checklist for business trip

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The complete business travel checklist

• Passport/ID
• Boarding pass
• Laptop and chargers
• Phone charger
• Notebook and pen
• Cash and credit cards
• Reusable water bottle
• 1 set of workout clothes
• 1 suit with two matching shirts
• 1 pair of pants/jeans
• 2 nice tops
• Light fleece
• 1 pair of dressy shoes
• 1 pair of travel shoes
• Swim suit (depending on destination)
• Glasses/contacts
• Coat/rain jacket
• Razor & shaving cream
• Mini shampoo and conditioner
• Dry shampoo
• Prescriptions
• Pain reliever
• Tsa-approved first aid kit
• Moisturizer
• Portable charger
• Downloaded movies, music and podcasts
• Healthy snacks

How to create a business travel checklist

• Travel documents (forget your passport – or Real ID after October 2020 – and your trip will end before it begins)
• Business supplies/work documents
• Laptop and other tech gear and accessories
• Personal items (ID, cash, credit card)
• Personal tasks associated with getting ready to travel (itinerary planning, bookings, notifications to be made, etc.)
• It streamlines both trip planning and packing
• It keeps you focus on necessities (and ensures you forget nothing essential)
• It helps you say no to non-essential “might-needs”
• It allows you to continuously refine your business travel packing skills

What should you consider before creating a business travel checklist?

How do you know your business travel checklist is complete, best business travel checklists, what makes a good business travel checklist.

• There are the things that will vary according to the details of each trip (your wardrobe, business documents, etc.)
• And there are things that will always go, no matter what – things like toiletries. You can set yourself up for maximum business travel packing efficiency by pre-assembling these necessities so they are grab-and-go ready.

Before you use your business travel packing list

Invest in quality luggage, use suitcase accessories to your advantage, read up on how to boost your immune system before flying, consider a tech-forward travel bag, read up on hotel safety tips, buy a tsa-approved first aid kit, steps to preparing for business travel.

• Prepare to do business, whatever that entails for this trip  -- daily schedules, documents, presentation materials, etc.
• Prepare your itinerary and other travel documents  -- unless your trip will be a quick turnaround, be sure to build in some time to yourself to hit the gym, the pool, the local shops or the pillow for a nap. You’ll be happier and more productive if you’re better rested
• Prepare personally to travel  – booking your flight, hotel, etc. and making arrangements for whatever work must continue in your absence
• Prepare your trip-specific packing list  and get ready to fill your carry-on luggage

How do you know what you'll need for a business trip?

What travel documents will you need, what will you need to conduct business, what personal items will you need, how will you pay, will your phone work at your destination, will you need travel insurance, things to do before traveling on business, secure all necessary travel documents., secure travel insurance., decide which credit card to take., fully charge all electronic devices., prepare your trip-specific packing list., pack like a pro by sticking with carry-on luggage., purchase a travel wallet., research your destination ahead of time, use social media to connect with peers, plan your in-transit entertainment., set your home to “away” mode., what happens if you don't get everything done before you go on a business trip, how far ahead should you plan before going on a business trip.

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The Ultimate Packing List for Business Travelers

Marty Levart

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Business travel can be both exciting and stressful. Having the right items with you can make your trip more comfortable and productive. In this article, we will provide you with the ultimate packing list for business travelers, ensuring that you have everything you need for a successful trip.

Editor’s Note: This article was partially generated using AI technology.

When it comes to professional attire, it’s good to consider the level of formality of your trip. Business suits are a professional staple, providing a polished and put-together look for any occasion. For a more business casual situation, dress shirts and blouses paired with slacks or a skirt are a good option. Pieces that can be dressed up or down, like a linen blazer or a black dress , allow you to create multiple outfits with minimal packing.

In terms of outerwear, consider the climate of your destination. Blazers and suit jackets are popular choices, providing a structured and put-together look. Sweaters can be worn over dress shirts or blouses for a relaxed yet professional appearance. For colder destinations, a tailored option like a peacoat or a well-fitting lightweight puffer jacket will do the trick.

For footwear, consider dress shoes such as oxfords, loafers, pumps, flats, or dressy boots. It is important to choose shoes that are appropriate for the workplace while still being comfortable enough for any sightseeing you have planned.

In addition to business attire, pack a few casual items for after-hours activities and for the flight. These can include comfortable pants , jeans , t-shirts , and sweaters .

The ultimate business trip packing checklist should always include:

• Business suits
• Professional dress shirts and blouses
• Slacks and dress pants
• Skirts and dresses
• Jackets and sweaters
• Shoes (at least two pairs)
• Socks and underwear
• A tie and belt (if applicable)
• A scarf (if applicable)
• A hat (if applicable)

It is essential to pack toiletries for a business trip, especially if you will be away for more than a few days. Consider packing items such as:

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Soap and body wash
• Razors and shaving cream
• Hairbrush and comb
• Facial cleanser and moisturizer
• Makeup and cosmetics
• Menstrual products
• Skincare products (including facial cleanser and sunscreen )
• Contact lenses and solution (if applicable)
• Prescription medications

When it comes to personal hygiene and self-care, it is essential to have a few items on hand. The most basic necessities include a toothbrush , toothpaste , shampoo , conditioner , soap, body wash , deodorant , and any skincare products part of your typical routine. For those who prefer a clean-shaven look, don’t forget your razors and shaving cream.

For hair care, bring along a hairbrush or comb , hair styling tools , and any hair products you use on a daily basis.

Lastly, individuals who require prescription medications should always have them readily available. Pack any necessary medication in your carry-on or personal item to ensure that they reach your destination safely.

Electronics

Staying connected on-the-go is never more important than when traveling for business. Make sure to bring the following items:

• Cell phone and charger
• Any necessary external hard drives or flash drives
• Power cords and adaptors
• Portable Wi-Fi device
• Portable charger

A laptop is a must-have for any business traveler as it allows you to work on important tasks and stay connected with your colleagues and clients. Additionally, a cell phone is essential for communication and a tablet can be useful for reading documents or presentations on the go.

Headphones can be useful for listening to music on the plane or taking calls in noisy environments. A portable Wi-Fi device can provide you with reliable internet access while on the move. Lastly, a portable charger can be a lifesaver when you are running low on battery power without an outlet in sight.

Be sure to bring important travel documents on your business trip, such as your passport, driver’s license, copies of your itinerary, and tickets. In addition to these typical travel necessities, make sure to print out any contracts, reports, or presentations you may need for your trip. Keep all of these documents in a folder or bag that you can easily access.

Miscellaneous Business Essentials

When traveling for work, make sure to pack all the business travel essentials needed to complete your job for the duration of the trip. This can include additional accessories like a briefcase or laptop bag , business cards, notebooks , and pens . If you’re giving a presentation, make sure to bring all the necessary equipment and materials, such as presentation notes, cables, and extra batteries .

Lastly, make sure to bring any industry or job-specific items that your work may require, such as name tags, ID cards, building keys, specialized gear or equipment, or uniforms.

Miscellaneous Travel Items

There are a few items you’ll want to have in your suitcase no matter the type of trip. These include:

• Travel-sized laundry detergent
• Travel pillow and blanket
• Travel-sized umbrella
• Snacks and water bottle
• Travel-sized first aid kit
• Travel adapter for charging devices
• Travel-sized sewing kit
• Travel-sized stain remover

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• Packing Lists

Business Trip Packing List for Overnight, 3-Day, and 5-Day Trips

Published September 19, 2023

Written by:

Laura Lopuch

Laura’s first trip was when she was 3 months old, instilling an insatiable wanderlust. She hasn’t stopped traveling, or writing...

Fred Perrotta

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Fred Perrotta is the co-founder and CEO of Tortuga. His first backpacking trip to Europe inspired him to start the...

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Table of Contents

Whether you’re heading out on a last-minute, overnight business trip, or a five-day conference abroad, packing for business travel is always different than prepping for a fun vacation.

Your work trip packing list will likely include more electronics and gear. So you’ll need to plan around the extra items and weight.

Also, traditional business clothes are notoriously delicate and wrinkle-prone, so they can be difficult to pack.

This article will break down how and what to pack for your business trip. We’ll cover men’s and women’s business clothing , advice on managing your electronics, and more.

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How to Pack for a Business Trip

Carry on plus personal item.

When packing for a work trip, use carry-on-sized luggage plus a personal item that can carry your laptop.

How to Pack Your Laptop for Travel

Pack your laptop in your personal item when you travel, ideally in a backpack, briefcase, or messenger bag with a dedicated laptop sleeve for protection. If you’re using a tote or other bag that doesn’t have a padded area for your laptop, invest in a laptop sleeve to protect it.

If you’re one-bagging, make sure you choose luggage that has a dedicated laptop compartment. Remove your laptop before stowing your bag in the overhead compartment so that you can work during your flight.

Whatever you do, never, ever put your laptop in a checked bag and risk it being broken, lost, or stolen while in transit.

Roll Your Clothes and Pack Them in Packing Cubes

Once upon a time, I didn’t use  packing cubes . And my bag was a disaster. It took long minutes to find the shirt I was looking for or clean socks. Not anymore, thanks to packing cubes.

To look your best, you should fold your clothes along the seams then roll them . Yes, this even applies to most dress clothes. When you arrive, hang your clothes in the closet or even in the bathroom when you shower to release more wrinkles. Your hotel should have an iron for any necessary touchups beyond that.

For maximum organization, use packing cubes and assign each one a purpose. For example, a smaller packing cube holds underwear. A larger cube keeps your shirts organized and wrinkle-free. Then, roll them before zipping them away to make each item easy to find while preventing creases and wrinkles.

How to Pack Your Suit: Fold, Don’t Roll

A traditional, wool suit must be packed properly to keep its shape while in transit. To pack a suit in a carry on , fold it, don’t roll it.

Alternatively, you can try a wrinkle-free suit from Bluffworks or Ministry of Supply ( men’s , women’s ). Wrinkle-free, synthetic fabrics have improved dramatically from the early days of stiff, plastic-y dress shirts.

Stuff smaller, soft accessories like your socks, tie, and pocket square in your shoes to preserve their shape.

Business Trip Packing List

A good business trip packing list is built around a solid core, personalized to your needs and style. “Work clothes” can vary depending on your industry and the nature of your trip. You could be dressed anywhere from a three-piece suit to a shirt and slacks to a hoodie and jeans. Pack and dress as makes sense for your business trip.

Let’s start with the basics.

• Copy of itinerary
• Boarding pass
• Transportation and accommodations

If your business trip takes you across borders, don’t leave home without your passport. If you’re traveling abroad for your business trip, know that some countries won’t let you in without a guarantee of when you’ll leave. Pack a copy of your complete itinerary, including evidence of when you’ll leave the country, to show border security.

After your passport, your boarding pass is your most important document. Mobile boarding passes are convenient, but make sure that you’ll have internet access via your phone if you plan to use one. Or, take a screenshot of the boarding pass and use it offline through your photo app.

For your own convenience, print out the details of your transportation from the airport to your accommodations (if you’ve booked anything), the address of where you’re staying (for customs forms and taxi drivers).

I use  TripIt  to aggregate all of my trip details in one place. Using the app is more convenient than carrying a stack of printouts with me. However, paper copies are better for border crossings and for when you don’t have WiFi access or a local SIM card.

Electronics

• Phone and charger
• Headphones or earbuds
• Laptop and charger
• Adapter (if traveling abroad)

Carry earbuds if you want to travel light or noise-canceling headphones if you want a quieter trip. For the latter, we like Bose’s QuietComfort line.

The  Macbook Pro  and  Macbook Air  are the most popular choices for Apple users. We recommend the lightest computer you can get that doesn’t sacrifice the performance you’ll need. Dave at Too Many Adapters wrote a helpful guide to  choosing a laptop for work and travel .

• Eye mask and ear plugs
• Water bottle
• Kindle or book
• Pen and notebook

If you’re taking long flights or overnight trains, earplugs and an eye mask make for all-natural, compact sleep aids.

Get a reusable, refillable water bottle for your travels so that you can stay hydrated without generating the extra trash of plastic bottles.

I’m still old-school and read physical books instead of using a Kindle. Either way, don’t forget a good book to pass long hours waiting or traveling.

Clothes: Business Travel Wardrobe

When packing clothes for a business trip, look for items that pull double-duty and that can be dressed up or down.

Meaning: that black dress looks equally stunning with a scarf for a casual business meeting or a statement necklace for a client dinner. Whatever your personal style is, pack items that make you feel comfortable and confident.

Although the exact items will differ depending on your style and gender, the clothes section of a 3-day business packing list looks like this:

• 3 tops; 2 dress tops and 1 casual top
• 1-2 bottoms
• 3 pairs of underwear
• 3 pairs of socks
• 1 set of pajamas
• 2 pairs of shoes : 1 dress shoe and 1 athletic/casual shoes
• Workout clothes (optional)

Women’s Business Travel Wardrobe

Use the above business trip packing list template and add the following for a 3-day business trip.

2 Blouses and 1 T-Shirt

• 1 lightweight t-shirt to dress up or down

Pack two business-appropriate blouses or collared shirts and wear the more casual t-shirt on the plane. I love J.Crew’s vintage cotton t-shirts as they look chic (and feel comfortable) with jeans or slacks. 

Everlane has a range of modern, basic shirts that work for both business and casual attire. Their Japanese GoWeave line is especially good for travel since the fabric is durable, wrinkle-resistant, and comfortable.

• 1 dark-colored blazer or suit jacket

It’s no secret that I’m a huge J.Crew fan. Their women’s blazers fit well, look chic, and last a long time. Consider a wool blazer that keeps you cool in hot boardrooms and warm on chilly airplanes.

If you’re willing to make the investment, consider a wrinkle-resistant blazer, like the Kinetic Blazer by Ministry of Supply , that you can pack without worrying about it turning into a rumpled mess. En route, wear your blazer so it doesn’t get wrinkled in your carry on bag.

2 Bottoms and 1 Dress

• 1 pair of slacks or skirt
• 1 pair of dark-wash  jeans , worn on the plane
• 1  dress (optional)

Opt for  Betabrand’s Yoga Dress Pants  for sleek black pants made from stretchy material like your favorite yoga pants. Alternatively, look at ADAY’s line of pants for a wrinkle, odor, and pill-resistant pair of business travel pants that are technical, travel-ready, and fashionable.

I live in jeans, and even on the dressiest business trip, I’d yearn for a pair. If you’re like me, wear your jeans on the plane. My favorites are Lucky Brand jeans with some stretch woven in.

Love your dresses? Pack a versatile dress like one from  Draper James  or any of the odor-and-wrinkle-resistant merino wool dresses by Wool& .

3 Pairs of Underwear and Socks

• 3 pairs of  socks
• 3 pairs of  underwear
• 2  bras

If you want to hand wash your underwear, you can get away with packing less. However, for a short 3-day business trip like this one, pack one pair per day. Because you’ll save more on time vs packing space.

2 Pairs of Shoes

• 1 pair of business-appropriate shoes
• 1 pair of athletic shoes, worn on the plane

Pack one pair of professional shoes that are small, light, and comfortable, like this  pair of classic black heels from Clarks , or a simple and easy-to pack pair of flats or loafers by Rothy’s .

You can wear your heels through the airport, but I wouldn’t recommend it. Instead, I wear a pair of black athletic shoes that I can use for a run or workout at my destination.

1 Set of Pajamas

• 1 lightweight shirt
• 1 lightweight, athletic pair of shorts

My favorite packing light secret? Make your pajamas and workout clothes the same outfit. Snag a quick, sweaty workout in the AM and hand wash your clothes in the sink. By the time you’re ready for bedtime, your clothes will be dry and ready for you.

Men’s Business Travel Wardrobe

Use the business trip packing list template and add the following for a 3-day business trip.

2 Dress Shirts and 1 Casual T-Shirt

• 2 wrinkle-resistant dress shirts
• 1 casual shirt that’s suitable for after-dinner drinks and on the airplane

Ironing dress shirts is a pain. Instead, opt for a wrinkle-resistant dress shirt (or two), like one from Bluffworks . They are made from 98% polyester (that’s a good thing), have lots of stretch, are breathable, and dry quickly. The best part is that they’re machine washable. Perfect for happy hour or the boardroom in any city you visit.

For your casual shirt, opt for a versatile merino wool t-shirt that will stand up to the rigors of travel.

2 Pairs of Pants

• 2 pairs of pants and/or  jeans

For a pair of pants that can easily work for business and leisure alike, pack a pair of basic, but high-performance pants, like the good-looking  Outlier Slim Dungarees . If you prefer jeans, try  Bonobos’ Extra Stretch Travel Jeans  which are made from lightweight, 10.5 ounce denim and have a 1% stretch.

Stick to 1-2 pairs of pants and wear your more casual pair on your flight.

Avoid doing laundry on a quick, three-day business trip and, instead, pack three pairs of underwear and three pairs of socks.

1 Blazer or Jacket

Read the full Buyer’s Guide to Travel Blazers for all of our favorites. Or, jump right to our top pick, the wrinkle-free  Bluffworks Gramercy Travel Blazer .

• 1 pair of dress shoes
• 1 pair of athletic shoes for workouts (optional)

Think small, light, and comfortable for your shoes. Like the  Lenox Hill Cap Toe Oxfords from Cole Haan  or  Vivobarefoot Ra II.

Packing two pairs? Wear the heavier or bulkier pair through the airport and pack the lighter pair.

• 1 lightweight, athletic pair of shorts

5-Day Business Trip Packing List

For a longer, five-day business trip, be prepared to hand wash your clothes mid-trip. Or, have the hotel do it for you. Check with the front desk to see if they offer a laundry service for guests. Make sure to ask how long it will take and the price.

Not keen on doing laundry? Prepare to pack a little more in your luggage. You can still pack carry-on-only for a five-day trip. Some of our customers travel for weeks, months, or years out of just a carry on .

When your clothes get a little wrinkled or smelly, hang them up in the bathroom while you take a hot, steamy shower. The hot, moist air eases wrinkles and smells from your clothes.

What to add to the base list above for a five-day business trip:

• 2 pairs of socks
• 2 pairs of underwear
• 1 blouse or dress shirt
• 1 casual shirt to dress up or down

Overnight Business Trip Packing List

Ready for a quick, easy packing list for a one-night business trip? Reduce the number of items in your one-day work trip packing list by two.

Pack an outfit, wear an outfit, and add the non-clothing essentials.

What to pack for an overnight business trip:

• 1 dress shirt
• 1 casual shirt
• 1 pair of dress pants or skirt
• 1 pair of casual pants
• 1-2 pairs of shoes (one dress pair and one athletic)
• 1 pair of underwear
• 1 pair of socks
• 1 blazer or jacket
• Book or kindle
• Notebook and pen
• Ear plugs and eye mask
• Travel adaptor and passport (if international)

Steal a page from George Clooney’s well-refined playbook from  Up in The Air  and streamline your airport experience by packing only in a carry on bag . You’ll save time at the airport and feel more confident.

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Laura’s first trip was when she was 3 months old, instilling an insatiable wanderlust. She hasn’t stopped traveling, or writing about it. As an expert in carry on travel, she’s flown on over 100 flights with only a carry on bag. Even on trips with her husband and kids.

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August 26, 2018 By Michelle Maraj 35 Comments

The Ultimate Packing List for Work Trips

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As you start to travel almost every week, your business trip packing list will become routine. You might find yourself packing for your corporate trip in less than fifteen minutes! When trying to create my packing list for a work trip, I consider what items I will pack for personal travel as well. My work trip packing list is similar to my regular travel packing list, just the types of clothes that I bring will change. If you travel frequently enough, you might find it helpful to keep some items permanently in your suitcase, and only repack your clothing every week.

Building a Packing List for a Work Trip

Since I travel on a weekly basis, this Ultimate Business Trip Packing List is broken up by the following:

• Essentials left in my suitcase each week
• Items refreshed each week
• What’s in my laptop bag
• What I expect at the hotel

Packing Essentials for a Business Trip

If you travel for work frequently enough, it may make sense to have “doubles” of your toiletries, so you do not have to include them on your business trip packing list and pack them every single week. I keep the following items in my suitcase at all times:

Umbrella  // It is a good habit to check the weather before you start packing, but I have a small travel umbrella that I leave in my suitcase at all times, just in case. If you have an outer pocket on your bag, I would recommend leaving the umbrella in that pocket for easy access.

Toiletries // I keep travel-sized bottles of all of my usual toiletries in my suitcase at all times. This includes small bottles of: shampoo, conditioner, face wash, make-up remover, lotion. I then refill these every few weeks as needed. In addition I will keep a double of my toothbrush, toothpaste, cotton balls, deodorant, hairbrush and hair ties, and razor so that I do not need to repack these each week. As a woman, I also keep tampons and pads in my suitcase at all times.

Spare phone charger // I have a habit of leaving my phone chargers behind at home or at the office, and I have accidentally traveled without a phone charger before! Now, I always leave an extra phone charger in my bag, just in case.

Laundry Bag // My  Away Bigger Carry-On  suitcase came with a laundry bag inside, and I use this to keep my dirty clothes separate from the clean clothes I have not worn yet. I would recommend bringing some type of reusable bag to use as a laundry bag in your suitcase, so you can keep dirty underwear and socks at minimum separate from your work clothes.

All of my toiletries on my business trip packing list are travel sized, so that I do not have to worry about checking a bag. I keep shower items (shampoo, conditioner, face wash) in a separate plastic bag from my remaining items, so that when I am fast to unpack after arriving at the hotel. I use this TSA-approved clear toiletry bag to keep my items organized.

Refreshed Each Week While Traveling for Work

When I am traveling for work, I always bring enough clothes for the number of days that I am traveling, plus one extra day. You never know when you will spill something on your shirt, or you get stranded somewhere overnight! If I was traveling for work Monday through Thursday (3 nights), and I dressed business professional and wore a suit on the plane there, then I would pack in my suitcase:

4 Button-Up Tops // I primarily wear Express Portofino Shirts to work. I like these tops because you can wear them with a blazer, without a jacket, and even out to dinner in the evening. They are very versatile, and a staple in my work uniform. I always pack one extra shirt than days I am traveling – if I am staying 3 nights, I will pack 4 shirts to have one as a back-up.

2 Work Bottoms (Pants or Skirt) // If you include the dress pants that I wear on the plane, I would typically pack two additional bottoms to rotate between. I will bring additional bottoms that coordinate with my blazers for the week. For example, if I am wearing a black blazer, I would choose black bottoms. Navy blazer, navy bottoms.

1 Additional Blazer // Some people can get away with only bringing one blazer (worn on the plane) with them during the week, especially if you only wear your blazer while traveling but then take it off during the day while working. I personally like to bring a blazer to rotate between, and as a back-up in case I spill something on my other blazer.

1 Pair of Jeans, No Holes // It is a good idea to bring a pair of casual pants for when you are going to a team dinner or running errands after work. Occasionally I will wear my work pants to dinner as well, so I do not feel a need to bring more than one pair of casual pants. I opt for no holes or tears, to remain slightly more professional.

1 Pair of Heels // Assuming I already wore a pair of heels on my travel day to the client, I will bring an additional pair of heels to rotate between. I find that if I try to wear the same pair of heels everyday for a week, that they will start to smell.

1 Pair of Casual Shoes (Sandals or Flats) // It’s a good idea to bring a pair of casual shoes, for both team dinners or walking around the hotel. If you need to run down to the front desk, it’s a bit awkward to do so in pajamas and heels.

4 Pairs of Underwear // Always bring an extra pair, just in case!

4 Pairs of No-Show Socks // Whether you need no-shoe socks for your heels or dress socks for your shoes, don’t forget to pack your socks in your suitcase.

1 Set of Pajamas // You will not want to sleep in your dress clothes at night; don’t forget to pack a set of pajamas in your suitcase. My pajamas are usually a free firm shirt and a pair of shorts!

Work-out Clothes // I don’t typically work out during the week while I am traveling, but I threw this on the list so that you do not forget. It is a good idea to work out on the road, but you will need to find extra space to fit your work-out shoes and clothes. It’s possible, though!

Make-up Case //  My make-up case contains all of my daily-wear make-up, and since I use the same make-up on the weekends I will repack this each week. Depending on your routine, it may make sense to have doubles of your make-up on your business trip packing list as well

Hair Dryer  // You may be fine with the hotel hair dryer, however I have been working on improving my hair maintenance. I recently invested in the T3 Featherweight Compact hair dryer – it is so fast at drying my hair, and it is great for traveling. This hair dryer came with a dust bag and the hair dryer folds in half, for easier packing.

Jewelry // Depending on the level of formality, I might bring my jewelry case while traveling . I prefer studs or small hoops for a professional look, and might bring a few necklaces and bracelets to rotate between.

I also have developed a wardrobe that will work for both the work day and the evening. The shirts or blouses that I bring are usually convertible and fine for dinner in the evening. However, if you are wearing nicer shirts or dresses during the day, you may also want to consider packing casual tops for the evening as well.

My Laptop Bag Necessities

My biggest fear is leaving my laptop charger at home. Most of these items are always in my work bag and travel with me even to the office, but I wanted to go ahead and include on the packing list for work trips here. 

Work Laptop & Charger // Make sure that you bring your work computer! It’s difficult to get anything done without your laptop and you do not want to waste time waiting on it to be shipped. The single most important thing for you to bring is your computer.

Wireless Mouse // You can order a cheap mouse off Amazon  for less than $10, and you can bring it on the road to increase your efficiency. I always opt for colors other than black, so that it does not get mixed up with anyone else’s belongings.

Headphones // I love my AirPods as they are great for taking calls, but any type of headphones are a good idea to keep in your work bag. You may have to take phone calls or watch videos in a conference room with your colleagues, and it is much easier to take these calls hands-free.

Phone Charger // I leave a phone charger in my work bag as well, so that I can charge my phone on the go. Especially if you are wasting time at the airport, it is important to keep your phone charger so you can contact coworkers when you land, or call an Uber if necessary.

Office/Client Access Badge // If you have been traveling to a client for a while, you likely received some sort of access badge to get into their building. You do not want to have to bother your client to get another badge assigned to you, or go through the hassle of speaking to security each time. If you have an access badge, make sure to leave it in your work bag so you do not forget it.

Pens & a Notepad // Even though we primarily use our computers these days, you may need to jot down client notes while your computer is loading, or draw out a sketch to explain an idea. It is a good idea to leave pens and a notepad in your bag at all times, so you never have to worry about asking your coworker to borrow one.

Gum  // Especially after a long flight or lunch, you will want fresh breath over the course of your work trip. Make sure to pack some gum in your laptop bag, so that you always feel fresh.

These items are always in my bag, so I will usually have them on my work trip as well. You never realize how badly you miss your wireless mouse until the day that you accidentally leave it at home!

Packing for a conference? Check out our post on What to Pack for a Business Conference . 

Hotel Expectations During a Business Trip

There are a few items that I do not have on my packing list for work trips, because I expect my hotel to have them. If you are not picky about your toiletries like shampoo or conditioner, it would be much easier to just use the hotel versions rather than worrying about leaks in your suitcase. These items include:

Hand Lotion // I am picky for my face, but not for the rest of my body when it comes to lotion. It’s one less bottle that I have to pack, so I do expect to be able to use the hand lotion available in the hotel room.

