Getting work done while traveling isn’t easy, for many reasons: unreliable internet connection, limited resources, unfamiliar neighborhood, varying schedules, the list goes on.
If your job requires you to frequently travel or if your lifestyle needs you to be always moving and working in different locations, you need to have a portable office setup that will allow you to stay productive while traveling.
Here are 7 ways to get work done anywhere:
1. Plan ahead
Pencil in your calendar for all your time-related activities such as catching a flight, attending a business meeting or an event, as well as handy information like hotel addresses, phone numbers, flight numbers, and so on.
Once you have a clear idea of your travel itinerary, check for gaps in your schedule and decide what you want to do with your free time. Collect all the information you need to follow through with your plans.
Make sure to get all your electronic devices charged before you leave your hotel for the day and map out the WiFi spots around your area.
2. Sync your data
Have important data synced across all your devices for ease of access. But also don’t forget to keep an offline copy or a printed copy for when you can’t find a reliable internet connection.
3. Control your environment
Traveling exposes you to new and unfamiliar environments where things can easily get difficult to control. Have your headphones and music with you all the time to help you stay focused in a busy train station or a crowded park.
4. Bring a notebook
Always keep a notebook in your travel pack. Being productive doesn’t just mean ticking items off your to-do list. There are times you need to stop and reflect – a notebook will do just the job. Write down your ideas, draw them out, make diagrams and flowcharts. Many great inventions began with just a scribble on a notebook.
5. Allot time for yourself
Work trips can be stressful. Make it a point to always find time to take in your surroundings and relax. Take a night walk to your hotel instead of a cab so you can do some sightseeing. A little distraction now will help you focus later.
6. Watch what you eat
Eat light and healthy meals throughout the day to help you stay alert and avoid sleepiness from savory and hearty dishes.
7. Prepare backup plans
Traveling proverbially brings out the worst in people when flights get cancelled, a reservation wasn’t booked, or a missed train ride. Prepare backup plans and be ready for anything. Sometimes our unplanned free time can give rise to more opportunites for adventure and productivity.
Always be prepared to reorganize tasks, switch schedules around, redefine priorities, and regain control when the unexpected catches you by surprise.
These travel tips were adapted from this article by FacileThings. (https://facilethings.com/blog/en/productive-while-traveling)
How do you stay productive while traveling? Let us know in the comments below!