Travelling can be an enriching experience and considerably broaden one’s horizons. For entrepreneurs, frequent travel is often a necessity. Business travellers need to acquire certain handy skills to make travel smoother and more efficient. With some foresight, careful planning and innovative use of technology, avid business travellers can ensure that they optimise the travel experience. Here are some tips to help you avoid common travel pitfalls:

1. Positive attitude
   Having a positive attitude is the first step to a tension-free travel experience. When you are pleasant to competent airport, security and flight staff, you have a better chance at getting upgrades, itinerary modifications and top-notch service.
   
   
   
2. Travel light
   Travel can become stressful when you’re anxious about your luggage getting lost or being delayed for a meeting. If you travel with only a carry-on, you can check-in online and proceed straight to security at the airport.
   
   
   
3. Your phone camera can be very handy
   Before departing on your trip, you can take pictures of important documents such as passports, eyeglass prescriptions, and credit card numbers, in the event that you lose these.When visiting a new city, it’s a good idea to take pictures of street signs or other landmarks close to your hotel, so that you can easily trace your way back
   
   
   
4. Leverage virtual collaboration
   Virtual collaboration tools make it easier for you to share files and documents with your colleagues without having to carry cumbersome hard copies. eBriefcase on GlobalLinker is the smart and safe way to upload, share and access files, especially when you are travelling.
   
   
   
5. Use your time on the plane wisely
   Use your flight-time to catch up on reading journals, e-books, reports or listening to podcasts. Do not rely on the plan wi-fi because often connectivity is intermittent. If you are sleep deprived or tired, it is best to rest on the flight to ensure that you are refreshed for your meeting on landing.
   
   
   
6. Make smart food choices
   Carrying a nutritional bar in your handbag is a good idea. It’s not wise to remain without food for long spells while you are travelling. Keep yourself well hydrated, eat light food and refrain from consuming alcohol on the flight. Smart food choices will ensure that you feel energised and nourished.
   
   
   

Ensure you follow these smart tips and you will relish business travel even more. You must embrace the travelling experience and make it enjoyable. In the words of St Augustine, “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.”