Water Bottles // You typically get free water bottles with Marriott Platinum! It is greener to bring your own reusable water bottle, however I will admit I do not usually remember to. I do expect that there will be water in my hotel room, or at least easily accessible in the hotel, when I arrive.

Iron // One day, I do hope to invest in a portable steamer. For now however, I do expect an iron in the hotel room so that I can iron my clothes. I like to unpack the night that I arrive at the hotel, and I iron all of my clothes for the week at once. It can be difficult to iron all of your clothes the first night since you are likely tired from traveling, but you will thank yourself later in the week.

Towels // I know some consultants are particular and prefer to bring their own towels, rather than using those available at the hotel.  I, however, expect towels in the hotel and will gladly use those.

The single most important thing to bring on your business trip, honestly, is your work laptop. If you need toiletries that aren’t found in your hotel room, you can often call the front desk and they can bring additional toiletries to you. I ran out of toothpaste and forgot to re-pack it, and fortunately the hotel always has toothpaste packets to offer. Everything else, you can buy on the road.

Packing Your Suitcase for a Business Trip

When packing my suitcase for a work trip, 50% of my suitcase will be clothing. I use three packing cubes that fit in the compression compartment of my suitcase – one cube for my blazers and pants, one cube for shirts, and one cube for underwear.

If you liked the Ultimate Business Trip Packing List, you can download a free pdf checklist below. If there’s anything missing from this packing list, let us know in the comments below.

Learn more about traveling for work

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• Matt’s Flights Custom Search – Here’s Our Review of What He Found
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The Ultimate Business Trip Packing List

Here are the best clothes, shoes, luggage, and more for your next business trip.

In This Article

Packing Checklist for a Business Trip

• T+L's Top Picks and Tips

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Alli Waataja

Traveling for work isn't as relaxing as going on vacation , but it can certainly be exciting. The key to helping your business trip run as smoothly as possible is planning ahead. So, what do you need, and what should you bring? We have you covered.

"When traveling on a business trip , you're going to be meeting a lot of people, you might have long nights (including a few nightcaps), and you're probably going to be on the go," says travel expert Sarah Dandashy of Ask a Concierge.

With this in mind, you'll want to bring pieces you can mix and match for different events, as well as comfortable footwear, practical accessories, and lightweight luggage. Find expert business travel tips and our curated recommendations below.

We rounded up everything from wrinkle-free apparel and supportive shoes to must-have accessories and thoughtfully designed bags to get you through your next business trip.

Daywear for Women

• Best Slacks: Everlane Tencel Way-High Taper Pant
• Best Business-casual Trousers: Athleta Brooklyn Ankle Pant
• Best Blouse: Quince Washable Stretch Silk Notch Collar Blouse
• Best Sleeveless Top: M.M.LaFleur The Nora Top

Eveningwear for Women

• Best Day-to-night Dress: Modern Citizen Iman Cotton Twill Split-Hem Dress
• Best Sweater: Banana Republic Bella Merino Sweater Polo
• Best Blazer: Spanx The Perfect Blazer
• Best Overcoat: Loft Two Button Coat

Daywear for Men

• Best Trousers: Lululemon Commission Classic-Fit Pant
• Best Chinos: Bearbottom Stretch Chino Pant
• Best Button-down: UntuckIt Wrinkle-Free Performance Gironde Shirt

Eveningwear for Men

• Best Dress Shirt: Bonobos Desk To Dinner Shirt
• Best Slacks: Suitsupply Pleated Vigo Trousers
• Best Blazer: Zara Stretch Blazer
• Best Overcoat: Charles Tyrwhitt Cotton Classic Raincoat

Best Shoes for Women

• Best Flats: Naturalizer Samantha Half d'Orsay Flat
• Best Loafers: Nisolo Emma Loafer
• Best Heels: Marion Parke Classic Pump 45 Leather Kitten Heel
• Best Travel-day Shoes: Vionic Zinah Slip On Sneaker

Best Shoes for Men

• Best Loafers: Cole Haan Osborn Grand 360 Penny Loafer
• Best Dress Shoes: Allen Edmonds Park Avenue Oxford
• Best Travel-day Shoes: Moral Code Kai Sneaker

Accessories

• Best Belt: Nordstrom Marco Burnished Leather Belt
• Best Wallet: Leatherology Slim Zip Travel Wallet
• Best Travel Tech Kit: Mark & Graham Essential Tech Folio
• Best Portable Charger: Nimble Champ Portable Charger
• Best Water Bottle: Monos Kiyo UVC Water Bottle
• Best Carry-on: July Carry On Pro
• Best Checked Suitcase: Solgaard Check-In Closet
• Best Packing Cubes: Away The Insider Packing Cubes (Set of 4)
• Best Toiletry Bag: Dagne Dover Hunter Toiletry Bag
• Best Laptop Bag: CalPak Haven Laptop Tote Bag

T+L's Top Picks and Tips

When deciding what clothes to pack for a business trip, make sure you have something to wear to every scheduled event while still avoiding overpacking . The key is to bring versatile pieces you can mix and match for various occasions that easily transition from day to night. Also, wrinkle-free materials are always a plus.

Best Slacks

Everlane tencel way-high taper pant.

Our favorite women's slacks for travel come from Everlane. As the name suggests, Way-High Taper Pants have a high-rise waist with side pockets and flattering, professional-looking pleats. Sustainably sourced from wood pulp, the ultra-soft, wrinkle-resistant Tencel lyocell fabric is perfect for packing.

Best Business-casual Trousers

Athleta brooklyn ankle pants.

For something that leans more business-casual, go with the Brooklyn Ankle Pant. These soft, stretchy trousers are comfy enough to wear on the plane yet sophisticated enough to wear to a business meeting or networking event. We also love that they come in an inclusive range of 16 sizes in regular, tall, and petite fits.

Best Blouse

Quince silk notch collar blouse.

Made of 90 percent silk and 10 percent spandex, this blouse drapes perfectly, and has a subtle sheen and a nice stretch. It's easy to tuck into skirts or pants, while the tailored collar elevates any professional ensemble. Best of all, the washable design is nowhere near as delicate as most silk shirts.

Best Sleeveless Top

M.m.lafleur the nora top.

M.M.LaFleur

If you're traveling to a warmer climate or just need more daytime options, this one's for you. The Nora Top is a drapey, boat-neck, sleeveless shirt that promises to resist wrinkling, while an anti-odor finish helps prevent smelly armpits during your next meeting. It also layers beautifully under a blazer and is conveniently machine-washable.

Best Day-to-night Dress

Modern citizen iman cotton twill split-hem dress.

Modern Citizen

The best clothes for business travel transition seamlessly from day to night — that's why we love Modern Citizen's super-versatile Iman Dress. The flattering silhouette is slightly fitted but definitely not too tight, with ruching at the waist and a split hem in the back that ensures you can move around with ease. You can wear this dress on its own, with a blazer, or under a long coat.

Best Sweater

Banana republic bella merino sweater polo.

Banana Republic

It's always good to have a nice sweater on hand during a business trip. We love this one from Banana Republic, which is made of 100 percent merino wool. It features a pull-over design with a folded camp-style collar and a slightly relaxed fit that's easy to tuck into pants, or wear untucked if you prefer a more casual look.

Best Blazer

Spanx the perfect blazer.

Saks Fifth Avenue

Appropriately dubbed "The Perfect Blazer," this versatile outerwear piece from Spanx is just the thing for your next work trip. It's made of stretchy, smoothing ponte fabric and features a slightly longer cut that layers beautifully over virtually any top. The easy-going material is also machine-washable and a breeze to care for — no dry-cleaning necessary.

Best Overcoat

Loft two button coat.

For something a bit warmer, reach for the Two Button Coat. It has a relaxed fit that layers effortlessly over any professional outfit, while notched lapels, flap pockets, and a button closure offer a professional appeal. This coat is also machine-washable, so you don't have to worry about dry-cleaning.

Best Trousers

Lululemon commission pant.

You'd be hard-pressed to find a guy who doesn't prefer these pants over regular trousers — lululemon knows a thing or two about travel pants . And in true lululemon fashion, they're made of a breathable, sweat-wicking, non-wrinkling performance material. But thanks to the traditional fly, belt loops, and snap-button pockets, they look just like any other business-ready pants.

Best Chinos

Bearbottom stretch chino pant.

If the perfect chinos exist, you're looking at them. Woven from cotton with a hint of spandex, these midweight pants are structured and breathable with just the right amount of stretch. The tapered ankle makes them an ideal choice to wear with business-casual sneakers, loafers, Oxfords, or Chelsea boots.

Best Button-down

Untuckit wrinkle-free performance gironde shirt.

If you're looking for wrinkle-proof shirts for business trips, UntuckIt has you covered. Not only does the Gironde Shirt never need ironing, but it also wicks away sweat and is the perfect length to wear untucked with your work pants of choice. You might want something that tucks in for evening looks, but this is undoubtedly a great daytime option you'll be glad to have at the ready.

Best Dress Shirt

Bonobos desk to dinner shirt.

As the name implies, the Desk To Dinner Shirt can be worn all day at business meetings, then into the night while schmoozing with clients over dinner or drinks. The slim-fit design can be tucked into pants or worn untucked for a more laid-back look, and you can count on the collar to stay in place no matter how you wear it — or how long.

Suitsupply Pleated Vigo Trousers

Suitsupply's Vigo Trousers feature a high-rise waist and a tailored, slim-fit cut with a single pleat down the front and modern cuffed ankles. They're formal enough to wear to a nice dinner with loafers and a crisp dress shirt but also versatile enough to rock with a pair of clean leather sneakers.

Zara Stretch Blazer

This straight-fit men's blazer from Zara is great for layering over button-down shirts, polos, crewneck sweaters, or crisp T-shirts. The material is wrinkle-resistant and lightweight, making it a go-to for business trips or wearing on the plane.

Charles Tyrwhitt Cotton Classic Raincoat

Charles Tyrwhitt

This is technically a raincoat because of its water-repellent finish, but it works perfectly as a versatile and lightweight overcoat as well. The hoodless design is made of an extra-stretchy, wrinkle-proof material that's easy to pack and unlikely to stain if you spill coffee or a cocktail.

Shoes take up a lot of space in a suitcase, so you'll want to bring no more than two or three pairs, including what you wear en route to your destination. Think ahead to the meetings or events you'll be attending, consider the formality of each occasion, and prioritize comfort.

Naturalizer Samantha d'Orsay Flat

These sleek pointed-toe flats are more than just flattering and versatile — they're also exceptionally comfy. Boasting contoured footbeds with arch support, cushioning, and full-foot flexibility, they'll keep your feet happy for hours on end.

Best Loafers

Nisolo emma d'orsay oxford.

A stylish pair of loafers is a travel fashion staple and Nisolo makes our favorite women's loafers. Featuring a feminine d'Orsay silhouette, the Emma is a polished, easy-on loafer that goes with just about any professional attire. These shoes also have cushioned, shock-absorbing insoles, and you can bet the genuine leather uppers will conform to the shape of your feet for the perfect fit.

Marion Parke Classic Pump 45 Leather Kitten Heel

Neiman Marcus

These timeless pumps from Marion Parke can be worn with everything from ankle pants and pleated trousers to pencil skirts and dresses. What's more, the slim silhouette won't take up much space in your suitcase. This footwear brand is expensive, but it's known for its remarkably comfortable styles, each featuring contoured insoles with adaptable cushioning and pressure relief for the balls of your feet.

Best Travel-day Shoes

Vionic slip-on sneaker.

If you need comfortable shoes to wear on the plane but still want to look put-together, Vionic's Zinah Sneaker might be your best bet. The laceless, slip-on design boasts a sleek, laid-back aesthetic resembling a cross between a tennis shoe and a flat. Thanks to the brand's podiatrist-designed arch support, you can bet these shoes won't hurt your feet.

Cole Haan Osborn Grand 360 Penny Loafer

When it comes to men's loafers , you really can't go wrong with Cole Haan. This classic, clean-cut pair features smooth leather uppers and a structured silhouette with traditional stitching. With OrthoLite footbeds, you can count on next-level cushioning, arch support, and antimicrobial odor resistance.

Best Dress Shoes

Allen edmonds park avenue oxford.

Featuring traditional cap toes with six-eyelet laces, these gorgeous leather oxfords are the ideal dress shoes for business trips. While they pair well with a suit, you can also rock them with chinos, slacks, suit separates, and everything in between.

Moral Code Kai Sneaker

For travel days, we recommend the Kai Sneaker from Moral Code. These laid-back yet professional-looking shoes have smooth leather uppers that wipe clean in a pinch, durable rubber outsoles, and padded footbeds that promise to conform to the shape of your foot to keep you comfortable with every step.

The right accessories are crucial for business trips. Still, you want to avoid bringing more than you'll actually use, as overpacking will just weigh you down during your busy schedule. Here's what we recommend.

Nordstrom Marco Burnished Leather Belt

Don't forget to pack a belt for your business trip. Even if you're not sure which outfit you'll need it for, you'll be glad to have it when the occasion arises — plus it takes up almost no space in your suitcase. Consider this classic burnished leather one, and order it one size larger than your typical pants size.

Best Wallet

Leatherology slim zip travel wallet.

Leatherology's Slim Zip Travel Wallet is made of buttery-soft, full-grain leather and comes in your choice of several tasteful hues. It has seven card slots, three bill compartments for things like cash and receipts, and a spacious main compartment big enough to fit your phone, boarding pass, or passport. We also appreciate that it zips up to keep everything secure.

Best Travel Tech Kit

Mark & graham essential tech folio.

Mark & Graham

This clever leather pouch makes it easy to stay organized when traveling with lots of tech gadgets. With multiple compartments, sleeves, and pockets, you'll have a designated spot for your phone, tablet, charging cables, earbuds, stylus pen, important cards, and then some.

Best Portable Charger

Nimble champ portable charger.

"I always travel with a portable cellphone battery charger," Dandashy says. With this in mind, we recommend packing the Nimble Champ. This compact, on-the-go charger weighs less than half a pound and boasts super-fast charging that takes you from zero to 80 percent battery life in just 30 minutes. It can even charge two devices at once.

Best Water Bottle

Monos kiyo uvc bottle.

Dandashy says she always brings a reusable water bottle on business trips. We like this one from Monos, which calls on ultraviolet technology to kill over 99.9 percent of bacteria in your drinking water. We admit this is a lot to spend on a water bottle, but it might be worth it for the built-in purification system, plus it's backed by a two-year warranty.

The best luggage for business trips is lightweight, functional, and professional-looking. Whether you opt to carry on or check your baggage, we strongly suggest keeping your valuables with you, whether in a carry-on suitcase or "personal item" bag .

Best Carry-on

July carry on pro snapsleeve.

July's Carry On Pro was built for business travel. This compact yet spacious suitcase flaunts a crush-proof polycarbonate shell, an extra-long telescoping handle, and smooth-rolling spinner wheels. There's a hidden laundry bag inside, an ejectable USB power bank, and an external magnetic compartment for your laptop that detaches with the press of a button when you need to remove it when going through security. The price is a little steep for the size, but it's backed by a lifetime warranty.

Best Checked Suitcase

Solgaard check-in closet.

For those who want to check their bags, we suggest the Solgaard Check-In Closet. This mid-sized suitcase has a nearly unbreakable polycarbonate shell and a built-in shelving system with five compartments and compression straps that help you pack as much as possible. We like that you can remove and hang up the closet system for easy access during your trip.

Best Packing Cubes

Away the insider packing cubes.

Away is a go-to for high-quality luggage at reasonable price points. Designed to compress your belongings, the brand's Insider Packing Cubes allow you to fit more into your suitcase while simplifying the packing and unpacking process. Made of nylon with mesh panels on top, they're breathable and water-resistant while making it easy to see what's inside.

Best Toiletry Bag

Dagne dover hunter toiletry bag.

Dagne Dover

The Hunter Toiletry Bag is made of water-resistant neoprene with large, smooth-gliding zippers that'll never get stuck. Available in two sizes, this multi-compartment satchel is just the thing for packing and organizing your toothbrush, razor, shampoo, deodorant, skin care products, comb, contact lenses — you name it.

Best Laptop Bag

Calpak haven laptop tote bag.

If you need something to carry your laptop on the plane or to and from meetings, the Haven Tote is an excellent choice. Made of easy-to-clean faux leather, it has a spacious main compartment, a large pocket for your computer or tablet, and three smaller pockets for all the little things you want to keep within reach. "I always pack hand sanitizer, a water bottle, a few packs of gum, and vitamins," Dandashy says. There's also an external trolley sleeve for when you want to slide it onto the handle of your suitcase.

According to Dandashy, the best way to pack a suit is to put it in a garment bag and bring it as your carry-on. This will help you avoid folding it up and having to iron it when you arrive. Of course, this may not always be an option.

"If you must pack it in a suitcase, carefully fold your suit with tissue paper," says Dandashy, explaining that this helps prevent wrinkles and keeps the fabric looking immaculate. "Pop out each shoulder, and fold the suit backward so that the lapels touch. Place tissue paper on either side of the jacket, carefully folding it into thirds." Then fold the pants lengthwise, placing tissue paper in between the folds.

Wrinkle-free clothing materials are usually made at least partially of synthetic fibers, like spandex, nylon, and elastane. This gives a garment more stretch and flexibility, which ultimately prevents wrinkling and creasing. Ponte and other jersey knits also resist wrinkling. If you prefer natural fabrics, consider bamboo-derived textiles or lyocell, which is sourced from wood pulp.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Theresa Holland is a seasoned commerce writer specializing in travel, apparel, footwear, and packing essentials. For this roundup, she searched high and low to find the best items for business trips, narrowing it down to versatile apparel and practical products travelers will be glad to have on hand. While researching business trip packing lists, we spoke with travel expert Sarah Dandashy of Ask a Concierge.

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The Ultimate Business Travel Checklist

Over the years, I’ve been on many business trips, and how successful they were almost always came down to how well they were planned.

There’s an awful lot to think about when planning a business trip, from where to stay to what to pack. You also need to prepare for your home and office while you’re absent.

In this article, I cover everything you’ll need to do to set yourself up for a successful business trip, including tips for accommodation, packing, transportation, preparing your home and work space, and purchasing your flight.

While getting to travel on the company’s dime sounds like the Holy Grail of great travel jobs , it can honestly be a lot of work to organize a business trip . Below you’ll find my complete business travel checklist so you’ll be able to plan the best trip possible, and avoid my mistakes!

In this article, you’ll find a:

• Business Travel Checklist , which covers all aspects of getting ready for a trip other than packing.
• Business Trip Packing List , with everything you’ll need for a successful trip. Scroll down for our printable business trip packing list!

Our business travel checklist

Click here to download a printable business trip travel checklist!

Your first steps

First, find out who’s responsible for your travel planning. Some businesses leave all the travel planning and flight booking to their employees, and have you submit your receipts later. Other businesses will handle every last detail of your travel planning (lucky you!) from pickup at the airport, to flights, hotels and accommodation.

Most businesses fall somewhere in between. It can save you a lot of hassle if you find out who’s responsible for what, early on.

Years ago, I had a last minute business trip to Amsterdam where I spent a few hours and a lot of stress trying to find affordable accommodation in the city. It turns out my employer had already arranged a place for me to stay with a colleague. Even if you think you know who’ll plan your trip, ask!

If you’re responsible for booking your flight, and you’re looking to save money, be sure to check out our post on six easy steps for nailing the cheapest flight . o start, we really love getting a quick price comparison on Google Flights (here are a few great tips for using Google Flights ) or Skyscanner .

Check flights on Skyscanner.

If you’re flying regularly for business, be sure to sign up for an airlines loyalty program, and book with them as much as possible. This can translate into some great upgrades and free flights as well as other perks.

Get your work place ready

So you don’t worry about work while you’re away, and to ease your transition back when you return, try to get your affairs in order at your office before you leave.

Make sure you finish the work projects you are currently working on.

Let coworkers and business partners know where you’re going, and how long you’ll be gone.

Set up an out of office email, if necessary.

Prepare the schedule for your business meetings on your trip; you should know exactly where and when each meeting will take place.

Make sure you’ve organized all the important documents for your trip, including the confirmations, copies of your travel documents, presentations and handouts. Print them out, if necessary, and insure they’re saved to a zip drive or on your hard drive. It’s a good idea to back them up to a cloud service (we like Amazon) to ensure that you can access them anywhere in the world.

Prepare your home for when you’ll be gone

Tell your family about your exact itinerary and leave your addresses and contact phone numbers.

Tell a trusted friend about your exact itinerary and ask someone to take care of your family pets and plants while you’re gone.  If you don’t have a friend or family member that can pitch in, consider getting a housesitter. Probably the most well known and largest place to find house and pet sitters is through  Trusted Housesitters .

Check sitters available on Trusted Housesitters here.

Take safety measures, such as locking all doors and windows, turning on the alarm and try to create the illusion that you are at home by turning some lights on or with a radio that has a timer function.

Suspend or redirect routine deliveries such as newspapers or milk, if necessary.

Give the house a quick clean before you leave. Normally, my house is kinda messy and chaotic, but I hate coming home to a dirty, messy house after a trip, so we give it a complete clean before we go. It’s nice to be able to relax a bit when you get back, rather than stress about how messy the house is.

Turn down the thermostat if it’s cold outside or turn it up if it’s really hot. There’s no point warming or cooling an empty house.

Make sure you check with your home insurance to see if you need to have someone check in on your house while you’re gone. Each home insurance policy is different, but many policies won’t cover damages from floods, water leaks, break ins or theft if the house is not regularly attended.

Travel preparations

If you are going abroad, make sure you have all the necessary travel documents.

If you need any vaccinations or medical documents for the country you are going to, take care of that, too.

Get some cash in the local currency. There are ATMs in nearly every airport in the world. however sometimes the lines are long or the machines are down. You don’t need money for your entire trip, just make sure you have enough on hand to pay for the taxi and a bite to eat when you get there.

Look into any specific workplace customs or practices for where you’re traveling. There’s a great article here on business culture in Singapore , and one for Japan here . A quick Google search should help you find others.

World Nomads Travel Insurance

Charge all of your devices the day before you leave on your trip. That way you won’t be caught flat-footed if your plane doesn’t offer outlets or USB charging ports.

Where to Stay

I’ve put these tips near the beginning, because I honestly believe that your accommodation is the most important part of your stay once your dates are set and your transportation is booked.

Start looking for accommodation early. It can be surprising how early accommodation books out. The earlier you start looking, the easier it will be for you to find a good place for a good price.

Look beyond a hotel room. Hotel rooms are often small, impersonal and honestly, overpriced. You’ll probably be surprised at how favorably the price of a fully furnished, serviced apartment compares. Corporate apartments also have the advantage of having essential business amenities like fast WiFi.

For example, corporate serviced apartments are often more comfortable and private than a hotel. Singapore’s well known as being one of the most expensive destinations for business travel in the Asia-Pacific region, making value for your dollar especially important.

Stay close to work. Look for accommodation that is not far from the place where most of your meetings will take place to avoid having to commute in a foreign city. I’m often surprised how bad traffic and subway crowding can be, even during off peak hours.

Make it work friendly. Make sure your accommodation has a work space where you can use your laptop and make phone calls. A small table and chair will work perfectly.

At the airport and in the air

Savvy business travelers suggest signing up for Global Entry and TSA Precheck . Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection program that pre-qualifies you for faster customs, while TSA Precheck will get you boarded faster, as many US airports have special (and faster!) precheck lines where you can skip needing to remove shoes, laptops, liquids, belts or light jackets.

Double check any baggage requirements.  You never know when the rules will change. The USA has even floated the idea of banning laptops in the cabin for all flights that depart, land, or even touch down in the USA.

Try to travel carry on only. Checked bags have a potential to be lost or delayed, adding to your stress. If you can do with just a carry on you’ll be more flexible if there are problems and out of the airport quicker once you land.

If you do check a bag, be sure to keep essentials like your laptop, any business documents and tech, some underwear, and prescriptions in your carry-on bag in case your checked luggage is lost or delayed.

Get a lightweight, sturdy carry on bag with wheels, and carry a personal item as well. You can find more tips on choosing a carry-on here , and our tips for choosing the best business laptop backpack here .

Get clothing designed for travel. If you’re short on space, consider getting a travel jacket or travel gear with hidden pockets or that is wrinkle resistant. We like the SCOTTeVEST women’s trench coat or the streamlined men’s Revolution jacke t.

Stay hydrated on the plane . It’s amazing how much a flight can dehydrate the body. Drink more liquids than normal, and go easy on the alcohol to stay hydrated.

Go to bed normally. Studies have shown that the best way to reduce jet lag is to get as much sunshine as possible at your destination and to sleep normal hours. Tempted to take a quick power nap? Chances are it will just extend your jet lag.

Packing tips

When you pack, use a list with everything you need (see our handy packing list below). Focus on clothing items, toiletries, personal documents, money and banking cards, chargers and the items you need for your business meetings and give yourself time to add and remove items from the list. Try to limit the items you pack to the ones that you will really need.

Tip: Check out our favorite toiletries bags for travel here!

Don’t forget to take weather into account. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve forgotten to check the rain forecast and wished for my handy travel umbrella.

I love packing cubes, because they make organizing my luggage a snap. Check out more in our blog post on how to use packing cubes .

Make sure the liquids in your carry-on luggage (such as your shampoo or your soap) are in bottles that are not larger than 3 oz. (100 ml), otherwise you risk getting them removed by airport control.

Put your shampoo and conditioner, and any other liquids that may leak, in a zip-lock plastic bag. Changes in air pressure on the plane have made liquids come gushing out of bottles more than once on my flights, and the zip-lock bags have saved my clothes from many a spill.

Don’t pack what you don’t need. If you’re certain your hotel will have a hair dryer, shampoo and conditioner, there’s no need to pack these items. If there’s none in your room, ask for one to be brought to you.

Business Trip Packing List

Your business culture will determine exactly what to bring (whether it’s formal business attire like suits or business casual), but these tips should work either way.

Click here to download a printable business trip packing list!

Personal items

Credit cards and bank cards

Any other banking or personal ID you’ll need

Business cards to hand out

Find out what business functions you’ll need to attend (e.g., formal business dinners, or giving a presentation) and include clothes for those.

Bring layers, and make sure all your clothes coordinate by sticking to colors and patterns that all mix together.

Shirt. I recommend one top per day, if possible.

Pants or skirt. I recommend one pair for every two days. If you’ve color co-ordinated your clothing, you can get away with wearing a neutral colored bottom at least two days in a row.

Underwear. I recommend one pair per day, if that’s possible, so you won’t need to bother washing them.

Jacket. Check out our favorite  casual women’s hoodie travel jacket here . For more formal business travel, we like the SCOTTeVEST women’s trench coat, men’s travel blazer, or the streamlined  men’s Jacket .

Outerwear. Depending on the weather, you may need extra gear like sunglasses and a sun hat, or a scarf and gloves.

Footwear. Make sure that you pack at least one pair of comfortable business appropriate shoes, as you never know if you’ll have to walk between offices. If you enjoy working out, make sure you bring some proper footwear for that as well.

Pantyhose. I am NOT a fan of these devices of torture, but if you’re in a very conservative business environment, they may be expected.

Tech and business

WiFi hotspot. Hotel WiFi can be unreliable, so we bring our GLocalMe portable WiFi with us wherever we go. I love having internet at our fingertips across the globe, and it saves us a fortune in roaming charges.  Check out our review of GlocalMe mobile WiFi here.

