When you venture out on your next business trips, try to make the most of your time in a new city. It is important, of course, for you to be sharp and focused. There is no rule, though, that says you can’t enjoy yourself while traveling for business.

Tips to make the most of your next business trips

We have compiled a few tips for you to take care of both the business and the pleasurable aspects of your next trip.

Tips for staying mentally and physically sharp

A business traveler can easily spend 20 out of 30 days of the month traveling. That kind of hectic travel schedule can really wreak havoc on your health, mental focus, and even your relationships (both professional and personal).

There are some ways that you can mitigate the detrimental impact of constant travel. It is possible to balance the demands of your busy schedule with the needs of your mind and body.

Let’s take a look at some practical tips to help you stay in top form:

Tip 1: Use the plane as your office

Think of your next flight as a dedicated space and time to complete specific tasks. Try to sit away from colleagues who may distract you and keep your phone turned off. This will help allow you to stay focused and devoted to your work. Another plus, you have a built-in deadline to complete whatever project you may be working on – arriving at your destination.

Tip 2: Maintain your workout regimen

Staying active yields benefits beyond the purely physical. It also does wonders for your mental sharpness. Check out the gym amenities at your hotel. Most offer at least a fitness center with basic equipment. Many also offer a pool if you happen to be a swimmer. If you don’t have access to those accommodations, consider some exercises that can be done in or around your room. For example, try high intensity circuit training using your bodyweight as resistance, yoga, or running around the neighborhood.

Tip 3: Delegate tasks

When it comes to the minutiae of your business, it is oftentimes a good idea to delegate those tasks to someone else. Booking travel arrangements, managing calendars, and even returning phone calls or emails may seem productive, but it can actually be a waste of your time. If you can’t hire a full-time assistant, look into a virtual assistant who will take care of your simple tasks for a reasonable price. When you delegate away these menial tasks, you could save more than two hours a day. Hours that are better spent growing your business.

Tip 4: Get motivated

Feeling confident will help you achieve your professional goals and perform even better than average. Develop a routine to help motivate you to be the best version of yourself. Listen to an inspiring speech, repeat a mantra, or crank up your favorite song. Figure out what gets you fired up and puts you in the zone.

These tips should help you maintain the right frame of mind while you travel and make the most of your time.

Tips for mixing business with pleasure while you travel

If you strategically schedule your personal downtime in and around events, and look at the expense of travel as an opportunity rather than a burden, you can turn business travel into something more enjoyable.

Here are some ways to add a little pleasure into your next business trip:

Tip 1: Explore your surroundings

When attending conference, convention, or trade show, it is tempting to stay in (and not venture from) the hotel that is hosting the event. Consider staying in a hotel a few blocks away from the primary destination. Your locale will force you to explore more of the host city during the commute. Check out a map of the local area and find some interesting stops you can make along your route. Better yet, if time permits, try to extend your stay to take in some local events like festivals or concerts.

Tip 2: Connect with people

Before you schedule your next business trip, reach out to friends, associates, or clients who live in or near your destination. They could be a good resource for things to do and places to see. Also, they could help you schedule rooms and reservations for your stay. Beyond that, it is a good opportunity to meet up with business contacts or reconnect with old friends as part of a business trip.

Tip 3: Factor in contingency time

When you travel by plane, consider scheduling some flexible time before or after your flights. Many airlines offer compensation for passengers who volunteer to give up their seats in the case of an overbooking, which seems to be the norm these days. If you have some wiggle room, you could take advantage of the situation. Arrive early and let the gate attendant know that you have flexible travel plans and are willing to give up your seat. Make sure you clarify what compensation the airline is willing to offer. It is usually a voucher that can be applied to a future flight as well as a hotel and meal voucher if you are required to stay an additional night. Why not take advantage of a discounted future flight, hotel amenities, and free food?

Tip 4: Enjoy your meal

Eating well while you travel for business is never easy. Do yourself a favor and plan for at least one enjoyable meal on your next trip. A little internet or Yelp research or reaching out to local acquaintances should give you some ideas for a restaurant to visit. Make a reservation before you leave and be sure to ask about any traveler deals or discounts. This planning will give you something to look forward to.

Final Thoughts

It is possible to make the most of your next business trip by taking steps to stay sharp and mentally focused while squeezing in some pleasurable moments. Heed our advice and reap the rewards, both professionally and personally!

Contact the experts at letsflycheaper.com today to find the most affordable business and first class flights for your upcoming travel.