Packing is arguably the most dreaded part of any type of trip, be it leisure or travel. With a few simple steps and an added level of organization, it doesn’t have to be!
Master the art of packing light, and one day you can skip the checked luggage for good. Don’t forget to check out our article on what to pack for a business trip in your carry on luggage before packing for your next trip.
Pack Lighting for a Business Trip: Clothing and Accessories
Opt for basic staples. Rather than stuffing your suitcase with 4 pairs of pants and 6 pairs of shirts, downsize by sticking to basics that can easily be swapped and switched out. Blacks, dark blues, grays or other neutral tones go a long way, and can be easily dressed up with accessories. Which brings us to the next point..
Let the accessories do the talking.Add some pizazz and variety to your wardrobe with accessories. These items take up far less space in your luggage. If time allows, pick up a few of these at your destination for a unique souvenir as well!<
Here’s a list of smaller items that’ll dress up an outfit, while taking up minimal space in your luggage.
- Ties
- Jewelry
- Scarves
- Belts
- Socks
- Pocket squares
- Pins
Pack Lighting for a Business Trip: Choosing the Right Bag
Choose the right bag. Rather than lugging around a business bag in addition to your luggage, choose a business carry on bag that’s ready for the board room! You’ll not only save space, but also save time; if necessary just pick up your carry on bag and go straight from the airport to your first meeting.
Learn to pack like a pro. Sometimes it takes is just a bit of re-organizing, repacking, and compacting. While having the perfect business travel bag is the first and most vital step, there are other methods you can work into your packing, including:
- Using packing cubes
- Suction vacuuming your bags
- Packing multi-purpose tools
- Wearing your heavier items
Suggested Packing List for a Weekend Business Trip
If done right, all of your weekend business trip necessities can be fit into your carry-on, which is any traveller’s ultimate packing goal.
1 toiletries bag
1 suit or dress
1 pair of neutral slacks or skirt
2 dress shirts
1 pair dress shoes
1 pair of comfortable, office-appropriate shoes (worn at airport)
1 belt
1 scarf or tie
3 pairs of socks
4 pairs of underwear
Suggested Packing List for a One-Week Business Trip
1 toiletries bag
3 suits or dresses
2-3 pairs of neutral slacks or skirt
4 dress shirts - 2 neutral, 2 patterned
1 pair dress shoes
1 pair of comfortable, office-appropriate shoes (worn at airport)
2 belts
3 scarves or ties
8 pairs of socks
9 pairs of underwear
