit more into your suitcase and keep things from getting wrinkled.
Roll your clothes instead of folding them. This will also help you fit more into your suitcase and prevent wrinkles.
Put heavier items at the bottom of your suitcase and lighter items on top.
Utilize all pockets and compartments in your suitcase, including the pockets in the lid.
If you’re traveling with a laptop, use it to store items like chargers and cords.
If you’re traveling with a carry-on bag, pack it as full as possible to avoid having to check it at the airport.

Packing for a business trip doesn’t have to be difficult. By following these tips, you can make sure you have everything you need without overpacking.

Making a Hotel Room Home

When traveling for a long period of time, it’s important to make your hotel room feel like home. This can help you avoid homesickness and make the trip more enjoyable. To do this, you can:

Bring pictures of family and friends
Bring a favorite pillow or blanket
Buy or bring small items to decorate the room
Pack a small care package with your favorite snacks and drinks

By making your hotel room feel like home, you can help make the trip more enjoyable and less stressful.

If you have a young child or a pet travelling with you, you’ll also need to consider their needs when packing for the trip. This may include bringing extra food, a travel bed or crate, and toys. By thinking about the needs of everyone in your party, you can make sure everyone has a comfortable and enjoyable trip.

Choosing a Place to Stay

A man stretching his arms inside the room.

Sometimes your employer will complete all of your travel arrangements for you. But depending on the purpose of the trip, you may have some say in where you stay. If this is the case, here are some things to consider when choosing a place to stay:

Distance from the conference center or meeting location
Proximity to restaurants and other amenities
Room amenities (e.g., Wi-Fi, cable TV, mini-fridge)
Hotel amenities (e.g., pool, gym, business center)

You’ll also want to make sure you’re comfortable with the location of your hotel. If you’re going to be spending a lot of time in the city, you may want to choose a hotel that’s centrally located. But if you’re going to be spending most of your time at the conference center or meeting location, you may want to choose a hotel that’s closer to that.

Additional Helpful Tips

In addition to the packing lists, here are a few other helpful tips to make your business trip go smoothly:

Make sure you have all the necessary travel documents well in advance of your trip. This includes your passport, visa (if necessary), and travel insurance documents.
Keep copies of important documents, such as your passport and travel insurance information, in a safe place in case you lose the originals.
Pack light! This will make it easier to move around and avoid excess baggage fees.
Invest in a good quality suitcase or duffel bag. This will make packing and unpacking a breeze.
Make sure your laptop and other electronics are fully charged before you leave. It’s also a good idea to bring along extra batteries or a portable charger, just in case.
If you’re traveling by air, wear comfortable clothing and shoes. This will make going through security a lot easier.
If you’re renting a car, be sure to bring along your driver’s license, proof of insurance, and credit card.
Be sure to pack any medications you may need in their original containers. It’s also a good idea to bring along a copy of your prescriptions, just in case.
If you’re traveling to a foreign country, be sure to research the local customs and laws. This will help you avoid any potential problems.
Finally, don’t forget to have fun! Business trips can be a great opportunity to explore new places and meet new people.

The Bottom Line

Overall, there’s a lot to consider when packing for a business trip. You need to think about the purpose of the trip, how long you’ll be gone, and what you’ll need to be comfortable. By following the packing lists and tips above, you can make sure you have everything you need for a successful trip.

Business Trip Packing List

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This article was originally published on our site Nomad Paradise. As part of a rebrand, we are publishing all our travel packing and tips content in one place for you to enjoy - The Travel Method. For world cuisine and recipes, you can keep visiting Nomad Paradise.

Use my ultimate business trip packing list to help you pack and plan with confidence for an upcoming business trip and hopefully pick up a few tips along the way.

For several years, I moved from country to country, speaking at conferences and organizing events, with everything from portable projectors to hard drives with invaluable data stored in my luggage. Trust me, I know how stressful it can be to travel for work!

This list not only draws on my personal experience but also these insightful business travel tips, which feature expert advice from 18 globetrotting entrepreneurs and business travelers.

I’ve tried to leave no stone unturned with this mammoth packing list. Not all of it will be applicable to you, but it should help you consider everything you would need to pack and plan for.

It’s also free to download. You can find the download link at the end of this article. Download the PDF, print it off, and use it to help you pack with confidence.

Oh, and whatever you’re traveling for, be it a conference, keynote speaker event, or networking, the very best of luck!

Travel Documents

For both domestic and international travel, the same protocols, such as entering another country with your passport, still apply. Consider packing the following documents:

1. Passport

2. Required Documents

Depending on if you’re visiting another country, be sure to do your research for visa and entry requirements. Keep these documents in a separate folder.

3. Travel Insurance

If you’re leaving the country, no matter how short your trip, make sure you’re covered.

4. Driver’s License

5. Rental Car Confirmation

If you have rented a car, print off all the documents and have them on hand.

6. Business Trip Itinerary

From conference agendas to your personal travel schedule, make sure you have everything written down in a diary or folder. You could even use our travel binder to help you.

7. Debit and Credit Cards

If you do a lot of business travel, get yourself a credit card with a points or reward scheme. Take a look at our business travel tips article for advice.

8. Emergency Contacts

9. Document Copies

Keep photocopies of all key documents and have them in a folder, just in case you can’t access your digital copies or lose the originals.

Health and Personal Care

Even if you’re feeling energized and refreshed, your personal health should not be taken for granted. Particularly if you are traveling by plane, consider packing the following items.

10. Medication

No matter how short your business trip, always be prepared. If you take any prescription medication, naturally, make sure it is packed. You could also get yourself a small medication bag and consider packing the following (if applicable):

Pain Relief
Allergy Medication
First-Aid Kit
Insect Repellent

If you are traveling abroad, double-check the rules for bringing medication into the country. There may be restrictions on the types of medication or quantity you can bring in.

11. Hand Sanitizer

It’s always good to have hand sanitizer with you on the plane. You can use it before eating food or after going to the toilet.

12. Antibacterial Wipes

Antibacterial wipes are useful not just for the plane but also for airports, toilets, and even hotel rooms.

Tech and Electronics

There’s a lot to consider here, especially if you’re speaking or running an event or workshop. My attitude when traveling for work was it was already better to have my own equipment rather than rely on someone else.

I would even travel with my own HDMI cable and Macbook convertor because I lost count of the number of times I’d show up at a space and they wouldn’t have the right tech. Pack accordingly, and consider the following items.

13. Main Laptop and Charger

14. Backup Laptop and Charger

You may struggle for space, but even an ultraportable laptop, tablet, or older laptop as a failsafe as a backup, just in case, will give you peace of mind in case your main laptop has an issue.

15. Business Phone and Charger

16. Personal Phone and Charger

17. Tablet and Charger

I found having a tablet always helped at conferences and speaking events. It can be used as an additional screen, a place to refer to your notes, or you can use it with projectors if your main laptop doesn’t work.

18. Portable Battery

Both a lifesaver on long flights and at events where you may not have proximity or access to a power socket. Remember to charge it fully the night before you fly or go to your event. It works as a portable battery for both your laptop and your phone.

19. Multi-Charger

Traveling with a multi-charger was a real game-changer for me. It was not uncommon for me to have to charge three, four, or even five devices all at once when traveling for work. Having one unit to change everything from just makes life easier, especially in hotel rooms or at airport lounges.

20. Travel Adapter

An essential if you’re traveling abroad, I would also recommend getting one that comes with a universal power strip.

21. Travel Router

Public wifi can often be hit or miss, especially in hotels. If you’re willing to put the time in to set it up, a personal travel router can help strengthen your connection and give you your own access point.

22. Noise-Canceling Headphones

Whether it be for helping you sleep on a flight or getting focussed work down, both noise-canceling headphones and earbuds are a sound investment. I’ve had my Boise noise-canceling earbuds for years, and they still haven’t let me down.

23. Bluetooth Speaker

You’d be amazed at how many rooms and events have an issue with sound when it comes to talks and workshop events. If you can provide your own source of sound that is already synced up to your device, you give yourself another failsafe.

These items are not only suitable for plane travel but also for sleeping in hotel rooms and other accommodations. You never know how loud or uncomfortable a certain place or room may be.

24. Travel Pillow

25. Sleeping Mask

26. Earplugs

27. Collapsible Water Bottle

You can generally fill up your water bottle from water fountains for free at airports and bus stations.

28. Travel Blanket

29. Anti-Nausea Bands

30. Snack Pack

Snacks like nuts, protein bars, and chopped fruit are easy to travel with and can give you something to eat if there are no options around you.

Entertainment

For that time on the plane or evenings in the hotel room, once you’re happy everything has been prepared, you’ll need ways to relax and unwind. Make sure you have ways to entertain yourself, and consider the following.

31. Fire TV Stick

Most new hotel TVs now have HDMI and USB port access, meaning you can bring the likes of a Fire TV stick with you, plug it in, connect to the internet, and watch shows.

32. Pre-downloaded Offline Shows and Movies

33. Pre-Downloaded Offline Playlist

34. Kindle Paperwhite

35. Travel Journal

Glasses and Eyewear

If you wear glasses or contacts, make sure you pack the following items in your luggage.

36. Glasses with Case

37. Backup Pair of Glasses

38. Contact Lenses

39. Eyeglass Repair Kit

How long your business trip is and the type of travel you’ll be doing will generally determine how much luggage you will need. If you can get away with a carry-on and backpack or briefcase, try to travel lighter.

Sometimes, however, for international or longer trips, you will need a combination of a suitcase, carry-on, and other luggage to bring everything with you. Here are some considerations.

40. Lightweight Suitcase

How long you are going for will really depend on whether you need to bring checked luggage with you. When I traveled for business, I typically had a lot of expensive tech with me, so I had no choice but to bring a suitcase with me along with my backpack and carry-on.

If you have a lot to pack, or your business travel is more than a weekend or few days, definitely consider packing a lightweight suitcase that is easy to maneuver.

41. Carry On

The carry-on is so often the go-to for business travel. Many frequent business travelers vouch for packing lighter and trying to keep everything in their carry-on to save space and time.

42. Briefcase with Slide

A briefcase with a slide can be easily carried over your carry-on handle, keeping your other hand free.

43. Anti-Theft Backpack

Especially if you’re traveling with a laptop and expensive tech, consider an anti-theft backpack to keep your valuables safe.

44. Garment Bag

If traveling with a suit or expensive dress, consider a garment bag to keep it protected and clean.

45. Packing Cubes

I never travel without packing cubes. While their ability to save space may be a myth, they are so good for organizing your luggage.

Conference/Meeting Clothing

Depending on the type of conference or event you’re attending, you’ll want to pack smart and appropriate clothing, especially if you’re going to have an audience.

Also, consider the number of days the event or conference is and the number of certain items you’ll need to pack. Some of these items of clothing and accessories can help give you ideas.

46. Suit Jacket

47. Waistcoat

52. Pencil Dress

53. Pencil Skirt

54. Jumpsuit

57. Coat or Jacket

58. Underwear

59. Sewing Repair Kit

In case something rips or tears, it’s always good to have a repair kit handy so that you can fix clothing from your accommodation or hotel room.

Networking/Dinner Clothing

Depending on the nature of the event, dinner or social gatherings will have a different vibe and dress code.