Tip! Too much gear? We understand. Read our article on how to travel lighter with electronics .

Laptop or tablet

Cell phone charger. Consider both a wall plug charger and a portable external battery charger.

Bring noise cancelling headphones. They’re not only fantastic for shutting out the chatty seatmate next to you when you’re trying to work, but they also do a wonderful job in loud hotel rooms, cafes, and new workplaces.

Tip! If you’re looking for a place to work while you’re away, check out our article on how to find the best places to work while traveling .

Plug converter. Depending on the country you’re in, you might need a different electrical plug. To make life easier, make sure all your chargers and devices are usable with 110-240 volts.

Toothbrush and toothpaste

Earplugs. You’ll thank me for this one, whether it’s for the plane or the hotel room. These affordable  Flents Contour Ear Plugs  get great reviews.

See prices and reviews.

Prescription and non-prescription drugs

Skincare products

Electric razor or disposable razor

Spare contact lenses, a case and contact lens solution if required

Prescription for eyeglasses

For women only

Bring your own tampons and pads, or use a menstrual cup like the Diva cup. In some countries, tampons can be especially hard to find, and brands can be quite a bit different away from home. Trust me, as a female traveler, the last thing you want is to overestimate the absorbency of a new product.

Optional extras

If you have the room and want to take along a few extras that’s fine. Here are a few examples.

Wide scarf in your carry on. This can double as a blanket during flight, and a fashion accessory later.

A small first aid bag with items you think you’ll need like pain relievers, band aids and cough drops. It’s never a bad idea to pack Pepto Bismol and Ex-Lax (or, as we call it, the stop and go duo).

Birth control

Voltage converters. We like this  Universal World Wide Travel Charger Adapter .

See prices now.

Tip! Check out our article on How Not to Fry Your Electronics overseas for more tips.

Travel clothes steamer or travel iron

Tide stain remover pen

Lint roller

Small compression bag for laundry

Breath mints. Avoid gum, as it’s considered rude in many countries.

Travel pillow and or blanket

Baby wipes or facial wipes. We always travel with a small pack of these, as they’re wonderful for freshening up before leaving the plane.

Snacks. We often carry small packets of trail mix or protein bars in our carry on. They’re fantastic if airplane food service is sketchy, or if our hotel doesn’t have an affordable minibar.

Was this list helpful? What do you pack on a business trip? Let us know in the comments below!

Need some more packing list tips?

Check out our  beach packing list and our road trip packing lists!

I suggest to check your wallet. Nothing is more evanescent than the title “best travel credit card.” The competitive balance is always shifting and just this month Chase seized the high ground with two of the first Visa Infinite cards issued in the United States

Thanks for the perfect checklist, Ms Micki Kosman. I use to travel often, but do not know that there is such a huge mandatory checklist to be noted. One tip “earplugs” are some useful tips for a traveller. Your tips on “easy tips for nailing the cheapest flight” were really very useful. Also, the travel Preparation tips were very useful.

You shared very important information and I read it carefully and gain amazing knowledge. Thanks and keep it up.

If I were to go on a business trip, I would make sure to find the right limousine since this will provide convenience. Well, I also agree with you that it would be a great idea to hire a person that will plan the travel. Thank you for sharing here as well the importance of talking to a family member who will take care of my house whilst I’m gone.

This is an awesome blog on travel checklist, very helpful and full of resources that will save you time and money when you travel.

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The Essential Business Travel Checklist

There are a lot of things to remember when you’re traveling for business. Did you finish the presentation? Do you have your phone charger? What was your contact’s name again? Being so, we’re here to help you remember all the essentials with our ultimate business travel checklist.

This business travel checklist can help you stay organized and ensure that you don’t forget something important when you’re traveling for work. Below, we cover what you need to remember before, during, and after you travel. We also share some useful hacks from seasoned travelers to make things a bit easier for you, as well as provide links to helpful resources.

But before getting started, remember that there's no one-size-fits-all approach to business travel. Every destination — and every company that requires travel — is different. With that being the case, some of the below tips (such as booking accommodations or purchasing trip insurance) may not be applicable. But no matter what, we encourage you to cover your bases and ensure that the essentials are taken care of, and this guide is a great place to do just that.

Your complete business travel checklist:

Research your destination.

• Read about the area  you’ll be traveling to, even if you've been there before. Consider things that will be important to know on your trip, such as the current political situation, cultural differences, crime, business hours, and business attire.
• Research the top attractions and foods to try at your destination. You may end up with some free time to see more than you expected. You may even turn it into a bleisure trip .
• Talk to friends and colleagues who have been to the location before in case they have any tips.

Make travel arrangements

• Check that your passport, ID, and appropriate visas are valid.
• If you’re responsible for booking travel yourself, find out about any budget or itinerary requirements. If you’re not responsible for booking travel, submit your proposed itinerary to the appropriate person.
• Book the most direct and simple travel that your budget will allow.
• Plan your arrival and departure with your reason for traveling (i.e. meetings) in mind. Consider whether you’ll need to arrive the night before or leave the next day based on your meeting times.
• Book accommodations close to where your business will take place.
• Book transport to the airport or train station. Think about each leg of the journey and what you’ll need to book ahead of time.
• If you’re a member of airline or hotel loyalty programs , consider booking with those brands to get points. If you travel for business frequently and aren't signed up for these programs, make sure to do so.
• Sign up for Global Entry ,  TSA PreCheck , or Clear , if appropriate. These will make traveling a bit faster and easier.
• Consider trip insurance to cover unforeseen circumstances.

Create your itinerary

• Communicate with the people you’ll be meeting with to make sure there's an itinerary for your trip. You should know who you’re meeting with, and when and where those meetings will take place. 
• Check if there’s anything out of the ordinary that you need to bring with you. Confirm whether you will have access to Wi-Fi, power, a presentation screen, and other necessary equipment.
• Know your schedule and what functions you're going to attend so that you can pack appropriately (more on this later).

Prepare for your meetings

• Establish some quick goals and objectives for each of your meetings.
• Review the names, roles, and titles of the people you’ll be meeting with.
• Prepare necessary documents and presentations in a shareable format, and send them ahead of time if necessary.
• Review the key information that you’ll need to share.
• Save a map and directions to your meetings on your phone or computer, or print them out if you prefer. If you have to drive or take public transportation, be sure to plan ahead and take traffic and other delays into consideration.
• Check whether you need to purchase any travel supplies to restock from your last trip.
• Check TSA and other appropriate regulations restricting the size and weight of your luggage, and any restrictions on personal items like toiletries.
• Try to limit yourself to a carry-on suitcase if possible. You’ll save yourself the time and stress associated with checking a bag. If you do check a bag, make sure you have essentials like your electronics, medications, and a change of clothes in your carry-on just in case.
• Consider using packing cubes to organize and streamline your belongings.
• Put toiletries in a clear plastic bag that you can seal to prevent leaks.
• Bring clothes that are wrinkle-resistant and easy to layer. Stick to solid and neutral colors so that they're easy to combine into various outfits. This will make planning your outfits easier for a multi-day trip.
• Consider bringing a wide scarf to use for cold weather. It can double as a blanket on the plane and a cover-up for modesty in certain countries or cultures.
• Passport/visa for the location(s) you’re visiting, credit cards, bank cards, and a personal ID (consider storing a high-res image of these on your phone as a backup).
• Vaccination record with the appropriate immunizations for the location(s) you’re visiting.
• Enough local currency for transportation and a bite to eat when you arrive. You can change more money later if necessary.
• Business cards.
• Notebook and pen.
• Appropriate gear for the weather at your destination.
• Chargers (and plug converters if necessary) for all of your devices.
• Noise-canceling headphones or earplugs for the plane and noisy spaces.
• Necessary medications.
• “Deal with anything” kit, including band-aids, stain remover pen, lint roller, breath mints, allergy medication, upset stomach medication, pain relievers, cold medication, hand sanitizer, face mask, and baby wipes.
• Casual clothes for evenings and weekends.
• Workout gear.
• Water bottle.

Get ready to leave

• Save all of the documents you need to a hard drive or the cloud so that you have an extra copy.
• If needed, print your tickets and confirmations for transport, lodging, and flights.
• Set up your out-of-office message for the days you’ll be traveling.
• Let your coworkers know where you’re going and for how long.
• Make sure you have coverage for office responsibilities that you’ll miss.
• Find someone to take care of your pets and water your plants while you’re gone.
• If you’ll be gone for more than a few days, consider  pausing your mail and packages.
• Give your itinerary and contact information to a trusted friend or family member so they know where you are.
• Consider cleaning and putting a meal in the freezer so that you come home to a clean house and easy dinner.
• Charge all of your devices the night before so that you don’t end up with unexpected outages.
• Check the weather forecast for your destination so that you can add any necessary gear, like an umbrella.

On travel day

• Lock your doors and windows, adjust your thermostat, and turn on your alarm.
• Clean out the refrigerator and take out the trash.
• If there is a time difference at your destination, try to get as much sunlight as possible during the day to reduce jet lag .
• Make sure to hydrate more than usual. This will help with travel fatigue and jet lag.
• Keep a printed version of this checklist and your packing list in your suitcase so that you have it for all your future trips (or store a digital version on your phone or computer).
• Do your best to take a short walk outside, take a scenic route to a meeting, or visit a restaurant at your destination. You don’t want the only things you see to be hotel rooms and conference centers!

Put this business travel checklist to good use!

Traveling for work doesn't have to be stressful. With this business travel checklist, you'll be well on your way to a streamlined trip that may just turn into a vacation along the way.

Up next, check out 12 of the coolest ice hotels around the world . 

Laura Fredericks

Laura brings a decade of insight to improving marketing, as she has worked in technology since 2010. She has experience starting and scaling a business, driving customer marketing, and speaking at live events, including WeDC Fest 2018. She founded Describli and Paradigm Labs, and currently works with companies to improve their customer relationship management and content strategy.

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Business Travel Guide

Essential business travel checklist [updated 2024].

Business travel comes with its own set of complexities and uncertainties. To navigate these successfully, you need careful planning and attention to detail. Our comprehensive business travel checklist will ensure that you’re well-prepared for every aspect of your business journey. From the moment you start planning your trip to the post-travel follow-up, we’ve got you covered.

So, whether you’re about to embark on your first business trip or looking to enhance your travel routine, read on to discover how to make your business travel experience efficient, enjoyable, and productive.

Let’s get started on the path to becoming a savvy business traveller with our ultimate business travel checklist.

Pre Business Travel Checklist

• Check and Validate Your Documents: Ensure that your passport, ID, and any required visas are up-to-date and valid.
• Budget and Itinerary Planning: If you are responsible for booking your travel, be aware of any budget constraints or itinerary requirements. In case someone else handles the bookings, submit your proposed itinerary to the designated person.
• Opt for Direct and Simple Travel: Consider your budget when booking your travel; aim for the most direct options available.
• Strategic Arrival and Departure Planning: Align your arrival and departure plans with the purpose of your travel, such as meetings or events. Assess whether arriving the night before or departing the day after is necessary based on your meeting schedule.
• Proximity Matters for Accommodations: Book accommodations near the location where your business activities will take place. This will save you time and streamline your schedule.
• Efficient Transport Planning: Arrange transport to the airport or train station, considering each leg of the journey. Plan and book transportation in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
• Utilize Loyalty Programs: If you are a member of airline or hotel loyalty programs , take advantage of them when making bookings to accumulate points. If not already a member, consider signing up, especially if you travel for business frequently.
• Fast-Track Your Travel with Programs: Explore programs like Global Entry , TSA PreCheck , or Clear for expedited security processes, making your travel experience faster and more convenient.
• Consider Trip Insurance: Evaluate the option of trip insurance to provide coverage for unforeseen circumstances, offering you peace of mind during your journey.

Business Travel “Packing” Checklist

When it comes to packing for your business trip, it’s important to be organized and ensure you have everything you need. Here’s a checklist of essential items to pack:

1. Travel documents

Travel documents are crucial for a smooth journey, ensuring you have the necessary paperwork to reach your destination and return home. These documents establish your identity, authorize your travel, and provide vital information to authorities. Having a complete set of travel documents is essential for a hassle-free trip.

Documents Checklist For Business Travel:

• Visa (if required)
• Driver’s License
• Travel insurance documents
• Business permits
• Itinerary with flight details and hotel reservations
• Photocopies of important documents
• Emergency contact information

2. Electronics and accessories

In today’s digital age, electronic devices and accessories play a pivotal role in staying connected, productive, and entertained during your journey. They enable you to work efficiently, communicate seamlessly, and stay organized while on the road. Packing the right electronics and accessories ensures you’re well-equipped for the demands of modern business travel.

Electronics Checklist For Business Travel :

• Laptop or tablet
• Chargers for all electronic devices
• Adapter plugs (if travelling internationally)
• Headphones or earbuds
• USB flash drive
• Travel surge protector
• Portable Wi-Fi hotspot (if needed)

3. Medications and personal care

Maintaining your health and personal care routine is essential to feeling your best during your trip. Medications and personal care items help you stay healthy and comfortable. Packing these items ensures you have the necessary supplies to address health needs and maintain hygiene, contributing to a worry-free journey.

Personal Care Checklist For Business Trave l:

• Prescription medications
• Over-the-counter pain relievers
• Allergy medication (if needed)
• First aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, etc.)
• Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap)
• Shampoo and conditioner (travel-sized)
• Razor and shaving cream
• Contact lenses or eyeglasses and solution
• Hand sanitiser

4. Toiletries & cosmetics

Toiletries and cosmetics help you maintain personal hygiene and grooming standards during your trip. They contribute to your comfort and confidence, ensuring you look and feel your best while conducting business and engaging with colleagues and clients.

Toiletries & Cosmetics Business Travel Checklist:

• Body wash or soap
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Face wash or cleanser
• Moisturizer
• Hairbrush or comb
• Makeup (if applicable)
• Makeup remover wipes
• Hair products (gel, hairspray, etc.)
• Feminine hygiene products (if needed)
• Perfume or cologne
• Nail clippers and nail file

5. Clothing For Men & Women

Selecting the right clothing is essential for business travellers. Your attire communicates professionalism and reflects your respect for the business environment. Packing appropriate clothing ensures you’re well-prepared for meetings, presentations, and other business-related activities. 

Checklist For Men:

• Dress shirts
• Suits or blazers
• Dress shoes
• Socks and underwear
• Casual clothing for downtime

Checklist for women:

• Blouses or formal tops
• Dresses or suits
• Comfortable but stylish shoes
• Accessories (jewellery, scarves, etc.)
• Undergarments

Bonus Business Travel Tips

While we’ve covered the essentials, here are some bonus tips to enhance your business travel experience:

1. During Your Stay

Explore local cuisine : When dining out, try local cuisine to immerse yourself in the culture regardless of your business travel destination . Ask colleagues or locals for restaurant recommendations to savour authentic dishes.

Network beyond meetings : Look for events, industry conferences, or local business gatherings during your stay. These can provide valuable connections and insights.

Cultural Awareness : Show respect for local customs and traditions. A small effort, like learning a few basic phrases in the local language, can go a long way in building rapport.

Stay Active : If your schedule allows, find time for physical activity. Some hotels have fitness centres, or you can take a morning jog to energize yourself for the day.

2. Staying Healthy and Safe

Travel insurance review: Before departure, thoroughly review your travel insurance policy to understand coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations and lost luggage.

Hydration reminder : In-flight and during your stay, prioritize hydration. Carry a reusable water bottle and drink regularly to stay alert and healthy.

Emergency contacts on speed dial: Save local emergency numbers, including the nearest hospital and embassy or consulate, in your phone for quick access.

3. Expense Tracking Tips

Expense Tracking Apps : Consider using digital expense tracking apps or software to log expenses in real-time. This simplifies the process and ensures you don’t miss any deductions.

Organize receipts : Keep all receipts in one place, such as an envelope or a designated folder in your bag. This makes it easier to account for expenses when filling out reports.

Currency conversion Apps : Install a reliable currency conversion app on your phone to instantly calculate expenses in your home currency. It helps you stay within budget.

Credit card statements : Regularly review your credit card statements online to spot any unauthorized charges or errors promptly. Notify your bank of any discrepancies.

Is travel insurance necessary for a business trip?

Yes, having travel insurance is highly recommended for business trips. It can provide coverage for unexpected events like trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage, offering you peace of mind during your travels.

How can I prevent jet lag during long-haul flights?

To minimize jet lag, adjust your sleep schedule before departure, stay hydrated, avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, and set your watch to your destination’s time zone as soon as you board the plane.

Are there any apps or tools to help me find local networking events?

Yes, several apps and websites can help you find local networking events, such as Meetup, Eventbrite, and LinkedIn. You can search for relevant business or industry events in your destination city.

How can I make the most of downtime during business trips?

Use downtime to explore the local culture, try new cuisine, or relax and recharge. You can also catch up on work tasks, read, or use the hotel’s amenities like the gym or spa to make the most of your stay.

This checklist has covered everything you need, from preparing before your trip to staying safe and tracking expenses. Each journey is a chance to grow and discover. So, pack wisely, embrace the adventure, and make the most of every moment. Remember, business travel is more than just reaching your destination; it’s about the experiences and connections you make along the way.

If you’re seeking top-notch hotels and serviced apartments for your business trips, explore our business travel accommodation options and take the first step toward seamless and comfortable travel. Click here to book your next business trip and experience the difference.

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The Essential Packing Checklist: Hacks & Tips for Business Travelers [Infographic]

Updated: June 10, 2021

Published: December 10, 2015

Packing for business travel can be a bit of a struggle. You leave your place thinking you've got everything you need, and then realize once you get to the airport that you forgot your phone charger. 

Sure, it's easy to overlook things when you're forced to pack light, but leaving behind the essentials could throw off your whole trip.

What are the most important items you should always remember to pack? And what are some great traveling hacks that'll make your life so much easier in the long run?

For some key business traveling tips, check out the infographic below from Café Quill . It covers everything from an essential packing list, packing hacks and tips, and useful information on current TSA regulations. ( Read this blog post for more business traveling hacks that'll save you time, stress, and money.)

What other packing tips do you have for business trips? Share them with us in the comments.

Don't forget to share this post!

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A Successful Return to Business Travel: Corporate Travel Checklist & Tips

As business travel bounces back, we’ve created an extensive corporate travel checklist for the modern traveler.

As business travel bounces back, we’ve created an extensive corporate travel checklist for the modern traveler. With an abundance of international business travel hotels featuring more than just the essentials, Club Quarters Hotels caters to the corporate traveler. From fast and free Wi-Fi to in-room workstations to laundry services to remote office and meeting space and a better-than-average business center (with complimentary coffee and tea), our boutique hotels are your business travel home away from home.

Whether your business venture is an overnight trip, a weekend convention, or an even longer stay, our corporate travel checklist is an excellent resource for packing for a successful trip. Enjoy a printable version below so you can stay organized and feel confident you packed everything you’ll need. We’ve also included some of our top tips to make corporate travel easier than ever.

6 Packing Tricks & Tips for Corporate Travelers

To make sure your return to business travel is smooth, safe, and successful, use these packing tips.

1 | Choose Versatile Clothing & Shoes

Whether you’ll be flying with a carry-on only or driving to your destination, space will be limited. Choose basics from your closet to wear multiple ways and make the most of your luggage space. Lean into easy-to-pack accessories to dress an outfit up or down and change the details of your look.

A navy or black skirt, pants, or suit can be paired with more than one shirt, meaning you’ll only need to bring only one blazer or jacket. Simply swap your shirt and any other accessories to give yourself a new look for each meeting or dinner reservation. Select a shirt that you’d wear with or without the jacket so it will satisfy both formal wear and business casual. Alternate your suit jacket or blazer for a woman’s cardigan or a men’s sweater to create an additional outfit for wearing whether you’re touring the city or a new building site. When dressing up isn’t required, pack a pair of dark wash blue jeans that pair with almost any top, yet still look appropriate for after-work cocktails or dinner.

A laundry bag and garment bags are available for repeat guests who stay at least once per week within the current year.

Keep your shoe choices simple. One black or brown pair of dress shoes will likely match all of your outfits (plus one extra pair as a backup). For women, this might include a practical daytime pair and a heeled nighttime shoe, or select two pairs that are dressy yet comfortable to wear for cocktail hour or a coffee-fueled conference. Most importantly , don’t choose business travel as the moment to break in a new pair of shoes.

More Tips for Dressing for Corporate Travel:

• Consider your connections and travel plan and then select an outfit that allows you to hustle to your next gate if you must and that you’re comfortable sitting in if a flight delay gives you an extra-long wait in a crowded airport.
• If some or all of your travel is by car, keep a hanger handy so you can hang up your suit jacket during the trip.
• Dress in layers so you can remove the outer layer to remain comfortable while still looking presentable.

2 | Select Travel-Friendly Fabrics

Pack clothing made from fabrics that will fold or roll, but that still look put together after a long flight if you must attend a meeting right away in your destination city . With this in mind, linen is completely out of the question – this fabric will not only wrinkle in transit, but after sitting in one meeting wearing linen you’ll have wrinkle lines galore. Look into non-iron or wrinkle-free dress shirts and pack other travel-friendly fabrics, including wool, lyocell, polyester, cashmere, knit, and spandex.

3 | Roll, Fold, Bag & Stuff: The Secrets to Efficient Packing

If you observe your stack of clothes in comparison to the size of your suitcase, the outlook can often seem grim. But there is a solution! Taking the time to neatly roll the clothes that won’t show wrinkles will save more space than you realize and cut down on the ironing needed later. Neatly fold the items you do not roll and pack them into the bottom of your suitcase or place them on top of your rolled clothes.

What to Roll : Casual clothing, gym clothing, jeans, and other items made from travel-friendly fabrics can be neatly laid on top of each other and rolled into one or a few bundles.

What to Fold : We do not recommend rolling suits—whether a business suit or a skirt and blazer—but instead fold them with the natural creases they already have:

• Fold jackets in half placing them shoulder to shoulder.
• Fold pants along the length of the pre-ironed creases, and then fold them in half or thirds, but as few times as possible to fit inside your suitcase.
• Fold button-down dress shirts similarly to how they are shown in a store: Lay the shirt face down and fold each sleeve/shoulder towards the back/middle. Then, fold the shirt into itself lengthwise by half or into thirds.

What to Bag : For even more efficient packing, place items like socks, undergarments, and workout clothes in zip-top plastic bags and squeeze out the air to make them as compact as possible. These bags can go in last to tuck into any extra or empty spaces inside your suitcase. Bagging your undergarments also organizes them into different styles so it’s easy to tell your dress socks from your gym socks instantly, for example.

Stuff Your Shoes : This may seem silly until you open your suitcase after arriving at your destination and find your dress shoes smashed and bent. Tuck one of your undergarment bags inside your shoes to reinforce them. Not only will your shoes retain their shape but you’ll also make use of every inch inside your luggage.

4 | Pack for Downtime

While you’re traveling for work, take a break now and then if time permits. Pack for downtime so you’re ready for it, whether that means a quick workout in our hotel fitness center or an in-room yoga session. At Club Quarters, we understand maintaining your physical health is important. That’s why we offer free delivery of workout equipment, resistance bands, and yoga mats to your room upon request . If your downtime takes you out and about during your stay at Club Quarters, our blog offers insider things to do by destination for day-off delights and nearby sightseeing adventures to enjoy.

5 | Travel Safety

For You : By now it might be a habit, or you might need a reminder as you pack your items, but because travel requirements are fluid and change by destination, it’s a good idea to pack a face mask and keep it handy (not stowed inside checked luggage). You’ll also want to consider keeping travel-friendly hand sanitizer in your carry-on, in the pocket of your laptop case, or inside your purse so you can access it easily. Once you arrive at Club Quarters Hotels, rest easy knowing your room is certified safe and clean .

For Your Belongings : Consider a combination or key lock for your luggage, especially if you’re taking ground transport such as a bus or train with many riders. Not only will this give you peace of mind knowing your valuables are secure, but you’ll also be certain your bag will not catch on an edge of the luggage compartment and accidentally open. If you desire additional security when you arrive, Club Quarters offers safety deposit boxes at the Member Service Desk for items that need extra safekeeping during your stay.

Business Trip Packing List for Corporate Travelers

Finalize your business travel packing with our corporate travel checklist. Check out each of our printable checklist versions ( one for men and one for women ) so you can check off each item as you add them to your suitcase.

Corporate Traveler Documents

Always double check that your ID is handy, as there is no replacing this, and make sure you have access to any essential documents needed to access your meeting room, conference, or to board transportation:

Personal Identification : This includes your driver’s license, passport, work ID, conference badge, etc. Boarding Pass : Electronic boarding passes are great but be prepared for the possibility of not having an internet connection or your phone losing power. A printed backup or a screenshot (in case of signal loss) can ease stress on travel day.

Paperwork & Documents for Business Travel

While many travel documents, conference passes, and confirmation receipts are available digitally, having a printed copy can be helpful if there are bandwidth issues during a conference, if your cell phone runs out of battery, or just to reference quickly. For your convenience, Club Quarters has wireless printing available in our Club Living Rooms . Our lightning-fast, free Wi-Fi makes it easy to pull up and print your documents and continue on your way. Below are a few examples of paperwork you’ll want to remember during your business trip:

• Hotel Information: Eliminate confusion by having the hotel name, address, and room or confirmation number ready.
• Car Rental : If renting a car, confirm you have the reservation information or agreement, and any insurance information the rental agency requires.
• Conference Documents : A copy of the itinerary with room and time information so you don’t miss an event because of a phone failure. If you are a presenter, double check you have your notes, speech, or talking points (and print a copy for extra assurance when you arrive!).
• Pocket Calendar : If you don’t have an electronic calendar, pocket calendars are small and come in handy for planning future meetings and business trips.
• Business Cards : Don’t forget to bring your business cards—conferences and out-of-town meetings are great networking opportunities.
• Paper & Pen : If you’re a note taker, pack a portfolio with plain paper and several pens or a highlighter. While you can take notes on your laptop, if service is spotty or your battery fails, you’ll want this backup method for taking notes in meetings or jotting down someone’s contact information. A pen and pad are also ideal for taking down your rental car’s license plate and driving directions too.
• Envelope : Lastly, it’s a good idea to bring along an envelope for stashing your business receipts to ensure that your expenditures will be organized to hand in for reimbursement when you return to work.

Electronics for Business Trips

Business trips often require you to remain connected to your company through email, phone, and intranet – or other electronic methods. Having a device run out of battery can be detrimental, making traveling more difficult and impeding the success of your business venture. Remember to pack each of these electronics:

• Laptop : Your computer is likely essential to your daily work, and you probably won’t forget it, but also remember any peripherals you routinely use, including a mouse and mousepad, and zip drive. If you need sign-in keys, bring those along and place them somewhere secure. Our Club Quarters Hotels offer both Mac and PC desktop workstations in our Club Living Rooms for your convenience.
• Cell Phone: From using your mobile CQ room key to hailing a rideshare driver to scanning a QR code for a conference itinerary, your cell phone is likely your most-used device for business or pleasure and preparing your phone for your trip should still make your checklist. Check your business contacts for accuracy, make sure apps are downloaded beforehand, and input payment information for rideshare or other services you are likely to use to avoid hassles or delays later.
• Device Chargers : Make sure you have at least one power cord for each electronic device, and if you deem it necessary -bring a power pack – plus an adapter if you’re traveling outside the country . *Our boutique hotels provide a built-in power strip on every in-room desk.
• Portable Charger : Portable chargers can come in handy if you find yourself with a checked charger, or can’t locate an outlet in a busy airport. Recharge in-room and carry this with you for a quick and convenient boost in battery life.

