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	Streamlining Business Travel

	by Jessica NeSmith

Traveling today can be a very tedious and stressful situation if you are not fully prepared for your trip. My husband has been traveling for many years on business and has become a very EFFICIENT traveler. From his experience, I have come up with a wonderful list of 5 easy steps to simplify your next business trip.

PACKING FOR THE TRIP

It is essential to pack smart. Nothing can be worse that getting to your destination and finding that you’ve FORGOTTEN something, especially an important business document. Not having packed an essential item or an appropriate article of clothing can cause you unnecessary time looking for a replacement. Before your next trip, make a list of your daily ITINERARY and anticipated activities you will be participating in. Then, make a list of outfits that you will need for each day. Go online and check for the weather forecast where you will be traveling and pack appropriately. Allow yourself only a couple of “just in case items” such as a sweater, raincoat, or extra pair of shoes.

SOME ADDITIONAL PACKING TIPS

"Travel space bags" -- those bags that you vacuum the air out of to shrink the contents down -- can help you pack more in a SMALLER space. They are perfect for packing bulky items, or for keeping wet or dirty items isolated from the rest of your clothes. If you are a frequent traveler it is best to have a set of PERSONAL items that are only for travel that you stock up monthly. Such items would be your toiletries and other items you deem are necessary to getting ready every morning. Please remember to carry extra aspirin and other medications you take regularly, as a trip without these can be miserable. Place all of these items in a single bag that, at the drop of a hat, you can grab and be on the road in minutes. If you are unsure which items should be packed in your CARRY-ON versus checked luggage, you can go to the Transportation Security Administration website at www.tsa.gov.

DRESSING FOR TRAVEL DAY

Remember to dress COMFORTABLY. If you are traveling first-class, or wish to upgrade, you may want to travel in business attire. Avoid having metal objects in your pockets and shoes with metal toes or adornments. This will slow you up going through the SECURITY area. If you are carrying a laptop, make sure it is easy to remove from its carrying case without dislodging loose items during the security process. Make sure you have a place to carry your identification and ticket for easy access throughout the airport.

GETTING TO THE AIRPORT ON TIME

This requires advance PLANNING on your part. It is a good idea to make sure your car is in working order and filled with gas to avoid any delays. Make sure you have gone to the bank for toll, travel and tip money. Allow yourself plenty of time to drive to the airport, park and check luggage, keeping in mind that you should leave extra time for traffic DELAYS as well as time to get through the security area. Check in online before you leave the house, and you will eliminate the need to check at the gate if you are not checking baggage. This is a real time saver!

USE OFF SITE PARKING

My husband prefers to park his car off site and have a bus drop him at the airport. The PRICE for parking is directly in line with daily parking at the airport and you receive better customer service. I have found that this has been a lifesaver for me. Not only do the bus drivers assist you with getting your luggage out of your car, but they will drop you off at the CLOSEST entrance for your airline.

USE CURB SIDE BAGGAGE CHECK-IN

It is often faster than going INSIDE if you must check luggage. For short business trips, it is best to try to carry on all luggage, as this will speed your exit from the airport at the destination and upon returning home. By following the five tips above, you will have streamlined the remainder of your trip. Now you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride!

Jessica NeSmith is a professional organizer and owner of Posh Organizing. Jessica offers home and office organizing services and enjoys helping clients going through "change of life" situations such as pregnancy, moving, divorce and home sales. Visit her website at www.poshorganizing.com. You can also reach Jessica at 404-388-8060 or .

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