You may be able to wear what you have on during the day. However, consider packing some of the following, which may be more suitable for dinner, drinks, and informal gatherings. You may also want to change clothes between the business event and the evening event.

60. Smart Casual Shirt

61. Smart Casual Top

63. Slacks (or Jeans)

Downtime Clothing

Outside of business hours, you’ll want to feel relaxed and comfortable at the hotel or in the city. Yes, put a lot of thought into your business or meeting attire, but also make sure to pack clothing for the evenings and in your downtime.

65. Casual Dresses

67. Pants or Jogging Bottoms

68. Workout Clothes

69. Pajamas

70. Spare Underwear

71. Rain Jacket

72. Swimsuit/wear

If there’s a pool at the hotel, you may want to go for a swim for some much-needed downtime.

To go with both your business and casual attire, consider what footwear you would need to pack. You may be able to get away with one smart pair of shoes, or you may have to pack multiple pairs to work with different outfits.

73. Brogues

74. Loafers

78. Trainers or Sneakers

If you’re only traveling with a carry-on, you will need to limit the toiletries you travel with or make sure the toiletries you do travel with can come on the plane with you. Make sure liquids are packed into 3.4-ounce (100ml) bottles, and you will need to forgo accessories such as razors.

If you have a checked bag, you can travel with a large toiletries bag. It’s important to look and feel your best for business meetings and events, so travel with all your essential and desired toiletries. That way, you can focus all your time on the job at hand.

79. Toiletries Bag/Case which could contain:

Solid Shampoo
Solid Conditioner
Shower Gel and/or Soap
Moisturizer
Perfume/Cologne
Shaving Cream
Feminine Hygiene Products
Nail Clippers and File
Stain Remover Stick

You should always look and feel your best self, no matter what your business trip entails. For both your hair and skin, consider packing the following in a separate pouch or weekender bag that you can put in your suitcase or carry on.

81. Makeup Remover

82. Hair Dryer

83. Hair Straightener

84. Curling Iron

85. Hairbrush

86. Hairstyling Products

If you’re planning to travel with jewelry, make sure you have a stylish and sturdy case to carry it in.

87. Jewelry Case to carry:

Reward and Loyalty Schemes

If you frequently travel for business, you could be missing out on upgrades, hotel stays, and free flights if you’re not a member of reward and loyalty programs. Consider the following:

88. Rewards Credit Card

Whether it’s through your company or your own personal business, booking with a credit card with rewards and points will only make your business trips more comfortable and enjoyable.

In time, you can use your points and rewards to upgrade on flights, book hotel stays, and gain access to the likes of co-working memberships.

89. TSA Pre-Check, Clear, and Global Entry

Several of the business travelers I spoke to for our business travel tips article recommended the TSA pre-check, clear, and global entry membership for fast and efficient boarding and moving through airports.

90. Air Miles Membership

If you consistently fly with the same airplane or family of airlines, definitely sign up for a frequent flyer membership.

91. Lounge Pass

Airport lounges offer food, comfort, and lots of perks. If you fly for business frequently, have a look at these ways to get airport lounge access to see what the best option would be for you.

92. Co-Working Membership

Hotel wifi can be slow and hotels uncomfortable. If you need to get work done on your business trip, consider a co-working pass or membership that gives you access to multiple locations, such as WeWork.

93. Pre-Booked Access to Meeting Room

In addition to your co-working membership, be sure you have a quiet place booked that only you have access to for calls and meetings.

Naturally, only you are going to know what you need for your upcoming business trip. However, here are some classic items and essentials to consider taking with you.

Have everything written down or documented beforehand, in a diary, on a separate sheet in a folder, or digitally recorded in your calendar.

95. Business Cards

It may be a little old school, but business cards are still a great way to pass on your information to start a conversation outside of the event.

96. Contact Details (Physical or Digital)

Nowadays, people will want to take your phone, email, or other details. Have something physical or digital ready to give to people when they ask.

97. USB Stick or Portable Hard Drive

Keep your files and important documents for the event both on your machine and on a separate stick or hard drive for easy access.

98. Powerpoint/Slide Deck/Presentation

Keep multiple copies of this on both your laptop and external devices. Also, double-check your connectivity and whether you have the right setup and cables.

99. Company Branded Stationary/Merch

If you are representing your company or a client, consider bringing stationary and merch with you to give to people.

100. Pen and Notepad

Digital and Security

Lastly, security, both physical and digital, should be a big consideration when traveling for business. Go that extra mile to protect yourself and give yourself a little more peace of mind.

101. VPN Account

Security is paramount when traveling for work, and using public wifis without protection can be very risky. To this day, I still use Express VPN to give me protection when working from coffee shops, hotels, and co-working spaces abroad.

102. Password Manager

103. Data Bundle from Phone Provider

Check with your provider how much data you have with your monthly contract. You may need to use your phone as a hotspot if the wifi is weak or not accessible.

104. SIM with Pre-Loaded Data

If you’re traveling abroad and your provider isn’t giving you a good deal, consider buying a SIM with data in the place you are traveling to.

105. USB Data Blocker

When using public USB ports for charging, such as in airports, use a data blocker like this one for USB Type A or this one for USB Type C to stop potential downloads of your data.

106. Travel Safe

For keys, flash drives, credit cards, and other smaller valuables, you could travel with a portable safe.

107. Contents and Business Insurance

Double-check what your travel or business insurance covers you for when working away from home, and if required, change your policy accordingly.

Download PDF Checklist

Naturally, not everything in this list will be applicable to you. What I wanted to do, however, was try to bring absolutely all considerations to the table so that you can think of everything before you pack.

Feel free to download my free packing list using the link below. From there, you can print off the PDF, cross out the items you don’t need, and start planning your trip with confidence.

I really hope you find this list helpful. It draws on the insight from just under 20 different business travelers, so there’s a wealth of knowledge and experience that has gone into curating this list.

Author: Dale

Dale Johnson is a content creator from the UK. He has traveled full-time for over three years and to over 30 countries and writes on a number of travel-themed topics, including travel packing tips and the latest gear.

The Only Business Trip Packing List You Need

No checked luggage required.

Business travel can be fun: making new professional contacts, crushing your meetings, and not feeling bad about finally cracking open the novel that's been on your reading list forever (because what else are you supposed to do while you wait for your plane to board?).

But business travel is fun only if it goes smoothly. If you're fumbling the day of your trip to throw together your carry-on, or if you arrive at your destination only to find yourself frantically shopping for meeting-appropriate shirts because you somehow forgot to bring one, fun won't be on your agenda.

To avoid those outcomes, consult this business trip packing list before you travel.

Your All-Inclusive Business Trip Packing List

Carry-on of your choice. Your goal here is not to have to waste time or energy waiting in baggage claim, playing luggage Jenga in the truck of your taxi or rental car, or dragging around unnecessary weight. If your trip is less than a week long, you should have no problem fitting all your goods into a carry-on. I love a backpack for its flexibility, but you can also use a small roller bag.
Personal item. Whether you use a purse, backpack, laptop bag, or briefcase, pick something professional-looking that you can use to keep important items close to you during travel and to transfer meeting materials as needed. You could bring a bag as well as a briefcase, but do you really need both?
Travel outfit. If you'll have time to change at your destination, go for comfy athletic clothes and shoes you can work out in. That'll keep you feeling good on the plane, and if you have energy for a run or gym session during your trip, you'll be ready. If you're the kind of person is comfortably sitting for hours in jeans, you can travel in those, too. They're also ideal if you'll have time for a more casual night out with coworkers or clients.
One to two pairs of bottoms. If you're going for a day or two, pick one; if longer, feel free to pack two. Depending on the formality of your meetings and your preferences, you can choose whatever you prefer between pants, skirts, and dresses. If you are bringing two options, make sure they're the same color so that you don't have to bring additional tops, shoes, or belts to match them.
One jacket or blazer, if necessary for the level of formality of your trip.
One top per day. Choose blouses or tops with darker prints, which don't show stains as easily. Also, make sure to choose fabrics that don't easily wrinkle. While your hotel room or Airbnb probably has an iron, who wants to have to use it?
Underwear (including bras) and socks or hose. This is the one category I give you permission to go all out in. Bring as many pairs as you want, with one pair per day at a bare minimum; they're small and there's nothing worse than having to wear a pair of underwear you've washed in the sink and dried with a hair dryer.
Shoes. Here, I give you no such permission. Aside from your travel shoes, which should be either athletic shoes or casual going-out shoes (and in either case should be inordinately comfortable), choose one pair that will work with all of the business clothes you have.
Pajamas. Bring whatever you like to sleep in. Getting a good night's rest away from home is hard enough as it is; give yourself your best chance by bringing whatever you usually wear.

Toiletries:

Personal hygiene products. Count on using hotel shampoo, conditioner, and body wash options to save luggage space, unless you've got a specific routine and/or want to cut down on your single-use plastics use (for hotels that still have them— many are switching to bulk dispensaries, which are more environmentally-friendly). In that case, bring reusable, 3-oz.-or-less containers of whatever you use at home. Other toiletries to bring along: toothbrush, toothpaste, and deodorant.
Skin and hair care products. Do you use lotion, sunscreen, facial cleansers, or hairspray? Don't leave them behind.
Vision products. Contacts, contact solution, glasses, eye drops—whatever you may need, bring along.
Other toiletries. You might want to bring makeup, a razor, or shaving cream.
Travel documents. You probably have most of these on your phone; if you're going paperless, make sure any boarding passes, reservations, and maps are downloaded and available offline, in case you find yourself without cell coverage. If you're traveling domestically, make sure you've got your ID. If internationally, put your passport in a safe place (and a copy of it in your carry-on), along with any other necessary paper documents.
Envelope. If you need to submit hard-copy receipts for your expense report, keep them all in one place. If you don't, take a photo of each and upload it to a designated folder (or when the option is available, choose to have your receipts emailed to you). You'll thank yourself for staying on top of this later.
Meeting materials. Along with soft copies of your presentations, bring a few hard copies, just in case. Bring a few business cards, too, to give to meeting or conference attendees you haven't met before.
Laptop or tablet. Try to bring just one, with its requisite chargers and accessories (mouse, case).
Headphones. Preferably noise-cancelling for use on travel days.
Power bank. A small one that has enough juice to charge up your tech in case you find yourself without easy access to an outlet.
Phone (I doubt you'd forget it, but I'm aiming to be thorough here, okay) and charger.

Miscellaneous:

Reusable water bottle
Travel pillow
Appropriate outer-wear
Hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes. Have you seen Naomi Campbell's video about how she disinfects everything around her plane seat before she sits down in it? You may not need to go quite so far, but sanitizing your hands before touching your eyes, nose, or mouth during travel is a good idea; airport germs are not your friend.
Bathing suit, but only if you promise me you're actually going to do laps in the hotel pool. Otherwise it'll just take up space and make you sad that you weren't able to use it.

If you have other things that make your life easier or make you feel more comfortable—melatonin, an eye mask, aromatherapy drops—or items from your office that make you more productive and you can easily bring with you, feel free to throw those in, too. You should still have a bit of room!

I leave you with my business traveler's blessing: may this business travel packing list prep you well for your journeys ahead, may your flights be on time and your turbulence nonexistent, and may you sign all the deals, land all the clients, and make all the impact possible.

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What Do I Pack for a Three-Day Work Trip?

