Learning & Development Asia 2024
10 business travel packing tips for a more efficient and organised trip

10 business travel packing tips for a more efficient and organised trip

Sticking to a core colour scheme helps to simplify your packing. Select versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits.

Do you have a work trip lined up anytime soon? If so, you probably want to spend as little time packing and preparing as possible — and you definitely wouldn't be alone. A recent Pinterest Travel Report showed a 480% increase in people searching for packing tips.

Packing can admittedly be challenging, especially if you are trying to remember and fit everything important needed for business travel. We've adapted Wings Global Travel's top tips to ensure business travellers pack in ways that minimise stress and maximise productivity.

Plan your outfits around a core colour scheme

Sticking to a core colour scheme helps to simplify your packing. Select versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits. Even better, neutral colours such as black, navy, or gray are ideal as they can be easily paired with various accessories.

Invest in quality, wrinkle-resistant fabrics

Investing in clothing made from wrinkle-resistant fabrics to avoid the hassle of ironing on the go, and keep you looking sharp and professional, even after hours in transit. Fabrics such as wool blends, polyester, and certain types of cotton are great options that maintain a crisp appearance.

Utilise packing cubes for organisation

If you are not yet familiar, packing cubes are a game-changer for keeping your suitcase organised. Separate your clothing by category – tops, bottoms, underwear, and accessories – to help you save time while also keeping your belongings neat and tidy throughout your trip.

Prioritise essential electronics and accessories

Prioritise packing the essential, such as your laptop, chargers, adapters, and a portable power bank. Additionally, you may also consider a tech organiser to keep cords and gadgets neatly arranged.

Keep important documents and items accessible

It goes without being said, it is important to ensure all critical documents and items are easily accessible throughout your journey. To do so, use a dedicated compartment in your carry-on for your passport, business cards, itinerary, and any necessary travel documents.

Pack a small emergency kit

Remember to prepare for unexpected situations by packing a small emergency kit, with items such as plasters, pain relievers, hand sanitiser, a sewing kit, stain removal wipes, and any personal medications.

Choose multi-purpose items

Multi-purpose items help optimise your packing space by reducing the number of items you need to bring — e.g., a scarf that can double as a blanket, a blazer that works for both meetings and dinners, or shoes that are comfortable for walking and stylish enough for formal settings.

Roll your clothes

While some may not know this, rolling your clothes instead of folding them can maximise suitcase space and minimise wrinkles. This not only creates more room but also helps keep your clothes in better condition. Smaller items, such as T-shirts, can be rolled into the corners and gaps of your suitcase.

Use travel-sized toiletries

Save space and comply with airline regulations by using travel-sized toiletries. Purchase reusable travel containers and fill them with your favourite products, or buy pre-packaged travel-sized versions.

Pack a lightweight, foldable bag

Lastly, remember to bring along a lightweight, foldable bag in your suitcase for additional flexibility. It can be used for carrying materials to meetings, bringing back souvenirs, or as an extra carry-on if necessary.


Lead image / 123rf.com

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