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Business Trip Packing List for Overnight, 3-Day, and 5-Day Trips

Published September 19, 2023

Written by:

Laura Lopuch

Laura’s first trip was when she was 3 months old, instilling an insatiable wanderlust. She hasn’t stopped traveling, or writing...

Fred Perrotta

Co-founder, tortuga.

Fred Perrotta is the co-founder and CEO of Tortuga. His first backpacking trip to Europe inspired him to start the...

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Table of Contents

Whether you’re heading out on a last-minute, overnight business trip, or a five-day conference abroad, packing for business travel is always different than prepping for a fun vacation.

Your work trip packing list will likely include more electronics and gear. So you’ll need to plan around the extra items and weight.

Also, traditional business clothes are notoriously delicate and wrinkle-prone, so they can be difficult to pack.

This article will break down how and what to pack for your business trip. We’ll cover men’s and women’s business clothing , advice on managing your electronics, and more.

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How to Pack for a Business Trip

Carry on plus personal item.

When packing for a work trip, use carry-on-sized luggage plus a personal item that can carry your laptop.

How to Pack Your Laptop for Travel

Pack your laptop in your personal item when you travel, ideally in a backpack, briefcase, or messenger bag with a dedicated laptop sleeve for protection. If you’re using a tote or other bag that doesn’t have a padded area for your laptop, invest in a laptop sleeve to protect it.

If you’re one-bagging, make sure you choose luggage that has a dedicated laptop compartment. Remove your laptop before stowing your bag in the overhead compartment so that you can work during your flight.

Whatever you do, never, ever put your laptop in a checked bag and risk it being broken, lost, or stolen while in transit.

Roll Your Clothes and Pack Them in Packing Cubes

Once upon a time, I didn’t use  packing cubes . And my bag was a disaster. It took long minutes to find the shirt I was looking for or clean socks. Not anymore, thanks to packing cubes.

To look your best, you should fold your clothes along the seams then roll them . Yes, this even applies to most dress clothes. When you arrive, hang your clothes in the closet or even in the bathroom when you shower to release more wrinkles. Your hotel should have an iron for any necessary touchups beyond that.

For maximum organization, use packing cubes and assign each one a purpose. For example, a smaller packing cube holds underwear. A larger cube keeps your shirts organized and wrinkle-free. Then, roll them before zipping them away to make each item easy to find while preventing creases and wrinkles.

How to Pack Your Suit: Fold, Don’t Roll

A traditional, wool suit must be packed properly to keep its shape while in transit. To pack a suit in a carry on , fold it, don’t roll it.

Alternatively, you can try a wrinkle-free suit from Bluffworks or Ministry of Supply ( men’s , women’s ). Wrinkle-free, synthetic fabrics have improved dramatically from the early days of stiff, plastic-y dress shirts.

Stuff smaller, soft accessories like your socks, tie, and pocket square in your shoes to preserve their shape.

Business Trip Packing List

A good business trip packing list is built around a solid core, personalized to your needs and style. “Work clothes” can vary depending on your industry and the nature of your trip. You could be dressed anywhere from a three-piece suit to a shirt and slacks to a hoodie and jeans. Pack and dress as makes sense for your business trip.

Let’s start with the basics.

• Copy of itinerary
• Boarding pass
• Transportation and accommodations

If your business trip takes you across borders, don’t leave home without your passport. If you’re traveling abroad for your business trip, know that some countries won’t let you in without a guarantee of when you’ll leave. Pack a copy of your complete itinerary, including evidence of when you’ll leave the country, to show border security.

After your passport, your boarding pass is your most important document. Mobile boarding passes are convenient, but make sure that you’ll have internet access via your phone if you plan to use one. Or, take a screenshot of the boarding pass and use it offline through your photo app.

For your own convenience, print out the details of your transportation from the airport to your accommodations (if you’ve booked anything), the address of where you’re staying (for customs forms and taxi drivers).

I use  TripIt  to aggregate all of my trip details in one place. Using the app is more convenient than carrying a stack of printouts with me. However, paper copies are better for border crossings and for when you don’t have WiFi access or a local SIM card.

