Whether you’re a frequent corporate traveler or only go on a few work trips every year, packing for a business trip can be exhausting. Prepare for your time away from home with a business trip packing list that has everything you need for a meeting, conference, or trade show.
Clothing and Accessories
You need to be prepared for business meetings, long layovers, and morning workouts. Start packing with your itinerary in mind and consider which items can be worn more than once to keep your bag light.
Business-Appropriate Attire
Choose neutral bottoms to pair with multiple tops for different looks during your trip. If you plan to bring multiple pairs of pants or skirts, pack items of a similar color. This reduces the number of shoes and belts you need to bring with you. To keep your limited number of outfits from looking or feeling repetitive throughout your business trip, add statement accessories to your packing list. Necklaces, bracelets, and watches dress up a neutral suit or solid shirt.
Outerwear and Layers
Depending on your destination and the time of year, you may experience very different temperatures throughout the day. Including functional layers on your business trip packing list prepares you for varying weather and aggressive air conditioning.
Start with your suit jacket or a blazer that matches each of your bottoms. For more casual business events, you can also pack a sweater or cardigan. If necessary, bring appropriate outerwear as well: a winter coat, rain jacket (and umbrella), scarf, hat, and mittens.
Casual Apparel
Unless you’re heading straight to a meeting from the airport, it’s okay to travel in comfortable clothes rather than a suit. Opt for fabrics that don’t wrinkle, can be worn again on your return trip, and let you relax during your flight or drive.
Don’t forget to add pajamas, undergarments, and socks to your suitcase as you’re packing for your business trip. You may also want to include workout apparel and a casual outfit for exploring your destination.
Business-Specific Essentials
Packing for a business trip requires a few specific additions to your list. Don’t sweat items that can easily be picked up at the hotel concierge. Instead, focus on must-haves, like your business cards.
- Laptop and charger
- Notebook, pens, and sticky notes
- Business cards
- A place for expense receipts
- WiFi hotspot
- Breath mints
- USB drive
- Hand sanitizer
- Hospitality gift(s)
Work Trip Must-Haves
Make sure your cellphone, charger, and a plug adapter (if necessary) are at the top of your list! Like any trip, your business travel packing list should include physical copies of all necessary documents (itineraries and important addresses, boarding passes, confirmation numbers, etc.), passport, and insurance information. Travel-sized containers of your toiletries and medications are also essential. If you plan to only use a carry on, ensure your liquids and gels are under 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).
There are plenty of other items that are nice to have, but not necessary for every business trip. Consider bringing headphones, a book, related guide- or phrasebooks, and a travel coffee mug as well.
