10 Tips for Extended Business Travel

Whether you’re going on an extended trip for a convention, training, or to help open a new office, you could find yourself spending days or weeks away from your home while on business. This kind of business trip may not be uncommon, but it can start to wear on the travelers before too long. Eating and exercise habits can start to slide, the hotel never really feels like home, and there isn’t any room to have company over.

Extended-stay corporate housing has changed a lot of that. You can move in and start to live a lot more like you would in your own place. Still, there are some simple tips you can follow to make extended business traveling more enjoyable and productive.

1. Make the most of the amenities

These furnished apartments in Austin, Texas have everything from laundry facilities to fitness centers and BBQ areas. Take the time to use them.

2. Make yourself at home

Walk around the apartment and look at everything you have at your disposal. Use the space by putting your pictures on your desk and stretching out on the sofa or bed for a nice nap.

3. Make sure you have all the devices (and chargers) you need

Business trips require a lot of devices these days, so make sure you have everything you need to keep them charged up. On a short trip, you might be able to get by on a single charge, but not on an extended visit.

4. Watch the intake

Don’t give in to the convenience of “road trip food.” The kitchen amenities in these apartments mean you can have everything you need to keep eating healthy.

5. Explore the community

You can’t be at work all the time, and just because you’re not in your own neighborhood doesn’t mean you can’t get something out of the local scene. Live like a local and learn where the 24-hour restaurants are, where the best grocery stores are, and find the best commutes to the job.

6. Know who to contact when you need help or maintenance

Sometimes, things happen. They’re unpredictable, but not un-repairable. Make sure you have the right contact information to get these little problems cleared up when they happen.

7. Pack accordingly

Effective packing means you have to know the weather. In Texas, it’s fairly predictable, but you never know. Take a look at the forecast for the week you’ll be arriving. If you want to go the extra step, check on some weather websites and learn about the trends in Austin, San Antonio, and other places around the state.

8. Pack a mesh bag for laundry

When you arrive, hang your mesh laundry bag in the closet and use it for all your dirty clothes. This way they won’t mix with your clean clothes, and it will be ready to go to the laundry (or back home if you’re here long enough).

9. Bring the things that make you feel comfortable

While you shouldn’t have an entire suitcase full of your personal knickknacks, be sure you bring your things that make you feel comfortable. This might include your pajamas or bathrobe, a favorite book, casual clothes, and anything else that makes you feel like you’re at home. You might also consider bringing some hobby projects – writing painting, reading, crafts, model building, etc. – to keep yourself occupied.

10.Making the Most of Your Trip

An extended stay can be difficult for many people. You’re in a new city, doing a new job, and everything you’re familiar with has been left behind.

Try out a few of these tips to get the most out of your next business trip.