Traveling is an inevitable part of the job for many sales engineers. Whether you’re attending a conference like Black Hat, meeting clients, or troubleshooting on-site, efficient and stress-free travel can make a big difference in your productivity and sanity. After all, as much as we love our jobs, no one enjoys being caught in travel chaos like the recent CrowdStrike-induced airline disruptions. Here are some essential travel hacks and tips that can help you survive and thrive during your business trips.
1. Bundle Packing for Wrinkle-Free Clothes
Packing efficiently is crucial, especially when you’re living out of a suitcase for days at a time. One of the best ways to ensure your clothes arrive wrinkle-free is bundle packing. This method involves wrapping your clothing around a central core, usually made up of your smaller items like socks and underwear. By layering your shirts, pants, and other clothing items in opposite directions, then wrapping them into a bundle, you minimize creases and prevent wrinkles. Plus, it saves space in your luggage!
2. Always Pack a Refillable Water Bottle
Airport prices for bottled water are outrageous, and the environmental impact of single-use plastics is significant. Bringing a refillable water bottle can save you money and reduce waste. Many airports now have water stations specifically designed for refilling bottles, so you’ll stay hydrated without the extra cost or guilt.
3. Duplicate Your Toiletries
One of the most common items left behind when packing for a trip is toiletries. Avoid this by creating a separate toiletry bag that stays packed and ready to go at all times. Purchase duplicates of your everyday items—like deodorant, toothpaste, and face wash—and keep them in a travel-sized kit. This way, you won’t have to remember to pack them each time, and you reduce the risk of forgetting something essential.
4. Keep Layovers Longer Than an Hour
When booking flights with layovers, never schedule a layover that’s less than an hour. Airports are big, and it can take time to get from one gate to another—especially if you have to switch terminals. International flights require even more buffer time; plan for at least two hours to clear customs and make it to your connecting flight. If your layover is too short, you risk missing your connection, adding unnecessary stress to your trip.
5. Prioritize Rebooking Flights in Disruptive Situations
In cases of flight delays or cancellations—like those caused by recent cybersecurity issues—the first thing you should do is rebook your flight. Everything else, such as hotels or rental cars, can be sorted out later. Use your airline’s app to quickly find available flights and rebook without waiting in long customer service lines. Many apps now offer chat options for quick communication with support.
6. Invest in Hotel Loyalty Programs
If you travel frequently, it’s worth signing up for hotel loyalty programs. Status with hotel chains like Marriott or Hilton can get you perks like free upgrades, late checkouts, and access to exclusive lounges. These benefits can make your stay much more comfortable and reduce the stress of travel. Plus, accumulated points can be used for free stays, which is always a bonus!
7. Noise-Cancelling Headphones: A Must-Have
Whether it’s to drown out the crying baby on the plane or the noisy neighbors in the hotel, noise-canceling headphones are an essential travel item. They can help you focus, relax, and get some much-needed rest during your trip, making sure you’re refreshed and ready for your business engagements.
8. Keep Digital Copies of Important Documents
Losing your ID or important documents while traveling can be a nightmare. Always keep digital copies of your passport, driver’s license, travel itinerary, and any important work documents. Store them securely in a cloud service that you can access from anywhere. This way, if something goes missing, you can quickly retrieve the information you need.
9. The Travel Adapter: Don’t Leave Home Without It
If you’re traveling internationally, a good travel adapter is a must. Make sure to get one that covers all the regions you’ll be visiting, and consider one with multiple USB ports to charge several devices at once. This will save you from hunting down adapters at your destination and ensure all your devices stay powered.
10. Dress for Security and Comfort
When going through airport security, it’s essential to dress for efficiency and comfort. Wear slip-on shoes, avoid wearing a belt, and keep your jacket in your carry-on until you’ve cleared security. These small adjustments can help you get through the checkpoint faster and with less hassle, especially when you’re in a rush.
Final Thoughts
Traveling as a sales engineer comes with its challenges, but with the right strategies, you can make your trips smoother and more efficient. By adopting these travel hacks, you’ll be better prepared for whatever comes your way, whether it’s a long layover, a disrupted flight, or just the everyday stresses of business travel. Safe travels!