Electronics

• Phone and charger
• Headphones or earbuds
• Laptop and charger
• Adapter (if traveling abroad)

Carry earbuds if you want to travel light or noise-canceling headphones if you want a quieter trip. For the latter, we like Bose’s QuietComfort line.

The  Macbook Pro  and  Macbook Air  are the most popular choices for Apple users. We recommend the lightest computer you can get that doesn’t sacrifice the performance you’ll need. Dave at Too Many Adapters wrote a helpful guide to  choosing a laptop for work and travel .

• Eye mask and ear plugs
• Water bottle
• Kindle or book
• Pen and notebook

If you’re taking long flights or overnight trains, earplugs and an eye mask make for all-natural, compact sleep aids.

Get a reusable, refillable water bottle for your travels so that you can stay hydrated without generating the extra trash of plastic bottles.

I’m still old-school and read physical books instead of using a Kindle. Either way, don’t forget a good book to pass long hours waiting or traveling.

Clothes: Business Travel Wardrobe

When packing clothes for a business trip, look for items that pull double-duty and that can be dressed up or down.

Meaning: that black dress looks equally stunning with a scarf for a casual business meeting or a statement necklace for a client dinner. Whatever your personal style is, pack items that make you feel comfortable and confident.

Although the exact items will differ depending on your style and gender, the clothes section of a 3-day business packing list looks like this:

• 3 tops; 2 dress tops and 1 casual top
• 1-2 bottoms
• 3 pairs of underwear
• 3 pairs of socks
• 1 set of pajamas
• 2 pairs of shoes : 1 dress shoe and 1 athletic/casual shoes
• Workout clothes (optional)

Women’s Business Travel Wardrobe

Use the above business trip packing list template and add the following for a 3-day business trip.

2 Blouses and 1 T-Shirt

• 1 lightweight t-shirt to dress up or down

Pack two business-appropriate blouses or collared shirts and wear the more casual t-shirt on the plane. I love J.Crew’s vintage cotton t-shirts as they look chic (and feel comfortable) with jeans or slacks. 

Everlane has a range of modern, basic shirts that work for both business and casual attire. Their Japanese GoWeave line is especially good for travel since the fabric is durable, wrinkle-resistant, and comfortable.

• 1 dark-colored blazer or suit jacket

It’s no secret that I’m a huge J.Crew fan. Their women’s blazers fit well, look chic, and last a long time. Consider a wool blazer that keeps you cool in hot boardrooms and warm on chilly airplanes.

If you’re willing to make the investment, consider a wrinkle-resistant blazer, like the Kinetic Blazer by Ministry of Supply , that you can pack without worrying about it turning into a rumpled mess. En route, wear your blazer so it doesn’t get wrinkled in your carry on bag.

2 Bottoms and 1 Dress

• 1 pair of slacks or skirt
• 1 pair of dark-wash  jeans , worn on the plane
• 1  dress (optional)

Opt for  Betabrand’s Yoga Dress Pants  for sleek black pants made from stretchy material like your favorite yoga pants. Alternatively, look at ADAY’s line of pants for a wrinkle, odor, and pill-resistant pair of business travel pants that are technical, travel-ready, and fashionable.

I live in jeans, and even on the dressiest business trip, I’d yearn for a pair. If you’re like me, wear your jeans on the plane. My favorites are Lucky Brand jeans with some stretch woven in.

Love your dresses? Pack a versatile dress like one from  Draper James  or any of the odor-and-wrinkle-resistant merino wool dresses by Wool& .

3 Pairs of Underwear and Socks

• 3 pairs of  socks
• 3 pairs of  underwear
• 2  bras

If you want to hand wash your underwear, you can get away with packing less. However, for a short 3-day business trip like this one, pack one pair per day. Because you’ll save more on time vs packing space.

2 Pairs of Shoes

• 1 pair of business-appropriate shoes
• 1 pair of athletic shoes, worn on the plane

Pack one pair of professional shoes that are small, light, and comfortable, like this  pair of classic black heels from Clarks , or a simple and easy-to pack pair of flats or loafers by Rothy’s .

You can wear your heels through the airport, but I wouldn’t recommend it. Instead, I wear a pair of black athletic shoes that I can use for a run or workout at my destination.

