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Just like anyone else, even the most experienced business traveller can get into the habit of carrying around far more than they need. Obviously the business traveller’s main focus is the success of their business trip, travelling light may be low on the list of priorities. However a little thought and organisation can mean that they do not have to carry around unnecessarily cumbersome luggage.
Carrying around too much luggage is not only inconvenient it can also hit you in the pocket. Many airports have tightened up security which means more luggage checks and the majority of airlines are now imposing substantial fines for overweight luggage. So rather than suffering the extra hassle and falling foul of the rules and regulations here are a few tips to ensure you travel light for business:
Ensure you choose the correct luggage, some bags are actually heavy without any contents! Pick luggage that is light yet strong - you don’t want it falling apart. Bags with good lockable outside pockets are particularly useful as you can store things you may need to access quickly and easily. The pockets being lockable ensures your items are stored away and there is less chance of your bag being interfered with.
Wear a travel suit that is designed for the purpose, will remain relatively crease free and can be ironed and pressed quickly. With the advent of modern crease resistant materials there is now a great choice of specially designed lightweight travel clothing that is also of smart appearance. Hanging your travel suit in the bathroom in steamy conditions will often remove any creases and save you valuable ironing time!
Try and use flexible outfits by combining jackets and trousers that can be worn with a number of different shirts/blouses and shirt/blouse colours. Using neutral colours to base your outfits around means you instantly have a few different combinations and saves you having to bring multiple heavy and space consuming outfits. Accessories such as ties and scarves can be used to change the outfit and give it a different look whilst still maintaining high professional business dress standards.
The most effective packing method is to roll clothing in to neat bundles, this allows to pack smarter, not only will you benefit from the increased storage space created but it will help your clothing to avoid wrinkles that in turn saves you time in having to press the items again. Remember to stuff small items of clothing such as socks in to your shoes; both saving space and preventing your shoes from becoming squashed and pushed out of shape.
Use travel sized items for your trip, the small travel sized items of toiletries tend to be noticeably smaller than the regular size meaning more space.
With the ever increasing security at airports you will be asked to produce your travel documents and have your bags checked and x-rayed at the designated check points and possibly be subject to random searches from the security authorities. So, make sure all your important documents and items that will need to be inspected are easy to access. This prior planning will hopefully mean you enjoy a smooth passage through the checks and do not misplace anything.
Carry your important documents, any medications, toiletries and one change of clothes in your hand luggage just in case your luggage gets lost. Avoid carrying any documents, credit cards and personal items that you do not need, if you loose them you will have the additional burden of taking to deal with all these issues.
Travelling can be simpler and go smoother if you create an effective system and follow it consistently.
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