How to make good use of your time in the air as a business traveller

Jetting off on business may seem like a welcome escape from the daily grind. However, it can also be a tricky, stressful balancing act with constant calls from the office and anxiety about the inevitable post-trip catch up.
Here are a few practical tips compiled by the British Airways to assist you when travelling on business.

Use ‘downtime’ intelligently

An aircraft is still the one place in the world where you can get a bit of quiet time. Use it to catch up on all those nagging little things you keep thinking about but never seem to have the time to do. You’ll get off the plane with a feeling of accomplishment. Alternatively, use the time to think strategically or creatively about an issue or a problem. Please, don’t use the time in the air to try and bang out the next day’s presentation. This will only add to your anxiety.

Modest relaxation

Take in a movie and chill out, but don’t be tempted to spend all night watching box office hits. You will be exhausted the next day. Similarly, enjoy a glass of the Burgundy, but don’t overdo it.

Seize the shortcuts

Online check-in saves you time at the airport. British Airways has an app that saves your boarding pass to your phone. This means one less piece of paper to lose. Save yourself time and money by paying for excess luggage online before you get to the airport.

Take up the power

Seasoned business travellers are the ones charging up their phones and devices. British Airways discovered that customer satisfaction scores rose when they increased the number of charging points in their Heathrow lounges. Carry a power bank in case of emergencies. Bear in mind that in some countries, your phone and other devices can be confiscated if you are not able to turn them on.

Plan realistically

After an 11-hour flight across one or two time zones, you will be good for a few early morning meetings, but will probably fade towards the evening. So if you can, schedule your big pitch presentation earlier in the day.If you’re travelling across more time zones, schedule some time to rest and catch up on your sleep. You’re not doing anyone any favours by bungling things because you’re exhausted.

Take advantage of the perks

Joining airline loyalty programmes such as the Executive Club or On Business will ensure that you and your company get something back on the travel spend. As the rewards accumulate, benefits also extend to lounge access and other perks that will make your trip more comfortable and productive.