There will be handshakes, huddles, and pitches, early starts and late nights. You might get to visit the gym. Here’s everything you’ll need.

You know the score. It’s a classic three-day, two-night work trip, punctuated by meetings, working lunches, and dinners out. There will be handshakes, huddles, and pitches, early starts and late nights. You might get to visit the gym, maybe see a friend from college, or spend a free afternoon exploring a new city—but don’t bank on it.

Packing a carry-on to cover all of the above is hard. I’ve spent the past decade trying to perfect it (with occasional success), and the one thing I’ve learned is that, in this instance, personal style needs to be reframed through the prism of efficiency. Sounds dry, but hear me out.

If you’re taking a flight, moving all day, jumping in and out of cabs, and going straight from work to dinner, you need clothes that can go reliably unnoticed through all of it. Looking cool is great, I spend most of my time trying to do just that, but when it comes to clothing, “cool” often means uncomfortable, heavy, hot, or conspicuous—four attributes you don’t want from your outfit in this situation.

Unlike packing for a vacation, packing for a work trip requires military precision. You need a concise, multitool edit of uncomplicated yet stylish stuff that can be mixed and matched to maximum effect, adapting easily to shifts in climate, schedule, and mood. I spoke to Mats Klingberg, founder of the menswear boutique Trunk Clothiers (and a master of elegant business attire), on this very subject. He had just returned from a trip that started in 10-degree Canada and finished in 90-degree St. Barths. He took a single carry-on.

That sounds extreme, but the single carry-on is common among serious travelers. With this guide, you needn’t be a grizzled road warrior to benefit from some hard-earned lessons.

The first port of call should be a suit in a soft, non-shiny fabric. The cloth is crucial because it needs to be comfortable all day and work when you break the suit into separates (more on that later). You could go for one of the many “travel” suits on the market—high-twist wool makes them water repellent and wrinkle-free—but unless all your time will be spent in the C-suite, I’d recommend something in a cotton twill or textured hopsack, like this Thom Sweeney suit , or in a mix of cotton, linen, wool, and/or silk, like this cotton-linen blend by J. Crew . Navy is the logical go-to color; I’d avoid black or charcoal, which are both too drab. If you’re feeling bold, you might try a dusty green or even a slubby brown. The Neapolitan tailor De Petrillo would be good for that. Pack a travel steamer, just in case.

Next, a poplin shirt you can wear with a tie—I love the striped shirts at Budd —and then a more casual chambray shirt ( try Sid Mashburn ) that you can also wear with a tie but that looks even better without one. In terms of the tie, a plain knit number will suffice. Nothing chunky and loud; you want simple and textured. The British brand Percival’s woven linen ties are perfect .

You already have two looks, and we’re just getting started.

In terms of footwear, you need one pair that will work with everything. I’d opt for black penny loafers . I’m a Paraboot devotee , but you could also go with a chunky derby , either in brown suede or black leather . Another option: a great pair of Chelsea boots , which would be handy at the TSA line. It’s up to you. But you just need a pair of shoes that won’t look mismatched with mid-blue, regular-fit jeans , which you will also need to pack. These can come from anywhere, but Levi’s 501’s are still pretty hard to beat. If you want a substantial pair, head to Orslow for 107’s . Whichever brand you prefer, make sure they finish at or above your shoes and don’t puddle over.

Now you need an alternative to the suit jacket, which is where a good chore coat comes in handy. You probably won’t wear it with a shirt and tie, but it’s nice to have the option, and it will be more comfortable on travel days. Brunello Cucinelli and Loro Piana make luxurious versions of the format. If you don’t want to break the bank, visit Mr Porter for its Mr P. collection or the Swedish brand A Day’s March . Milan’s Massimo Alba would be a good choice, too.

Next, a white crew-neck tee , maybe two (or one in white, one in navy, or perhaps even a vest to peek out from under the chambray shirt), and an open-collar knit polo that you can wear on its own or underneath the blazer. The polo is great because it’s not as golfy as a classic polo, and right now you can find them everywhere. Abercrombie & Fitch has one with what it calls a “Johnny collar,” but I’d point you in the direction of Sunspel’s fine rib silk-cotton polo , which is lighter and a little slicker. If it’s going to be chilly, consider making the polo long-sleeve.

Now you just need underwear (three pairs, max), socks , and workout clothes . Be sparing with the latter; you probably won’t work out as much as you think. This is where your second pair of shoes come in—if you can bring running sneakers that don’t look terrible with the jeans (such as ASICS’s Trabuco Max III ), all the better.

If it’s going to be really hot, you could opt for a suit in seersucker or a linen mix. (Pure linen will crease too much.) Make sure it’s unlined. Officine Generale is great for warm-weather suiting. And maybe bring an extra pair of lightweight pants and some swim trunks .

If the forecast says rain, pack a simple raincoat. Burberry still makes the best . And if it’s going to be really cold, you could keep the raincoat and add a quilted down or fleece vest underneath, or swap it out completely for a proper wool overcoat, like this one by Lemaire . Then pack a thick-gauge scarf or a beanie (nothing too chunky or branded), but not both—they never look good together. Acne Studios is fine for either.

Now just the finishing touches. A steel watch would be good. I love the compact functionality of Tudor’s 37mm Black Bay 54 and the mid-century charm of Nivada Grenchen’s Super Antarctic (on a Twist-o-Flex strap, ideally). You might want to pack a baseball cap, too. And you will definitely want sunglasses—for me, black acetate always—even if there’s no chance of sun. That red-eye home can be brutal.

How to Wear It

Traveling Out and Arrival Day: Jeans, loafers, T-shirt, chore coat plus overcoat/raincoat. Comfortable enough for traveling and, if you swap the tee for a shirt, smart enough for casual afternoon meetings and/or dinner.

Day Two: Suit, shirt, tie, loafers, overcoat/raincoat.

Day Three: Suit pants, knit polo/chambray shirt, chore coat (if necessary), loafers, overcoat/raincoat.

Day Four and Traveling Home: Suit jacket (switch to chore coat at the airport), white tee, jeans, loafers (switch to sneakers at the airport), overcoat, beanie, sunglasses.

(Watch on at all times.)

In the opening image: Suitcase ($1,525) by Rimowa, Poplin Shirt ($250) by Eton, Suit ($1,745) by Thom Sweeney, Coat ($2,995) by Brunello Cucinelli, Jeans ($98) by Levi’s, Polo Shirt ($420) by Sunspel, Shoes ($1,820) by John Lobb, Crew Socks ($22) by American Trench, Quarter Socks ($12)by Stance, Boxers ($75) by Sporty & Rich, Shorts ($90) by Sporty & Rich, Shirt ($54) by Alo, T-Shirt ($45) by Buck Mason

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Business trip packing list: 23 items you need to pack

Sep 27, 2023

Person packing for a business trip using a business trip packing list.

The excitement, nerves, and expectations around an upcoming business trip can leave you unprepared.

To ensure you have everything you need, experienced business travellers from the Bolt Business team share their best business travel tips — including a business trip packing list to make your next work trip a success.

Your business trip packing list : 23 items you need with you

Knowing what to pack for a business trip can be a challenge. But having a packing list for a business trip will make your life much easier when you’re preparing to travel for work.

Keep this list of things to pack for a business trip in your bookmarks for future reference. 👇

To keep you connected

Your phone and the Bolt app ;
Plug adaptors;
Power bank;

To make things happen

Travel documents;
Purse or wallet;
Several bank cards;
Business cards;
Notepad and pens;

For your well-being

Noise-cancelling headphones;
Bottle of water;
Electrolytes;
Hand sanitiser;

To dress for success

Business wear;
Casual attire;
Sportswear;
Warm clothes

To be ready for anything

A toiletry bag with your toothbrush, toothpaste, and deodorant;
Medication.

A business traveller packing a suitcase using a business trip packing list.

8 business travel essentials for your business trip checklist — and 1 item to leave at home

On top of the essentials for business travel listed above, business travel experts in the Bolt Business team want to emphasise the items often overlooked from business trip checklists .

While some of these items aren’t as widely packed for business trips , they’ll make your trip much more comfortable.

1. Carry a battery pack with you

While having your devices charged is essential on any business trip, finding a suitable plug might be challenging. Be prepared. Have a power bank.

2. An eye mask to help you sleep

Sleep well at night or on the move with your private blackout blinds.

3. Earbuds and noise-cancelling headphones

Whether on a plane or a train, headphones with active noise cancellation are a must if you want to rest or focus properly. Unless you like sleeping in headphones, remember to grab earplugs to ensure a silent slumber.

A business traveller unpacking her suitcase for a business trip.

4. Carry more than one payment card

Nobody wants to end up unable to pay for something, so be sure to have more than just one card and check the exchange rates — this might save your nerves and earn reward points.

5. Travel adaptor

A business trip is always a chance to explore the world’s diversity. But the plug diversity might come as a nasty surprise — so remember to check the plug culture at your destination.

6. Comfortable shoes

Whether you prefer tight Oxford shoes or fancy high heels, having a spare pair of shoes to comfort you after a busy day is always a good idea.

7. Warm clothes

Even if you go somewhere warm, it may get cold on a plane or a train, in a hotel or an office. Moreover, warm clothes can make a great space-saving pillow for longer journeys.

8. Medication

As with plugs, the world is so diverse regarding medication that you might struggle to find your go-to painkiller or cough remedy — stock up in advance!

The item you can leave at home

A proper business trip packing list also includes something you should leave at home to ensure you travel light. Feel free to leave your umbrella at home since most hotels provide them for free. Yes, even if you’re travelling to the UK.

A business person using a business travel app to travel for work during a business trip.

Look out for yourself during your business trip

Feeling well is just as good for business travel as packing everything you need. Use these easy tips to feel better despite long flights and jetlag. 👇

1. Stay hydrated

Remembering to drink enough water is hard, especially during meeting-packed days. So remember to have a bottle of water with you — especially when travelling long distances.

Add a pack of electrolyte tablets to your business trip packing list and drink them with water to keep you hydrated — look for ones with vitamins.

2. Get a good night’s sleep

Having an eye mask and earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones will help.

3. Remember to keep moving

The more you walk in those comfortable shoes from the packing list, the better you’ll sleep and the more energised you’ll feel.

A business traveller walking to a meeting during a business trip.

Business trip FAQs

What do i need for my business trip .

During a business trip, you’ll need everything you use for work (laptop, phone, and charger) and other items to make your trip safe, comfortable, and productive.

These business travel essentials include a water bottle, electrolytes, hand sanitiser, business cards, multiple bank cards, a notepad, and pens.

How do I pack for a 5-day business trip ?

Apart from evident work essentials, remember to pack clothing, toiletries, and medication. Ensure you have enough of them — especially clothing if your accommodation doesn’t have washing facilities.

How can I use the 54321 packing rule for your business trips ?

The 54321 packing rule often looks like this: 5 tops, 4 pairs of trousers, 3 shoes, 2 smart outfits, and 1 bag. You can adapt this packing rule to match the purpose of your business trip.

Items to include on your business trip packing list

Business travel pro tip: plan for the first and last mile

Finding the best way to reach your final destination can be challenging, especially in a new city. These are the times when having a business travel app on your phone will help to keep your business trip running on time.