1 Set of Pajamas

• 1 lightweight shirt
• 1 lightweight, athletic pair of shorts

My favorite packing light secret? Make your pajamas and workout clothes the same outfit. Snag a quick, sweaty workout in the AM and hand wash your clothes in the sink. By the time you’re ready for bedtime, your clothes will be dry and ready for you.

Men’s Business Travel Wardrobe

Use the business trip packing list template and add the following for a 3-day business trip.

2 Dress Shirts and 1 Casual T-Shirt

• 2 wrinkle-resistant dress shirts
• 1 casual shirt that’s suitable for after-dinner drinks and on the airplane

Ironing dress shirts is a pain. Instead, opt for a wrinkle-resistant dress shirt (or two), like one from Bluffworks . They are made from 98% polyester (that’s a good thing), have lots of stretch, are breathable, and dry quickly. The best part is that they’re machine washable. Perfect for happy hour or the boardroom in any city you visit.

For your casual shirt, opt for a versatile merino wool t-shirt that will stand up to the rigors of travel.

2 Pairs of Pants

• 2 pairs of pants and/or  jeans

For a pair of pants that can easily work for business and leisure alike, pack a pair of basic, but high-performance pants, like the good-looking  Outlier Slim Dungarees . If you prefer jeans, try  Bonobos’ Extra Stretch Travel Jeans  which are made from lightweight, 10.5 ounce denim and have a 1% stretch.

Stick to 1-2 pairs of pants and wear your more casual pair on your flight.

Avoid doing laundry on a quick, three-day business trip and, instead, pack three pairs of underwear and three pairs of socks.

1 Blazer or Jacket

Read the full Buyer’s Guide to Travel Blazers for all of our favorites. Or, jump right to our top pick, the wrinkle-free  Bluffworks Gramercy Travel Blazer .

• 1 pair of dress shoes
• 1 pair of athletic shoes for workouts (optional)

Think small, light, and comfortable for your shoes. Like the  Lenox Hill Cap Toe Oxfords from Cole Haan  or  Vivobarefoot Ra II.

Packing two pairs? Wear the heavier or bulkier pair through the airport and pack the lighter pair.

• 1 lightweight, athletic pair of shorts

5-Day Business Trip Packing List

For a longer, five-day business trip, be prepared to hand wash your clothes mid-trip. Or, have the hotel do it for you. Check with the front desk to see if they offer a laundry service for guests. Make sure to ask how long it will take and the price.

Not keen on doing laundry? Prepare to pack a little more in your luggage. You can still pack carry-on-only for a five-day trip. Some of our customers travel for weeks, months, or years out of just a carry on .

When your clothes get a little wrinkled or smelly, hang them up in the bathroom while you take a hot, steamy shower. The hot, moist air eases wrinkles and smells from your clothes.

What to add to the base list above for a five-day business trip:

• 2 pairs of socks
• 2 pairs of underwear
• 1 blouse or dress shirt
• 1 casual shirt to dress up or down

Overnight Business Trip Packing List

Ready for a quick, easy packing list for a one-night business trip? Reduce the number of items in your one-day work trip packing list by two.

Pack an outfit, wear an outfit, and add the non-clothing essentials.

What to pack for an overnight business trip:

• 1 dress shirt
• 1 casual shirt
• 1 pair of dress pants or skirt
• 1 pair of casual pants
• 1-2 pairs of shoes (one dress pair and one athletic)
• 1 pair of underwear
• 1 pair of socks
• 1 blazer or jacket
• Book or kindle
• Notebook and pen
• Ear plugs and eye mask
• Travel adaptor and passport (if international)

Steal a page from George Clooney’s well-refined playbook from  Up in The Air  and streamline your airport experience by packing only in a carry on bag . You’ll save time at the airport and feel more confident.

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Max Carry On Size

Laura’s first trip was when she was 3 months old, instilling an insatiable wanderlust. She hasn’t stopped traveling, or writing about it. As an expert in carry on travel, she’s flown on over 100 flights with only a carry on bag. Even on trips with her husband and kids.

She believes travel is the great educator — and vital to our humanity.

