BLOG: 'Lifehacks' for business travel

By Jennifer Karpus, Tire Business staff

AKRON (June 3, 2015) — As stated in Monday's blog focusing on “LifeHacks” in the workplace, I am all about making the work day go smoother.

The term “Lifehacks” has been everywhere these days and refers to quick ways to make your life easier. I have spent the past two months in and out of the office, going on multiple business trips, and I wanted to give you some quick advice on business travel. I also am recommending the two websites listed above in case you want some more information. 

Do you have any quick tips? Let me know at [email protected] or @jenniferkarpus.

• Use your phone case

When traveling through the airport, I put my ID in my phone case so I am ready when security needs to see it. Additionally, I store my card that reminds me where I parked at the airport in there because I would never remember where I put it my wallet or purse. Also, if there is a trip where you need a card for traveling — for instance, when riding the rails at the SEMA Show — I keep that in there too. Why? Because I most likely have my phone in my hand or nearby, so it's easily accessible.

• Use front pockets for travel

I used to never use the front pockets of my carry on suitcase for anything, but that changed when I started traveling with work equipment and all my clothes, etc. I take up all the space I can! I use the front pockets of the suitcase to carry what I want for the airplane ride or during my travels. For instance, in the top little pocket, I store my cell phone charger, earbuds and any medication I might need. It is also where I keep my phone when it's not in my hand.

In the larger pocket I keep my iPad and my book — because I almost always carry a paperback book or at least a magazine. That way if all my electronic devices' batteries run out, at least I will have my book. I do this so I can easily grab what I need without having to open up my bags to find it.

• Save an empty plastic bottle

You cannot cross security with a full water bottle, but you can if it's empty. If you don't want to pay for another water bottle, you can always just bring an empty one and fill it up at the water fountain once inside the airport.

• Always pack a small bag

This may be more practical for ladies, but I still think it's a point to be made. When packing, I have it down to a science now what can fit in my bags and what can't. What I often used to forget when I first started traveling for business was a purse or a smaller bag to use when I was actually at the event or attending the business function. I now always pack a smaller bag so that I have it during the trip, and then I repack it when I head home.

• Leave a little space in your luggage

This is still something I struggle with, but it's probably the most important. When you are traveling for business, chances are you are going to come home with materials from the conference, event, educational seminar, etc. If you are barely able to close your suitcase on the way there, think about what it will be like on your way back. There's also the possibility that you'll take a quick trip out-and-about at your destination and purchase something, making that extra room even more important. I have struggled to fit everything back into my baggage on a few occasions. It forces you to be really inventive in your packing strategy on your return — generally when your brain is too tired to function after a jam-packed few days.

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Have you come across any of these strategies? Do you have some of your own? Don't forget to let me know!

References:

http://www.swifty.com/travel-tips/3611/17-luggage-packing-hacks#slide/2

http://www.lifebuzz.com/travel-hacks