Bolt can help you to get around 500+ cities across 45+ countries in Europe and Africa. You can get picked up from the airport , ride a Bolt scooter to your meeting, or get behind the wheel with Bolt Drive .

Set up a free Work Profile in the Bolt app to get a ride receipt to your work email after each journey — and save time on filling out expense reports. You can even add a company card as a payment method to charge your work rides straight to your employer.

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The Ultimate Business Travel Checklist

Over the years, I’ve been on many business trips, and how successful they were almost always came down to how well they were planned.

There’s an awful lot to think about when planning a business trip, from where to stay to what to pack. You also need to prepare for your home and office while you’re absent.

In this article, I cover everything you’ll need to do to set yourself up for a successful business trip, including tips for accommodation, packing, transportation, preparing your home and work space, and purchasing your flight.

While getting to travel on the company’s dime sounds like the Holy Grail of great travel jobs , it can honestly be a lot of work to organize a business trip . Below you’ll find my complete business travel checklist so you’ll be able to plan the best trip possible, and avoid my mistakes!

In this article, you’ll find a:

Business Travel Checklist , which covers all aspects of getting ready for a trip other than packing.
Business Trip Packing List , with everything you’ll need for a successful trip. Scroll down for our printable business trip packing list!

Our business travel checklist

Click here to download a printable business trip travel checklist!

Your first steps

First, find out who’s responsible for your travel planning. Some businesses leave all the travel planning and flight booking to their employees, and have you submit your receipts later. Other businesses will handle every last detail of your travel planning (lucky you!) from pickup at the airport, to flights, hotels and accommodation.

Most businesses fall somewhere in between. It can save you a lot of hassle if you find out who’s responsible for what, early on.

Years ago, I had a last minute business trip to Amsterdam where I spent a few hours and a lot of stress trying to find affordable accommodation in the city. It turns out my employer had already arranged a place for me to stay with a colleague. Even if you think you know who’ll plan your trip, ask!

If you’re responsible for booking your flight, and you’re looking to save money, be sure to check out our post on six easy steps for nailing the cheapest flight . o start, we really love getting a quick price comparison on Google Flights (here are a few great tips for using Google Flights ) or Skyscanner .

Check flights on Skyscanner.

If you’re flying regularly for business, be sure to sign up for an airlines loyalty program, and book with them as much as possible. This can translate into some great upgrades and free flights as well as other perks.

Get your work place ready

So you don’t worry about work while you’re away, and to ease your transition back when you return, try to get your affairs in order at your office before you leave.

Make sure you finish the work projects you are currently working on.

Let coworkers and business partners know where you’re going, and how long you’ll be gone.

Set up an out of office email, if necessary.

Prepare the schedule for your business meetings on your trip; you should know exactly where and when each meeting will take place.

Make sure you’ve organized all the important documents for your trip, including the confirmations, copies of your travel documents, presentations and handouts. Print them out, if necessary, and insure they’re saved to a zip drive or on your hard drive. It’s a good idea to back them up to a cloud service (we like Amazon) to ensure that you can access them anywhere in the world.

Prepare your home for when you’ll be gone

Tell your family about your exact itinerary and leave your addresses and contact phone numbers.

Tell a trusted friend about your exact itinerary and ask someone to take care of your family pets and plants while you’re gone. If you don’t have a friend or family member that can pitch in, consider getting a housesitter. Probably the most well known and largest place to find house and pet sitters is through Trusted Housesitters .

Check sitters available on Trusted Housesitters here.

Take safety measures, such as locking all doors and windows, turning on the alarm and try to create the illusion that you are at home by turning some lights on or with a radio that has a timer function.

Suspend or redirect routine deliveries such as newspapers or milk, if necessary.

Give the house a quick clean before you leave. Normally, my house is kinda messy and chaotic, but I hate coming home to a dirty, messy house after a trip, so we give it a complete clean before we go. It’s nice to be able to relax a bit when you get back, rather than stress about how messy the house is.

Turn down the thermostat if it’s cold outside or turn it up if it’s really hot. There’s no point warming or cooling an empty house.

Make sure you check with your home insurance to see if you need to have someone check in on your house while you’re gone. Each home insurance policy is different, but many policies won’t cover damages from floods, water leaks, break ins or theft if the house is not regularly attended.

Travel preparations

If you are going abroad, make sure you have all the necessary travel documents.

If you need any vaccinations or medical documents for the country you are going to, take care of that, too.

Get some cash in the local currency. There are ATMs in nearly every airport in the world. however sometimes the lines are long or the machines are down. You don’t need money for your entire trip, just make sure you have enough on hand to pay for the taxi and a bite to eat when you get there.

Look into any specific workplace customs or practices for where you’re traveling. There’s a great article here on business culture in Singapore , and one for Japan here . A quick Google search should help you find others.

World Nomads Travel Insurance

Charge all of your devices the day before you leave on your trip. That way you won’t be caught flat-footed if your plane doesn’t offer outlets or USB charging ports.

Where to Stay

I’ve put these tips near the beginning, because I honestly believe that your accommodation is the most important part of your stay once your dates are set and your transportation is booked.

Start looking for accommodation early. It can be surprising how early accommodation books out. The earlier you start looking, the easier it will be for you to find a good place for a good price.

Look beyond a hotel room. Hotel rooms are often small, impersonal and honestly, overpriced. You’ll probably be surprised at how favorably the price of a fully furnished, serviced apartment compares. Corporate apartments also have the advantage of having essential business amenities like fast WiFi.

For example, corporate serviced apartments are often more comfortable and private than a hotel. Singapore’s well known as being one of the most expensive destinations for business travel in the Asia-Pacific region, making value for your dollar especially important.

Stay close to work. Look for accommodation that is not far from the place where most of your meetings will take place to avoid having to commute in a foreign city. I’m often surprised how bad traffic and subway crowding can be, even during off peak hours.

Make it work friendly. Make sure your accommodation has a work space where you can use your laptop and make phone calls. A small table and chair will work perfectly.

At the airport and in the air

Savvy business travelers suggest signing up for Global Entry and TSA Precheck . Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection program that pre-qualifies you for faster customs, while TSA Precheck will get you boarded faster, as many US airports have special (and faster!) precheck lines where you can skip needing to remove shoes, laptops, liquids, belts or light jackets.

Double check any baggage requirements. You never know when the rules will change. The USA has even floated the idea of banning laptops in the cabin for all flights that depart, land, or even touch down in the USA.

Try to travel carry on only. Checked bags have a potential to be lost or delayed, adding to your stress. If you can do with just a carry on you’ll be more flexible if there are problems and out of the airport quicker once you land.

If you do check a bag, be sure to keep essentials like your laptop, any business documents and tech, some underwear, and prescriptions in your carry-on bag in case your checked luggage is lost or delayed.

Get a lightweight, sturdy carry on bag with wheels, and carry a personal item as well. You can find more tips on choosing a carry-on here , and our tips for choosing the best business laptop backpack here .

Get clothing designed for travel. If you’re short on space, consider getting a travel jacket or travel gear with hidden pockets or that is wrinkle resistant. We like the SCOTTeVEST women’s trench coat or the streamlined men’s Revolution jacke t.

Stay hydrated on the plane . It’s amazing how much a flight can dehydrate the body. Drink more liquids than normal, and go easy on the alcohol to stay hydrated.

Go to bed normally. Studies have shown that the best way to reduce jet lag is to get as much sunshine as possible at your destination and to sleep normal hours. Tempted to take a quick power nap? Chances are it will just extend your jet lag.

Packing tips

When you pack, use a list with everything you need (see our handy packing list below). Focus on clothing items, toiletries, personal documents, money and banking cards, chargers and the items you need for your business meetings and give yourself time to add and remove items from the list. Try to limit the items you pack to the ones that you will really need.

Tip: Check out our favorite toiletries bags for travel here!

Don’t forget to take weather into account. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve forgotten to check the rain forecast and wished for my handy travel umbrella.

I love packing cubes, because they make organizing my luggage a snap. Check out more in our blog post on how to use packing cubes .

Make sure the liquids in your carry-on luggage (such as your shampoo or your soap) are in bottles that are not larger than 3 oz. (100 ml), otherwise you risk getting them removed by airport control.

Put your shampoo and conditioner, and any other liquids that may leak, in a zip-lock plastic bag. Changes in air pressure on the plane have made liquids come gushing out of bottles more than once on my flights, and the zip-lock bags have saved my clothes from many a spill.

Don’t pack what you don’t need. If you’re certain your hotel will have a hair dryer, shampoo and conditioner, there’s no need to pack these items. If there’s none in your room, ask for one to be brought to you.

Business Trip Packing List

Your business culture will determine exactly what to bring (whether it’s formal business attire like suits or business casual), but these tips should work either way.

Click here to download a printable business trip packing list!

Personal items

Credit cards and bank cards

Any other banking or personal ID you’ll need

Business cards to hand out

Find out what business functions you’ll need to attend (e.g., formal business dinners, or giving a presentation) and include clothes for those.

Bring layers, and make sure all your clothes coordinate by sticking to colors and patterns that all mix together.

Shirt. I recommend one top per day, if possible.

Pants or skirt. I recommend one pair for every two days. If you’ve color co-ordinated your clothing, you can get away with wearing a neutral colored bottom at least two days in a row.

Underwear. I recommend one pair per day, if that’s possible, so you won’t need to bother washing them.

Jacket. Check out our favorite casual women’s hoodie travel jacket here . For more formal business travel, we like the SCOTTeVEST women’s trench coat, men’s travel blazer, or the streamlined men’s Jacket .

Outerwear. Depending on the weather, you may need extra gear like sunglasses and a sun hat, or a scarf and gloves.

Footwear. Make sure that you pack at least one pair of comfortable business appropriate shoes, as you never know if you’ll have to walk between offices. If you enjoy working out, make sure you bring some proper footwear for that as well.

Pantyhose. I am NOT a fan of these devices of torture, but if you’re in a very conservative business environment, they may be expected.

Tech and business

WiFi hotspot. Hotel WiFi can be unreliable, so we bring our GLocalMe portable WiFi with us wherever we go. I love having internet at our fingertips across the globe, and it saves us a fortune in roaming charges. Check out our review of GlocalMe mobile WiFi here.

Tip! Too much gear? We understand. Read our article on how to travel lighter with electronics .

Laptop or tablet

Cell phone charger. Consider both a wall plug charger and a portable external battery charger.

Bring noise cancelling headphones. They’re not only fantastic for shutting out the chatty seatmate next to you when you’re trying to work, but they also do a wonderful job in loud hotel rooms, cafes, and new workplaces.

Tip! If you’re looking for a place to work while you’re away, check out our article on how to find the best places to work while traveling .

Plug converter. Depending on the country you’re in, you might need a different electrical plug. To make life easier, make sure all your chargers and devices are usable with 110-240 volts.

Toothbrush and toothpaste

Earplugs. You’ll thank me for this one, whether it’s for the plane or the hotel room. These affordable Flents Contour Ear Plugs get great reviews.

See prices and reviews.

Prescription and non-prescription drugs

Skincare products

Electric razor or disposable razor

Spare contact lenses, a case and contact lens solution if required

Prescription for eyeglasses

For women only

Bring your own tampons and pads, or use a menstrual cup like the Diva cup. In some countries, tampons can be especially hard to find, and brands can be quite a bit different away from home. Trust me, as a female traveler, the last thing you want is to overestimate the absorbency of a new product.