Read more from Laura

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The ultimate guide to traveling for work: 35 best tips for business travelers

Before you travel…, 1. check your company’s business travel policy, 2. stick to carry-on bags only, 3. keep your essentials packed and ready to go in your suitcase, 4. keep your essentials handy when on the road, 5. pack both business attire and casual clothes, 6. keep security checks in mind when you pack, 7. make comfort a priority, 8. sign up for rewards programs, 9. make sure you charge your electronic devices, 10. fly non-stop, 11. make use of airport lounges, 12. use a suit bag, 13. bring a power bank, 14. bring your (travel size) toiletries, 15. pack healthy snacks, 16. choose your plane seat wisely, 17. do your research on foreign business etiquette, 18. download helpful apps, 19. bring a power adapter, 20. check in beforehand, during your business trip…, 21. choose water, skip alcohol, 22. if you have a meeting shortly after landing and need to be fresh, try drinking coffee two hours before the meeting, 23. layover tip: take the time to connect, 24. stretch, 25. adapt to meal times as soon as possible, 26. beat jet lag with exercise, 27. don’t be tempted to sleep as soon as you arrive, 28. try to stick to your most important daily routines, 29. take pictures of all your receipts, 30. store your receipts properly, 31. use a firewall when using public internet, 32. there are alternatives to working in your hotel room, after your business trip…, 33. don’t forget to report your expenses, 34. send thank you emails, 35. leave reviews, did you find this article useful.

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Her Packing List

Packing Lists

Ultimate female packing list for a minimalist business trip.

The following packing list for a minimalist business trip was submitted by Rachel. See all packing lists .

When I first started traveling for work , I may have appeared a little high maintenance… I packed my life into a roller bag, a giant computer bag, and my purse. I imagined myself as Legally Blonde ’s Elle Woods when I showed up to the TSA line , teetering on too-tall heels, my matching pink luggage in tow.

After being on the road for much of the last three years, my attitude, gear, and how I travel has changed dramatically : now I’m less Legally Blonde , and more Catch Me if You Can . For work I travel about 30 percent of the time to different client sites, enough so my inner adventurer gets excited about the boutique hotel and off-the-beaten-path restaurant, but not too much where I forget where I traveled last week.

My Lightbulb Moment

About two years ago, I took a trip with a colleague to Los Angeles over four days. On the way back to the airport, I noticed she didn’t have a roller bag or duffle. She only carried a Northface backpack and large purse. I asked where her bag was, concerned she forgot it. She responded with, “I only ever bring a backpack and a purse . If I can’t pack it in here I don’t need it.”

I was incredulous! I had never heard of anyone doing that. It. Blew. My. Mind. I thought maybe there’s something to it and challenged myself to give it a try .

On the next several trips I made a conscious effort to bring less stuff . No I don’t need five pairs of shoes. No I don’t need my bathing suit and towel for the hotel pool. No I don’t need a suit and a change of clothes for each day and an extra outfit—just in case. You get the picture.

I gained momentum and thought about what else I could cut, analyzing what I didn’t use and leaving anything unused behind on the next trip. I discovered packing cubes , blogs about traveling light , and new ideas sparked. I soon fit everything in my Northface and carried a purse with room to spare. Then I hit a wall…

I loved the freedom from carrying so little . BUT I didn’t feel or look particularly professional carrying a bright yellow backpack. I started looking around at airports at the different consultants on the road and saw men and women in backpacks that looked professional and comfortable . I made mental notes of brands, shapes, sizes, colors, material, etc. I quoted backpack facts to my husband whose eyes started to glaze over any time I pulled up the REI website or eBags or whichever was my favorite of the moment. Then I found the one.

>>Read the female packing guide to working from the road .

What I Pack Now

Now I pack everything in my purse and Timbuk2 Jet Laptop Pack (review coming soon). It is 30 liters of organization and compartmentalization so I know where everything is and can reach it at a moment’s notice.

A couple of the things I really like from a work travel perspective are its clean look and it fits under the seat in front of you on most airplanes. You can carry it both as a backpack and as a briefcase, and it has a separate laptop compartment. I can carry everything I need and have room for more if I pick up something new in my travels.