Travel-Comfort Items

For a quick nap on the train or entertainment during your flight or off-time, consider packing these extras to make your trip more enjoyable—they may not be necessary, but can be costly when purchased in an airport or train station, so you’ll be glad you made space for them:

• e-Reader or Book
• Earbuds or Headphones + Associated Charger
• Earplugs, Eye Mask & Neck Pillow
• Refillable Water Bottle
• Travel Umbrella

Personal Work Bag

A sturdy work bag is a must-have for travel: This is where you will store most of your non-clothing items— laptop, chargers, and paperwork. Most airlines allow one personal bag plus a carry-on, so you can use your work bag as your personal bag—just be sure to check your airline’s size and weight limitations. Work bags come in many styles and configurations; choose the one that best suits your needs:

• Modern-style Briefcase : This bag style has multiple straps so you can carry it in your hand or over your shoulder. It will also have multiple compartments for organization and safety so you can easily stow personal items from your keys to a small bottle of hand sanitizer. You might also opt to carry a business-style backpack with a neoprene sleeve to protect electronics, in lieu of a conventional briefcase.
• Inner / Outer Double Bags : If you need a purse while you travel, find a work bag with a matching, but smaller inner bag to act as your purse until you reach your destination. This bag will easily nest inside your personal bag to stay within the airline’s rules, while maximizing your volume. Easily store your cosmetics, cell phone, and wallet in the small inner bag, and use the larger bag for your laptop, electronics, and paperwork.

Toiletries & Cosmetics

Remember that if you’re traveling by plane and not checking a bag, liquids are limited to 3 ounces each and must all fit inside a quart-sized plastic bag. Our Club Quarters Hotels provides shampoo, conditioner, lotion, and soap, plus a hairdryer in every room , so you’ll have the basics, but be sure to pack anything else on this list you’ll need:

• Shampoo & Conditioner ( provided in CQ room )
• Lotion ( provided in CQ room )
• Body Wash/Soap ( provided in CQ room )
• Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Mouthwash & Dental Floss
• Hair Product (mousse, gel, etc.)
• Hair Brush or Comb
• Shaving Kit (razor, shaving cream, after shave)
• Face Wash & Makeup Remover
• Feminine Hygiene Products
• Other: Prescriptions/Medications
• Other: Makeup/Cosmetics

Clothing Checklist for Corporate Travelers

Remember that this list will vary depending on the itinerary of your trip, the length of your stay, and the time of year, but below are the basics for a three-day business trip.

Clothing List for Business Men

1 Suit (jacket and pants) 1 Pair of Pants (additional pair of dress pants or nice jeans) 1–2 Belts 3 Tops (2 button-down dress shirts and 1 business casual shirt) 3 Pairs of Undergarments (socks and underwear) 1–2 Pairs of Shoes (1 for meetings and 1 for dinners) 1 Pair of Pajamas (shirt and pants) Optional items: 1 Workout Outfit* (shirt, pants, and workout shoes) Watch 1–2 Ties with tie clips *If you plan to work out during your business trip, be sure to bring an extra pair of undergarments.

Clothing List for Business Women

1 Blazer 2–3 Bottoms (slacks, a skirt, and nice jeans) 3 Tops (2 blouses/button-down dress shirts and 1 business casual shirt) 3 Pairs of Undergarments (socks, tights or stockings, underwear, and bras) 1–2 Pairs of Shoes (1 for meetings and 1 for dinners) 1 Pair of Pajamas (shirt and pants) Optional items: 1 Workout Outfit* (shirt, pants, and workout shoes) 1 Dress 1 Cardigan Scarf Jewelry Headband, hair clips, or hair ties Belt *If you plan to work out while on your business trip, be sure to bring an extra pair of undergarments.

We hope these tips and tricks for packing for your next business trip have been helpful. If you do forget an important item, please come see us at the Club Quarters Member Service Desk . We will do our very best to help you obtain these items as quickly as possible. We look forward to seeing you or hosting your next group event at Club Quarters.

We aren’t just a hotel for business travel: We offer accommodations for your leisure travel as well. And did you know we’re pet friendly and we have a rewards program ? Here are some of the special offers we are currently running if you would like to visit us at Club Quarters for business and pleasure.

BY Club Quarters

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An Exhaustive Business Travel Documents Checklist

Home » Guide » An Exhaustive Business Travel Documents Checklist

In today’s globalized world, business travel has become an integral part of corporate operations. From attending meetings and conferences to exploring new markets, professionals often find themselves on the move. To ensure successful and hassle-free trips, proper planning and organization are paramount. This guide presents a comprehensive checklist of essential documents for business travel, covering everything from passports and visas to health documents and COVID-19 requirements. By being well-prepared with the right documentation, business travelers can navigate through their journeys with confidence, focusing on their objectives and making the most of their international ventures.

How to create best business travel checklist?

Here are essential steps to create a comprehensive business travel checklist:

• Include details of your flight, accommodation, and any scheduled meetings
• Pack appropriate clothing for your destination and the nature of your business activities
• Bring necessary documents, presentations, business cards, and any materials relevant to your meetings
• Keep track of receipts and ensure you have a system for managing business expenses
• Include any required medications, a basic first aid kit, and health insurance information
• Ensure your laptop, phone, and other devices are in working order
• Arrange transportation from the airport to your accommodation and between business meetings
• Have information about your hotel reservation, including check-in and check-out times

Complete business travel checklist:

1. visa and passport.

One of the most important documents required for international travel, a visa acts as an official authorization. This provides transit permission within foreign borders to carry out business or tourist activities. It also sets the duration of travel for the visitor. The visa may take time for approval; hence, one should ensure to apply for the visa well before the date of travel. Working as the primary identification, a passport is issued by the domestic country. It has important information such as name, DOB, nationality, and more.

2. Travel itinerary

Corporate travelers should be aware of the plan and itinerary for maintaining an efficient schedule. The itinerary should contain the date and time of the flights, booking details of the hotels, transportation arrangements, and more. This will help travelers ensure productive trips and high ROI.

3. Identification (Driver’s License, National ID, etc.)

Besides your passport, carrying additional government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license or national ID card, is recommended. These IDs can be useful for various purposes during your trip, such as renting a car, age verification, or completing certain transactions. Having a backup form of identification is always a good idea in case your passport is misplaced or not readily available.

4. Business invitation/letter

If your trip is for business purposes, having a formal business invitation letter or supporting documents can be beneficial. Such documents may be required for visa applications or to show the purpose and duration of your visit to immigration authorities. They should include details about your host company, the nature of your business engagements, and any planned meetings or events. Always check the specific requirements of the country you are visiting to ensure you have the necessary documents.

5. Travel insurance

Travel insurance provides financial protection and peace of mind during your trip. It covers unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and travel disruptions. Purchasing comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended, as it can save you from significant financial losses and inconvenience in case of unforeseen circumstances while traveling.

6. Company ID and business cards

Your company ID establishes your affiliation with your organization and may be required for certain business-related activities during your trip. Additionally, carrying business cards with your contact information is a professional way to network and exchange details with potential business partners, clients, or colleagues.

7. Currency and payment methods

Having local currency for your destination is essential, as not all places may accept credit or debit cards. Before traveling, notify your bank about your trip to avoid any issues with using your cards abroad. Carrying some cash in the local currency for initial expenses upon arrival is also advisable.

8. Health documents (Vaccination records, medical prescriptions, etc.)

Depending on your destination, specific health documents may be required. This can include proof of vaccinations, medical prescriptions, or health certificates. It’s important to research and comply with the health regulations of your destination to ensure a smooth entry and stay.

9. Local contact information

Keeping contact details for your company’s local office or representatives at your destination is essential. These contacts can assist you in case of emergencies, provide local support, or offer guidance during your stay.

10. Emergency contacts

Always carry a list of essential emergency contacts, including your company’s emergency hotline, local emergency services, and contacts of friends or family back home. Having this information readily available can be critical in case of any urgent situations during your trip.

11. Meeting materials

If you have materials needed for business meetings, presentations, or conferences, ensure they are well-organized and easily accessible. Having all the necessary materials ready will help you make a professional and effective impression during your business engagements.

Suggested read:  Fun And Productive Things To Do During A Long Flight

12. COVID-19 documentation (if applicable)

During the pandemic, certain countries may have specific COVID-19-related requirements for entry. This may include presenting negative test results, vaccination certificates, or health-related documents. Stay updated with the latest travel guidelines and ensure you have the necessary documentation as per the destination’s regulations.

13. International driving permit (if needed)

If you plan to drive during your trip, check if an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required in your destination country. An IDP translates your driving license into multiple languages, allowing you to legally drive in foreign countries.

14. Customs declarations

Familiarize yourself with the customs regulations of your destination country and be prepared to complete any required customs declarations. This includes declaring certain items you are carrying to comply with import/export regulations and to avoid any customs-related issues during your trip.

What makes a good business travel checklist?

Here are key factors that contribute to an effective checklist:

• Customize the checklist based on the nature of your business, destination, and individual preferences
• Arrange items by priority, focusing on crucial aspects like travel documents and essential business materials
• Create a checklist that can be easily adjusted for different types of business trips and destinations
• Ensure the checklist aids in streamlining your travel preparations and reduces the chances of forgetting critical items
• Make the checklist easily accessible, whether in digital form on your device or as a printed document
• Regularly review and update the checklist based on your travel experiences, incorporating lessons learned from previous trips

A well-prepared travel document checklist is the key to a smooth and productive business travel experience. From securing a valid passport and appropriate visas to carrying essential health records and emergency contacts, each document plays a crucial role in ensuring seamless travel. Additionally, adhering to COVID-19 requirements and obtaining international driving permits when necessary adds an extra layer of preparedness. By following this comprehensive guide, business travelers can embark on their journeys with confidence, leaving them better equipped to seize opportunities, forge new partnerships, and achieve success in the global business arena.

Suggested read: 15 Tips On How To Plan Successful Business Trips

Business Travel Documents Checklist FAQs

What is a business travel document checklist.

A business travel document checklist is a comprehensive list of essential documents and items required for a successful business trip. It helps travelers organize and ensure they have all necessary paperwork and materials before departure.

Why is a business travel document checklist important?

The checklist is essential to avoid last-minute hassles and potential issues during the trip. It ensures that all necessary documents are in order, reducing the risk of delays, rebooking fees, or denied entry at immigration.

Are visa important for international travel?

Yes, visa provides the primary authorization to carry out international travel.

Do you require travel insurance for business trips?

No, travel insurances are not mandatory for carrying out business trips. However, it is highly recommended to get yourself insured before going on personal or business trips.

What to include in your business travel checklist?

For efficient business travel, pack essentials like travel documents, clothing, and technology. Set up expense management, arrange transportation, and be prepared for emergencies with essential contacts and a contingency plan.

What documents should be included in a business travel documents checklist?

Documents to keep in business travel checklist are passport, visa, tickets, itinerary, accommodation details, insurance, and relevant IDs.

What should I do if I encounter issues with my documents during my trip?

Stay calm check your digital copy of documents. Contact your country embassy and explain all situation. They will help you get new document.

How can I keep my business travel documents organized during my trip?

Always keep digital copy of documents saved on cloud. Apart from that you should use travel organizer folder to keep your documents safety with you. Get hard copy of your documents kept in a different place than original.

What should you consider before creating a business travel checklist?

Destination and purpose of travel, company policy, personal needs, duration of the travel, and the activities involved.

How to know your business travel checklist is complete?

You can perform simple checks such as review, feedbacks and online comparison.

Pratyush is a traveling enthusiast who always looks for innovations in business travel management. He has 5 years of experience writing content on corporate travel management and working closely with expert business travel facilitators.

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Your ultimate packing list: business travel checklist

Nothing is worse than a business trip that catches you by surprise. With this ultimate packing list, business travel was never easier; get going with all the necessities.

By Jessica Freedman

February 9, 2024

Don’t let a business trip catch you by surprise, having a packing list for a business trip is crucial to save time and make sure you don’t leave home without the essentials. Use a checklist; business trips are easier and more productive when you’re prepared. In this article we’ll walk you through everything you need to plan a business trip and create a business trip packing list:

• The must-haves

The work essentials

The personal items you can’t leave without, the nice-to-haves.

When it comes to making your business travel checklist, you want to make sure you have the necessities to ensure that you can work just as comfortably and effectively as if you were at the office (whether that be a physical office or your home office). 

The benefits of a packing list for a business trip

There are many benefits of having a packing list for business travel. Let’s take a look at what they are.

A business travel checklist streamlines the packing process

For starters, it streamlines the planning and packing process, meaning that you can easily and quickly put together your things for a business trip, even if a trip is decided at the last minute. When you are traveling for business, you are already eating into your personal time during the week with your friends and family, so the last thing you want to do is waste even more time pondering what you are going to bring with you. With a packing checklist, business trips are hands down a piece of cake. 

Ensures you only take the necessities

Sometimes when you are packing at the last minute you throw in items that are not necessary, weighing you down, and forcing you to check a bag. Checking a bag is anything but productive because it slows down the time it takes to get out of the airport, and hence get to your hotel or meetings. With a packing list you can be sure you only take the essentials, which are more or less the same no matter where you go. 

Keeps you organized

With a nicely defined list that is divided into the must-have documents, work essentials, personal items you can’t leave without, and other items that might come in handy, you can be sure to stay organized. Certain items like your toiletries you can even keep packed in your toiletry bag, making sure not only you don’t forget a thing, and cutting down on the time it takes to pack your suitcase.

Creating a work trip checklist

So now that you know why a business trip checklist is such a good idea let’s get started on tips to create a checklist for your business trip. We’ll start with the must-haves, then move on to the work essentials, the personal items you can’t leave without and the nice-to-haves.

The must-haves 

It’s time to start preparing for your business trip, so what is it you can’t leave home without?

The must-have business travel checklist:

• Passport or ID
• Proof of Covid vaccination – consult our other helpful pointers for traveling safe
• Boarding pass
• Work credit card
• Work laptop and charger
• Work cell phone and charger
• Personal cell phone and charger
• Headphones – they come in handy if you have to conduct phone calls while in transit
• Notebook (to jot any important information down)

When it comes to preparing the work essentials, you want to make sure you have everything necessary to work comfortably from anywhere (whether that be from the airport, the train station, on the plane or from your hotel room). Thankfully most documents are now available on the cloud, but just in case, you may want to have a backup on a flash drive of your presentation, and any printout flyers or documents you need to share with your colleagues or potential clients. Lastly, on your checklist for a business trip preparation list, make sure that you put your business cards. 

Everyone has their own ideas of what they can’t leave without, but then of course there are also some basics (think toothbrush) that anyone will agree you must have no matter what. Don’t leave home without your pajamas, socks, underwear, change of clothes for each day of your work trip, sunglasses, toothpaste and toothbrush, floss, shampoo and conditioner, hairbrush, cream, and chapstick.

Sometimes it’s a good idea to prepare for the unexpected. For example, why not pack some pain killers? Going to a meeting with a headache is the last thing you want to do. Or why not pack an extra pair of underwear? It doesn’t take up space and you never know, if your flight gets delayed you may end up having to stay another night. Another “nice-to-have” is some healthy snacks like almonds or a protein bar. If you’re in a hitch and you’re running to a meeting or in your hotel room with nothing nearby to eat, at least you have something to tide you over until the next meal.

A portable charging dock is another “nice-to-have” because when you’re on the go, you don’t want to be left without a charged cell phone to help you navigate and keep track of your meetings. 

related article

Planning a business trip 101

5 tricks & tips for preparing for your next business trip.

We’ve covered the steps to plan your business trip in the above article, but there’s more to planning your business trip. A business travel checklist goes beyond just a packing list but is more a comprehensive road map to preparing for your business trip in order to make it a success.

The idea of making it a comprehensive checklist for business trip preparation is the fact that it can be easily replicated for any type of business trip, whether it be overnight, an extended trip or to an international destination. 

As you become a seasoned business traveler, it will get easier, and your checklist will change. Think of it as a work in progress to alleviate any stress related to packing or not knowing what to bring. For those of you working as HR or office managers guiding others to prepare for their business trips, it’s important to have your own comprehensive checklist that can easily be shared with your travelers, to make things easier and more productive.

1. Review business trip checklist prior to packing for your trip

Once you’ve made a comprehensive checklist for your business trip, you can fine tune as you go. Create a digital version of the checklist so that you can virtually check off as you go, and you don’t waste paper printing it out. You may consider creating separate work trip checklists for each kind of business trip: short or long, multi-destination, an international business travel checklist, winter business trip, or for a summer business trip, to make it easier. Review the list and see what will be necessary prior to packing.

2. Pack your important items in your carry-on

If you decide to check a bag, be sure to have all your most important personal items in your carry-on in case your luggage gets lost. Put your laptop, chargers for phone and laptop, business cards, a change of clothes and a toothbrush. That way if you are caught without your bag, you are prepared.

3. Just because it’s on the list doesn’t mean you have to take it

With a comprehensive work travel packing list, there will be a lot of items on there “just in case” but that doesn’t mean you have to pack them no matter what. It’s more of a reference to help you in the decision-making process. With more practice it will be easier to understand items that will change based on the details of your trip, and other must-haves that must be packed no matter what.

4. Double check documents

Travel documents are the most important item on your list, but beyond making sure you have all the necessary documents, it’s also important to ensure that they are up-to-date. Imagine you get to the airport only to discover that your passport has expired yesterday. To avoid this nightmare, be sure to set alerts in your phone to renew your documents with enough time in advance to avoid potential travel nightmares.  

Keep in mind that if you’re traveling internationally, you may want to make sure that your passport isn’t going to expire within six months as some countries won’t let you in. Check if there are necessary business visa entry requirements. You may also want to check for extra Covid-related requirements although a lot of countries have already relaxed these requirements in recent months. Check our guide to traveling safe for more information. 

5. Read up on your destination

Researching your destination before traveling is a great idea, especially if you are traveling to a country with a different religion or cultural norms. This way you make sure to avoid doing anything that is culturally taboo. For example in Japan, it’s just as disrespectful to arrive too far ahead of time as it is to arrive late. Reading up on your destination will ensure you avoid cultural faux pas. Be sure to include research as part of your ultimate packing list. 

Check out our etiquette guides for more tips: APAC Business Etiquette , Americas travel etiquette and tips and tricks to do better business in EMEA .

And that’s how packing lists simplify business travel 

We’ve looked at everything you should keep in mind when it comes time to create a packing list for a business trip in order to simplify business travel. Of course, the more organized you are, the more effective you can be when it comes time to hit the road. 

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Creating a business trip packing list

Even in our post-digital world, there are some physical items you can’t do without – especially on a business trip. Forget your passport and you won’t be getting on your flight. Forget your phone or laptop and you’ll struggle to communicate with your colleagues and clients. Forget important business documents and you could be risking anything from your professional reputation to a client relationship. These are all easy mistakes to make, but you can see how much they would cost your business to put right – and cause you stress in the process.

This handy guide explains how to pack for a business trip – giving you more time to focus on acing your meeting or that big conference you’re presenting at. Here are 10 essential items to include on your packing list for a business trip.

1. Travel documents

The most important item on your business trip packing list is your passport, without which you won’t be able to set foot on an airplane. It’s a good idea to keep all your travel documents – including any airline reservations, hotel confirmations and rental car details – in one safe place. That way, you can access them quickly as soon as you need them, avoiding that moment of panic when you can’t find your boarding pass.

2. Laptop or tablet

Taking a laptop or tablet with you on your trip is a great way to stay productive. Whether you’re reviewing a presentation or typing up post-meeting notes, using a laptop or tablet to work while you’re on the move will really make your travel time count. Whatever electronic devices you find most useful – don’t forget to pack the relevant chargers. Adapters are a must if you’re travelling abroad, so try and pick up one before your trip – it’ll save you time and money compared to buying one at the airport.

Phones are an essential in modern business life. Without one you’ll really struggle to communicate with your colleagues or your client, and they can also help you stay organized. Download a corporate travel app such as myCWT   and you’ll be able to sync your phone with your work calendar to give you the reminders you need to stick to your work schedule and travel itinerary.

4. Wi-Fi access

Think about wireless options if you need to work remotely, navigate your way around your destination, or speak to your family back home. Wi-Fi access in hotel rooms is not always free. At certain hotels, in-room internet can come with a heft daily charge, one that’s equivalent to what you might pay in a month with a wireless card. All major phone carriers sell internet cards – and you can also use them across different devices, whereas a hotel’s Wi-Fi will often only cover one device. Alternatively, sign up to CWT Hotel Intel  and you’ll be able to browse a directory of global hotels and read travelers’ own reviews. This will let you see which hotels rank highest in terms of Wi-Fi options – enabling you to make an informed choice about where to stay.

5. Clothing and accessories

Bring the right clothes. Being armed with the most appropriate jacket, pair of shoes or accessories can make all the difference when you’re preparing for a jam-packed itinerary – and even those spontaneous, last-minute drinks which are great for networking. You’re likely to need to pack a mixture of formal business attire and casual clothing, along with underwear, socks and pajamas. Bear in mind the weather at your destination – if it’s wet and windy, you’ll wish you’d packed a travel umbrella and a raincoat. Remember that toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner and toothpaste might not be provided in your hotel – so bring your own just in case.

6. Wallet or purse

Remembering your wallet or purse is an absolute must. Without it you’ll struggle to pay for anything on your business trip, causing yourself unnecessary headaches. Even if you’re likely be making most of your payments by card, it’s always good to have loose change and small notes for smaller items. As a general rule of thumb, only take what you need, like the cards you need to use, and take just a small handful of local currency – it’ll limit the damage if your wallet or purse gets lost or stolen. Make sure you have your wallet or purse close to hand – perhaps in a jacket or trouser pocket – so you can easily retrieve it when you need to.

7. Breath mints

When you’re meeting someone for the first time in the business world, it’s important to make a strong first impression. You never know who you might meet – and if this person is a client or potentially important connection, you don’t want to worry about bad breath. It’s easy to overlook this essential – so don’t forget to pack some mints to chew at regular intervals and particularly after meals.

8. Printed handouts

Ask yourself: what work documents do you need for your business trip? Whether it’s presentation handouts or meeting agendas, they’re an important part of any business travel checklist. Sure, there will probably be somewhere to print them at your destination, but don’t leave that to chance. It won’t take a minute to print and pack the handouts you need, and you’ll feel much better knowing you have them with you when you arrive at your destination.

9. Office supplies

Think about what kind of stationery you’ll need to take with you. It sounds simple, but if your business trip involves a client meeting, you’ll need a pen and notepad to record any action points and make sure you look organized. Think about what other office supplies you need to include on your business trip packing list – sticky notes to set yourself quick visual reminders, paperclips to keep your documents together, and folders to protect them from damage. You don’t need to take an entire office supply store with you – but a few useful items will really help.

10. Business cards

Even if you’re only intending to meet with familiar faces, you can’t leave business cards off your business trip packing list. You never know when you’ll bump into someone who could be a great addition to your network – and in those cases, you’ll want to be sure they can get in touch with you. Bring a generous supply of business cards so you don’t run out, and tuck them in your pockets, briefcase, wallet or purse so you’re always prepared when you make a connection. Business cards are essential if you’re going to a conference – and they make great name badges too.

Once you’ve ticked off each of these elements of your business travel checklist, don’t forget to check and double check.

Packing for an overnight trip

If you’re packing for an overnight trip, pack for carry-on luggage only. This will save you time when you arrive and eliminate the risk of losing your luggage. As such, you should aim to keep your business trip packing list to a minimum, taking a change of clothes and essential toiletries, your phone, laptop and a notepad and pen. You should also let key people know where you are, making sure your travel manager knows your business trip itinerary, and carry minimal cards and currency in your wallet or purse.

Travelling for 3, 4 or 5 days

Your business travel checklist will clearly be more extensive for a trip that’s a few days long. As well as the overnight trip essentials above, you’ll need a combination of smart and casual clothes. If you’re travelling between different destinations, consider where your internet access is coming from – a Wi-Fi card or hotspot is your key to staying productive and connected with the right people.

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The complete business travel checklist

It seems like a dream, travelling for work. But as any regular can tell you, it’s more demanding than it looks.

There’s a lot to think about when you’re travelling for work. Not only do you have the normal pressures around packing and getting to the airport on time, you also have to think about the functions you’re attending, the meetings you have, and making sure you’re organised from the work perspective too.

From planning the trip to getting home again, this article is the ultimate business travel checklist, for a seasoned pro or first-time traveller alike.

Before you book

Make sure you know who is booking your travel

If you’re travelling for work, you might have a travel co-ordinator at work, or be expected to book everything yourself. Find out who’s booking what – flights, transfers, insurance, accommodation. You don’t want to double-book, or worse, not book at all.

It’s worth understanding travel policies well in advance, too. Do you have a per-diem allowance? Is there a limit on expenses? What can you claim, or not? If you have to book flights, is there a preferred airline, or restrictions around how much you can spend? It’s good to be friends with the person who books your travel, too, so you can arrange for slightly more gentlemanly hours, instead of the 4am red-eye flights.

Sign up for everything you can

If your company travel policy permits, sign up for loyalty programmes (many airlines and hotels commonly offer these). If you’re allowed, buy a flight lounge membership – the ultimate win for more pleasant travel.

Sign up for global entry

If you fly a lot internationally, apply for Global Entry or TSA Precheck. They make your journey through the airport easier – you won’t have to remove your shoes or belt in security, well worth it if you travel a lot.

Before you fly

Business travel packing checklist

Once you’re a seasoned traveller, you don’t have to spend a lot of time packing – it becomes automatic. However, if you’re new to business travel, make sure you pack :

Passport (if travelling internationally)

• Business cards
• Driver’s licence
• Laptop and cellphone charging cables and converters
• An external battery charger
• Jewellery and watch
• Medications
• Professional clothing options for all events
• Work-out clothes
• Sleepwear and comfortable clothes for downtime
• Liquids in containers less than 100mls, if you’re not checking luggage
• Enough clothes so you can avoid doing laundry while you’re away

Business travel luggage

If you travel a lot, you’ll know how important it is to get the right business luggage. Think about the size you need, if you want carry-on, checked-in or just garment and laptop bags.

Get work sorted

Arrange all your work meetings before you leave, and if you can, make them in locations that are convenient to where you’re staying. Prepare your schedule and make sure you have enough travel time between meetings. Arrange all relevant paperwork, samples, contracts and presentations, and have it all organised and packed.

The nitty gritty for overseas travel

If you’re heading to another country, there might be extra things to arrange.

• Tell your bank you’re travelling, and make sure your VISA card will work
• Ensure your phone is enabled to work overseas
• Arrange any necessary visas
• Make sure your passport has enough space for stamps and won’t expire within six months
• Check what vaccinations you may need
• Get a note from your doctor with information for customs about your medication
• Check if you need travel insurance. Your company may have a policy already
• Take photos of all documents with your phone, including your visa and passport

Use travel apps

There are so many great travel apps that can make your business travelling life easier. Download them in advance.