Optional extras

If you have the room and want to take along a few extras that’s fine. Here are a few examples.

Wide scarf in your carry on. This can double as a blanket during flight, and a fashion accessory later.

A small first aid bag with items you think you’ll need like pain relievers, band aids and cough drops. It’s never a bad idea to pack Pepto Bismol and Ex-Lax (or, as we call it, the stop and go duo).

Birth control

Voltage converters. We like this Universal World Wide Travel Charger Adapter .

See prices now.

Tip! Check out our article on How Not to Fry Your Electronics overseas for more tips.

Travel clothes steamer or travel iron

Tide stain remover pen

Lint roller

Small compression bag for laundry

Breath mints. Avoid gum, as it’s considered rude in many countries.

Travel pillow and or blanket

Baby wipes or facial wipes. We always travel with a small pack of these, as they’re wonderful for freshening up before leaving the plane.

Snacks. We often carry small packets of trail mix or protein bars in our carry on. They’re fantastic if airplane food service is sketchy, or if our hotel doesn’t have an affordable minibar.

Was this list helpful? What do you pack on a business trip? Let us know in the comments below!

Need some more packing list tips?

Check out our beach packing list and our road trip packing lists!

I suggest to check your wallet. Nothing is more evanescent than the title “best travel credit card.” The competitive balance is always shifting and just this month Chase seized the high ground with two of the first Visa Infinite cards issued in the United States

Thanks for the perfect checklist, Ms Micki Kosman. I use to travel often, but do not know that there is such a huge mandatory checklist to be noted. One tip “earplugs” are some useful tips for a traveller. Your tips on “easy tips for nailing the cheapest flight” were really very useful. Also, the travel Preparation tips were very useful.

You shared very important information and I read it carefully and gain amazing knowledge. Thanks and keep it up.

If I were to go on a business trip, I would make sure to find the right limousine since this will provide convenience. Well, I also agree with you that it would be a great idea to hire a person that will plan the travel. Thank you for sharing here as well the importance of talking to a family member who will take care of my house whilst I’m gone.

This is an awesome blog on travel checklist, very helpful and full of resources that will save you time and money when you travel.

Business Trip Packing List: What to Pack When You’re on An Important Business Trip?

Struggling when trying to come up with a business trip packing list ? Don’t fret, we’ve got you back. Below is a list of essential elements that can serve as a checklist for everything you need to carry in during your business travel.

If you ever find yourself asking the same old question every time you prepare for a business trip: “What should I be bringing?”, don’t worry, we’ve all been through that.

As a business traveller, you are probably on the road no less than ten times a year. And packing up your extended business trip can be daunting, especially when you are on a last-minute move and everything just becomes so overwhelming.

To help you travel smarter for business, our team brings you the fastest way to include all the travel essentials in your business travel packing list . There are many factors to make up a successful business trip, and it all starts with packing your stuff the right way. When you know what to keep in your luggage, you'll always have what you need!

The Ultimate Business Trip Checklist for Women

A great trick for you ladies to organise your work trip packing lis t is to group all essentials together and then choose a specific-coloured and different bag size for each group. This way you can always easily find everything you need whenever you want!

Whether you’re on a 2-day or 2-week trip , a clear zipper top cosmetic bag would be a good choice to store all your beauty essentials in order to get through airport security easily.

For a basic set of makeup essentials, there should be a sheer foundation create the radiant complexion, a concealer for extra dose of coverage, a rosy blusher as well as an instant eyeshadow, a mascara and last but not least, add in your favourite lipsticks and travel size perfume - the ones that not only make you look like a gorgeous lady but also make you feel confident and comfortable.

Feminine Hygiene Products

Another tip for business travel is to prepare a separate bag for feminine products to toss into your bag during your overnight work trip and make sure they are sufficient for any circumstance, especially for emergency supplies. This bag can also hold things like hand sanitizer, band-aid, a nail repair kit, and other personal items.

Medication Box

An important essential category is a pill box with your daily doses and maybe extra if you're being treated for an infection/disease. Whatever you decide, keep your pills in their own bag for easy access. Don’t forget to include ibuprofen or aspirin.

Eye care essentials when travelling is of importance whether it involves day-to-day care or if an emergency arises. To avoid eye related problems while on the road, it’s a good idea to bring along essentials such as eye drops, packets of lid cleansing wipes, an extra pair of glasses or contact lens, and a good pair of sunglasses. The same goes for eye drops and allergy/cold medication in case your eyes get dry or irritated.

Battery Charger

It’s easy to forget about your charger when you’re preparing your luggage, which is definitely a terrible mistake — especially when you see their price in airports and at some local stores when you want to buy an extra one. Therefore, it’s best to keep this item on the permanent packing list and never leave home without it. And make sure to regularly recharge your emergency battery so it's always available.

In-flight Entertainment

Whether you’re a regular business traveller or not, it can always be tiresome and gruelling to endure long flights and delays, especially when you have nothing to pass the time. To avoid that, you may want to consider bringing travel-friendly e-readers for movies, games, or books to optimise your waiting time.

Proper packing is the key to a carefree journey. Image from Unsplash

The Essentials Business Trip Checklist For Men

Preparing for an important occasion such as a business trip can be extremely stressful for us men- especially when it comes to packing. At some point you will still find yourself losing sight of the essential items you need to travel with or leave behind an important essential item only to regret it later on. To deal with that, we have made a handy business packing checklist for you guys to leave the house confidently and feel like a travel pro on your next vacation.

The first things you must have in your backpack should be your identification card, driver’s licence, a boarding pass and a valid passport. Without these necessities, you won’t meet the airline requirement or be able to head anywhere but home, so it’s crucial to organise these important documents at home beforehand.

Electronics

For modern business people, most of their work is connected with electronic devices, i.e., mobile phones, laptops, tablets, and other necessary devices. So it’s better not to leave home without these essentials as well as their chargers if you want your trip to be smooth and successful.

First aid kit and other medication essentials

A small bag with the most necessary pills and medicine is indispensable for every business traveller. You wouldn’t want to find yourself suffering a migraine trigger, high-climate fever, upset stomach or all three of them running hand in hand during your journey, not to mention medicines in the country you are visiting may be limited to prescription only. It’s best to keep a domestic remedy for your ailments at hand to prevent any inconvenience during your travel.

Kindle or book

If you’re in for a long trip and experience delays at the airports, it’s best to entertain yourself by brushing up on some of the latest best selling hits or classical novels as reading will make the time go faster. As the saying goes, “a book a day keeps the boredom away” – so bring them on board!

Pen and notebook?

YES. Another seem-to-be pesky space-filler, yet you may find yourself looking for it later on. Who knows when you will come up with a new idea? Or, when you might need to jot down some important information quickly? Keeping these accessible essentials in your backpack for more convenient travelling.

Step by step for business trip packing

For those times when we don’t really know what to bring on our journey, here are seven simple steps that may help you curb packing problems and make wiser choices with your preparation.

It may seem obvious and boring, yet it’s never a redundancy to plan everything beforehand and have information about the locations you would like to see or things you would like to buy by studying in advance. When you fully make sure about the road plan and meeting information, you will save plenty of time for yourself and find the gateway to a stress-free holiday.

Prepare a grab-and-go toiletry bag

While in a rush for a last-minute business trip and trying to get everything done as soon as possible, people tend to forget some of the essential items such as toothbrush, razor, deodorant or cotton pads, even those that should be obvious. To deal with that, we suggest you get a small bag designed for toiletries packing and fill it with all the essential things only as much as you’ll need for your trip and nothing more. It won't solve all your problems, but it crosses one major packing headache off the list.

Categorise your essentials

No matter where you go, there will always be so many things to remember. That’s why separating your essentials with desires should be a must whenever you’re about to hit the road. This will lessen the hustle of thinking long and hard about what you need to bring with you while also ensuring an enjoyable business trip.

Check the weather forecast while packing clothes

Depending on where you’re going, checking weather forecasts in advance can really do you good by giving you the best idea of what weather to expect on your holiday. Look for the day before you fly and pack accordingly so your trip will be as smooth and cosy as possible.

Choose functional and wrinkle-free attire

Be selective about which clothing to take and packing fewer yet extremely functional items can save you a lot of space in your suitcase, especially when you plan to wear them more than once. And do not forget to check the weather conditions of your destination and pack accordingly to ensure an ideal and comfortable business travel experience.

Save bag space for all your holiday purchases

When travelling, you're likely to come back from almost every trip with a bottle of wine, cosmetic items or specialty products as a souvenir to share with friends and family. Therefore, we recommend keeping everything at a minimum or using travel-size products to save extra luggage room for your trip back home. Packing light and using rolling technique is also a good way to to maximise space!

Double check

Last but not least, double-check your business trip packing list again to make sure you have everything you need. Your packing list won't do you any good if you don't check it before you leave!

Sort your stuff out. Image from Unsplash

The Best CabinZero Backpack for The Best Business Trip

When you’re on a business trip, it’s important to pick the right backpack and pack smart, so you won’t have to feel like it’s weighing you down. There are so many backpacks out there, so picking the right one for yourself can be pretty much a problem, especially when you have neither time nor experience in this type of shopping. So where do you even start?

The first thing to do when you’re trying to make a decision is to figure out what you really need. Here's our breakdown of questions to ask yourself when it comes to baggage selection:

How long your trip will be
Which form of transport you’re taking
How much you pack
What is the expected carry-on bag dimensions

Well, to save money and time on looking for suitable luggage, consider reaching out to our trusted products. Here at CabinZero, it is our priority to advocate for our clients with our versatile, minimalist and lightweight travel backpacks and packing cubes. Visit our website to see some of the best backpacks and packing cubes, designed to accompany you on your business travel.

Elegant, comfortable, and water-resistant, the Classic CABINZERO in four different colours features the highest quality of a zero-hassle travel bag that you wouldn’t want to miss. This classic backpack - which is available in 28L, 36L and 44L - is perfectly suitable for constant business travellers as you are.

CabinZero packing cubes would also be an excellent choice to help you get organised overnight work trips! The packing cubes are perfectly sized to fit inside our 44L, 36L and 28L bags, helping you to pack neatly and efficiently. What is more, you can also organise your clothes neatly and efficiently using our large packing cube. As a bonus each packing cube has a built-in global luggage tracker, powered by Okoban. So like all our other bags if you lose them there is a good chance you'll get them back.

Invest in our items for a simpler and easier journey so you never have to worry about whether your bag is good to go for any and every situation.

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions for Those Who are Still Confused

Got a question? We’re here to answer!

Here are the two top questions that we get asked the most from our beloved followers. If you don’t see your question here, drop us a line on our Contact Page.

What should I pack for a 4-day business trip?

When packing for a work trip, you may want to consider using a carry-on-sized bag plus a hand luggage to store your personal items as well as your laptop.

And to provide a clear picture of which items to include in your business trip packing list, here’s an example checklist of the things to prepare for both men and women if you’re about to hit the road for about 4 to 5 days.

