What are the best packing practices for business travel?

1 Plan ahead

Before you start packing, do some research on your destination, the weather, the dress code, and the itinerary. Make a list of the essential items you need, such as clothing, toiletries, electronics, documents, and accessories. Check the baggage allowance and restrictions of your airline, and choose a suitable suitcase or carry-on bag. If possible, avoid checking in your luggage to save time and avoid lost or damaged items.

2 Mix and match

One of the key packing tips for business travel is to choose versatile and neutral clothing that you can mix and match for different outfits. For example, you can pack a few shirts, pants, skirts, and jackets that can be worn in various combinations, and accessorize them with scarves, ties, belts, or jewelry. This way, you can reduce the number of items you pack and still look professional and stylish. You can also pack clothing that is wrinkle-resistant, easy to wash, and quick to dry.

3 Roll and compress

Another way to save space and prevent wrinkles in your clothing is to roll them instead of folding them. Rolling your clothes can help you fit more items in your bag and make them easier to find. You can also use compression bags or packing cubes to organize your clothes by category, such as tops, bottoms, underwear, and outerwear. Compression bags can squeeze out the air from your clothes and make them more compact, while packing cubes can help you sort your clothes and keep them neat.

4 Pack smart

When packing your electronics, toiletries, documents, and other items, follow some smart packing rules to avoid problems and delays. For example, pack your laptop, tablet, phone, charger, and adapter in your carry-on bag, and make sure they are easily accessible for security checks. Pack your liquids, gels, and aerosols in a clear plastic bag and follow the 3-1-1 rule: no more than 3.4 ounces (100 ml) per container, 1 quart-sized (1 liter) bag per person, and 1 bag per carry-on. Pack your travel documents, such as passport, visa, boarding pass, and itinerary, in a secure and convenient place, such as a travel wallet or a zippered pocket.