On the plane, I will typically dress in jeans, cardigan, and my flats (which match both my suit and casual attire). I plan my tops so when my meeting ends I can swap the skirt for jeans and be ready for a casual night around town or for a glass of wine with a colleague.

I’ll use jewelry to dress my outfits up or down, as it’s a great way to change the feel of an outfit in an instant without taking up much space in my bag.

>>Check out this versatile 16L minimalist packing list .

My Packing List for a Minimalist Business Trip:

• Toiletries : razor, face lotion, comb, floss, toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, q-tips, nail kit, Kleenex, spare contacts + contact solution , face wash, menstrual cup , and depending on the hotel, shampoo and conditioner. Often times, if I know the hotel will have decent toiletries, I’ll change out what I bring and just use what they provide.
• Minimalist makeup kit
• Mini medical kit – Band aids, aspirin, Imodium, etc.
• Electronics: Laptop, phone, chargers
• Travel coffee mug
• Water bottle
• Pen set: I like color options
• Scarf: for warmth and fashion
• Book or Nook depending on the length of the trip
• 1 suit skirt and jacket (or packable blazer )
• 1 pair jeans
• 1 workout outfit
• 1 sleep outfit
• 1 pair of tennis shoes
• 1 pair of flats
• 1, 2, or 3 dress shirts (one shirt for the number of nights I’m gone)
• 1 pair underwear for each night
• 1 pair pantyhose for each meeting

Overall, my way of seeing the world has changed because of what I pack. I glide through airports in a way I didn’t before. If I’m running late I’m confident that I can physically run to the gate.

I am more hands free, and when I want access to something, I know exactly where it is. And, because I’m packing in the same way each trip with similar items, I pack faster with more consistency.

Even with what I bring, I could still cut back if I needed. With each trip I continue to experiment with the combination of items I bring, and I look forward to perfecting the system and learning how others do the same.

• Check out this awesome article on how HPL’s best minimalist packing tips can be used to organize your home !

About the author: Rachel is a consultant, outdoor enthusiast, and animal lover who travels frequently around the U.S. for work and pleasure. When not on the road for work, you can find her planning her next hike on the Appalachian Trail, half-marathon through the mountains out west, or swing through South America—and she never checks a bag (except maybe backpacking gear). She lives in Chicago with her husband and a small menagerie of pets.

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using them, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps to keep this site running – thank you!

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Reader Interactions

August 2, 2017 at 6:50 pm

This is so great – I went to Italy for almost three weeks with just a carryon and it was SO FREEING. But I still had too much stuff. I’ve come a long way from my younger years when I’d carry full-size toiletries items and a massive suitcase full of “options.” Now I know better and I know I’ve got favorite pieces and I should just take those. It’s way easier to just have a few things to choose from and it’s so easy to move from place to place when my bag is light and small.

August 10, 2017 at 12:07 pm

Hi, thanks a lot for this insight 😀 Honestly, it’s always like: oh I need, this and this and that and in the end you only end up using a few things, that would even have fitted into a tiny bag. One question I have to you: how do you keep your tops without wrinkles?

April 21, 2019 at 1:23 am

I lay my tops or blouses on my bed and fold each one carefully, smoothing as I go. It’s really a matter of practice. But here’s the good part! Once folded, slide the blouse or top into a one gallon zip lock bag, One top to a bag. Without moving the bag around too much, or lifting it, I suck the air out of the bag and seal it. With practice, this makes an airtight parcel that keeps the shirts smooth. I’ve even been able to slide the bag across the room without disturbing the contents, as long as the seal is unbroken! I hope this works for you!

January 7, 2020 at 7:26 pm

I’m a big believer in rolling your tops. I also tend to pick fabrics which don’t wrinkle much anyway. Lastly when I’m in my room, the first thing I do is unpack everything, hang it, and if it looks wrinkled at all, use either the hotel iron or a fun trick I learned. In the morning when you are showering, hang whatever is wrinkled in the room with you and make sure the door is closed. The heat from the shower steams up the room as well as your clothes -essentially steaming out all the wrinkles! Hope that helps!

June 6, 2021 at 6:02 pm

Great article! Just out of curiosity, what brand is the 2-in-1 makeup compact in your picture?

