Hello peeps, it’s been a while.
Recently I had an amazing opportunity to attend a national conference for work in Minneapolis, Minnesota! This was my first big girl business trip out of the lone star state, AND my second time flying!! (You’re shocked, I know. You would think a young 22 year old would have been on more flights, but surprise, not me!)
So with it only being my second flight ever I was a little nervous about getting through the airport and to the gate by myself, but I survived, and here are some tips on how you can survive your first big girl business trip too!
TIP 1: PACKING LIST
There is never such a thing as being over prepared!! You can say I am the “mom” friend of the group because my purse is prepared with everything. Got a blister, I got Band-Aids, get a headache, I have all the meds (even Benadryl for a surprise allergic reaction), forgot to put on deodorant, yep I got a travel sized with me at all times too lol. So you can see, I like to have it all, but in order to remember to pack it all, I use an amazing packing list! The packing list I use comes in a pad form so you can write and check things off for every trip you have. The Pad is by Knock Knock, and is called “PACK THIS!”. They have tons of fun but useful, different types of pads that you can buy online, or at most paper/stationary stores. Their Grocery store list notepad called “ALL OUT OF” is a must need. They list all the things you forget to pack and end up actually needing it, so definitely check them out!
TIP 2: APPROPRIATE WARDROBE
Depending on the location, time of year, and occasion it is important to pack the right attire. I needed to be in business professional, and in winter attire. Since I am not used to the cold this time of year from living in Texas I had to actually dig out my winter clothes two months early haha. Basically, always look at the weather before your trip, and most importantly dress in layers.
TIP 3: GIRL BOSS THINGS
When going on a business trip you need to be prepared for all things business. Make sure you have business cards to hand out when networking, a notepad, and pen ready for notes, and have that elevator speech memorized for professional introductions.
TIP 4: SMILE AND HAVE FUN
Your smile is the most important feature, don’t forget to pack it along with good vibes haha. Business trips are not all business. You can have fun on them too. On your downtime, explore the city and visit those tourist spots. The Mall of America and the two-story Target were defiantly things on my list I had to visit, and boy am I glad I did! The convention I attended also had an 80’s themed party on the last night, and it was the perfect ending to a busy week!
BONUS PROTIP:
Pack a small blanket and eye mask to catch some extra ZZZ’s on your flights. My favorite eye mask is by Tempurpedic and it’s amazing.
Hopefully, some of these tips will help you conquer your big girl business trip! Until next time!
Love always,
Alex