• Google Maps – you can download maps of areas in advance if you’ll be out of WiFi range
• Airline, AirBNB, and hotel apps, if you’ll be using them regularly
• Uber, Ola, or Pick Me taxi apps
• Google Translate, if you don’t understand the local language
• Time Buddy for time at multiple locations
• XE Currency for live-time currency conversions
• TripAdvisor, Zomato, Yelp, to judge local vendors
• Skype, so you can make overseas calls over WiFi
• A Podcast app, to download and save something to listen to on the flight
• The Corporate Traveller Serko app for flight status updates, gate changes, and so much more.

While you are travelling

Don’t hold up the queue

There are some things you can do to be a little more organised, saving yourself time and frustration, and making your fellow passengers’ lives better.

When checking in, have everything you need ready to go: passport, flight info, and luggage all packed.

When going through security, wear flat, slip-on shoes with minimal metal (most heels have metal soles that set off the metal detector). Laces, heels, bulky jewellery or belts will slow you down – and everyone else. Have your laptop and other devices stored so they’re easy to unpack and replace. Don’t carry liquids if you can avoid it.

Workout on the day

If you’re going on a long-haul flight, do some exercise the day before you leave, and aim to do some the day you arrive. Most hotels have gyms, and worst-case scenario: you can go for a walk around the block.

This makes you feel better after being jammed into a plane for hours, and also helps reduce your jetlag.

Travel comfortably

Especially for long haul flights, dress for comfort. Layers allow you to navigate both the cold aeroplane and the hot stuffy airport. Onboard, make sure you have entertainment like a book or Kindle, toothpaste and toothbrush, eye mask, ear plugs, travel pillow, face wipes and a pen!

Jetlag isn’t helped if you’re tired before you get on the plane, so make sure you’re well-rested when you board. Some people take sleeping tablets on long haul flights, but this may increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis.

To help minimise jetlag, swap wine for water to stay hydrated. When you reach your destination, stay awake until 9-10pm then go to bed, to help you get into the right time zone. Resist the urge to nap or to stay up late.

Travel can be simple

There’s no need to be stressed or worried about business travel . A bit of planning makes life a lot easier, and the experience a lot more pleasant.

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Business Travel Checklist

• By Jake R Brady on Dec 28, 2011

• Before Your Business Travel
• Ensure you have complied with your employers travel policy and administrative requirements.
• Make sure your travel plans and contact details are known to your manager.
• Ensure you have travel insurance.
• Ensure your vaccines are up to date prior to departure.
• Make sure your passport is valid at least six months past your expected return date.
• Ensure any relevant visas have been obtained.
• Choose a hotel that offers special services to business travelers.
• Confirm all reservations.
• Leave your contact information of the hotels where you are staying, with a family member.
• Tie up any loose ends at the office before departing.
• Let clients and colleagues know when you will be unavailable.
• Stock your work bag or briefcase with all the business-related items you need for the trip.
• Make note of your need to pack any electronic equipment, including PDAs or laptop.
• Avoid checking any bags, if at all possible.
• Your Business Travel
• Use separate credit cards for business and personal purchases.
• Keep all the receipts for business purchases.
• Keep your business paperwork in one place in your hotel room.
• Make notes directly after business meetings while still fresh in your mind.
• When You Return
• Notify your employer of any reportable incident that occurs while on overseas business.
• Request support from your HR team or manager should you experience any difficulties as a result of your travel.
• Go through mail, voice messages, and e-mail as soon as you can.
• Put your list in order of priority with most urgent items at the top.
• Tackle each item on the list.
• Share via: Twitter , LinkedIn , Facebook , Whatsapp
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The Ultimate Travel Packet for Your Executive’s Business Travel

A journey of a thousand miles may begin with a single step, but a successful business trip begins with a kick ass travel list. This goldmine checklist, complete with useful tips organized by category, was created specifically for traveling executives after a Ninja asked what to include in a travel packet for the boss’s upcoming trip. So of course, we went straight to the experts: the OfficeNinjas Ambassadors.

This list is comprehensive, packed with Ninja-approved items and hacks for every possible situation we could imagine. But you should feel free to edit and make it your own go-to guide for business travel. Pare down, make tweaks, and add special exceptions tailored specifically to your company and team. Once you have the Ultimate Packing List customized to your boss’s specific needs, prepping for an upcoming trip will be the easiest part of your day.

• Include the confirmation/reservation numbers, phone numbers, and addresses for flights, trains, rental cars, cabs, and hotels.
• Include estimated travel time from the airport to the hotel or other destinations, as well as information on potential delays due to traffic, road construction, and inclement weather.

Ninja Tip: Send your boss a meeting request with airline details (terminals numbers, flight and seat numbers, departure and arrival times, etc.) in the subject line so that travel time is blocked out and the information is instantly accessible. For example-  Subject: Alaska 309 (SFO-SEA): lv 735pm arr 924pm, conf# AP35IRE Location: Seat 24A (window).

Ninja Tip: Once you’ve hammered out all the details, funnel them into PackPoint  so you and the traveler can both access the full spread on a convenient app.

LUGGAGE TAGS

Ninja Tip: Keep a pack of affordable luggage tags in the office as a backup.

MAPS & DETAILED DIRECTIONS

Ninja Tip: Install a map app, like Waze  or Google Maps , on your boss’s phone. You can even download an area for offline use in Google Maps, in case of a poor signal. Screenshots of entire routes can also be saved.

LOYALTY MEMBERSHIP NUMBERS

Track all frequent traveler membership numbers for airlines, hotels, dining, and rental car companies in one place using TripIt or Points .

PARKING INFO & COSTS

Use Spot Hero to reserve parking spaces in advance, and ParkMe  to locate spots.

LOCAL HOST CONTACT INFO

e.g. the client’s admin, office manager at satellite office, etc.

LOCAL SPOTS TO DECOMPRESS

Download one of these apps to your boss’s phone. They allow users to book hotel rooms by the hour so your exec can catch up on emails or even take a nap:

• Hotels by Day

TRAVEL DICTIONARIES & PHRASEBOOKS

Ninja Tip: Purchase travel dictionaries/phrasebooks or download a translation app to your exec’s phone (for international travel). Popular options include:

• Google Translate
• Lonely Planet Phrasebook & Dictionary ( Spanish , French , Mandarin , Japanese , German )

PROTOCOL FOR LAST-MINUTE ITINERARY CHANGES

Clarify who should take the lead on resolving conflicts and rescheduling travel.

PROVIDE TRAVEL ITINERARY TO EXEC’S FAMILY/PARTNER

Meeting Prep

BRIEF BIOS ON MEETING ATTENDEES

Download Charlie  on your exec’s phone. Charlie combs through a bunch of online sources and will send your exec a one-pager on who they’re going to meet before even seeing them.

Ninja Tip: Include suggested topics of conversation as well as personal details that may cause someone to be distracted or unengaged (like a recent birth or death in the family)

NOTES ON BUSINESS ETIQUETTE

Appropriate behavior varies greatly from culture to culture, refer to this infographic to ensure your exec is properly informed.

EXTRA BUSINESS CARDS

An obvious item but one that’s commonly forgotten!

LOCATIONS FOR SMALL MEETINGS & ONE-ON-ONE CONVERSATIONS

These apps identify and reserve on-demand meeting space:

Ninja Tip: Walk Score will tell you if they need to travel by car to get there.

DRESS CODE FOR MEETINGS & SOCIAL ENGAGEMENTS

From casual to white tie, this attire guide breaks it down for you.

HEALTHY SNACKS FOR HEAVY MEETING DAYS

Try these healthy options:

• Love With Food
• Quest Nutrition Protein Bars and Chips
• And don’t forget mints , pocketmist , gum , or breath spray

Financial Considerations

CORPORATE CREDIT CARDS

Remind your exec of these tips for traveling with plastic overseas.

CLEAR, ZIPPERED ENVELOPES

Pouches  for receipts and small miscellaneous items.

EXPENSES REPORTS OR APP

Blank expense reports or ensure that your office’s expense reporting app has been downloaded to your boss’s phone.

Ninja Tip: Download an app that lets your boss scan documents or receipts and save them as PDFs, such as Tiny Scanner , Smart Receipts , Expensify , Abacus , or Shoeboxed .

CURRENCY CONVERSION APP

Download a currency conversion app to your boss’s phone for international travel. Popular options include XE Currency , Currency Converter , and Convert Pad .

Local Points of Interest

HIGHLY REVIEWED BARS AND RESTAURANTS

Check Yelp , Opentable , TripAdvisor , and Zagat before providing your exec with recommendations.

STORES THAT SELL SOUVENIRS AND COLLECTORS’ ITEMS

Ninja Tip: Does your exec’s loved one have an affinity for snow globes or any other trinket? Let your boss know where he/she can purchase these personal items. Boom. You’re now a hero to your boss.

ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES WITHIN WALKING OR SHORT DRIVING DISTANCE

• Parks and historical monuments
• Museums and theaters
• Fun/quirky exhibits

Ninja Tip: Check out AroundMe for nearby amenities.

There you have it, Ninjas! The Ultimate Exec Travel Packet. Let’s recap:

The Ultimate Exec Travel Packet:

• Travel itinerary
• Luggage tags
• Maps and detailed directions
• Loyalty membership numbers
• Parking info and costs
• Local host contact info
• Local spots to decompress
• Travel dictionaries & phrasebooks
• Protocol for last-minute itinerary changes
• Provide travel itinerary to exec’s family/partner

MEETING PREP

• Brief bios on meeting attendees
• Notes on business etiquette (for international travel)
• Extra business cards
• Locations for small meetings and one-on-one conversations
• Dress code for meetings and social engagements
• Healthy snacks for heavy meeting days

FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS

• Corporate credit cards
• Clear, zippered envelopes
• Expense reports or app
• Currency conversion app

LOCAL POINTS OF INTEREST

• Highly reviewed bars and restaurants
• Stores that sell souvenirs and collectors’ items
• Attractions and activities within walking or short driving distance

Do you have any additional items or Ninja Tips to add to the Ultimate Exec Travel Packet? Leave your ideas in the comments section!

I provide full itineraries for any of my traveling staff via PDF to their email. This way, they can have it on their smart phone, iPad, etc., as well as providing copies to family as needed. I post a copy in my office so when someone asks “Where is _____?” I don’t have to go searching. The itineraries always have all flight details, any car rental info, hotel confirmation numbers, any necessary phone numbers, email addresses, addresses for the offices/conference centers, etc. When I have multiple staff traveling to the same place from different locations, everyone has the full itinerary of arriving/departing flights so they know they can meet up at the airport and share a cab or a car. I’ve spoiled everyone with the itineraries. I even do them for myself when I travel.

Spoken like a true Ninja! It definitely sounds like those spoil your team… who knows what they would do if you set them up with some apps too! Do you start each itinerary from scratch for each trip, or keep a template somehow?

I use a 8 1/2 by 11 clear envelope for our CEO and put a copy of his flight itinerary on one side and his hotel on the other. This way he never has to open the envelope but flips from airport side to hotel side until he arrives. When he gets there, he pulls out the hotel portion and behind it is all his papers for his conference/meeting. He slips all his receipts in the envelope throughout the trip and brings the envelope back to me when he returns to fill out his reimbursement. I recently filled out a more detailed one page itinerary for another one of our executives with all her information of where she needed to be – flight numbers, hotel details etc. She preferred this method and I sold her on the clear envelope to carry everything in.

Great tip. Thanks for sharing, Lisa!

This is what I do, Lisa.

This is great! Thank you :)

You’re welcome, Carole! How often do you plan business travel?

Comments are closed.

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Her Packing List

Packing Lists

Ultimate female packing list for a minimalist business trip.

The following packing list for a minimalist business trip was submitted by Rachel. See all packing lists .

When I first started traveling for work , I may have appeared a little high maintenance… I packed my life into a roller bag, a giant computer bag, and my purse. I imagined myself as Legally Blonde ’s Elle Woods when I showed up to the TSA line , teetering on too-tall heels, my matching pink luggage in tow.

After being on the road for much of the last three years, my attitude, gear, and how I travel has changed dramatically : now I’m less Legally Blonde , and more Catch Me if You Can . For work I travel about 30 percent of the time to different client sites, enough so my inner adventurer gets excited about the boutique hotel and off-the-beaten-path restaurant, but not too much where I forget where I traveled last week.

My Lightbulb Moment

About two years ago, I took a trip with a colleague to Los Angeles over four days. On the way back to the airport, I noticed she didn’t have a roller bag or duffle. She only carried a Northface backpack and large purse. I asked where her bag was, concerned she forgot it. She responded with, “I only ever bring a backpack and a purse . If I can’t pack it in here I don’t need it.”

I was incredulous! I had never heard of anyone doing that. It. Blew. My. Mind. I thought maybe there’s something to it and challenged myself to give it a try .

On the next several trips I made a conscious effort to bring less stuff . No I don’t need five pairs of shoes. No I don’t need my bathing suit and towel for the hotel pool. No I don’t need a suit and a change of clothes for each day and an extra outfit—just in case. You get the picture.

I gained momentum and thought about what else I could cut, analyzing what I didn’t use and leaving anything unused behind on the next trip. I discovered packing cubes , blogs about traveling light , and new ideas sparked. I soon fit everything in my Northface and carried a purse with room to spare. Then I hit a wall…

I loved the freedom from carrying so little . BUT I didn’t feel or look particularly professional carrying a bright yellow backpack. I started looking around at airports at the different consultants on the road and saw men and women in backpacks that looked professional and comfortable . I made mental notes of brands, shapes, sizes, colors, material, etc. I quoted backpack facts to my husband whose eyes started to glaze over any time I pulled up the REI website or eBags or whichever was my favorite of the moment. Then I found the one.

>>Read the female packing guide to working from the road .

What I Pack Now

Now I pack everything in my purse and Timbuk2 Jet Laptop Pack (review coming soon). It is 30 liters of organization and compartmentalization so I know where everything is and can reach it at a moment’s notice.

A couple of the things I really like from a work travel perspective are its clean look and it fits under the seat in front of you on most airplanes. You can carry it both as a backpack and as a briefcase, and it has a separate laptop compartment. I can carry everything I need and have room for more if I pick up something new in my travels.

On the plane, I will typically dress in jeans, cardigan, and my flats (which match both my suit and casual attire). I plan my tops so when my meeting ends I can swap the skirt for jeans and be ready for a casual night around town or for a glass of wine with a colleague.

I’ll use jewelry to dress my outfits up or down, as it’s a great way to change the feel of an outfit in an instant without taking up much space in my bag.

>>Check out this versatile 16L minimalist packing list .

My Packing List for a Minimalist Business Trip:

• Toiletries : razor, face lotion, comb, floss, toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, q-tips, nail kit, Kleenex, spare contacts + contact solution , face wash, menstrual cup , and depending on the hotel, shampoo and conditioner. Often times, if I know the hotel will have decent toiletries, I’ll change out what I bring and just use what they provide.
• Minimalist makeup kit
• Mini medical kit – Band aids, aspirin, Imodium, etc.
• Electronics: Laptop, phone, chargers
• Travel coffee mug
• Water bottle
• Pen set: I like color options
• Scarf: for warmth and fashion
• Book or Nook depending on the length of the trip
• 1 suit skirt and jacket (or packable blazer )
• 1 pair jeans
• 1 workout outfit
• 1 sleep outfit
• 1 pair of tennis shoes
• 1 pair of flats
• 1, 2, or 3 dress shirts (one shirt for the number of nights I’m gone)
• 1 pair underwear for each night
• 1 pair pantyhose for each meeting

Overall, my way of seeing the world has changed because of what I pack. I glide through airports in a way I didn’t before. If I’m running late I’m confident that I can physically run to the gate.

I am more hands free, and when I want access to something, I know exactly where it is. And, because I’m packing in the same way each trip with similar items, I pack faster with more consistency.

Even with what I bring, I could still cut back if I needed. With each trip I continue to experiment with the combination of items I bring, and I look forward to perfecting the system and learning how others do the same.

• Check out this awesome article on how HPL’s best minimalist packing tips can be used to organize your home !

About the author: Rachel is a consultant, outdoor enthusiast, and animal lover who travels frequently around the U.S. for work and pleasure. When not on the road for work, you can find her planning her next hike on the Appalachian Trail, half-marathon through the mountains out west, or swing through South America—and she never checks a bag (except maybe backpacking gear). She lives in Chicago with her husband and a small menagerie of pets.

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using them, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps to keep this site running – thank you!

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Gear we use.

Speakeasy Hidden Pocket Scarves

Splice Reversible Jaisalmer Tunic

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Tom Bihn 3D Organizer Cube

Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Daypack

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Travel resources, hpl learnables.

H PL Packing Method – Learn to pack your lightest bag ever in this revolutionary packing course by HPL founder, Brooke.

Book Your Trip

Viator – Enhance your trip experience by booking from thousands of tours across the globe.

Booking.com – Search for hotels, hostels, and apartments using this one resource. Use it for flights, car rentals, and airport taxis as well.

Trusted Housesitters – Save money on travel accommodation by becoming a housesitter. Housesitters often have extra duties, like caring for pets and gardens.

Reader Interactions

August 2, 2017 at 6:50 pm

This is so great – I went to Italy for almost three weeks with just a carryon and it was SO FREEING. But I still had too much stuff. I’ve come a long way from my younger years when I’d carry full-size toiletries items and a massive suitcase full of “options.” Now I know better and I know I’ve got favorite pieces and I should just take those. It’s way easier to just have a few things to choose from and it’s so easy to move from place to place when my bag is light and small.

August 10, 2017 at 12:07 pm

Hi, thanks a lot for this insight 😀 Honestly, it’s always like: oh I need, this and this and that and in the end you only end up using a few things, that would even have fitted into a tiny bag. One question I have to you: how do you keep your tops without wrinkles?

April 21, 2019 at 1:23 am

I lay my tops or blouses on my bed and fold each one carefully, smoothing as I go. It’s really a matter of practice. But here’s the good part! Once folded, slide the blouse or top into a one gallon zip lock bag, One top to a bag. Without moving the bag around too much, or lifting it, I suck the air out of the bag and seal it. With practice, this makes an airtight parcel that keeps the shirts smooth. I’ve even been able to slide the bag across the room without disturbing the contents, as long as the seal is unbroken! I hope this works for you!

January 7, 2020 at 7:26 pm

I’m a big believer in rolling your tops. I also tend to pick fabrics which don’t wrinkle much anyway. Lastly when I’m in my room, the first thing I do is unpack everything, hang it, and if it looks wrinkled at all, use either the hotel iron or a fun trick I learned. In the morning when you are showering, hang whatever is wrinkled in the room with you and make sure the door is closed. The heat from the shower steams up the room as well as your clothes -essentially steaming out all the wrinkles! Hope that helps!

June 6, 2021 at 6:02 pm

Great article! Just out of curiosity, what brand is the 2-in-1 makeup compact in your picture?

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The Complete Travel Packing Checklist for 2024 & the Best Packing Tips [Printable]

Erin Miller

Content Contributor

188 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 26 U.S. States Visited: 28

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

35 Published Articles 3254 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

General packing tips & tricks, apps for packing assistance, apps for itinerary management, before leaving the house.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

When it comes down to it, packing for a trip (domestic or international) can be stressful. Do you wait until the last minute? Put off researching what you’ll need for certain activities or weather at your destination? Get distracted easily, or have young kiddos that need attention? It happens to the best of us!

On one hand, if you under-pack you might not be prepared. But if you over-pack, you run the risk of incurring hefty baggage fees or missing out on space to bring home that lovely souvenir. If you forget an essential travel document, you could even miss your trip altogether! We get stressed just thinking about it!

That’s why Upgraded Points is bringing you a guide full of packing tips and tricks, a printable travel checklist, a list of apps to help you out, and reminders for to-do’s around the house before you leave.

We’re here to assuage your anxieties and make sure you’ve got what you need, you’ve cut what you don’t, and there’s no wallet/phone/swimsuit/teddy bear left behind!

Hot Tip: Don’t forget to also check out our “Carry-On Travel Essentials” guide where we’ve compiled a “His” and “Hers” list of some great products that we simply can’t do without when we travel!

📋  Click To View Our Printable Travel Packing List >>  📋

Before you even take your suitcase out of the closet

Check the weather at your destination.

This seems intuitive, but you’d be surprised how many people are stuck traveling in rainy season without a raincoat.

Note how many days/nights you will be away.

This will help you decide the number of necessary outfits. Obviously, how often you prefer to wear the same clothes plays a part in this as well.

Note any special activities/events you may partake in.

Traveling for a birthday? You don’t want to forget that heartfelt gift you bought weeks in advance. Going to a wedding? It’d be a shame if you showed up without your suit. Hiking in Hawaii? Your water-shoes won’t get much use if you leave them behind.

Make a packing list early and review it at least twice. (Yes, twice.)

You can easily find printable vacation packing lists online (like ours above), or you can write out your own. There are also a number of apps you can utilize if you prefer something more tech-based. Read about several of these below!

Timing is key here. If you jot things down or review your printed list in advance, it gives you the opportunity to take a second look with a fresh mind. All too often you’ll remember something you didn’t yesterday when your brain was thinking about pizza instead of packing.

If you’re printing a list that’s not trip specific, review it first and immediately cross off items you won’t need. Why bring a winter coat to the beach?

Take items you can grab at your destination off the list.

If you’re planning to travel with only a carry-on, this tip is especially important as it will save space (at least for your outgoing journey!).

Most times when traveling, your hotel will provide shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, etc.; why waste space packing them? If you’re a little picky about your toiletries or you’re not staying at a hotel, you’ll probably still encounter a drugstore where you can buy anything you might need.

Purchase travel-sized containers or toiletries if you plan on bringing your own.

Remember regulations for the amount of liquids you can bring in a carry-on for a flight. You’ll want travel-sized containers if you plan on carrying liquids this way.

Even if you’re flying with a checked bag and are allowed more liquids, do you really need that 16oz bottle of shampoo for a weeklong trip? Cutting it will save you room for other essential items.

Choose the right luggage.

Yes, different airlines have different restrictions on sizes for carry-ons and checked bags but stick to some general guidelines and you should be safe.

For carry-ons, you’re generally accepted at/under max linear dimensions of 155cm/45in. For checked bags, you’re generally safe under 158cm/62in max linear dimensions. However, be sure to check the airline you’re flying with prior to packing, as some can be stingy!

You also want to seriously consider the type of bag you enjoy traveling with – shoulder bag , backpack , roller bag, hard shell , soft shell, etc. There are definitely loads of options so just remember, your bag shouldn’t stress you out, it should make traveling easier.

Hot Tip:  We’ve done tons of research on this topic so don’t miss our articles on the best carry-on bags and the best checked luggage bags for any type of traveler. 

When you’ve done your prep and you’re almost ready to pack

Essentials first.

Gather your most important items first. This includes all travel documents such as your passport, ID/driver’s license, boarding passes, hotel reservations, etc. This also includes anything you’ll seriously regret forgetting and can’t purchase while traveling: wallet , credit cards , camera , cell phone, etc.

This being said, there are a number of apps that can assist with itinerary management and decrease the number of printed documents you’ll need to carry. See our list of helpful packing apps at the end of this post.

Choose an appropriately sized suitcase.

If you only have 1 suitcase, then you’re set. If you’ve got more options, attempt to use the smaller one – most people tend to overpack when their suitcase is too large for their trip. You don’t really need an extra sweater, 2 more t-shirts, and another pair of boots just because they fit! Plus, your baggage will be a lot easier to handle if it’s smaller and lighter, which will cut your stress level significantly.

Lay everything out.

Laying all of your items out allows you to plan outfits and account for your days/nights away. When everything’s laid out, you can clearly see how much you’re bringing and spot missing items easier. This also includes shoes, accessories, toiletries, etc.

Dividing items into sections based on where they’ll be packed is also helpful.

Lastly, don’t forget to lay out your plane/travel day outfit and consider it with your other pieces.

Pick simple mix-and-match pieces to prevent overpacking.

In general, choose simple tops and bottoms that can be mixed and matched to make multiple outfits. Did you know that just 3 bottoms (pants, shorts, skirt, etc.), 4 tops (tee, tank, etc.), and 2 outer layers (sweater, coat, or cardigan) can make up to 24 different outfits??

Depending on the reason for your trip, you might need to pack a special item that can only be worn once (suit, bridesmaid dress, etc.), but try to keep these to a minimum! This step is key if you’re pressed for space.

PUT STUFF BACK!

Once you’ve laid out all your items, really consider the number of days you’ll be on your trip. Chances are you could stand to put a few things back in the closet in order to pack more efficiently. Remember, no one wants to pay a fee for overweight baggage or lug around extra clothes for no reason!

Pack it up.

You never thought we’d actually get to this step, did you? There are a number of recommended packing tips when it comes to getting everything neatly in the suitcase. This can be overwhelming, but if you pick up the right habits packing will seem much less stressful.

Check, double-check, and triple-check your essentials.

Put a checkmark next to each item you’ve packed and DON’T TAKE IT OUT OF YOUR BAG. If you’re not ready to pack an item, do NOT check the box! That’s exactly how you leave your phone at home on the charger next to your bed. “But the box was checked!!!” you’ll say…

(Note: this rule actually goes for everything, not just essentials.)

If you’re notorious for leaving essentials at home, print an extra travel checklist just for those items and tape it to your front door the night before you leave. Make a promise that you can’t walk out without reviewing the list one final time.

Fold, Interfold, Bundle, or Roll?

By now you’ve probably heard that old-fashioned folding isn’t the best method to use when it comes to packing, especially in tight cases. If you have the room to spare, virtually any of these methods will do.

Interfolding involves layering clothes on top of each other in a top-to-bottom, bottom-to-top format, then interweaving them as you fold them together. If you fold the items in accordance with the size of your suitcase, you’re left with a neat little bundle that will fit right in. Additionally, this style of folding will leave your clothing virtually wrinkle-free.

Bundle packing is very similar to interfolding, but you are tightly folding or wrapping your clothing items around a soft core (like a dopp kit , stack of underwear, cloth zippered jewelry bag , etc.). Bundle packing is also said to reduce wrinkles and save space.

Many people also recommend rolling when packing your clothes – at least for softer items and jeans. Again, this method tends to save room and reduce creasing in the process.

If none of the above methods are doing the trick and you don’t have the option of a hanging garment bag , it may be beneficial to learn the proper way to fold nicer items (like a dress shirt or suit coat ) for the best results.

Pack liquids in secure bags.

Toiletries that can leak will leak. These should be placed in a plastic zippered bag or another secure bag of your choosing. Some travelers even encourage cutting small squares of plastic wrap to cover the opening between bottles and their lids in attempts to prevent further seepage.

Utilize shoe space when you can.

Rolled-up socks, belts, gloves, stocking caps, and other small items can easily fit into shoes (as long as they’re relatively clean and not smelly!). This also helps the shoe hold its shape throughout your travels. Rolled-up belts can also be used to keep a shirt collar stiff if needed.

Prevent dirty shoes from soiling clothes.

Pack them in a separate space or utilize plastic bags/shower caps to cover the bottoms and prevent dirtying the rest of your clothing. Have a delicate pair of dress shoes or heels? Pack them in their own bags if possible, or clean the bottoms and wrap with a durable garment.

Toss a dryer sheet into your suitcase to keep things smelling fresh.