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How to Plan Your Business Travel

Last Updated: March 18, 2024 Approved

This article was co-authored by Michael R. Lewis . Michael R. Lewis is a retired corporate executive, entrepreneur, and investment advisor in Texas. He has over 40 years of experience in business and finance, including as a Vice President for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas. He has a BBA in Industrial Management from the University of Texas at Austin. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 100% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 84,615 times.

Planning a work-related trip can be a stressful endeavor. On top of your usual travel concerns, you also have to keep your mind focused on the business aspect of your trip. Business travel doesn't have to be stressful, though. With a little planning and preparation, you can help ensure your trip runs as smoothly as possible so you can stay focused on your work.

Making Travel Arrangements

• If you're traveling internationally, you may need to secure a visa before you leave. You may also need certain vaccinations, including anti-malarial medication.
• If traveling to a city at an elevation above 4,900 feet (1,500 meters), you may be susceptible to elevation sickness. Try to give yourself a few days to acclimate before doing anything strenuous and start drinking two to three liters of water each day to stay hydrated.
• If you're traveling outside the country, find out if you can safely drink the tap water where you'll be. If not, you'll need to stick to bottled, purified water to stay healthy.

• Start with the date and time you're checking into and out of your hotel, then work your way through everything that you'll be doing while you're away on business.
• Don't forget to keep track of your flight's boarding and departure times so you know when you need to arrive at the airport.
• Highlight any work-related events on your schedule. That way your most important priorities won't get lost in the shuffle.

• When booking your flight, make sure that you use your sky miles account so that you can get points and rewards. You might even have enough sky miles already to cover the cost of your flight!
• When booking your hotel, see if you can use sky miles or get points towards a rewards program. You should also make note of your hotel's policies on check-in, checkout, parking, and number of people per room.
• If you need a rental car, make sure that all the roads you'll be driving will be safe with your rental car. Research if you need two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. Look around with different rental car companies to see which has the best rate.
• Some credit cards also have rewards plans and perks for traveling. See if your credit card comes with any of these benefits.

Preparing for Your Trip

• Make sure that all your identification is valid and up-to-date well in advance, as it can take several weeks for new documents to be prepared.

• Give yourself at least an extra 15 to 20 minutes if you'll need to print out your ticket upon arrival at the airport.
• If you have a paper ticket, keep it someplace where you won't lose it. You may want to store it with your ID or passport to ensure that you don't misplace any of those documents.
• If you're using a digital ticket, make sure you'll have reception wherever you're flying out of for the return trip. If you can't pull it up on your phone, you'll likely need to print out a paper copy at the airport.

• Try to pack as light as possible. Bring enough dress clothes for the trip and one or two pairs of casual clothes for exploring the town.
• Confirm that your bag will fit in the overhead compartment or under your seat by checking the carry-on bag size restrictions with your chosen airline.
• Check the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website for any updates on prohibited items and packing suggestions to ensure your security check is as quick as possible.

• Read up on the culture and customs of the people you'll be doing business with.
• Talk to other colleagues or friends who have traveled to the country you'll be doing business in. This can help you get a better sense of what's acceptable and what isn't.
• Be respectful at all times. Remember that you're representing your business and possibly your culture, so you'll need to be on your best behavior at all times.

• Keep a backup copy of all your important information on your laptop or a USB flash drive.
• If you really want to cover all your bases, you can also print out hard copies of any important paperwork and keep those papers in a file with your travel documents.

• If possible, give yourself a few days before you leave and start going to sleep and waking up at the times you will be waking/sleeping once you reach your destination.
• Being aware of the time difference has professional implications as well. You'll need to ensure that you don't miss any important meetings or deadlines on your trip.

Taking Precautions to Avoid Jet Lag

• Limit your caffeine and alcohol consumption, as both of these can leave you slightly dehydrated.
• Try to drink two to three liters of water each day, but remember that you'll need more water if you're very active or in a hot environment. [10] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source

• Aim to arrive around dinner time, then plan to stay up until about 10:00 pm in local time.
• When you get to your destination, avoid heavy meals. Instead, choose healthy snacks or a light meal that won't weigh you down. [12] X Research source
• You will most likely be tired after traveling, so by getting in around dinner time and eating a light meal, you'll start to get sleepy in time for a regular night's rest.

