Travel Smarter, Not Harder: Thriving While Balancing a Busy Travel Schedule

When you go from traveling 1 to 3 times a year to 1 to 3 times a month, you pick up a few things. This was the case for me last year. It was my most jam-packed travel year to date (both for business and leisure) and a journey of learning what works and doesn’t for me to stay energized and present. 

Here are my top travel takeaways:

Recharge on the plane (where and when possible): Rest, listen to a podcast or music, journal, write a to-do list. Don’t stress about using every minute of plane time for work (pending length of flight and workload of course); instead, find a few quiet moments to reflect and save your energy for the trip ahead.

Enough sleep is essential: If you get 7-9 hours at home, do your best to keep that routine while traveling. Your body and mind will thank you. Need more inspiration? See this article on “sleep debt.” 

Stay hydrated (with water) and caffeinated (to an extent): Dehydration and headaches while traveling can negatively impact the quality of a trip quickly. Prioritize water (reusable bottle for the win) and drink coffee and/or alcohol in moderation (and when well fed). 

Breakfast is a must for full agenda days: I am a morning person and know others may not be, but personally I need food before coffee to fuel me for a long day of networking, learning, and socializing. If coffee alone works for you, that’s great but aim to add some food nourishment too.

Opt for clothes with pockets: We have to carry things, especially on business travel, so pockets are a huge plus to go about the day lighter. If you need a bag, go for it but make sure you’re prepared to carry it all day (and potentially have it in photos). 

Use packing cubes: These are a game changer for organizing outfits and compressing bulkier clothes like suit jackets or cold weather outfits, especially if/when living out of a suitcase.   

FOMO vs. JOMO: We’ve all heard of “fear of missing out” but I’ve found that “joy of missing out” can be just as powerful. JOMO means feeling empowered to pass on group outings or use break time as solo time to recharge. (Be sure to attend mandatory events while reflecting on the importance of optional ones. You’ll thank yourself later.)

Remember the importance of wellness: Self-care while traveling for both business and leisure is vital. Whether it’s a full workout, quick jog, stretching session, or breathing exercises, maintaining healthy habits while on the road can improve both your physical and mental well-being, making you more alert throughout your travels.

Have fun and stay present: Capture memories to share later, journal or takes notes, foster meaningful in-person connections, and do your best to make the most of the trip you’re on. Try not to think about the next trip or tasks you’ll return to after (I’m guilty of this too), but aim to be grateful for the journey you’re on. 

In the end, travel is a terrific opportunity to grow and learn. It can be a lot to balance, but by being intentional, planning, and doing what serves you, travel can be more enjoyable and less stressful. I hope these takeaways help inspire you to thrive while on the go. And remember, “To travel is to evolve.” – Pierre Bernardo

Thanks for reading and safe travels! 

Aimee Specker
Account Manager, Hilton Worldwide Sales
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