While you’re at it, grab a stain pen or stain wipes for your carry-on. If you happen to spill on one of the only tops you’ve brought and don’t have laundry facilities, you’re cutting your number of outfits drastically. If you know you’ll have laundry facilities or need to wash your clothes by hand, you can purchase individual detergent packets.

Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on.

By packing a change of clothes and undergarments in your carry-on , you’re covered for at least a day if your baggage gets delayed or lost. Some travelers may want to pack an extra pair of shoes just in case.

Similarly, if you’re heading to a beach locale, pack a swimsuit and sandals . If you have to wait to check into your hotel, you can head to the pool while the concierge keeps your luggage.

Keep expensive/irreplaceable items on your person.

As a general rule of thumb, you should leave irreplaceable items at home. This includes objects such as expensive jewelry and heirlooms. If you must travel with them, these items should be kept with you at all times. Do not trust them to be safe when placed in checked baggage; if your suitcase is lost, delayed, or stolen, you’re out of luck.

Similarly, if you must travel with official documents such as birth certificates or social security cards, check to see if a certified copy will suffice. Or maybe take a photo on your phone for less hassle. Otherwise, the same rule applies to these irreplaceable documents.

Follow the TSA 3-1-1 rule for liquids in carry-on baggage.

3 – Travelers may carry liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes in containers of 3.4oz (100ml) or smaller.

1 – These items must fit into 1 clear plastic quart-sized bag.

1 – Only 1 bag per passenger is allowed.

Remove this bag from your carry-on and place it separately in the screening bin. This is meant to slightly expedite passing through security .

The following apps can be ultra helpful for those who prefer a mobile device to the standard pen and paper methods.

Evernote: While Evernote isn’t technically travel-oriented, it’s all about lists and can be a big help for packing. With Evernote, you can sync your packing list across all your devices, making it easy to keep track of things no matter where you are…even out at the store buying items from your list!

Evernote also enables sharing notes with others, which is especially helpful for group trips. Need reminders? No problem, you can set alerts in Evernote to keep you on top of your game.

Packing Pro: This app is everything you ever wanted if you’re a list maker, and everything you didn’t know you needed if you’re a forgetful person. Packing Pro helps travelers get organized via packing lists. From templates and suggestions to customizable designs, Packing Pro has options for every type of traveler. Users are allowed an unlimited number of packing lists of an unlimited length, and you can even add images, alerts, and mark “need to buy” items.

It also has iCloud support and the ability to share your lists via email, AirDrop, Dropbox, etc. You can also export and edit your lists with Excel, Numbers, or Google Docs. If you’re the type that physically needs to cross things off, you can send directly to a printer too.

The Expert List-Making Assistant is a cool feature if you’re low-maintenance: it will take your parameters (number of people, destination, weather, etc.) and automatically create lists for you.

PackPoint: PackPoint’s purpose is to take the guesswork out of packing. The app pretty much tells you what to pack based on how long you’re traveling, where you’re going, the weather when you get there, and any activities you have planned (chosen from a pre-defined list in the app). With PackPoint Premium, users can connect to TripIt, share their lists across devices, and add customizable packing items/activities.

Travel List: Travel List seems to have fewer bells and whistles. You can do many of the same things as with Packing Pro and PackPoint: create customizable packing lists, sync across your devices, share with other people, and create alerts/reminders. One nice component is their calendar view, which gives a different type of visualization that some people really prefer. And this one is compatible with Apple Watch, which can be a huge organizational perk.

Lists To Do: This app keeps things simple for general to-do lists and is super easy to use. See your list’s percentage progress for a clear visual on how much you have left to do/pack before jetting off and set yourself reminders and share lists with your travel companions.

The following apps are helpful for keeping all your travel information in one place. From flight itineraries to hotel confirmation, event tickets to dinner reservations, they’ve got you covered. Plus, this means fewer printed travel documents you need to worry about carrying with you.

Google Trips: In a nutshell, Google Trips seamlessly integrates reservations (flights, hotels, rental cars, etc.) from your Gmail and creates a specific “trip” in the app. These trips are like folders of information including some basic categories like Reservations, Things to Do, Saved Places, Day Plans, Food & Drink, Getting Around, and Need to Know.

It also provides opportunities for travel inspiration, traveler reviews, dining/drink options, and encyclopedic information on several hundred top cities and attractions around the globe.

Also good to note: when you download your trip, everything is available offline in case you’re stuck without WiFi or data.

Kayak Trips: Part of Kayak’s main app includes a platform called Trips, which acts as an itinerary management app to keep all your pertinent travel information together. With Trips, you can forward your booking confirmations to [email protected] , where your itinerary is managed for you in a nice timeline format with maps and important info all on one screen.

Kayak Trips gives you the ability to send other people access to your travel plans through sharing options, link to your calendar app for planning consistency, and receive SMS and email flight alerts.

TripIt: TripIt is one of the most popular travel organization apps on the market. The app automatically imports flight, hotel, rental car, and other booking confirmations ( concert tickets from StubHub, dinner reservations from OpenTable, etc.) from your e-mail. If you don’t appreciate the e-mail scan, you can always forward your emails to [email protected] or manually input all the information into the system.

TripIt then creates an itinerary in an easy-to-read format, including space for directions between airports, rental car pickup, and hotel details. TripIt also allows for calendar syncing and makes it easy to send your travel info to family/friends by sharing via text, Evernote, LinkedIn, Slack, or WhatsApp.

With TripIt Pro, users get real-time flight alerts, help to find alternative flights, an airline seat tracker for better seats, reward program points tracking, and interactive airport maps.

In this section, we list some steps you might forget to take when you’re in a hurry to leave for vacation.

Remember to:

• Download your travel resources (guidebooks, language apps, etc.)
• Notify credit card companies of upcoming travel if required (international trips)
• Set an email auto-responder if necessary
• Take out the garbage
• Check the washing machine for wet clothes
• Check the dishwasher for dirty dishes
• Turn off all lights and electronics
• Set lighting timers
• Water the plants
• Drip taps (in cold climates where pipes could freeze)
• Close/lock all doors and windows; pull all curtains
• Set alarm system

For longer trips, don’t forget to:

• Empty the refrigerator/pantry of perishable food
• Unplug electronics
• Put a hold on your mail
• Consider having a friend check on your house from time to time

The Upgraded Points team is always jetting off somewhere and even we  still have trouble packing sometimes!

Additionally, if you’re interested in “the best of the best” travel products to up your packing game, check out these posts:

• All Our Best Travel Product Reviews – In One Place
• The Best Checked Luggage Bags For Any Traveler
• The Best Carry-on Luggage Bags for Any Traveler
• The Best Travel Duffel Bags on the Market

Lastly, if you’re looking for the top travel-related gifts, we’ve got you covered with our Best Gifts for Travelers .

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it better to fold or roll clothes in a suitcase.

Whether it’s better to fold or roll clothes for your suitcase may depend on a number of things. If you’ve no concern about saving space, folding could be just fine. However, if you’re trying to fit a lot of clothes into a small bag, there’s no shortage of youtube videos out there which prove rolling clothes can help with this task.

Additionally, interfolding and bundling are other techniques that could be helpful space savers. However, to save the most space, vacuum bags will be your best bet – just keep in mind your weight limit when packing a lot of things into one case!

Do packing cubes really save space?

Packing cubes don’t necessarily save space but they definitely help you stay organized when packing.

They can also help by keeping items separated — who wants smelly gym clothes next to their fancy dinner outfits?

How do I maximize space in my luggage?

To maximize space when packing, try using these methods for your contents: roll, bundle, or interfold (explanations above). Each has its own special technique but all can help you save space and fit more into your luggage of choice.

Another quick space-saving tip? Utilize typically unused space. For example, pack socks or belts inside your shoes.

How to I pack clothes without wrinkling them?

Here are a few quick tips to decrease wrinkling when packing your clothes into a suitcase: iron first, use a roll or interfold method, pack wrinkle-prone items in garment bags or utilize tissue paper between folds and layers, and/or choose fabrics that are less likely to wrinkle in the first place (wool, Tencel, knit, cashmere, polyester, nylon, spandex).

How should I pack toiletries in my suitcase?

When packing toiletries, you’ll want to be sure they’re kept separate from your clothes in a special bag or case. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy — a Ziplock baggie will do — but this will prevent the leaking of liquid onto your clothing items.

Additionally, you can place a small piece of cling-wrap between the bottles and lids of your liquids to prevent leakage.

If you’re bringing them in your carry-on, you’ll want to be sure you’re adhering to the 3-1-1 rule (use 3 oz containers max, in 1 quart-sized bag, with one bag per traveler) in order to pass easily through security.

Should I pack valuable items in my suitcase?

Always keep valuable items on your person while traveling. This includes identification cards, passports, visas, money, credit cards, jewelry, important medications, etc.

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About Erin Miller

An experienced points hacker, Erin is Alex’s partner-in-crime and contributes to Upgraded Points with in-depth guides and relationship management. Erin’s work has been cited in multiple major publications.

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Camping checklist for your next trip

By Roadtrippers

When hitting the open road, it’s fun to trade some hotel nights for camping stays. Whether you tent camp or tote a small RV, there are plenty of ways to create outdoor fun along our highways and byways.

This camping checklist is a quick and easy guide to the essentials you’ll want to pack along the way.

Camping-friendly trip planner app

It’s clutch to have the right app at your fingertips when you’re car, tent, or RV camping. That’s because it’ll tailor the stops and stays to your roadtripping style.

Prefer state and public campgrounds? A camping-friendly app will help you find them.

Towing an RV that has height restrictions? An RV friendly app will map a route to keep it safe.

Want to mix it up between hotels and campgrounds? The right trip planning app includes both.

Roadtrippers is one such app that’ll help you get all the camping-essential locations on your checklist.

Related How to find campgrounds, RV parks, and dispersed camping on Roadtrippers

Here’s your camping essentials checklist when stopping for the night:

• Tent – There’s a wide world of options to choose from. The best fit for roadtripping folk is generally something that compacts nicely and is super easy to set up
• Sleeping bags – Ditto above
• Packable pillow – We dig the Wise Owl variety , but there are many other options
• Headlamps – Because hands free lighting is a must for making camp in the dark
• Flashlights
• Camping chairs – Check out the new style that’s super packable
• Camp table – Not all campsites will have a picnic table. Pick a packable one of your own
• Camping lantern – Headlamps will blind your travel companions, you’ll want one of these for when you’re sitting around the table at night

Related Rooftop tent camping: A beginner’s guide to gear, installation, and more

Fun (optional) stuff

• Portable fire pit
• S’more kit
• Fire starters
• Camping pad

Fix-it stuff

Here are the essential tools for common camping repair needs:

• Multitool – Part pliers, part knife, and part thingamajig, this tool is a lifesaver at campsites around the world
• Duct tape – The universal fix-it-all
• Firewood axe
• Handheld vacuum

Campside cooking

These items make for a full camp kitchen:

• Refillable propane growler
• Nested cooking pots
• Cooking utensils (often included with nested camping pots )
• Can opener/corkscrew combo tool
• Cooler (Pro tip: pick a cooler with a built in cutting board divider )
• Collapsible wash basin
• Fresh water storage container
• Portable grill

Fun (optional) cooking stuff

• Camping coffee
• Roasting forks

Camping clothing checklist

Expect the unexpected when it comes to camping attire:

• Quick drying clothes
• Moisture wicking underwear
• Easy-to-shed/easy-to-add clothing layers (e.g. a thermal underwear base layer )
• Hiking shoes
• Camping socks
• Water shoes

Clean camping checklist

Here are the things to keep yourself and your surroundings squeaky clean:

• Compostable toilet paper
• Eco-friendly trash bags
• Camping toiletry kit
• First aid kit
• Quick dry towel
• Biodegradable camp soap

Other optional camping checklist items

• Solar power station
• Charging pack for phones
• Portable camp shower
• Camping games

Camping out is a fun way to roll on road trips. Use this checklist to ensure you have all the items needed for the journey. You can even let us plan it all out for you with Roadtrippers’ Autopilot™ . Autopilot combines patent-pending AI technology with data from 38 million real-life trips to create trips quickly and thoroughly.

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Travel Checklist: 9 Things to Do Before Every Trip

W hile some things, like booking flights and hotel rooms, are obvious to-dos before a big trip, other tasks-like remembering to double-check whether you need a visa or an international driver's permit-sometimes slip through the cracks. That's why having a pretravel checklist can make for a smoother departure and reduce stress.

Here are nine things you should do in the run-up to your trip and before you leave for the airport, from preparing your home and choosing a phone plan to packing the essentials.

Make sure your passport is up to date

While a standard adult U.S. passport is valid for 10 years from the date of issue (or renewal), you should renew sooner than that .

Many countries (currently around 75 worldwide) require at least six months of passport validity beyond your departure date. If your passport is going to expire less than six months after you leave for your trip, you could be denied entry or deported. Additionally, some nations require that your passport have between one and three completely blank visa pages, so be sure to check the rules for your destination .

Similarly, if your passport has details that are no longer accurate (for instance, you've gotten married and changed your last name), you'll want to have that corrected or have your airplane ticket changed to match the passport information.

Check if you need a visa and immunizations

To enter certain foreign countries, you'll need some specific visas and immunizations before you can board the plane.

Start by researching the entry requirements for your destination. Most governments have official websites or consular offices that provide detailed information about what is necessary to visit.

For visas, whether or not you need one often depends on your nationality and how long you plan to stay. Additionally, some countries have non-negotiable immunizations that need to be obtained before entry (for instance, a number of countries in Africa require yellow fever vaccinations and certifications ). Other countries may have suggested, but not mandatory, requirements for medications (such as antimalarial tablets). It's a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or travel clinic for up-to-date information on vaccinations and health advisories.

Consider travel insurance

No matter how well you plan your vacation, there's always the potential for accidents and unforeseen circumstances that can derail everything.

Travel insurance can help safeguard you against unexpected events, like trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost luggage, or flight delays. Not only does it mitigate financial losses, but it also ensures you have someone to help you if things go wrong far from home.

In some scenarios, like an expedition cruise to a polar region, the company organizing the trip makes travel insurance mandatory, so be sure to check what requirements your tour has ahead of time. Some cruise lines offer insurance directly through their booking process, which makes it an easier-if not always the most economic-option.

Keep in mind that credit card insurance covers some things, but not all, and that different cards cover different things. Cancel For Any Reason Coverage (CFAR) is another option in the insurance toolkit to review: It gained popularity during COVID and can still be useful in certain cases.

Even if you don't end up needing your travel insurance, having it can provide peace of mind.

Make a safety plan

No matter your destination, it's wise to familiarize yourself with local laws and customs, and to read up on potential safety concerns, particularly those related to current political and health situations specific to that area. The Department of State website is a good place to start, although it is usually quite conservative in its approach to safety issues. You might also consider looking online for blog posts about "important things to know before visiting (insert destination here)" to see what else pops up.

Be sure to share your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member so they know your whereabouts in case of emergency. Another option is to share your location with them via your phone, so they can keep track of you in real time. Signing up for the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is another good idea. It is a free service for U.S. citizens and nationals who are traveling abroad, which allows them to input information about their trip (where they're going, how they can be contacted, etc.), so that the State Department can help in emergencies (ranging from finding local attorneys and doctors to fleeing the country in the event of war or natural disasters).

Confirm whether you'll need a special driving permit

Different countries have different rules and regulations when it comes to driving, and in some cases, the driver's license issued by your home state doesn't quite cut it. Depending on where you're going, you may need an international driving permit instead.

Luckily, they're easy to get . The Automobile Association of America (AAA) issues permits in their various offices countrywide and by mail for $20; all you need to do is submit a simple application, two passport-type photos, and a photocopy of both sides of your driver's license. They're currently valid in more than 150 countries. However, there are some countries, like China and Ethiopia, that don't consider international licenses valid and instead offer their own temporary driving permit for travelers, so be sure to look up what the rules in your destination are. Websites for U.S. embassies in those countries and the Department of State can help in that matter.

Choose an international phone plan (or plan for a different option once on the ground)

If you want to use your phone internationally , check to see if your current carrier offers international roaming options. If it doesn't offer international data (or the cost is prohibitively expensive), consider purchasing a prepaid plan from a local carrier at your destination (though if you go that route, make sure your phone is unlocked and compatible with the local network). Often you can purchase local SIM cards at booths in the airport. You can also now buy eSIM cards (a digital version of a SIM card) online from companies like Airalo .

Note that some carriers, like Google Fi, offer automatic international service with no preauthorization or extra packages or SIM cards necessary, at the same price as in your home country.

Another option is to rent a Wi-Fi hot spot (available at phone stores for as little as $7 a day; or Travelers Wifi will mail you one). You could also just leave your phone in airplane mode and use free Wi-Fi when you can get it.

Prepare your home for while you're away

You know the basics (taking out the trash, setting your thermostat, double-checking that all doors and windows are locked), but there are plenty of other steps to remember. Consider, for instance, unplugging any non-essential appliances to prevent energy waste and reduce the risk of electrical issues. While you may already know to empty your refrigerator of perishable items, do you always sweep and clean up any food crumbs that might otherwise attract pests? Also, if you can't arrange for someone to care for plants in your absence, consider buying a self-watering device, like those from Cowbell Plant Co.

If you're going on a longer trip , it's also a good idea to forward your mail or ask a neighbor to collect it to avoid the appearance of an empty home; you can also arrange for the USPS to hold it . You might want to equip your home with camera security systems ( Ring and SwitchBot are solid options), so you can keep an eye on it while you're away.

Download in-flight entertainment

Nobody wants to be stuck on a long-haul flight without something to keep them occupied. Sure, most airlines offer in-flight movies and TV shows, but there's a chance the options don't interest you (or aren't in your preferred language). On the other hand, many streaming services allow users to download movies and shows for offline watching, so you can ensure you'll have something you'll enjoy.

It's also a good idea to check with your specific airline to see if its in-flight entertainment service is available only through a personal device, which would require you to download an app before boarding (like United ).

Pack your bags

What you need to bring on a vacation depends in part on where you go, what the weather will be like, and what activities you have planned. But the following lists are a good starting point.

• Footwear (including hiking boots or water shoes ; our editor at large packs this boot on every winter trip)
• Socks (we're partial to Bombas )
• Layers of cold-weather gear (remember that merino wool holds in heat, wicks away moisture, and is naturally antimicrobial)
• Jackets/outwear (outdoor gear companies are making progress in the plus-size category too )
• Swimwear and other beach necessities
• Hat (for sun or the cold)

Personal documents

• Hotel, flight, tour confirmations
• Insurance card and travel insurance contact number
• Documentation for any medication that might be controlled in other countries (e.g., Singapore has a list )

Electronics

• Chargers/adapters
• Earbuds / noise-canceling headphones
• AirTags if you're checking a bag
• Travel apps that travel editors use
• Medications (keep prescriptions in their official bottles)
• Compression socks for the flight
• Packing cubes
• Water bottle
• Neck pillow

Packing lists

• The Essential Cruise Packing List
• The Ultimate Camping Checklist for a Comfy Night Under the Stars
• What to Pack for a Road Trip
• The Ultimate Beach Packing List
• The Ultimate Ski Trip Packing List

5 simple ways to stay healthy, avoid sickness, and feel energized during your next business trip

• Insider spoke with three travel and wellness experts about staying healthy during a business trip.
• Staying hydrated and eating light foods will help maintain your regular routine while on the road.
• This article is part of "Work + Play," a series about blending business travel with personal experiences.

When it comes to business or leisure travel, it's common for travelers to come home feeling ill.

The combination of public transportation, disrupted sleep routines, and contact with high-use surfaces can contribute to travelers feeling under the weather. But if traveling is a big part of your job, there are things you can do — and not do — in order to make a healthy return home.

With business travel back in full swing, Insider spoke with three experts about what you can do to stay healthy on the road.  

Take extra precautions during a flight 

If you have plans to travel on a plane, which can be a hotbed of germs, there are a few extra precautions you can take.

"While we can't control the air around us, we can control the germs we may bring to our face with our hands," said Dr. Efrat LaMandre, founder of the health and wellness brand The Knew Method . "Therefore, avoid touching your face, eyes, and nose as they can all be entry points for germs."

Dr. LaMandre also advises travelers to stay hydrated because "drinking water during your flight keeps your mucous membranes moist, and dry passages and throat can make you more susceptible to respiratory infections." 

Jerry Justin Alexidor is a frequent business traveler, and while his travel concierge company Black Zama is based in Tulum, Mexico, his travels take him all over the world. When he's flying, he makes an effort to keep to himself.

"I usually stay within my seating area and limit my movement," Alexidor said. "And if I can budget it, I upgrade to a premium economy or business class seat for some extra room. It makes me feel less claustrophobic and less like I'm breathing in the germs of other passengers." 

Consider your food and drink intake

While we're traveling and away from our regular routines, it can be tempting to consume lots of high-calorie comfort foods. Priceline CEO Brett Keller travels often for work and makes an effort to choose healthier foods while he's on the road.

Related stories

"Airport food is generally heavy, and I try to avoid greasy food right before and after flights — so no pizza, burgers, or fries for me," Keller said. "I pick up lighter foods like sushi packs and bring extra snacks like sliced apples and power bars."

Another way to eat healthier on the road is to plan ahead. After a long day of traveling, our decision-making abilities are often impaired, and we might be more likely to reach for empty calories. Looking up what's available in the airport or in your hotel can result in healthier choices.

"Doing a little research about where you're headed allows you to prepare," Alexidor said. "When I go out to eat with clients on the road, I always ask the waiter questions about the food preparation, and of course, I keep myself hydrated."

Aim for low-impact exercises

Given the choice between getting up and going to the gym or laying in bed for an extra hour, most of us would choose the extra shut-eye. But getting a few minutes of low-impact exercise like walking or swimming can give your immune system an extra boost and help you sleep better at night.

"When I'm on the road, I try to get some time on the Stairmaster and/or the treadmill," Alexidor said. "While I don't over-exert myself when traveling for work, I feel more mentally and physically present when I get my cardio in." 

If you can, consider heading outdoors for your workout. "I always try to run outside the same day I land," Keller explained. "A morning run allows me to explore the local area before spending all day in meetings, and the combination of fresh air, sunshine, and exercise energizes me for the day." 

Practice good personal hygiene and cleaning routines  

Frequent hand washing and using hand sanitizer are important ways to ward off any germs, along with cleaning high-use surfaces. Hotel rooms see a lot of turnover and cleaning on arrival should be a priority.

"The first order of business is heading to a local pharmacy and picking up some Lysol disinfectant," Alexidor said. "I wipe down the door knobs or any handles — a lesson learned throughout the pandemic that still applies today. I then spray down any areas that would touch my skin or body."

Above all, get rest

Of all of the precautions you can take, one of the best things to do is give your body rest before, during, and after your trip.

"You need to get your sleep, eat right, and take your supplements year-round so that you can boost your immunity to be able to handle the germs that are sure to come your way," Dr. LaMandre advised. 

And when you're on the road, one of the best things to do is not to push yourself and try to keep a regular schedule. "I've learned not to stay out late your first night or two. Letting your body adjust to its new setting with good sleep, exercise, and hydration is probably the best way to avoid getting sick," Keller said. 

• Main content

Title Transfers and Changes

To prove vehicle ownership, it’s important to have a valid, up-to-date, and accurate California Certificate of Title. Here’s how you can transfer and change a title. 

Transfer your Title online!

You can now transfer a title online. Learn more about the steps and get started.

How to Transfer a Title

Anytime there’s a change to a vehicle or vessel’s registered owner or lienholder, that change must be updated in DMV’s records within 10 days and the California Certificate of Title must be transferred to the new owner.

A change in ownership is usually due to:

• Sale, gift, or donation
• Adding or deleting the name of an owner
• Inheritance
• Satisfaction of lien (full payment of car loan)

To transfer a title, you will need:

• Either the California Certificate of Title or an Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title (REG 227) (if the title is missing). 
• The signature(s) of seller(s) and lienholder (if any).
• The signature(s) of buyer(s).
• A transfer fee .

Depending on the type of transfer, you might need to complete and submit additional forms. See below for other title transfers and title transfer forms.

Submit your title transfer paperwork and fee (if any) to a DMV office or by mail to: 

DMV PO Box 942869 Sacramento, CA 94269

Rush Title Processing

If you need us to expedite your title processing, you can request rush title processing for an additional fee.

Transfer Fees

Depending on the type of transfer, you may need to pay the following fees:

• Replacement title
• Use tax, based on the buyer’s county of residence
• Registration

See the full list of fees .

Renewal fees and parking/toll violation fees don’t need to be paid to issue a replacement California Certificate of Title.

Title Transfer Forms

These forms may be required when transferring ownership of a vehicle or vessel:  Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title (REG 227) Vehicle/Vessel Transfer and Reassignment (REG 262) form (call the DMV’s automated voice system at 1-800-777-0133 to have a form mailed to you) Statement of Facts (REG 256) Lien Satisfied/Title Holder Release (REG 166) Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability Smog certification Vehicle Emission System Statement (Smog) (REG 139) Declaration of Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW)/Combined Gross Vehicle Weight (CGW) (REG 4008) Affidavit for Transfer without Probate (REG 5) Bill of Sale (REG 135) Verification of Vehicle (REG 31)

Other Title Transfers

When you’re buying a new car or a used car from a dealership, the dealer will handle the paperwork and you’ll receive your title from DMV in the mail.

When vehicle ownership is transferred between two private parties, it’s up to them to transfer the title. If you have the California Certificate of Title for the vehicle , the seller signs the title to release ownership of the vehicle. The buyer should then bring the signed title to a DMV office to apply for transfer of ownership. 

If you don’t have the California Certificate of Title , you need to use an Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title (REG 227) to transfer ownership. The lienholder’s release, if any, must be notarized. The buyer should then bring the completed form to a DMV office and we will issue a new registration and title.

Make sure you have all signatures on the proper lines to avoid delays.

Other Steps for the Seller When Vehicle Ownership is Transferred

• 10 years old or older.
• Commercial with a GVW or CGW of more than 16,000 pounds.
• New and being transferred prior to its first retail sale by a dealer.
• Complete a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (NRL) within 5 days of releasing ownership and keep a copy for your records.

Once the seller gives the buyer all required documentation and DMV receives the completed NRL, the seller’s part of the transaction is complete.

*If the vehicle has been sold more than once with the same title, a REG 262 is required from each seller.

Other Steps for the Buyer When Vehicle Ownership is Transferred

• Current registered owner(s), how names are joined (“and/or”), and lienholder/legal owner (if any).
• License plate number, vehicle identification number (VIN), make, model, year, and registration expiration date.
• Title brands (if any).
• Words “Nontransferable/No California Title Issued,” indicating a California title was not issued and a REG 227 cannot be used (see FAQs).
• Get a smog inspection (if applicable).

Once the buyer has provided the DMV with all the proper documents and fees, the vehicle record is updated to reflect the change of ownership and a registration card is issued.

A new title is issued from DMV headquarters within 60 calendar days.

To transfer a vehicle between family members, submit the following:

• The California Certificate of Title properly signed or endorsed on line 1 by the registered owner(s) shown on the title. Complete the new owner information on the back of the title and sign it.
• A Statement of Facts (REG 256) for use tax and smog exemption (if applicable).
• Odometer disclosure for vehicles less than 10 years old.
• Transfer fee .

You may transfer a vehicle from an individual to the estate of that individual without signatures on the Certificate of Title.