• Limit your exposure to bright screens, like laptops and cellphones, for at least a half hour before bed. Bright lights can reset your circadian rhythm, making it harder to sleep.
• Get as much sunlight as you can in the morning and early afternoon. This will help you remain wakeful and energetic during the day.
• Try to get some light to vigorous exercise each day, but be aware of when you work out. Some people find that exercising too close to bedtime affects their ability to sleep. [13] X Research source
• Bring earplugs and a sleep mask to help ensure that you get restful sleep each night, no matter what kinds of distractions present themselves at your hotel.

Expert Q&A

• Consider shipping large presentation materials and other business items that may difficult to carry while traveling. Just make sure that you ship them with enough time to arrive at your destination. If you decide to ship to your hotel, make sure that you contact the hotel and let them know about your shipment. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
• Opt for refundable tickets when you arrange your business travel, if at all possible. That way you have the ability to change your plans in case work or personal obligations get in the way of your scheduled flight. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

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• ↑ https://www.forbes.com/sites/jacquelynsmith/2012/08/27/your-basic-guide-to-business-travel-abroad/#1168ef394f50
• ↑ https://www.huffingtonpost.com/kenny-kline/how-smart-entrepreneurs-prepare-for-business-travel_b_8533712.html
• ↑ https://money.usnews.com/money/careers/slideshows/10-tips-for-efficient-business-travel
• ↑ https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/236246
• ↑ https://sleepfoundation.org/sleep-topics/jet-lag-and-sleep
• ↑ https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/269947
• ↑ https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/water/art-20044256
• ↑ https://www.sleepfoundation.org/travel-and-sleep/jet-lag
• ↑ https://sleepfoundation.org/excessivesleepiness/sleep-tools-tips/healthy-sleep-tips

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Make a mini vacation out of your work trips with these 4 tips

All trips are not created equal. There are romantic getaways , family vacations and trips with friends . Then there are business trips .

All too often, these are quick jaunts that can blur together into an endless parade of hotel ballrooms, bland conference rooms and chain restaurants.

The pandemic has reshaped many things about travel, including the length and frequency of work trips.

But what about their level of fun? (Yes, fun!)

I've always tried to add a little bit of "local" to each of my work trips as a way to break up what can otherwise be a monotonous slog from city to city. These days, I find myself doubling down on those efforts to try to make my work travel just a little bit more exciting.

So how do I do it? Here are my tips for getting the most out of your business trips.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Always pack a bathing suit

A quick dip in the hotel pool or hot tub can transform a stuffy trip into a mini vacation. OK, that might be overstating it — but at the very least, it can help reset your frame of mind.

I find that the act of taking off my work clothes and putting on a bathing suit forces me to stop thinking about my job for a few minutes. You can swim a few laps and get the blood flowing, or slip into the hot tub and ease those sore traveling muscles.

Try to pack a bathing suit that you know dries fast. Add in a plastic bag, too, just in case it doesn't. Yes, this is one more thing for your suitcase , but bringing it can help inject a bit of relaxation into your trip.

Get outside

It's all too easy to remain in our travel bubbles. Between taxis, airports and meeting rooms, we forget that we are not actually getting any fresh air.

For me, the best way to get to know a new city is to go on a run. But not everybody enjoys running. That's OK. There are other ways to enjoy your surroundings.

On a recent trip to Florida , I was still recovering from an injury and couldn't go on my run. So, I woke up early each day and went for a sunrise walk on the beach.

It wasn't a giant walk, but it gave me just enough time to enjoy the ocean breeze, hear the waves crash and clear my mind.

The rest of my days were spent in meetings, but I at least felt like I was getting a little bit of a beach trip in.

Be smart about upgrades

I usually don't care about hotel suite upgrades on business trips. Sure they are nice, but I'm typically by myself and not spending tons of time in the room itself.

But I've recently been paying more attention to the car I rent.

First off, I almost always rent a car even if other people love relying on Lyft and Uber. Having a car forces me to not have my head buried in my phone. I need to look out the window, see what's around, pay attention to directions and get a sense of an area.