Passport or ID
Visa, boarding pass
Driver’s licence
Credit card and checking card
Cash, various bill values
Plane tickets or print out confirmation
Hotel reservations with address and phone number
Driving directions and local taxi phone number

Formal and business attire

1 suit or blazer
2 dress shirts
1 casual shirt
2 pair of dress pants and slacks
2 dark matching colour socks
3 pairs of underwear.
1-2 pairs of shoes (one dress pair and one athletic)
1 pair of sandals or flip flops
1-2 jewellery and watches
1 business suit
2 pant suit or skirts
2 high heels and 1 pair of sandals
3-4 Jewellery and watches

Casual and swimwear

1 tank tops
1 scarf and pair of gloves

Essential toiletries:

Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss and mouthwash
Razor, shaving cream and aftershave
Sunscreen and moisturiser
Hair gel, hair clay and comb

Entertainment Essentials

Laptop with charger and laptop bag
Pens, pencils and notepad
Kindle or a book

What should I not forget on a business trip?

If you’re still worried that you may miss something while packing your luggage, check out our list of indispensable items as you pack for your next corporate travel endeavour.

First thing first, make sure to check your passport, ID or other requisite documents prior to your long work trip. This will help you avoid nightmarish scenarios such as not being able to get on the plane and miss out on important travel business.

Chargers and Charger Cables

In a technology-driven modern society, every task is connected to phones, computers, laptops, or tablets for email checking, meeting arrangement and data storage. Without these devices working properly, we would not be able to do the work that we are likely travelling for. With that being said, it’s a must to keep a charger cable compatible with each of your devices on hand at all times. This way you can have the devices available whenever you need.

Business Card

One of the main purposes of business trips is to establish new business contacts with new people and to look for new opportunities. Therefore, you should never forget to take plenty of your business cards with you so they are easily accessible during the day.

Hand sanitizer

Chances are you will be seeing lots of new faces and shaking people’s hands on a business trip. It’s best to keep a hand sanitizer close by to avoid getting sick, especially when there is the pandemic of coronavirus looming over our heads.

It might take time and effort to get used to these arrangements, but you can do it.

Business travelling can be a life-altering experience and certain elements are required for the business to be smooth, and it all starts with packing your stuff the right way. If you're planning a business trip soon and are stressed about preparing, the recommendations above are what we have found to be the most useful for business travellers to lessen the hustle of or overthinking and overpacking, as well as to save you money in the long run. In addition, other elements are also recommended according to your interests to make the journey as smooth and comfortable as possible.

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The Complete Business Trip Packing List

Are you planning a business trip this year? Well if so, you've got company. According to GBTA's Business Travel Index Outlook report, business travel spending has bounced back after the pandemic and is projected to soar, reaching £1.1 trillion in 2024 and nearly £1.4 trillion by 2027.

Business travel is essential for companies to expand their reach, nurture client relationships, and seize opportunities in global markets. It facilitates face-to-face interactions, helps you problem-solve on-site. It also builds collaborations that are vital for driving growth and achieving business objectives.

But, if you’ve got a business trip coming up, what should you pack?

Read on for our complete business trip packing list—and a few helpful hints on how to prepare for your first business trip.

Preparing for your business trip, including packing the right clothing and equipment, will help you maintain a professional appearance and reduce stress.

Planning for business travel is key to success and sustainability.

Packing efficiently with a checklist ensures you're prepared—consider clothing, business travel accessories, documentation, and finance.

Roomex helps streamline financial planning, accommodation, transportation, and luggage selection, making your trip stress-free and productive.

First up, what is business travel?

Unlike travelling for leisure, which focuses on relaxation, business travel involves professionals travelling for work-related purposes such as meetings, conferences, and client visits. Careful itinerary planning and expense management are crucial to ensure business trips meet their objectives without blowing the budget—or your company’s sustainability commitments.

At Roomex , we streamline the entire business travel process, from booking accommodation to managing expenses. Through innovative features like RoomexPay and reservation checks, we ensure that every aspect of your trip is optimised for success, allowing your company to focus on its core objectives while enhancing your overall travel experience.

Why do I need a business trip packing list?

A packing list for your business trip helps you optimise luggage space, ensuring you pack only what you need. It also minimises stress—you don't want to be that person who forgets essential items and has to borrow from colleagues while away.

By taking the time to plan and list out everything you need, you can travel with confidence knowing you're well-prepared for any situation that may arise.

And, with 89% of workplace travellers choosing to combine business trips with personal holidays for leisure—also known as ' bleisure' —it’s even more important to make sure you have the right kit with you.

unnamed-1Your business travel packing list will include clothing essentials, business accessories, and travel documents.

What should I pack for a five-day business trip?

Here’s our ultimate business travel checklist:.

Clothing essentials:

Business suits or professional attire (appropriate for meetings and events)

Dress shirts/blouses

Industry-specific attire like hard hats, hi-vis jackets, or steel-toed boots

Ties/accessories

One or two casual outfits for downtime

Undergarments and socks

Comfortable shoes suitable for walking and professional settings

Pyjamas/sleepwear

Raincoat, warm jacket, or smart overcoat

Business travel essentials:

Laptop and charger

Mobile phone and charger

Travel-sized toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, etc.)

Travel adapter/converter if travelling abroad

Notebooks, pens, and other stationery

Portable power bank

Snacks and refillable water bottle for on-the-go refreshment

Travel necessities:

Reservation confirmation details from Roomex

Passport/identification documents

Business travel insurance documents

Wallet with necessary cards and currency

RoomexPay allowance card for streamlined on-the-road spend

Any necessary medication

Travel itinerary and contact information

Reusable shopping bag for souvenirs or additional items

Sunglasses and sunscreen (depending on destination)

Small travel umbrella or raincoat

Get everything in place for your business trip before you travel to ensure a stress-free experience.

How do I prepare for my first business trip?

Here’s our step-by-step guide to getting everything in place for your first corporate travel experience….

Preparing for your first business trip helps ensure a successful and stress-free experience. It will also help you present yourself confidently as a professional—whether you’ve been in your industry for a few minutes or a few years.

Step 1: Research and documentation

Get to know the destination's culture and business etiquette to make a good impression.

Research your clients, partners, and project sites to understand their expectations, get up to speed on all aspects of the ongoing work, and to help you anticipate any problems.

Gather all necessary documents and materials for your meetings or site visits.

Step 2. Financial preparation:

Plan your expenses and set a budget for your trip. You may be covered by company per diems or your travel policy might specify spending limits. Check with your company travel manager, finance manager, or office manager before you leave.

RoomexPay prepaid allowance cards offer a convenient solution for managing on-the-road spend, eliminating the hassle of submitting expense reports and waiting for reimbursements. With RoomexPay, you can focus on your business objectives without worrying about financial constraints.

Ensure you have access to necessary funds for emergencies or unexpected expenses.

Here are a few RoomexPay benefits:

Firstly, it simplifies expense management by streamlining expense tracking, saving you valuable time and effort. Secondly, RoomexPay is registered in your company name—no need to give out your own personal financial information or credit card details while you're on the go. Additionally, RoomexPay improves your cash flow by eliminating the need for out-of-pocket expenses, ensuring a steady flow of funds throughout your trip.

Book your hotel accommodation with Roomex to take advantage of negotiated rates.

Step 3. Accommodation reservations:

Use Roomex to book your accommodations, taking advantage of its streamlined booking process and wide range of options tailored to the needs of workforce travellers. You can filter results by location and services, to find the hotel that’s the right fit for you within your company travel policy.

Benefit from Roomex's reservation checks, which periodically verify reservations with hotels to confirm your booking and address any additional needs, such as flexible check-in arrangements.

Step 4. Transport arrangements:

Book transport well in advance to secure the best deals. WIth Roomex you can book train travel alongside your accommodation, with split-ticketing available to help you get the best value fare for your journey.

Track your transport bookings and stay informed about last-minute changes or cancellations using Roomex's travel management platform.

Step 5. Packing and preparation:

Pack according to our business travel packing list.

Double-check your packing list, ensuring you have all necessary documents, devices, and accessories.

Make sure your devices are equipped with up-to-date security software and enable remote access to essential documents and emails.

Lightweight, durable bags with multiple compartments that fit neatly under seats on trains are the best luggage for business travel.

Need help fitting it all in? The best luggage for business travel:

Your business travel bag needs to double up as your portable workspace, holding your laptop, paperwork, mobile devices, chargers, and industry-specific tech and accessories—as well as your clothing. Here’s what you should look out for when choosing luggage for your business trip:

Make it lightweight and durable: Opt for luggage that is easy to carry and can withstand frequent travel. Go for bags that can fit easily into overhead or under seat compartments on trains.

Look for organisational features: Luggage with compartments and pockets makes it easier to access your belongings on the go.

Keep it professional: Choose luggage with a sleek design that reflects your professionalism and industry standing.

6. Final checks:

Verify all travel arrangements to avoid any last-minute surprises.

Confirm your Roomex bookings and review any additional requirements.

Pack your luggage according to your list and ensure you have everything you need for a successful trip.

Wrapping Up

A business trip packing list is vital for optimising space, reducing stress, and ensuring you're well-prepared for any situation while you’re on the road.

Take the hassle out of travel planning, keep to company policies, and wave goodbye to hoarding receipts for expenses by booking your hotels with Roomex today.

Speak to a travel expert

Accommodation booking, expense management, policy compliance and more, all in one platform. Find out more from a Roomex travel expert now!

Sign up for free to start booking with Roomex

Your ultimate packing list: business travel checklist

Nothing is worse than a business trip that catches you by surprise. With this ultimate packing list, business travel was never easier; get going with all the necessities.

By Jessica Freedman

August 6, 2024

Man packing suitcase with passport in hand

Don’t let a business trip catch you by surprise, having a packing list for a business trip is crucial to save time and make sure you don’t leave home without the essentials. Use a checklist; business trips are easier and more productive when you’re prepared. In this article we’ll walk you through everything you need to plan a business trip and create a business trip packing list:

The must-haves

The work essentials

The personal items you can’t leave without, the nice-to-haves.

When it comes to making your business trip checklist, you want to make sure you have the necessities to ensure that you can work just as comfortably and effectively as if you were at the office (whether that be a physical office or your home office).

Creating a business trip packing list

So now that you know why a business trip checklist is such a good idea let’s get started on tips to create a checklist for your business trip. We’ll start with the must-haves, then move on to the work essentials, the personal items you can’t leave without and the nice-to-haves.

The must-haves

It’s time to start preparing for your business trip, so what is it you can’t leave home without?

The must-have business travel checklist:

Passport or government issued ID
Boarding pass (printed or digital)
Work credit card
Work laptop and charger
Work cell phone and charger
Personal cell phone and charger
Headphones – they come in handy if you have to conduct phone calls while in transit
Notebook (to jot any important information down) and pen
Business cards

Eagle's eye view of bed with suitcase, passport, and clothes for business trip.

When it comes to preparing the work essentials, you want to make sure you have everything necessary to work comfortably from anywhere (whether that be from the airport, the train station, on the plane or from your hotel room). Thankfully most documents are now available on the cloud, but just in case, you may want to have a backup on a flash drive of your presentation, and any printout flyers or documents you need to share with your colleagues or potential clients. Lastly, on your checklist for a business trip preparation list, make sure that you put your business cards.

Everyone has their own ideas of what they can’t leave without, but then of course there are also some basics (think toothbrush) that anyone will agree you must have no matter what. Don’t leave home without your pajamas, socks, underwear, change of clothes for each day of your work trip, sunglasses, toothpaste and toothbrush, floss, shampoo and conditioner, hairbrush, cream, and chapstick.

