Japanese organizational consultant Marie Kondo has become something of a sensation since she scored her own Netflix series. But does her methodical approach to house-cleaning offer any lessons for travelers? Let's face it, business travel won't always be 'joyful'. But a little organizing now, possibly even before you have a trip planned, can make things a lot easier once you get to the airport.
1. Pack a gadget bag
Why not all countries have been able to agree on a single type of plug remains a real frontrunner. Apparently there are about 15 different types of plugs in use today. This inconsistency of the outlets can be one of the biggest irritating things for the frequent traveler. Sometimes the hotel can lend you an adapter... but to avoid running out of your phone's battery near five percent and having to wander the streets on a cold winter's night in search of the nearest store, it's probably best to move ahead. plan and pack your own. Think about which destinations you visit most often and figure out which plugs and adapters you probably need. Put them all in a bag that you can just put in your suitcase on the way out. Try leaving it on a shelf between trips so that everything is in place when you have to travel. Adapters are often not very expensive. It may make sense to buy spare parts so that you can have a special set for your travels.
2. Check the data options in advance Business travelers are often satisfied with buying a SIM card when they arrive in a new country. And often it is cheaper. But more and more telecom providers offer options that are quite affordable and more convenient than a prepaid SIM card. For example, some carriers offer 2 GB data packages that operate in a few countries or even worldwide. The packets last for a month or until the data runs out. That means if you visit more than one country, your data will continue to work without having to queue for another SIM card. If you wait to use Wi-Fi to watch Netflix, you probably have enough data. And because you have your own phone number, you won't miss any important calls.
3. Download the right apps
Some apps are useful for traveling practically anywhere. There are apps that allow you, for example, to book flights and hotels, keep track of your travel schedule, receive alerts about disruptions such as delays, gate changes and weather forecasts. This saves you the clutter of separate exchange rate and weather apps. Google maps is also indispensable. It's also worth looking into destination apps. If you don't speak the language, these apps save you the hassle of explaining where to go to a driver.
4. Make your finances clear
There is nothing less joyful than reading the fine print on your bank. But it can help. If you travel a lot, it's a good idea to find out if your bank offers competitive exchange rates and what fees they charge for using your card abroad. It might be worth looking around for an account that offers both better deals for travelers and perks like airline miles.
5. Pack a capsule wardrobe Marie Kondo herself has a few tips for maximizing space in a suitcase. (In short, fold clothes as small as possible and pack them vertically). But packing for a business trip is about more than good use of space. It's also about having everything you need to look presentable and be ready for business as soon as you get to the other end. Usually this means choosing enough matching items to last the entire trip. It may make sense to limit the color palette to maximize the number of matching combinations. You could choose black or brown shoes and then use that choice as a basis for choosing the rest of your clothes.
Finally, when you go to the airport, make it easier on yourself and everyone behind you:if you know you're going through a security check, remove all metal from your ensemble.
