Managing Travel Time with a Checklist » Key Organization Systems

Many business travelers, given the choice, would opt not to travel. It takes you away from home, making it more difficult to maintain a work/life balance, and consumes time that could be productively spent getting things done in the office. Add to this the current delays experienced by so many flights, and effective time management becomes even more imperative.

Here are some examples of why you need to be well prepared for travel:

(June 2007) 462 flights sat waiting to take off for more than 3 hours after leaving the gate.12 were stuck for more than 5 hours.

(July 2007) 17,236 flights were canceled

The problems will not stop with the end of summer. The approaching holiday travel will bring its own horror stories of crammed flights and weather delays. What materials could you hand-carry to mitigate the frustration, discomfort, and stress often experienced?

Laptop Equipment: A notebook computer is generally basic equipment, but do not forget to have the charger packed with you rather than in checked baggage. If you are sitting in an airport, you can often find a plug, and that will extend the amount of computer time.

Wireless Aircard: While many airports now offer wireless service, it is often slow to connect, depending on number of users, along with erratic reception. Wireless cards average about $50-$60 per month. If you are a frequent flyer, the convenience can be worth the investment.

Phone Numbers: If you cannot access your electronic address book without going online, be sure to write down or program into your phone the numbers for major airlines. In the event of a cancellation, you want to bypass the long line of passengers waiting and be able to quickly call and make another reservation. Also carry the telephone charger with you.

Reading Materials: You never have enough time in the office to keep up with all the bulletins, magazines, and reports that come across your desk. Bringing these with you will fill in the waiting time. Why not get something accomplished during the electronics restriction at take-off and landing instead of flipping through the SkyMall catalog again?

Inflatable Pillow: You cannot always count on getting an airline-supplied pillow anymore. This item takes little room in your luggage. There is also one for about $20 that has a velcro under-chin strap, if you often find your head snapping forward. When not in use for resting during the flight, it can also provide some lumbar support.

Lightweight Jacket: A windbreaker that rolls up and again does not take much room can make a difference when the cabin temperature goes askew and the supply of available blankets cannot meet demand.

Water: Carry at least two bottles of water onto the plane. Air travel is dehydrating, and drinking water will also lessen the impact of germs floating around the cabin. The small cup of water they provide is not enough. If you are unfortunate enough to be one of those sitting on a tarmac for three hours, this becomes even more of a necessity.

Food: Depending on the length of your flight, snacks are optional, but as in the water consideration above, it does not hurt to pack at least a sandwich and a piece of fruit. Bringing healthier food than the airline may provide will also give you a better start to your trip.

Whether traveling for business or personal reasons, the stress of lost hours can be upsetting to all. If you can at least use that time in some productive manner, the impact of spending extra hours at the airport can be minimized to a degree.

Corporate Training: Workshops and consulting to improve time management skills
Individual Assistance: Our "8-Hour Miracle!" to kick-start your organizing efforts
On your own: Books and CDs to increase personal productivity