Finding calm amid frequent travel – top tips for managing stress

Travelling for work can be both exhilarating and exhausting. Between client meetings, navigating airports, and adjusting to different time zones, stress can quickly build up. For business travellers, knowing how to manage this stress is crucial 

As we acknowledge National Stress Awareness Day, we explore five top tips that help alleviate stress while travelling for work. Whether you’re a frequent business traveller, or are responsible for the wellbeing of your staff when they’re away on business, these insights will help ensure a more enjoyable work trip.  

Understanding the triggers of business travel stress 

Before we dive into stress management techniques, it's essential to identify common triggers. For many business travellers, these include: 

• Tight schedules: Balancing back-to-back meetings with travel itineraries is a major source of stress. 

• Unfamiliar environments: Navigating new cities or countries can feel daunting, especially with language barriers and cultural differences. 

• Travel delays: Flight cancellations and delays are unpredictable disruptions that can throw plans off course and increase anxiety. 

Recognising these triggers allows business travellers to implement preventative measures and respond effectively when they arise. 

Tip 1 – Streamline your travel planning 

Efficient planning is an essential component of stress management for business travellers. Create a detailed itinerary that outlines your entire trip, including flights, accommodations, meetings, and leisure activities. 

Consider using a travel management company like Travel Counsellors for Business. We offer 24/7 support and a truly bespoke service. This can significantly reduce the burden of planning, providing peace of mind, allowing you to focus on the purpose of your trip. 

Having a dedicated point of contact ensures that any last-minute changes or requests are handled seamlessly. With the right planning tools, your business travel plans become less about logistics and more about achieving your objectives.  

Tip 2 – Maintain a balanced schedule 

One of the biggest stressors during business travel is juggling a packed schedule. While it may be tempting to maximise your time by booking consecutive meetings, it's vital to allow for breaks to recharge. 

Plan your days so there's room for rest and relaxation. Taking short breaks between meetings can help reduce stress and boost productivity.  

For corporate travel bookers and HR departments, encourage your team to maintain a balanced schedule. By factoring in downtime, you support their mental wellbeing and enhance their performance. 

Tip 3 – Pack with purpose 

Packing can be a stressful task in itself, but it doesn't have to be. Organise your suitcase with a purpose, ensuring you've everything you need without overpacking. 

Create a packing checklist tailored to your trip's objectives. Include essentials like business attire, tech gadgets, and travel documents, along with items for relaxation, such as a good book or your favourite pamper products. 

Packing efficiently not only saves time but also ensures you have the necessary tools to tackle any business trip challenges.  

Tip 4 – Prioritise your physical and mental health 

Travelling often disrupts daily routines, making it challenging to maintain healthy habits. However, prioritising health is crucial for stress management during business trips. 

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and opt for nutritious meals whenever possible. While it may be tempting to indulge in airport snacks or room service, maintaining a balanced diet helps keep energy levels stable. 

Incorporate exercise into your travel routine. Many hotels offer fitness centres or nearby parks for a quick workout. Physical activity releases endorphins, which naturally reduce stress and boost mood. 

Ensuring adequate sleep is also vital. Establish a bedtime routine to promote restful sleep, such as taking a bath and avoid mindless scrolling on social media. Sleep helps your body recover from the demands of travel, enhancing focus and reducing stress. 

Tip 5 – Stay connected with loved ones 

Connecting with family and friends can provide emotional support and alleviate travel stress. Use technology to your advantage by scheduling regular video calls or sending updates during your trip. 

For business professionals, maintaining personal connections serves as a reminder of life beyond work. Sharing experiences with loved ones can provide comfort and perspective, reinforcing the importance of a work-life balance. 

Organisations too play a pivotal role in supporting their employees' wellbeing by fostering a supportive community and leveraging technology solutions. Together, these efforts create a positive and thriving business travel environment. 

As business travel continues to evolve, so will stress management strategies. Organisations must remain adaptable and forward-thinking, ensuring their employees have the tools and resources needed to thrive. 

Here at Travel Counsellors for Business, we can help you implement a more care-led business travel strategy. Get in touch to discuss how we could help to drive employee loyalty to your travel management programme.