Sometimes it’s a good idea to prepare for the unexpected. For example, why not pack some pain killers? Going to a meeting with a headache is the last thing you want to do. Or why not pack an extra pair of underwear? It doesn’t take up space and you never know, if your flight gets delayed you may end up having to stay another night. Another “nice-to-have” is some healthy snacks like almonds or a protein bar. If you’re in a hitch and you’re running to a meeting or in your hotel room with nothing nearby to eat, at least you have something to tide you over until the next meal.

A portable charging dock is another “nice-to-have” because when you’re on the go, you don’t want to be left without a charged cell phone to help you navigate and keep track of your meetings.

Planning a business trip 101

The top 5 benefits of a packing list for a business trip.

There are many benefits of having a packing list for business travel. Let’s take a look at what they are.

1. A business travel checklist streamlines the packing process

For starters, it streamlines the planning and packing process, meaning that you can easily and quickly put together your things for a business trip, even if a trip is decided at the last minute. When you are traveling for business, you are already eating into your personal time during the week with your friends and family, so the last thing you want to do is waste even more time pondering what you are going to bring with you. With a packing checklist, business trips are hands down a piece of cake.

2. Ensures you only take the necessities

Sometimes when you are packing at the last minute you throw in items that are not necessary, weighing you down, and forcing you to check a bag. Checking a bag is anything but productive because it slows down the time it takes to get out of the airport, and hence get to your hotel or meetings. With a packing list you can be sure you only take the essentials, which are more or less the same no matter where you go.

3. Keeps you organized

With a nicely defined list that is divided into the must-have documents, work essentials, personal items you can’t leave without, and other items that might come in handy, you can be sure to stay organized. Certain items like your toiletries you can even keep packed in your toiletry bag, making sure not only you don’t forget a thing, and cutting down on the time it takes to pack your suitcase.

4. Reduces time

No one wants to spend hours preparing for a business trip because they are already taking away time from their personal lives and families. This is why if you have a business trip packing list, you can easily sort through what you need in little time.

5. Less effort

By making a packing list, you might spend a little more time at the beginning to get organized, but then from there on out, every time you have to go on a trip, you can take out your list, and you know exactly what you need to bring. The less effort you put into preparing yourself physically for the trip, the more effort you can put into preparing yourself mentally, and spending time with your friends and family before you go.

5 Tricks & tips for preparing for your next business trip

We’ve covered the steps to plan your business trip in the above article, but there’s more to planning your business trip. A business travel checklist goes beyond just a packing list but is more a comprehensive road map to preparing for your business trip in order to make it a success.

The idea of making it a comprehensive checklist for business trip preparation is the fact that it can be easily replicated for any type of business trip, whether it be overnight, an extended trip or to an international destination.

As you become a seasoned business traveler, it will get easier, and your checklist will change. Think of it as a work in progress to alleviate any stress related to packing or not knowing what to bring. For those of you working as HR or office managers guiding others to prepare for their business trips, it’s important to have your own comprehensive checklist that can easily be shared with your travelers, to make things easier and more productive.

Girl closing suitcase on the floor of bedroom

1. Review business trip checklist prior to packing for your trip

Once you’ve made a comprehensive checklist for your business trip, you can fine tune as you go. Create a digital version of the checklist so that you can virtually check off as you go, and you don’t waste paper printing it out. You may consider creating separate work trip checklists for each kind of business trip: short or long, multi-destination, an international business travel checklist, winter business trip, or for a summer business trip, to make it easier. Review the list and see what will be necessary prior to packing.

2. Pack your important items in your carry-on

If you decide to check a bag, be sure to have all your most important personal items in your carry-on in case your luggage gets lost. Put your laptop, chargers for phone and laptop, business cards, a change of clothes and a toothbrush. That way if you are caught without your bag, you are prepared.

3. Just because it’s on the list doesn’t mean you have to take it

With a comprehensive work travel packing list, there will be a lot of items on there “just in case” but that doesn’t mean you have to pack them no matter what. It’s more of a reference to help you in the decision-making process. With more practice it will be easier to understand items that will change based on the details of your trip, and other must-haves that must be packed no matter what.

4. Double check documents

Travel documents are the most important item on your list, but beyond making sure you have all the necessary documents, it’s also important to ensure that they are up-to-date. Imagine you get to the airport only to discover that your passport has expired yesterday. To avoid this nightmare, be sure to set alerts in your phone to renew your documents with enough time in advance to avoid potential travel nightmares.

Keep in mind that if you’re traveling internationally, you may want to make sure that your passport isn’t going to expire within six months as some countries won’t let you in. Check if there are necessary business visa entry requirements. You may also want to check for extra Covid-related requirements although a lot of countries have already relaxed these requirements in recent months. Check our guide to traveling safe for more information.

5. Read up on your destination

Researching your destination before traveling is a great idea, especially if you are traveling to a country with a different religion or cultural norms. This way you make sure to avoid doing anything that is culturally taboo. For example in Japan, it’s just as disrespectful to arrive too far ahead of time as it is to arrive late. Reading up on your destination will ensure you avoid cultural faux pas. Be sure to include research as part of your ultimate packing list.

Check out our etiquette guides for more tips: APAC Business Etiquette , Americas travel etiquette and tips and tricks to do better business in EMEA .

And that’s how packing lists simplify business travel

We’ve looked at everything you should keep in mind when it comes time to create a packing list for a business trip in order to simplify business travel. Of course, the more organized you are, the more effective you can be when it comes time to hit the road.

Looking for ways to optimize your business travel?

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July 3, 2019 By Michelle Maraj 36 Comments

How to Pack for a 3 Day Business Trip

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning that we will receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase. All opinions are those of the author.

As a consultant, I typically alternate between 3 day business trips and 4 day business trips. For a 3 day business trip, I would bring a carry-on suitcase in addition to my laptop bag. My carry-on is a hard shell suitcase that opens down the middle. I will typically pack all of my clothes on one half with packing cubes, and then my toiletries and shoes in the zippered half to stay in place.

Whether you are packing for a conference or you are visiting one of your clients, the following bullets will help you determine what you need to pack for your 3 day work trip.

3 Day Business Trip Packing List

When I am packing for a 3 day business trip, I pick clothes from my wardrobe that will coordinate so that I do not have to worry about matching. For example, I might choose blue and white shirts, or one week I might choose primarily pink shirts. For a 3 day business trip, I would likely choose one suit color. That might mean wearing navy, and alternating between a navy skirt and navy pants each day.

The following items would take up one half of my suitcase:

3 days worth of clothes (3 shirts, 2-3 pants/skirts, 3 pairs of underwear)
1 extra pair of professional shoes
Casual clothes for the evening (2-3 outfits)
1 pair of casual shoes
Work out clothes

No matter how long you are traveling for, when you are packing, you will always want to include one extra outfit. You never know when you might have to stay an extra day for the client, or your flight gets canceled.

The following items would be in my laptop bag:

Work laptop and charger
Notepad and pen
Phone charger

Check out our ultimate packing list for work trips for a detailed breakdown of everything that you should bring on your business trip from week to week.

Toiletries for a 3 Day Business Trip

In addition to your clothes and laptop, you will want to make sure you pack any necessary toiletries . My toiletries and shoes will take up the second half of my suitcase. Items you may want to bring include:

Toothbrush and toothpaste
Conditioner
Hairbrush or comb

Some of these items you may already find in the hotel, but I prefer to pack my own brands when going on work trips.

Women’s Packing List for a 3 Day Business Trip

As a woman going on a business trip, there are a few additional items that I would pack in my carry-on for a 3 day business trip. These items would fit on the half of my suitcase with my toiletries.

Make-up case
Travel hair dryer
Hair straightener or curling iron
Make-up remover
Cotton balls

Preparing for Your 3 Day Business Trip

Pack the night before your trip, especially if your flight will be early in the morning. Before each business trip, I will pack all of my business clothes, and lay out my travel outfit for the following day. I will top off any of my toiletries, and I will have my make-up bag out and ready to grab once I finish getting ready.

Once you arrive at the hotel, I would recommend setting out all of your clothes for the week. Iron anything that needs to be ironed, and hang your outfits in the closet. This way, you do not need to worry about ironing or looking for your clothes in the morning.

Don’t forget your work laptop, and anything else that you need can be purchased once you arrive at your destination.

Going on a work trip? Also check out:

10 Work Trip Instagram Captions
Why a Trolley Strap is a Requirement for Your Next Work Bag
5 Challenges of Managing Remote Employees
Matt’s Flights Custom Search – Here’s Our Review of What He Found
Jey&em ONE Suitcase Review

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Creating a business trip packing list

Even in our post-digital world, there are some physical items you can’t do without – especially on a business trip. Forget your passport and you won’t be getting on your flight. Forget your phone or laptop and you’ll struggle to communicate with your colleagues and clients. Forget important business documents and you could be risking anything from your professional reputation to a client relationship. These are all easy mistakes to make, but you can see how much they would cost your business to put right – and cause you stress in the process.

This handy guide explains how to pack for a business trip – giving you more time to focus on acing your meeting or that big conference you’re presenting at. Here are 10 essential items to include on your packing list for a business trip.

1. Travel documents

The most important item on your business trip packing list is your passport, without which you won’t be able to set foot on an airplane. It’s a good idea to keep all your travel documents – including any airline reservations, hotel confirmations and rental car details – in one safe place. That way, you can access them quickly as soon as you need them, avoiding that moment of panic when you can’t find your boarding pass.

2. Laptop or tablet

Taking a laptop or tablet with you on your trip is a great way to stay productive. Whether you’re reviewing a presentation or typing up post-meeting notes, using a laptop or tablet to work while you’re on the move will really make your travel time count. Whatever electronic devices you find most useful – don’t forget to pack the relevant chargers. Adapters are a must if you’re travelling abroad, so try and pick up one before your trip – it’ll save you time and money compared to buying one at the airport.

Phones are an essential in modern business life. Without one you’ll really struggle to communicate with your colleagues or your client, and they can also help you stay organized. Download a corporate travel app such as myCWT and you’ll be able to sync your phone with your work calendar to give you the reminders you need to stick to your work schedule and travel itinerary.

4. Wi-Fi access

Think about wireless options if you need to work remotely, navigate your way around your destination, or speak to your family back home. Wi-Fi access in hotel rooms is not always free. At certain hotels, in-room internet can come with a heft daily charge, one that’s equivalent to what you might pay in a month with a wireless card. All major phone carriers sell internet cards – and you can also use them across different devices, whereas a hotel’s Wi-Fi will often only cover one device. Alternatively, sign up to CWT Hotel Intel and you’ll be able to browse a directory of global hotels and read travelers’ own reviews. This will let you see which hotels rank highest in terms of Wi-Fi options – enabling you to make an informed choice about where to stay.

5. Clothing and accessories

Bring the right clothes. Being armed with the most appropriate jacket, pair of shoes or accessories can make all the difference when you’re preparing for a jam-packed itinerary – and even those spontaneous, last-minute drinks which are great for networking. You’re likely to need to pack a mixture of formal business attire and casual clothing, along with underwear, socks and pajamas. Bear in mind the weather at your destination – if it’s wet and windy, you’ll wish you’d packed a travel umbrella and a raincoat. Remember that toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner and toothpaste might not be provided in your hotel – so bring your own just in case.

