It’s hard enough to stay healthy this time of year, when cold weather drives people indoors where germs and blasting heat conspire to spread illness. Add travel into the mix, and it can be even more challenging to maintain good health.
Here are some tips for business travelers:
Planning:
Pack essentials like pain reliever, cold meds, and adhesive bandages. Depending on your destination, you may need insect repellent and sunscreen.
Review hotel options for proximity to business venues, where distance and traffic won’t cause extra stress. Also look for good mobile coverage and reliable Wi-Fi. Ease of working connections will smooth the trip and boost productivity. Your company’s own platform or approved travel apps can help you plan and then adjust as changes arise.
Educate yourself about your destination to make the most of your trip. Learn a few phrases in the local language. Understand business customs that can affect your interactions. Investigate the transit options so you can get where you’re needed. Again, this reduces stress.
Outline the goals of your trip. Having clear objectives keeps you focused and efficient.
En route:
Wash hands often while in public places, especially after handling items in a shop or restaurant. Contactless transactions can help you avoid germs. To that end, find out ahead of your trip which digital wallets are commonly accepted at your destination.
When booking, aim for direct flights whenever possible to minimize the risk of a missed connection or other delay. Choosing an aisle seat makes it easy to get up and move around from time to time.
Prepare for long-haul flights with accessories like compression socks, neck pillow, and your own headphones in case the airline’s don’t work.
When possible, consolidate trips to destinations near each other to make the most of your time away.
What you consume:
Hydration is one of the best things you can do for your body, yet it’s easy to forget in the rush of travel logistics. Make a point to keep water bottles handy and take advantage of refill stations at many hotels, conference centers, and transportation hubs.
Before your flight, pack your own healthy snacks so you’re not at the mercy of airport provisions. Nuts are good options for sustained energy. Avoid overdoing caffeine or alcohol as they can both wreak havoc with sleep patterns and jetlag.
Make thoughtful choices in restaurants and shops. Be mindful of ingredients and aim for those that give you a taste of the local culture without overloading on unhealthy foods.
Personal care
Be consistent with sleep, as much as possible. Keep up with exercise and any meditation practices you observe at home. Many hotels have fitness areas. At the very least, a walk can invigorate body and mind.
When possible, take advantage of local venues and culture to enrich your experience. Check into company policy about flexible return. You may be able to extend your stay to incorporate leisure time. Or your employer may offer comp time to recover after a particularly long stretch of travel.
These few tips can help you take care of YOU while you’re taking care of business.
Living Abroad’s Business Traveler profiles detail the country information you need to orient yourself quickly, get around, and do business effectively. You’ll also find leisure time activities, local payment methods, cuisine, and dining options.
Written by Ellen Harris, GMS, Product Manager, Content Group