Submit the following:

• The California Certificate of Title. On the back of the title, the new owner section must show “Estate of (name of individual)” and their address. Any legal owner/lienholder named on the front of the title must be re-entered on the back of the title.
• A Statement of Facts (REG 256) confirming the owner is deceased and Letters Testamentary have not been issued. The person completing the statement must indicate their relationship to the deceased.

Use tax and a smog certification are not required.

Vehicle ownership can be transferred to a deceased owner’s heir 40 days after the owner’s death, as long as the value of the deceased’s property in California does not exceed:

• $150,000 if the deceased died before 1/1/20.
• $166,250 if the deceased died on or after 1/1/20.

If the heir will be the new owner, submit the following to a DMV office:

• The California Certificate of Title. The heir must sign the deceased registered owner’s name and countersign on line 1. The heir should complete and sign the back of the title.
• Affidavit for Transfer without Probate (REG 5) , completed and signed by the heir.
• An original or certified copy of the death certificate of all deceased owners.

If the heir prefers to sell the vehicle, the buyer also needs (in addition to the items above):

• Bill of Sale (REG 135) from the heir to the buyer.
• Transfer fee (two transfer fees are due in this case).

To transfer vessel ownership, submit the following:

• The California Certificate of Ownership. The registered owner signs line 1. The legal owner/lienholder (if any) signs line 2. Complete the new owner information on the back of the certificate and sign it.
• Bill(s) of sale, if needed to establish a complete chain of ownership.
• A Vessel Registration Fee .
• Use tax based on the tax rate percentage for your county of residence.

After you sell a vessel, complete a Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability (NRL) within five days of releasing ownership and keep a copy for your records.

How to Update or Change a Title

Because a California Certificate of Title is a legal document, it is important to keep it accurate and up-to-date. Here’s how you can update or change a title. 

Order a Replacement California Certificate of Title

You must order a replacement California Certificate of Title when the original is lost, stolen, damaged, illegible, or not received. 

To order a replacement title, submit the following:

• Application for Replacement or Transfer of Title (REG 227) .
• The original title (if you have it).
• California photo driver license (if submitting form in person).
• Replacement title fee .
• If another replacement title was issued in the past 90 days, a Verification of Vehicle (REG 31) completed by the California Highway Patrol (CHP). This requirement only applies if the registered owner’s name or address doesn’t match DMV records*.

You can submit your application either in-person* at a DMV office or by mail:

Department of Motor Vehicles Registration Operations PO Box 942869 Sacramento, California 94269-0001

If you’re submitting your form to a DMV office, we recommend you make an appointment so you can avoid any lines. 

You’ll receive your title by mail 15-30 calendar days from the date you submit the replacement title application.

*If you’re applying for a replacement title and the registered owner’s name or address doesn’t match DMV records (except for obvious typographical errors), you must submit your application in person with proof of ownership (e.g. registration card) and an acceptable photo ID (e.g. driver’s license/ID card).

Online Replacement Title Request

Visit our Virtual Office to request a replacement title online.

Change or Correct a Name on a Title

Your true full name must appear on your vehicle or vessel California Certificate of Title and registration card. If your name is misspelled, changes (e.g as a result of marriage or divorce), or is legally changed, you need to correct your name on your title.

To change or correct your name, submit:

• California Certificate of Title with your correct name printed or typed in the “New Registered Owner” section
• A completed Name Statement in Section F of the Statement of Facts (REG 256) .

You may submit your application to any DMV office or by mail to:

Department of Motor Vehicles Vehicle Registration Operations PO Box 942869 Sacramento, CA 94269-0001

Removing Information that was Entered by Mistake

If a name or other information is entered on a title by mistake, complete a Statement to Record Ownership (REG 101) .

Frequently Asked Questions

If the vehicle has a legal owner/lienholder, then section 5 of the REG 227 needs to be notarized. If the registration does not show a legal owner/lienholder, notarization is not required.

Need help finding the lienholder on your vehicle title? We keep a listing of banks, credit unions, and financial/lending institutions that may have gone out of business, merged, changed their name, or been acquired by another financial institution.

No. You must obtain a title from the state where the vehicle was last titled.

If you’re unable to obtain a title from that state, provide documentation that they cannot issue a title. A motor vehicle bond may be required

Contact us for more information .

Need something else?

Fee calculator.

Use our fee calculator to estimate any applicable registration or title transfer fees.

Renew Your Vehicle Registration

You need to renew your vehicle registration every 1-5 years in California, depending on the vehicle. Make sure your registration is up-to-date.

Make an Appointment

Some applications can be submitted to a DMV office near you. Make an appointment so you don’t have to wait in line.

General Disclaimer

When interacting with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Virtual Assistant, please do not include any personal information.

When your chat is over, you can save the transcript. Use caution when using a public computer or device.

The DMV chatbot and live chat services use third-party vendors to provide machine translation. Machine translation is provided for purposes of information and convenience only. The DMV is unable to guarantee the accuracy of any translation provided by the third-party vendors and is therefore not liable for any inaccurate information or changes in the formatting of the content resulting from the use of the translation service.

The content currently in English is the official and accurate source for the program information and services DMV provides. Any discrepancies or differences created in the translation are not binding and have no legal effect for compliance or enforcement purposes. If any questions arise related to the information contained in the translated content, please refer to the English version.

Google™ Translate Disclaimer

The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website uses Google™ Translate to provide automatic translation of its web pages. This translation application tool is provided for purposes of information and convenience only. Google™ Translate is a free third-party service, which is not controlled by the DMV. The DMV is unable to guarantee the accuracy of any translation provided by Google™ Translate and is therefore not liable for any inaccurate information or changes in the formatting of the pages resulting from the use of the translation application tool.

The web pages currently in English on the DMV website are the official and accurate source for the program information and services the DMV provides. Any discrepancies or differences created in the translation are not binding and have no legal effect for compliance or enforcement purposes. If any questions arise related to the information contained in the translated website, please refer to the English version.

The following pages provided on the DMV website cannot be translated using Google™ Translate:

• Publications
• Field Office Locations
• Online Applications

Please install the Google Toolbar

Google Translate is not support in your browser. To translate this page, please install the Google Toolbar (opens in new window) .

Best business credit cards of June 2024

The best business credit cards offer generous earning rates, lucrative perks and additional features to affect both your bottom line and your operational efficiency. Selecting the right business card allows you to earn rewards while focusing on the day-to-day operations of your enterprise — whether you own a formal business with multiple employees, are just getting your company off the ground or simply do freelance work as a side gig.

Business credit cards allow you to separate business and personal spending. In addition, they allow you to access more rewards and unique perks that aren’t typically offered on personal credit cards. Consider where your business spends the most and what type of rewards you want to earn when selecting your business card — or cards.

Check out our curated selection and comprehensive guide on some of the best business cards from our partners below.

• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express : Best for travel perks
• Capital One Venture X Business : Best for businesses with high-spending
• Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card : Best for bonus earning
• Capital One Spark Cash Plus : Best for unlimited business cash back
• The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express : Best for no annual fee
• American Express® Business Gold Card : Best for flexible rewards earning
• Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card : Best for freelancers
• Capital One Spark Miles for Business : Best for everyday business spending
• Ink Business Cash® Credit Card : Best for office supplies
• Alaska Airlines Visa® Business card : Best for businesses that fly Alaska Air regularly
• Bank of America® Business Advantage Unlimited Cash Rewards Mastercard® credit card : Best for BofA Preferred Rewards for Business members
• Bank of America® Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards Mastercard® credit card : Best for customizable business cash back
• Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card : Best for frequent Southwest Airlines flyers
• United℠ Business Card : Best for United Airlines flyers

Browse by card categories

Comparing the best credit cards, more details on the best credit cards, credit pointers with brian kelly, maximizing business credit cards, helpful tools, how we rate cards, what is a business credit card, how to choose the best business credit card, ask our experts, pros + cons of business credit cards, frequently asked questions.

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• Business Cash-Back
• Business Secured

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

The Business Platinum Card from American Express is a great card for frequent travelers looking to add a touch of luxury to their business trips. While the card does come with a high annual fee, you’re also getting a ton of valuable benefits in return. They include generous annual travel credits, unparalleled lounge access that includes Amex Centurion Lounges and more. Read our full review of the Business Platinum Card from American Express .

• Up to $100 statement credit for Global Entry every 4 years or $85 TSA PreCheck credit every 4.5 years (enrollment is required)
• Up to $400 annual statement credit for U.S. Dell purchases (enrollment required)
• Gold status at Marriott and Hilton hotels; access to the Fine Hotels & Resorts program and Hotel Collection (enrollment required)
• Steep $695 annual fee.
• High spend needed for welcome offer.
• Limited high bonus categories outside of travel.
• Welcome Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
• 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
• Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.
• Unlock over $1,000 in statement credits on select purchases, including tech, recruiting and wireless in the first year of membership with the Business Platinum Card®. Enrollment required. See how you can unlock over $1,000 annually in credits on select purchases with the Business Platinum Card®, here.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to the Card.
• $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $189 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use the Business Platinum Card®.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 03/2023.
• $695 Annual Fee.
• Terms Apply.

Capital One Venture X Business

The Capital One Venture X business card has all the Capital One Venture X Reward Credit Card has to offer and more. It offers an incredible welcome bonus and requires an equally impressive spend to qualify. In addition, the card comes with premium travel perks like annual travel credit and lounge access. Read our full review of the Capital One Venture X Business card .

• The Capital One Venture X Business card has a welcome offer of 150,000 miles.
• In addition, the card comes with many premium travel perks such as an annual $300 travel credit and airport lounge access, at a reasonable annual fee of $395.
• Business owners are also able to add employee cards for free.
• The card requires a high spend of $30,000 in the first three months to earn the 150,000-miles welcome bonus.
• Another drawback is that the annual travel credit can only be used on bookings made through Capital One Travel.
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, everywhere—with no limits or category restrictions
• This card has no preset spending limit, so you get purchasing power that adapts to your spending needs. The annual fee on this card is $395
• Earn 150,000 bonus miles once you spend $30,000 in the first 3 months from account opening
• Redeem your miles on flights, hotels and more. Plus, transfer your miles to any of the 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars and 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get the best prices on thousands of options
• Every year, you'll get 10,000 bonus miles after your account anniversary date. Plus, receive an annual $300 credit for bookings through Capital One Travel
• Empower your teams to make business purchases while earning rewards on their transactions, with free employee and virtual cards. Plus, automatically sync your transaction data with your accounting software and pay your vendors with ease
• Skip the lines with up to a $100 statement credit on TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry. Then enjoy unlimited complimentary access to Capital One Lounges and a network of 1,300+ lounges worldwide, including Priority Pass™ and Plaza Premium Group lounges
• This is a pay-in-full card, so your balance is due in full every month
• Elevate your stay at luxury hotels and resorts from the Premier Collection with a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits on every booking

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

The Ink Business Preferred Credit Card’s sign-up bonus is among the highest we’ve seen from Chase. Plus earn points across the four bonus categories (travel, shipping, advertising and telecommunication providers) that are most popular with businesses. The card comes with travel protections, shopping protections and will also have primary coverage when renting a car for business purposes for you and your employees. Read our full  review of the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card .

• One of the highest sign-up bonuses we’ve seen — 100,000 bonus points after $8,000 worth of spend in the first three months after card opening.
• Access to the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal for points redemption.
• Reasonable $95 annual fee.
• Bonus categories that are most relevant to business owners; primary car insurance.
• Perks including cellphone and purchase protection; extended warranty; trip cancellation/interruption insurance; trip delay reimbursement;.
• Yearly cap on bonus categories.
• No travel perks.
• Subject to Chase's 5/24 rule on card applications.
• Earn 100k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,000 cash back or $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠
• Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
• Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
• With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
• Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
• Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Travel℠
• Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.
• Member FDIC

Capital One Spark Cash Plus

The Capital One Spark Cash Plus is a business cash-back card that offers 2% on all purchases. If your business spends more than $7,500 annually and doesn’t want to keep up with multiple bonus categories, this is the perfect card for you.

• Unlimited 2% rewards rate on all purchases with no categories to keep up with
• No foreign transaction fees, making this a great card to bring on your travels abroad
• $150 annual fee may be pricey for small business owners
• Earn a one-time cash bonus of $1,200 once you spend $30,000 in the first 3 months
• Earn unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase, everywhere—with no limits or category restrictions
• Comes with no preset spending limit, so it can adapt to your needs based on your spending behavior, payment history and credit profile
• Get your $150 annual fee refunded every year you spend at least $150,000
• Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• Add employee cards for free, and earn unlimited 2% cash back from their purchases
• $150 annual fee
• Spark Cash Plus has no APR because your balance is due in full every month

The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express

The Blue Business Plus is a great card for small business owners who want to earn lucrative Membership Rewards points on everyday business spending. It was created specifically for sole proprietorships and start-ups with limited revenue who would appreciate a card with an introductory interest rate and expanded buying power. Read our full review of the Blue Business Plus Credit Card from American Express . 

• No annual fee.
• Earn Membership Rewards points; transfer points to 22 travel partners.
• 2x points capped at $50,000 a calendar year (then 1x)
• No higher bonus categories for business-related spending.
• Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership.
• 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 18.49% - 26.49%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors at account opening. APR will not exceed 29.99%
• Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on everyday business purchases such as office supplies or client dinners. 2X applies to the first $50,000 in purchases per year, 1 point per dollar thereafter.
• You’ve got the power to use your Card beyond its credit limit* with Expanded Buying Power.
• *The amount you can spend above your credit limit is not unlimited. It adjusts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to us, and other factors.
• No Annual Fee
• Terms Apply

American Express® Business Gold Card

The Amex Business Gold card is a solid choice for high-spending small businesses with the flexibility to earn 4 points per dollar in the two categories where you spend the most. The card is ideal for businesses who value simplicity above all. Read our full review of the Amex Business Gold card .

• You'll earn 4 Membership Rewards points per dollar in the top 2 spending categories each month (on the first $150,000 in combined purchases each calendar year).
• Hefty $375 annual fee.
• There may be better options for small businesses who don't spend a lot.
• Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points on the 2 categories where your business spends the most each billing cycle from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap.
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card.
• Earn up to $20 in statement credits monthly after you use the Business Gold Card for eligible U.S. purchases at FedEx, Grubhub, and Office Supply Stores. This can be an annual savings of up to $240. Enrollment required.
• Get up to a $12.95** statement credit back each month after you pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with your Business Gold Card. **Up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes on one membership fee.
• Your Card – Your Choice. Choose from Gold or Rose Gold.
• *Terms Apply
• See Rates & Fees

Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card

The Ink Business Unlimited' sign-up gives you a generous $750 cash back spending $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening plus unlimited 1.5% cash back on every business purchase. It fills in rewards gaps not covered by the Ink Business Cash® Credit Card and the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card. You can maximize this card by pairing it with cards including the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and the Ink Business Preferred. Read our full review of the Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card .

• Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
• No Annual Fee.
• Primary insurance for car rentals.
• No conversion to Chase points without holding the Chase Sapphire Reserve, Chase Sapphire Preferred or Ink Business Preferred.
• Higher spend to receive sign-up bonus.
• No travel protections.
• Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
• Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business
• Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
• Earn rewards faster with employee cards at no additional cost. Set individual spending limits for greater control.
• 0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases

Capital One Spark Miles for Business

The Capital One Spark Miles for Business offers a simple way to earn rewards on every business purchase, no matter the category. Those miles can then be easily redeemed for travel purchases or by transferring to partners. Read our full review of the Capital One Spark Miles for Business.

• You’ll earn 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, which means you don’t have to juggle different bonus categories.
• Employee cards are free and also earn 2 miles per dollar on all spending.
• It’s an affordable card that only charges $95 in annual fees, and that fee is $0 the first year.
• The sign-up bonus is only worth $925 according to TPG valuations (not provided by the issuer), which falls short against some of the top business travel cards.
• The card comes with minimal perks if you’re wanting additional benefits for when you travel.
• Earn a one-time bonus of 50,000 miles – equal to $500 in travel – once you spend $4,500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
• Earn unlimited 2X miles per dollar on every purchase, everywhere, no limits or category restrictions, and miles won't expire for the life of the account
• Unlimited 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• Transfer your miles to 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Redeem your miles instantly for any travel-related purchases, from flights and hotels to ride-sharing services
• Skip the lines with up to a $100 statement credit on TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry
• $0 intro annual fee for the first year; $95 after that
• Free employee cards which also earn unlimited 2X miles from their purchases

Ink Business Cash® Credit Card

The Chase Ink Business Cash is an excellent no annual fee card for small business owners. Cardholders can earn 5% cash back on office supplies and select utilities, as well as 2% cash back at restaurants and gas stations. Ink Business Cash cardholders also get automatic credit limit increase assessments every six months — and sometimes even sooner — to suit the needs of their growing enterprises. Read our full review of the Chase Ink Business Cash card . 

• Earn $350 after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months and an additional $400 when you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first six months from account opening.
• You’ll earn 5% at office supply stores and on common monthly bills such as internet, cable and phone services. Plus, you’ll earn 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year.
• 5% and 2% cash back earned on certain categories is capped at the first $25,000 you make in combined purchases each account anniversary year.
• Earn $350 when you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months and an additional $400 when you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first six months after account opening
• Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each account anniversary year
• Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year. Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases
• 10% Business Relationship Bonus If you have the Ink Business Cash card plus a Chase Business Checking account on your first card anniversary
• Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.

Alaska Airlines Visa® Business card

For small business owners in the Pacific Northwest, this card definitely packs a punch. You can jump start your earning with a good sign-up bonus and the famous companion fare offer, and Alaska Airlines has some good airline transfer partners if you need to go another route. Read our full review of the Alaska Airlines Visa Business card .

• Get Alaska's Famous Companion Fare each year card is renewed (after meeting spend requirement)
• Free checked bag
• 20% back on inflight food, beverage and Wi-Fi purchases when you pay with your card
• Only earns 1-2 miles per dollar for all purchases outside of Alaska Airlines purchases
• Get 50,000 bonus miles and Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) after you make $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account.
• Earn another Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) each account anniversary after spending $6,000 or more on purchases within the prior anniversary year.
• Free checked bag for any cardholder and up to 6 guests on the same reservation when you pay for your flight with your card - that's a savings of $60 per person roundtrip!
• Priority Boarding for any cardholder when paying for the flight with an Alaska Airlines Business card.
• Earn 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases, 2 miles for every $1 spent on eligible gas, EV charging station, shipping and local transit (including rideshare) purchases and 1 mile for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
• Earn a 10% rewards bonus on all miles earned from card purchases if your company has an eligible Bank of America® small business account.
• Enjoy 20% back on Alaska Airlines inflight purchases when you pay with your new card.
• Get $100 off an annual Alaska Lounge+ Membership purchased with your Alaska Airlines Business card.
• Plus, no international transaction fees and a low annual fee of $70 for the company and $25 per card.
• This offer may not be available if you leave this page or visit our website. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Bank of America® Business Advantage Unlimited Cash Rewards Mastercard® credit card

The Bank of America Business Advantage Unlimited Cash Back offers phenomenal returns on all purchases, with a 1.5% earning rate that could potentially climb to 1.875-2.62x for existing Bank of America customers who participate in the Preferred Rewards for Business program. Read our full  review of the Bank of America Business Advantage Unlimited Cash Rewards Mastercard credit card .

• Unlimited 1.5% earning rate on all eligible purchases, no matter the category.
• Bank of America Preferred Rewards for Business members could have access to even more earning potential.
• There’s a 3% foreign transaction fee, so you want to avoid using this card on your international travels.
• Redemption options are limited to cash back rewards.
• Get a $300 online statement credit after you make at least $3,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of your account opening.
• Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on purchases, or join Preferred Rewards for Business for no fee, and earn up to an unlimited 2.62% cash back on all purchases if you have a Bank of America® business checking account and qualify for Preferred Rewards for Business Platinum Honors tier.
• No annual cap and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
• Choose how to redeem your cash rewards – as a deposit into your Bank of America® checking or savings account, as a card statement credit or as a check mailed to you.
• 0% Introductory APR on purchases for your first 9 billing cycles. After the intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that's currently 18.49% to 28.49% will apply.
• Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.

Bank of America® Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards Mastercard® credit card

The Bank of America® Business Advantage Customized Cash Rewards Mastercard® credit card offers small businesses a way to mold their rewards structure to fit changing business needs. If you qualify for the Bank of America Preferred Rewards for Business program, this no-annual-fee card has the potential to easily earn you thousands of dollars in cash back each year. Read our full review of the Bank of America Business Advantage Customized Cash card.

• Flexible earning structure (3% cash back in the category of your choice and 2% on dining; up to $50,000 in combined purchases per year (then 1%)
• No annual fee or expiration on rewards.
• $300 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $3,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
• Only one category can be chosen for the 3% rewards rate each month.
• 3% foreign transaction fee.
• Earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice: gas stations & EV charging stations (default), office supply stores, travel, TV/telecom & wireless, computer services or business consulting services, 2% cash back on dining purchases and 1% cash back on all other purchases.
• You'll earn 3% cash back on purchases in the category of your choice and 2% cash back on dining purchases on the first $50,000 in combined choice category/dining purchases each calendar year, 1% thereafter.
• You can earn up to 75% more cash back on every purchase, if you have a business checking account with Bank of America and qualify for Preferred Rewards for Business Platinum Honors tier. That means you could earn up to 5.25% cash back in your selected choice category and up to 3.5% cash back on dining purchases on the first $50,000 in those combined purchases each calendar year, and up to an unlimited 1.75% cash back on all other purchases.
• Choose how to redeem your cash rewards-as a deposit into your Bank of America® checking or savings account, as a card statement credit or as a check mailed to you. Cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
• To change your choice category for future purchases, you must go to the Mobile Banking app or Business Advantage 360, our small business online banking. You can change it once each calendar month, or make no change and it stays the same.

Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card

The Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business card is ideal for business travelers and loyal Southwest flyers interested in hitting A-List status or earning a Companion Pass. Read our full review of the Southwest Rapid Rewards Performance Business Credit Card . 

• 9,000 points on each cardmember anniversary
• Global Entry/TSA PreCheck/Nexus credit (up to $100)
• 4 upgraded boardings a year
• $199 annual fee means only those loyal to Southwest will truly benefit
• Earn 80,000 points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• 9,000 bonus points after your Cardmember anniversary.
• Earn 4X pts on Southwest® purchases.
• Earn 3X points on Rapid Rewards® hotel and car rental partners.
• Earn 2X points on rideshare.
• Earn 2X points on social media and search engine advertising, internet, cable, and phone services and 1X points on all other purchases.
• 4 Upgraded Boardings per year when available.

United℠ Business Card

The United Business Card offers a plethora of travel benefits that will benefit business owners who prefer to fly United — all for a reasonable annual fee. Read our full review of the United Business Card . 

• Earns 2 miles per $1 spent in a variety of categories, including United purchases, dining (including eligible delivery services), gas, office supplies and more
• Get a $100 United travel credit after qualifying purchases each year
• If you have a personal United card, too, you can earn 5,000 bonus miles each year
• Open employee cards at no additional cost
• Redemption options are mostly limited to United and its partners
• Other United cards have higher earning rates on some purchases
• You might get more use from transferable points instead of United miles
• Earn 75,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
• $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99.
• Receive a 5,000-mile "better together" bonus each anniversary when you have both the United℠ Business Card and a personal Chase United® credit card.
• Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases, dining including eligible delivery services, at gas stations, office supply stores, and on local transit and commuting.
• Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases. Plus, employee cards at no additional cost - miles earned from their purchases accrue in your account so you can earn rewards faster.
• Enjoy a free first checked bag - a savings of up to $140 per roundtrip (terms apply), 2 United Club℠ one-time passes per year, and priority boarding privileges.
• $100 United® travel credit after 7 United flight purchases of $100 or more each anniversary year.

While its $695 annual fee (see rates and fees ) may appear jarring at first, the Business Platinum Amex offers unmatched benefits, including lounge access, plus other value-added perks that can easily offset the card’s annual fee each year. Not to mention, it has an earning structure that can add up quickly for those who travel frequently. If you want to be rewarded for travel spending with American Express Travel and want extra comfort on your trips, this card provides both. New applicants can earn 150,000 bonus points after spending $20,000 on eligible purchases in the first three months of card membership.

You don’t have to be a high spender to find value in this card. It’s well suited for those who travel frequently, will enjoy airport lounge access , will benefit from automatic elite status with Marriott and Hilton (enrollment required) and can maximize the card’s various statement credits. Plus, the card’s return on spending for travel purchases is very strong — as is the return in select business categories and purchases totaling more than $5,000. You’ll also enjoy a 35% points rebate on eligible flights booked with Amex Travel on up to 1 million points back per calendar year.

“I find that the annual perks and credits vastly outweigh the large annual fee. And that's even without using some of them. By using the benefits with Priority Pass and Amex lounges, the airline incidental credits, plus the statement credits for Clear, our cellphone plan and restocking my home printer with ink and paper from Dell, I get more value out of the card than it costs to keep it. Plus, it earns my favorite points — American Express Membership Enrollment is required for select benefits. Rewards — earning 5 points per dollar spent on flights and hotels booked with Amex Travel.” — Ryan Smith , former credit cards writer

If you have a business banking relationship with Capital One, consider the Capital One Venture X Business card. It comes with a lower annual fee (see rates and fees ) and access to Priority Pass lounges and Capital One Lounges. Additionally, it earns at least 2 Capital One miles per dollar spent on all purchases.

The Capital One Venture X Business credit card features a $395 annual fee (see rates and fees ) that more than pays for itself when you account for the considerable rewards and perks that come with the card. We love that the Venture X Business card earns an unlimited 2 miles per dollar spent on every purchase when you book via Capital One Travel. We especially love the generous earning structure that gives you 5 miles per dollar spent on flights and the whopping 10 miles per dollar spent on hotels and rental cars (when booked through Capital One Travel).

Fans of Capital One who frequently book travel via the Capital One portal and want a card the offers no foreign transaction fees.

In addition to a solid earning structure, the Venture X Business card provides you with a $300 annual credit for bookings made through Capital One Travel in addition to 10,000 bonus miles every year on your account anniversary — starting with your first anniversary.

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a great option for those who want to take advantage of a solid earning structure that provides them with easy to redeem miles. The Venture Rewards card earns an unlimited 2 miles per dollar spent on every purchase plus an unlimited 5 miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. You get similar benefits that come with the more premium Capital One Venture cards with a smaller annual fee of $95 (see rates and fees ).

With just a $95 annual fee, you’ll unlock several valuable perks on the Ink Business Preferred . These include a strong earning structure, valuable insurance benefits and access to Chase’s full range of airline and hotel transfer partners, such as World of Hyatt and United Airlines MileagePlus. Using these partners is the key to getting huge value from your Chase Ultimate Rewards points. Additionally, you can earn a welcome bonus of 100,000 bonus points after spending $15,000 on purchases within three months from account opening.

Small business owners who spend heavily on travel, shipping, advertising or internet, cable and phone services will benefit from earning 3 points per dollar spent on these purchases (on up to $150,000 of purchases per account year, then 1 point per dollar). Plus, they can take advantage of the card’s primary rental car insurance, excellent  purchase protection , extended warranty and  cellphone protection  (when you pay your monthly bill with your card) — valuable benefits if something goes wrong.