6. Wallet or purse

Remembering your wallet or purse is an absolute must. Without it you’ll struggle to pay for anything on your business trip, causing yourself unnecessary headaches. Even if you’re likely be making most of your payments by card, it’s always good to have loose change and small notes for smaller items. As a general rule of thumb, only take what you need, like the cards you need to use, and take just a small handful of local currency – it’ll limit the damage if your wallet or purse gets lost or stolen. Make sure you have your wallet or purse close to hand – perhaps in a jacket or trouser pocket – so you can easily retrieve it when you need to.

7. Breath mints

When you’re meeting someone for the first time in the business world, it’s important to make a strong first impression. You never know who you might meet – and if this person is a client or potentially important connection, you don’t want to worry about bad breath. It’s easy to overlook this essential – so don’t forget to pack some mints to chew at regular intervals and particularly after meals.

8. Printed handouts

Ask yourself: what work documents do you need for your business trip? Whether it’s presentation handouts or meeting agendas, they’re an important part of any business travel checklist. Sure, there will probably be somewhere to print them at your destination, but don’t leave that to chance. It won’t take a minute to print and pack the handouts you need, and you’ll feel much better knowing you have them with you when you arrive at your destination.

9. Office supplies

Think about what kind of stationery you’ll need to take with you. It sounds simple, but if your business trip involves a client meeting, you’ll need a pen and notepad to record any action points and make sure you look organized. Think about what other office supplies you need to include on your business trip packing list – sticky notes to set yourself quick visual reminders, paperclips to keep your documents together, and folders to protect them from damage. You don’t need to take an entire office supply store with you – but a few useful items will really help.

10. Business cards

Even if you’re only intending to meet with familiar faces, you can’t leave business cards off your business trip packing list. You never know when you’ll bump into someone who could be a great addition to your network – and in those cases, you’ll want to be sure they can get in touch with you. Bring a generous supply of business cards so you don’t run out, and tuck them in your pockets, briefcase, wallet or purse so you’re always prepared when you make a connection. Business cards are essential if you’re going to a conference – and they make great name badges too.

Once you’ve ticked off each of these elements of your business travel checklist, don’t forget to check and double check.

Packing for an overnight trip

If you’re packing for an overnight trip, pack for carry-on luggage only. This will save you time when you arrive and eliminate the risk of losing your luggage. As such, you should aim to keep your business trip packing list to a minimum, taking a change of clothes and essential toiletries, your phone, laptop and a notepad and pen. You should also let key people know where you are, making sure your travel manager knows your business trip itinerary, and carry minimal cards and currency in your wallet or purse.

Travelling for 3, 4 or 5 days

Your business travel checklist will clearly be more extensive for a trip that’s a few days long. As well as the overnight trip essentials above, you’ll need a combination of smart and casual clothes. If you’re travelling between different destinations, consider where your internet access is coming from – a Wi-Fi card or hotspot is your key to staying productive and connected with the right people.

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Business Travel Packing List
Easy, Printable Travel Packing Checklist + 30 Best Tips [2020]
The Only Packing Checklist You'll Ever Need (Downloadable Checklist
The Ultimate Packing List for Work Trips
Ultimate Business Trip Packing List: 100+ Essentials and Items You
Sample Packing List For Travel at Kimberly Yates blog

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Business Trip Packing List for Overnight, 3-Day, and 5-Day Trips
Overnight Business Trip Packing List. Ready for a quick, easy packing list for a one-night business trip? Reduce the number of items in your one-day work trip packing list by two. Pack an outfit, wear an outfit, and add the non-clothing essentials. What to pack for an overnight business trip: 1 dress shirt; 1 casual shirt; 1 pair of dress pants ...
The Ultimate Packing List for Work Trips
When packing my suitcase for a work trip, 50% of my suitcase will be clothing. I use three packing cubes that fit in the compression compartment of my suitcase - one cube for my blazers and pants, one cube for shirts, and one cube for underwear. If you liked the Ultimate Business Trip Packing List, you can download a free pdf checklist below.
The Ultimate Packing List for Business Travelers
These can include comfortable pants, jeans, t-shirts, and sweaters. The ultimate business trip packing checklist should always include: Business suits. Professional dress shirts and blouses ...
Perfecting the One-day Business Trip: Tips and What to Pack
Pack your trip bag beforehand. Pack your entire carry-on or backpack the night before your trip and make a short list of the finishing touches for the morning. For me, this list tends to be my phone charger, phone, battery backup power bank and a few other things.
The Ultimate Business Trip Packing List
The Ultimate Business Trip Packing List. Here's what our experts say to pack for your next work trip. Travel + Leisure / Alli Waataja. Packing for a work trip can be a stressful task if you're ...
The Ultimate Packing List for Business Trips
Carry-On Packing List for Any Work Trip. Now that we've covered the most important business travel essentials above, let's go over what you should always bring in your carry-on bag. When traveling for work, one thing that you should always keep in mind is to always be prepared, so if you're also taking check-in luggage with you, we highly ...
Business Trip Packing List: Checklist for Stress-Free Travel
One great way to pack efficiently is by using the layered packing technique. Start with heavier items at the bottom of your suitcase, then work your way up with lighter items. ... What are the essentials to include in a 2-day or 3-day business trip packing list? For a short business trip, you should focus on the essentials. Pack a few clothing ...
Business Trip Packing List: Pack Like a Pro [PDF Checklist]
Include the following in your business trip packing list: Laptop and charger: essential for presentations and work on the go. Mobile Phone and Charger: To stay connected with your team and clients. Adapters: Consider the plug types at your destination and carry the necessary adapters. Power banks are a lifesaver when you need to charge your ...
The Ultimate Business Trip Packing List (Separate List If Have Kids)
Here's a list of items to pack for a week-long business trip: Clothing: To pack for a week-long business trip, you'll need to bring enough clothing to last you the entire week, plus a few extra items just in case. Let's start with the basics: Underwear and socks for each day; Pants or skirts for each day; Tops for each day; A jacket or blazer
The Professional's Guide to Packing for a Business Trip
Travel documents are a no-brainer for your packing list. But if you're packing in a hurry, it's easy to leave things like your passport or boarding pass on the kitchen counter or forget to grab your ID out of the bag you use every day. Including these items on your packing list ensures they don't get overlooked and left at home. 2.
Business Trip Packing List
4. Driver's License. 5. Rental Car Confirmation. If you have rented a car, print off all the documents and have them on hand. 6. Business Trip Itinerary. From conference agendas to your personal travel schedule, make sure you have everything written down in a diary or folder.
The Only Business Trip Packing List You Need
To avoid those outcomes, consult this business trip packing list before you travel. Your All-Inclusive Business Trip Packing List. Luggage: Carry-on of your choice. Your goal here is not to have to waste time or energy waiting in baggage claim, playing luggage Jenga in the truck of your taxi or rental car, or dragging around unnecessary weight.
The Ultimate Business Trip Packing List: What to Pack for 3 Days
How to Wear It. Traveling Out and Arrival Day: Jeans, loafers, T-shirt, chore coat plus overcoat/raincoat. Comfortable enough for traveling and, if you swap the tee for a shirt, smart enough for ...
Business trip packing list: 23 items you need to pack
1. Carry a battery pack with you. While having your devices charged is essential on any business trip, finding a suitable plug might be challenging. Be prepared. Have a power bank. 2. An eye mask to help you sleep. Sleep well at night or on the move with your private blackout blinds. 3.
The Ultimate Business Travel Checklist
Jacket. Check out our favorite casual women's hoodie travel jacket here. For more formal business travel, we like the SCOTTeVEST women's trench coat, men's travel blazer, or the streamlined men's Jacket. Outerwear. Depending on the weather, you may need extra gear like sunglasses and a sun hat, or a scarf and gloves.
Business Trip Packing List: What to Pack When You're on An Important
And to provide a clear picture of which items to include in your business trip packing list, here's an example checklist of the things to prepare for both men and women if you're about to hit the road for about 4 to 5 days. Paperwork. Passport or ID. Visa, boarding pass. Driver's licence.
The Complete Business Trip Packing List
Are you planning a business trip this year? Well if so, you've got company. According to GBTA's Business Travel Index Outlook report, business travel spending has bounced back after the pandemic and is projected to soar, reaching £1.1 trillion in 2024 and nearly £1.4 trillion by 2027.. Business travel is essential for companies to expand their reach, nurture client relationships, and seize ...
Get access to your Ultimate Business Trip Packing list
Review the list and see what will be necessary prior to packing. 2. Pack your important items in your carry-on. If you decide to check a bag, be sure to have all your most important personal items in your carry-on in case your luggage gets lost. Put your laptop, chargers for phone and laptop, business cards, a change of clothes and a toothbrush ...
PACKING LIST FOR BUSINESS TRIP
Download a Packing List for Business Trips. To make your life easier, our Packing List for Business Trip is organized by category: Clothing/Accessories, Toiletries/Bath, Entertainment, Technology, Eating, Medications, and Miscellaneous. We've included extra lines so you can easily add additional items that you want to remember to bring along.
How to Pack for a 3 Day Business Trip
For a 3 day business trip, I would likely choose one suit color. That might mean wearing navy, and alternating between a navy skirt and navy pants each day. The following items would take up one half of my suitcase: ... Women's Packing List for a 3 Day Business Trip. As a woman going on a business trip, there are a few additional items that I ...
Business Trip Packing List: 10 Steps to Packing like a Pro
First, prepare your expense sheet. Have a folder ready, whether physical or virtual, where you save all records of your expenses. This keeps things organized for when you need to file for reimbursement. 2. Dedicated, pre-packed travel bag. Have a dedicated travel bag.
Creating a business trip packing checklist
1. Travel documents. The most important item on your business trip packing list is your passport, without which you won't be able to set foot on an airplane. It's a good idea to keep all your travel documents - including any airline reservations, hotel confirmations and rental car details - in one safe place.
How to Pack for a Business Trip
1 dark, solid-color polo shirt — up the amount to three or four and reduce the amount of dress shirts by one or two if you're traveling somewhere very hot or plan on playing a lot of golf. 2 pairs dress shoes — one black and one brown; wear one on the plane to save room. 2 dress belts — matching the shoes.

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Business Trip Packing List

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Women’s Business Travel Wardrobe

2 Blouses and 1 T-Shirt

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3 Pairs of Underwear and Socks

2 Pairs of Shoes

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2 Pairs of Pants

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Perfecting the One-day Business Trip: Tips and What to Pack

What to pack for a same-day work trip

Your business travel bag or luggage

Travel (waist pack) accessory bag

Work items to pack

Other travel accessories

Toiletries to bring

Clothing, accessories and shoes

Tips for taking a one-day work trip

Get a good night of rest the night before

Check into both your flights the day before

Perfect that one-day work trip packing list

Pack your trip bag beforehand

Keep in touch with colleagues or clients

Have a freshen-up plan

Make sure to eat on the way in

Be communicative about your time frame

Plan around that flight back home

Prepare for delays

Final thoughts on a one-day business trip

The Ultimate Business Trip Packing List

Packing Checklist for a Business Trip

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