“I originally signed up for the Ink Business Preferred primarily for its sign-up bonus. But, over the last year, I’ve found myself making it my go-to card when booking travel. After all, the Ink Business Preferred earns 3 points per dollar spent on travel and provides excellent travel protections, including trip delay protection and rental car insurance.”  —  Katie Genter , senior writer

Consider the  Capital One Spark Miles for Business , which has a $0 introductory annual fee the first year, then $95 (see  rates and fees ). It earns 5 miles per dollar spent on hotel and rental car reservations made with Capital One Travel and unlimited 2 miles per dollar spent on other purchases. You’ll also enjoy reimbursement for your Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee — a benefit worth up to $100 once every four years.

We love earning 2% cash back on all purchases with the Spark Cash Plus, meaning there are no bonus categories to track or complex transfer partners to understand when it’s time to redeem your rewards. Plus, the card has two user-friendly elements: Rewards don’t expire as long as your account is open, and you can redeem your cash back in any increment, starting from just a cent. The annual fee is a reasonable $150 (see rates and fees ).

Business owners whose spending habits fluctuate will love the fact that this card has no preset spending limits. It adapts to you, which can be great when you need to spend more around busy periods or to restock inventory. If you can pay your bill in full each month (which is required on this card), you’ll love this spending flexibility.

High-spending businesses can take home a ton of cash-back without worrying about complicated travel rewards.

If you’d prefer to earn transferable rewards points or get higher earnings in your most common spending categories, the American Express® Business Gold Card might fit well in your wallet. You’ll earn 4 points per dollar (an 8% return on spending based on TPG’s valuations ) in your top two spending categories each month on up to $150,000 of these purchases annually, then 1 point per dollar.

The Blue Business Plus Card from American Express offers a solid earning rate of 2 Membership Rewards points per dollar spent on the first $50,000 in purchases each calendar year, then 1 point per dollar. If your small business spends less than $50,000 each year in purchases, the Blue Business Plus can be a good no-annual-fee option (see rates and fees ) that provides an effective 4% return on spending, based on TPG’s valuations of Amex points. For those with spending that falls outside other cards’ bonus categories, this is an excellent option.

Freelancers, those with a side hustle, newcomers to points and miles and those with varying expenses will love this card and the fact that it doesn’t require tracking any bonus categories to maximize earnings . Instead, its flat earning rate provides value on all purchases without an annual fee required to unlock its full potential.

“ There are very few no-annual-fee cards that award fully transferable points, but the Amex Blue Business Plus is one of them. Not only that, but you'll earn 2 Membership Rewards points for every dollar you spend (on up to $50,000 each year). That's a fantastic return of 4% back based on TPG's valuations, making this a great option for your small-business needs.” — Nick Ewen , director of content

If you want a card without an annual fee that doesn’t have the earning limits of the Blue Business Plus, look at the Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card . You’ll earn 1.5% back on all purchases (and can convert these into transferable Chase Ultimate Rewards points if you have other eligible Chase credit cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card). Doing so would yield a 3% return on all spending based on TPG’s valuations.

There are few perks more rewarding than earning a large number of points automatically — but that’s just the attraction of the Amex Business Gold. You’ll earn 4  Membership Rewards points per dollar in your top two spending categories monthly (on up to $150,000 of these purchases annually, then 1 point per dollar). Categories include popular business expenses like U.S. restaurants, U.S. advertising in select media and U.S. computer software, to name a few. Plus, you can add up to 99 employee cards, paying just a $95 annual fee for the first five cards, and then a $95 annual fee for each card after (see rates and fees ). The card currently has a welcome bonus of 70,000 bonus points after spending $10,000 on purchases in the first three months of card membership.

Business owners who spend in the card’s bonus categories will love its up-to-8% return (based on TPG’s valuations ). Bonus categories where you can earn up to 4 points per dollar include transit purchases; U.S. purchases for online, TV and radio advertising; monthly wireless phone service charges made directly from U.S. service providers; U.S. purchases at gas stations; U.S. purchases at restaurants; and U.S. purchases from electronic goods retailers and cloud system providers. You’ll also enjoy perks like Amex Offers . 

“ No other card provides the earning potential and adaptability this card has. Sure, its annual fee isn’t cheap, but I love the fact that I don’t need to think about what purchases I put on this card. It will automatically adapt and provide 4 points per dollar in my top two spending categories monthly (up to $150,000 of these purchases yearly).” — Ryan Smith , former credit cards writer

If you’re looking for a lower annual fee or a card that earns bonus points on more purchase categories (not just your top two per month), consider the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card . You’ll earn 3 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent on travel, shipping, select advertising purchases and internet, cable and phone services (on up to $150,000 in annual purchases, then 1 point per dollar). Its annual fee is just $95.

If you’re looking for ease of earning on all your purchases — or a card that earns well on purchases that don’t fall into bonus categories with other credit cards — the Ink Unlimited card is a clear winner. Freelancers and independent contractors love the ability to earn 1.5% back on all purchases, pay no annual fee and even combine the points they earn with Chase Ultimate Rewards from other eligible Chase credit cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card. Plus, there are no earning limits on this card.

There are two types of business owners who will benefit from this card. The first is the person looking for a card with a lucrative earning structure but no annual fee. The second is someone who needs a card for those “other” expenses that fall outside the bonus categories offered by other rewards cards in their wallet. This is an ideal card for everyday business expenses.

“I have the Chase Ink Business trilogy — the Ink Business Cash Credit Card, Ink Business Preferred Credit Card and Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card. The first two cards maximize my points-earning on things like office supply, internet and phone purchases, while the Ink Unlimited covers everything else with a flat 1.5% earn rate. The fact that I have the Ink Preferred means I can convert my cash back from the Ink Unlimited into more valuable Chase Ultimate Rewards points. This no-annual-fee card will stay in my wallet for years to come.” — Matt Moffitt , senior credit cards editor

If you’re looking for a card that rewards you based on your banking relationship, the Bank of America® Business Advantage Unlimited Cash Rewards Mastercard® credit card earns 1.5% back on all purchases. Those with banking and investment accounts at Bank of America can bump their earning rate up to 2.625% on all purchases thanks to Bank of America Preferred Rewards for Business .

The Capital One Spark Miles for Business card has an intro offer of 50,000 miles after spending $4,500 in the first three months from account opening. Based on TPG’s valuations , this bonus is worth $925. You can transfer Capital One miles to 15+ airline and hotel transfer partners, including Air Canada Aeroplan and Wyndham Rewards, and you’ll earn at least 2 miles per dollar spent on all purchases. Plus, the card has an introductory annual fee of $0 the first year, then $95 (see rates and fees ).

Business owners who want to earn a transferable currency will love Capital One miles, which have grown in value and redemption options over the past few years. You’ll also enjoy a  Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit (up to $100) and the flexibility to use your miles to cover travel expenses at a fixed value of 1 cent apiece. If you’re looking for a card that earns valuable miles without needing to track bonus categories, this is it.

You’ll earn transferable points on every purchase without worrying about bonus categories, all for a low annual fee.

The Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card has the same $95 annual fee but earns Chase Ultimate Rewards points instead of Capital One miles. You’ll earn 3 points per dollar spent on travel, shipping, select advertising purchases and internet, cable and phone services (on up to $150,000 in annual purchases, then 1 point per dollar); you’ll earn 1 point per dollar on other purchases.

No card can match the Ink Business Cash for earning on office supplies. You’ll love accruing 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each account anniversary year, plus 2% back on the first $25,000 in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year. New applicants can earn up to $750 back: $350 when you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months and an additional $400 after spending $6,000 on purchases within six months of account opening. However, you can turn your cash back into Chase Ultimate Rewards points if you have other eligible Chase credit cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card.

This is an ideal card for business owners whose primary expenses are at office supply stores, telecommunications providers, gas stations or restaurants thanks to those bonus categories. You can earn handsomely in these categories without paying an annual fee to keep the card in your wallet.

“I love this card for awarding 5% back on my telecommunication services and office supply purchases, all with no annual fee. But my favorite perk is taking those cash-back rewards and combining them with my earnings from the Chase Sapphire Reserve. This means I’m effectively earning 5 fully-transferable Ultimate Rewards points for every dollar I spend in these categories — which I then can transfer to valuable partners like World of Hyatt and Air Canada Aeroplan.” — Nick Ewen , director of content

If your expenses are spread across many categories, you may prefer a card that earns a flat rate on all purchases. Consider The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express , which earns 2  American Express Membership Rewards points per dollar spent on all purchases (on up to $50,000 of purchases annually, then 1 point per dollar) and has no annual fee (see rates and fees ).

The Alaska Airlines Visa Business card offers great airline-specific perks like priority boarding, a $100 annual Alaska Lounge+ credit, elevated earnings on Alaska Airlines flight purchases and more. In addition, the card is currently offering 50,000 bonus miles plus Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) when new cardholders make purchases totaling $3,000 or more within the first 90 days of opening their account.

Businesses who frequently fly Alaska Airlines could benefit from the packed airline-specific perks on this card. Flyers will enjoy priority boarding, a free checked bag and earn 3 points per dollar spent on Alaska Airlines flights.

"I opened the Alaska Airlines Visa Business card when it was offering an elevated welcome bonus, but I keep it to earn 2 miles per dollar on gas and for the annual Companion Fare I get after spending $6,000 in a year. And because I have a Bank of America checking account, I get a 10% bonus on all the miles I earn using the card." — Nick Ewen , director of content

If your business frequently travels but is not an Alaska Airlines loyalist, consider the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card . The Ink Business Preferred earns 3 points per dollar on the first $150,000 spent on travel and other business categories each year. The card is also currently offering an incredible 100,000-point sign-up bonus after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. The card does not offer many airline-specific perks but allows you greater flexibility when it comes to bonus earning and redemption options.

This card has few travel perks but no annual fee, so it can be worthwhile for business owners looking to earn cash back easily. The Bank of America Business Advantage Unlimited Cash offers a terrific 1.5% earning rate on all purchases, but Bank of America Preferred Rewards for Business customers can earn even higher rates — from 1.875% to 2.625%, depending on their tier within the program.

Business owners who can qualify for Preferred Rewards status should consider this card thanks to its accelerated earning rates that are based on your banking and investment accounts. Additionally, this card is a solid option for business owners looking for a quality cash-back rate on a card without an annual fee and without annual earning limits.

For no annual fee, earning up to 2.625% back on your business expenses is a solid return.

Consider the Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card if you don’t have qualifying accounts with Bank of America or prefer to earn points in the Chase Ultimate Rewards ecosystem. The Ink Unlimited earns 1.5% back on all purchases, but you can redeem these as transferable Ultimate Rewards points if you have other eligible Chase credit cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card.

With the Bank of America Business Advantage Customized Cash, you can maximize your ever-changing business purchases with up to 3% cash back. You can choose your top spending category monthly for 3% earnings, plus receive 2% on dining purchases (for the first $50,000 spent in combined category and dining purchases per year, then 1% back). If you have qualifying accounts for the Bank of America Preferred Rewards for Business program , you could boost your earning rate to 5.25% back in your chosen category — impressive earnings for a card with no annual fee.

Two types of business owners should consider this card. First, it works well for those who can maximize the 3% categories — which include gas and EV charging stations, office supply stores, travel, TV/telecom and wireless, computer services and business consulting services — and are looking for a card without an annual fee. Second, those who can qualify for Preferred Rewards tiers will love the accelerated earnings rates that far outpace earnings on other cards without annual fees.

Picking your top spending category each month allows you to maximize rewards, even when your purchases vary across the year.

Those who need different bonus categories or who won’t qualify for Preferred Rewards should consider the Ink Business Cash® Credit Card . It has no annual fee and earns 5% back on the first $25,000 of purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each cardmember year. You’ll also earn 2% back on the first $25,000 of combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each cardmember year and 1% back on other purchases.

The Southwest Performance Business credit card is ideal for Southwest fans, as it’s packed with perks that will make business trips on the airline more comfortable than ever, especially for those who don’t yet have A-List or A-List Preferred status. You’ll earn extra points in popular business categories, enjoy four priority boarding positions each year, receive up to 365 inflight Wi-Fi credits annually and have the ability to accelerate your path to the Southwest Airlines Companion Pass .

Business owners who can both take advantage of those day-of-travel perks and maximize this card’s earning structure. It accrues 4 points per dollar spent on Southwest purchases; 3 points per dollar spent on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partner purchases; 2 points per dollar spent on social media and search engine advertising, internet, cable, phone services, local transit and commuting; and 1 point per dollar spent on other eligible purchases.

“It made sense for me to get this as my first Southwest card given that I live in Austin, where almost 40% of flights are operated by Southwest. I get the most value out of this card by taking advantage of the upgraded boardings, inflight Wi-Fi credits and 9,000 anniversary bonus points, which help offset the significant annual fee.” — Matt Moffitt , senior credit cards editor

If you only fly Southwest a handful of times per year or want a lower annual fee, you should consider the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card instead. You'll enjoy a 25% discount on inflight drinks and Wi-Fi purchases, have the chance to spend your way toward A-List status, get a shortcut toward the Companion Pass and receive two EarlyBird check-ins each year.

The United Business Card is an affordable option for business travelers who tend to fly with United and its partners. This is a great card to pair with your personal United credit card, too, because it will not only help you keep personal and business expenses separate, but you’ll also receive 5,000 bonus miles each year on your United Business Card account anniversary for carrying both cards. Plus, you can spend your way toward United elite status and gain access to expanded award availability when it comes time to redeem those MileagePlus miles.

Those who want elite-like benefits with United — such as priority boarding and free checked bags — but aren’t willing to shell out for premium cards with lounge access will love this card. Its earning rates, perks and moderate annual fee ($0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99) are a powerful combination for those who fly United a few times a year.

“As a frequent United traveler, I actually have a couple of United credit cards that unlock different perks and benefits. While I initially got the United Business Card for the bonus and to keep business expenses separate, I keep it for the discount on inflight purchases, the 5,000 annual mile bonus for having both a business and personal United card and the $100 statement credit for charging at least seven annual United flights to the card.” — Summer Hull , director of content

If you’re looking for points you can use with United and in other ways, see if the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card is a better fit for your wallet. For a $95 annual fee, this card earns Chase Ultimate Rewards points that you can transfer to more than a dozen airline and hotel partners, including United, though you do miss out on the airline-specific perks.

Use it as often as possible

The more you use your card, the more points and rewards you’ll earn. It can be strange to switch up spending habits but try to switch to using your business credit card as your go-to option rather than cash, debit, bank transfers, or other payment methods.

Use it for all business expenses and pay it off every month

You can maximize your business credit cards by charging all business purchases to your credit card. This is a great way to keep your business expenses separate from personal expenses as well as maximize the return on your spending. Most credit cards geared toward small businesses offer at least 1% cash back or 1 point per dollar spent. The right credit card for your business will likely offer even higher returns. By putting all of your expenses on a business credit card, you will earn more rewards! 

But this does not mean you should spend money you wouldn’t have otherwise spent. Charging everything on your business credit card is a means to earn rewards on spending that would’ve occurred anyways. 

Finally, be sure to pay off your balance in full every month to avoid interest and fees that could cancel out any rewards you earn.

Consider multiple cards for different expenses

If you’re a small business, it is likely that your spending is not concentrated on one category. Luckily, many business cards offer various bonus categories. In order to receive the most return on your spending, consider having multiple cards that earn an elevated return on your business’s various main spending categories. Then, cover your bases with a solid flat-rate card for every purchase you make that doesn’t fall into an eligible category.

However, if that’s too much for you to manage, aim for that sweet spot of a card with a lucrative rewards structure and affordable annual fee.

What TPG readers have to say about their favorite business credit cards

We surveyed our readers to see which business credit cards they favored the most. With several great options to choose from, these cards are the standouts TPG readers love.

Note: Responses have not been edited.

“We use our Business Gold card for as many purchases as possible.” — MaryAnn D via Facebook

“ Easy 2x on everything.*” — Tarik M via X

*2 points per dollar up to $50,000 annually, then 1 point per dollar thereafter.

“Unlimited 2x back on everything , no gimmicks.” — Jeremy C via Facebook

• Awards vs cash calculator Compare the cost in points or miles to cash.
• CardMatch™ Get prequalified offers in less than 60 seconds.

Many travelers are familiar with personal credit cards, but business credit cards are an entirely different segment of the market. These products are generally geared toward those who run small businesses , and as such, they frequently include perks that are valuable to a business owner — including features like no preset spending limit, bonus rewards on shipping or technology purchases, and even statement credits toward software purchases.

Note that you don’t necessarily need a formal business to apply (and get approved) for a business credit card. Many freelancers or sole proprietors can use a business card to separate business-related expenses from their personal ones.

Types of business credit cards

Having a business credit card is important for both small businesses and larger corporations. The primary difference between a small business card and a corporate business card is who is liable for the debt and fees.

Small Business

Small businesses hold the primary cardholder liable for debts and fees and the primary cardholder earns the rewards for small business cards.

Corporate cards hold the company liable for debts and fees and the company generally keeps the rewards for corporate cards.

How to apply for a business credit card

If you own a small business or just do freelance gigs , you could be eligible for a business credit card. You don’t necessarily need a tax ID or an Employer Identification Number (EIN) to qualify for a business credit card ; if you’re a sole proprietor with a small business or side gig, you can usually enter your Social Security number (SSN) instead.

How do Business cards work?

When you’re approved for a business credit card, your company is essentially taking out a loan with the issuing bank. You can then use the card to make purchases, but you need to pay off the loan according to the terms. And each time you swipe it, you’re earning rewards that can be used in a variety of ways — including reinvesting them right back into your business.

Information you’ll need to provide

When filling out an application form for a business credit card, there are some extra pieces of information required in addition to what you might provide for a personal credit card application.

This is likely to include:

The name of your business

When you start your application, you might not be sure what name to put on a business card application . If you’re the sole owner of your small business, you might not even have a designated name for it. If this is the case, don’t worry, you’re allowed to use your own name instead.

Contact information

Similarly, if you don’t have a separate business contact number and mailing address, you can also use your own here too.

A Taxpayer Identification Number

There are two numbers you could use for this, depending on how your business is set up. If you’re the sole business owner, you can use your Social Security number. Or, in the instance that you employ staff or have a more formal business structure, then you should use your business’s Employer Identification Number . You can easily get an EIN on the IRS website .

Your industry

It’s up to you how you want to describe your business; you can either use more rigid categories like travel, food and drink, or retail, or you can describe the exact service you provide should your business type not fall into those categories.

How long you’ve been in business

This one’s pretty self-explanatory.

Revenue and expenses

This is the part where you enter how much money your business makes and how much your outgoings were to run your business.

What you do not need

A specific business type.

Whether you have a structured company, LLC or partnership, or you operate without a formal or legal business structure, you’re still perfectly eligible to apply.

Business credit history

In most cases, your small business credit card would be guaranteed by you personally and not the business itself. This means that you won’t be required to include an existing credit history for your business.

While business credit history is not a requirement for approval, building your business credit could provide better access to a host of benefits, including lower interest rates and cheaper business insurance premiums. 

Check out the following guides to applying for small-business cards for issuer-specific strategies:

• How to fill out an Amex business card application
• How to complete a Chase business credit card application
• How to complete a Capital One business credit card application

Related: 5 ways you might be eligible for a business credit card without realizing it

• 1 Sign-up bonus Find a card that your business can readily meet the minimum spend for its sign-up bonus. A welcome bonus plays a large part in a card’s value as it typically offers more points than can be earned through general business spending.
• 2 Annual fee If your card features an annual fee, it is important to consider if the card’s perks and benefits outweigh the card’s annual fee.
• 3 Bonus categories Choose a business card that features elevated earning rates on your regular business spending.

What's your favorite business credit card — and why?

• Using business credit cards responsibly can help you build your business credit score.
• Business credit cards can earn cash back, points or miles on every dollar you spend.
• Business credit cards provide purchase, theft and fraud protection.
• Business credit cards provide business-friendly perks like travel insurance, complimentary hotel stays and bonus points on expenses like shipping or software.
• Opening a business credit card can separate personal and business expenses.
• Credit cards can encourage overspending.
• Carrying a balance and using your card irresponsibly can damage your business credit score.
• The cost of borrowing on business credit cards is higher than traditional loans.
• You’re still personally responsible for business credit card debt.
• Having too many card applications can negatively affect your credit score.

Business and personal credit cards have similar functionalities. Many card issuers allow for personal referrals for business cards . In both cases, you’re extended a line of credit to make purchases, and you agree to pay for those purchases over time based on the cardholder agreement.

However, business credit cards are geared toward small businesses, and depending on the issuer (or specific card product), you may need to produce formal documentation in order to be approved. In addition, business cards typically include bonus categories or benefits that may hold less appeal to the general consumer. This can include bonus rewards on shipping purchases, statement credits for business-related service providers or embedded technology to help with accounting.

Additionally, many personal credit cards pair well with business credit cards. Complementary personal/business card combinations can help you diversify your points earning and bonus categories and can play a part in a responsible spending strategy. 

There’s no single card that would be considered the “best” for every, single small business . Instead, it’s important to consider the type of rewards and selection of benefits that make the most sense for your company. If your company travels internationally often, you would want a business credit card with no foreign transaction fee . If you’re not interested in travel rewards, then a cash-back business card could make the most sense. If your small business spends a bunch of money on client dinners, then a business card with a dining bonus could be the best fit.

While it’s not technically “illegal” to use a business card for personal use , it’s generally against the terms and conditions of most business credit cards. In addition, combining personal and business purchases on a credit card can make it harder to separate legitimate, business-related transactions when tax season rolls around. Finally, business credit cards tend to have fewer protections for cardholders, so using one for personal reasons could backfire.

Sometimes. It all depends on the given issuer , since some will consistently report business card account information to both consumer and commercial credit bureaus, while others won’t. Instead of worrying about this question, though, focus your energy on paying your balance in full and on time each month. This will ensure that any business cards reported to a credit bureau will only impact your score in a positive way.

Plus, your business credit card could provide multiple benefits to your personal score. This could be done by managing your business credit card account responsibly, which demonstrates you’re a reliable borrower, or lowering your personal credit utilization, for instance. 

You certainly can , though each issuer reserves the right to review your application and determine whether you qualify for a business line of credit. In many instances, you can use your Social Security number as a sole proprietor and get approved for a card. Even if you have no business credit history, an issuer will look at your personal credit score and history to determine your eligibility.

It is possible to refer someone to a business card even if you only have personal cards. Every issuer has their own policy regarding rewarding referrals so you will have to check with your specific card issuer to see if you are eligible for a referral bonus. Check out our in-depth guide on earning referral bonuses on both personal and business credit cards .

The best small business credit card will depend on your small business. See what perks and benefits your business is looking for and if the card you're looking at is the best fit for your business spending. You can use our guide above to help you see which card is the best for your business.

There is no limit to the amount of business cards you can have. It is important to know your business and what cards align most with your spending.

While it’s easy and free to check your personal credit score, the process with a business credit report requires jumping through a few more hoops. You can check your business credit score through free services that send alerts when your score or report changes. However, you often have to pay additional fees to view unlimited full reports. 

Tracking your business credit score may be a bit harder, but it’s not any less important than your personal credit report

The wording of these two may be similar, but the features of a business credit card and a business line of credit are very different. 

A business credit card is like a personal credit card because it allows borrowers to spend with a predetermined credit limit at an annual percentage rate (APR). Most business cards are unsecured, and borrowers can be approved for one without proof of assets or collateral. 

A business line of credit is a revolving business loan with a preset credit limit. To be approved for a business LOC, your business’s financial picture and creditworthiness are considered. Sometimes, approval is based on collateral. LOCs are meant to cover day-to-day operative expenses that may exceed a credit limit on a credit card, such as payroll.

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Marketing vs. reality—What we can learn from the Ashley Madison hack

The new Netflix documentary “Ashley Madison: Sex, Lies & Scandal” took us behind the scenes of one of the most infamous data breaches in history.

Like a thriller novel come to life, the Ashley Madison hack story had everything: a controversial product, high stakes, and mysterious hackers who were never caught.    

Back in 2015, more than 30 million users of the dating site suddenly found out their most well-kept secrets were no longer safe. Imagine the surprise of the users waking up to discover their private data splashed across the web for anyone to see. After all, the brand promised utmost confidentiality and data security.  Why did this happen?  

“Life is short. Have an affair.” Their famous tagline promised a safe space for married people to have affairs. Instead, reports indicate that they operated more like an unsecure centralized collection of personal information.    

When hackers breached Ashley Madison's databases, it wasn't just names and email addresses that were exposed—payment details, physical descriptions, and even those “secret” fantasies were out in the open. The Netflix documentary gave us a peek at a few of the many lives that were affected.  

The power of a strong brand  

Ashley Madison sold an image: a titillating, clandestine adventure protected by a veil of secrecy. The brand was built on the promise of discretion and confidentiality. As the former employees of the company explained in the docuseries, the site was marketed as a way to enjoy the thrill of a private affair—without their partner knowing about it.   

For many users, this promise was worth the cost of admission. The site still has a pay-to-play charging structure, where male users buy credits to be able to message their matches. (Yes, the site is alive and thriving .)  

What lies behind the marketing  

So, how did Ashley Madison manage to convince millions of people their secrets were safe? The short answer is a strong, exciting brand. And it did help that they touted robust security and ironclad confidentiality.   

However, things were not as good as they seemed. The warning signs were there—vague security assurances, hidden fees for data deletion , and a business model that prioritized profits over privacy.  

The red flags were justified. For example, they had many odd-looking safety badges on the site claiming they were trusted and secure—they were all fake. Another red flag was charging their users extra to delete their own data, which we believe to be a sketchy practice in and on itself. Making matters worse, it turned out that the service was nonexistent.  

It’s important to be wary of any product or service that makes a lot of promises without detailing how they deliver it. Real security starts with transparency and a proven track record, not just glossy ads.  

What to look for when signing up to a dating service  

When diving into the world of online dating, a bit of caution goes a long way. Here are some tips to help you stay safe and secure:  

• Check the site’s privacy policy. Ensure the service has a clear, comprehensive privacy policy that explains how your data will be used and protected. 
• Look for HTTPS. Always use sites with HTTPS in their web address. This means the site has at least a basic level of encryption. 
• Use two-factor authentication. Opt for services that offer two-factor authentication (2FA). This adds an extra layer of security. 
• Use unique passwords. Never reuse passwords. Use a unique, strong password for each dating site and consider using a password manager. 
• Read reviews. Look up reviews and news about the site. If there have been security issues in the past, you'll likely find warnings from other users. 
• Limit personal information. Be cautious about the amount of personal information you share. Only provide what's necessary and avoid linking to other social media accounts. Be careful with what you share on the site as in real-life.  
• Keep an eye out for scammers. Dating scams have become fairly common . Don’t ignore any red flags, such as asking for money or avoiding video calls.  

Dating smart  

Dating sometimes makes us feel a bit vulnerable at first—but that should just be limited to the getting-to-know-the–person part, not the online-safety part. Dating should be fun, exciting, and most importantly, safe .   

The Ashley Madison hack was a wake-up call for everyone about the importance of digital security. By staying informed and vigilant, you can enjoy the online dating scene without compromising your privacy. Remember, your secrets deserve to stay secret, and with the right precautions, they can.  

Ashley Madison is a trademark of Ruby Life, Inc. Netflix is a trademark of Netflix, Inc.  

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