I have elite status with all three big car rental agencies and love to pick my own vehicle with Hertz and National . And on my recent Florida trip, I noticed that a convertible was shockingly only $10 more a day than a standard ride. For my two-day trip with sunny skies and spring-like weather, it was well worth the added expense.

I didn't have a ton of time to drive, but when I did, each ride felt like a mini adventure.

Try local restaurants

My final tip is probably the most obvious one but also the most important: Sample local food.

If you don't know a good spot, ask your business contacts, the hotel bartender or just about anybody you come across.

It's easy to get trapped in an endless parade of airport lounge cheese cubes or bland burgers at chain restaurants. Too easy. So, put a little bit of effort in to find something different.

With a group, you can still have a good time without feeling like your meal is the same as the last 20 you've had on the road.

If traveling alone , I usually dine at the restaurant's bar, as it's where I often have interesting conversations with others eating there. They are usually locals, and I learn something new from them.

Bottom line

A business trip is never going to be a vacation. But with a little bit of time and planning, you can transform another dreary road trip into something that feels a little less robotic.

At the end of the day, all you have to do is just shift your mindset slightly and do a little research before heading out. Trust me, it's worth it.

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10 Best U.S. Cities for Workcations

Combine work (or school) and vacation for the ultimate workcation in one of these U.S. cities.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

The era of cubicles and water-cooler chitchat as we once knew it feels like a world away, even despite the fact that some employers are insisting on returning to office life, whether full-time or with a hybrid schedule. These days, many people in the U.S. are still clocking in from home and wearing their favorite cozy PJs well into the afternoon. While being able to stay home is a luxury in itself, as anyone who has worked remotely before knows, the best thing about working from home is that you don't actually have to work from home . As long as the Wi-Fi is reliable and your computer is charged, you can conduct your business from a hotel room, Airbnb, beach, mountaintop, or poolside cabana . Enter a recent trend — workcations — which brings together two things that always seem to be at odds with one another: work and vacation.

What are workcations?

The concept of workcations involves being able to log-in remotely from anywhere on earth while enjoying the places you're working from during your off-hours as if you were on vacation. It's an interesting mix of flexibility and obligation, though you'll have more control over the places you consider to be "your office" during working hours, as well as the freedom to get out there and sightsee as soon as you clock out — or even before you clock in, if that's how the time difference shakes out. In a way, it's like working from your favorite vacation spot, though it's up to you and your boss to determine whether it's just for a short stint or more of a long-term thing.

These days, workcations are not only doable, they're enjoyable. Hotels are offering workcation packages , long-term rentals are being outfitted with desks, and destinations are making it easy for remote workers to experience life in their world.

That said, some U.S. cities and locales are just a little better equipped and more welcoming for those seeking workcations than others, providing plenty of amenities and speedy internet (as you'd expect), as well as easy access to certain things we look for in a vacation: white-sand beaches, skiing, amazing food, and a relaxing escape.

Seattle, Washington

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Seattle is the sort of place you can wander around for hours — after you've finished your work, of course. Cruise down the eight-and-a-half-mile Seattle Waterfront Pathway and enjoy the views of Elliott Bay, or check out some of the things this city is known for, like Chihuly Garden and Glass and the Space Needle . And of course, no trip to Seattle is complete without a stop at Pike Place Market , which is just a five-minute walk from the wonderfully central Fairmont Olympic Hotel .

On the weekend, make the drive to Mount Rainier National Park or Olympic National Park — both are about two hours away by car.

Phoenix, Arizona

Matt Mawson / Getty Images

It doesn't matter when you visit Phoenix, the city is always welcoming and warm — literally — and that goes for those doing workcations, too. Book a stay at the uber-hip Found:Re Phoenix Hotel to enjoy easy access to downtown Phoenix and the Japanese Friendship Garden , or try out Hyatt's "Work From Hyatt" package at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch or the Royal Palms Resort & Spa , where you'll find private work areas and speedy internet.

When you're ready to explore, check out urban hiking, available at nearby Camelback Mountain , McDowell Mountain Regional Park , or South Mountain Park & Preserve . Cruise around on the city's Hopr bike and scooter share network or plan a day trip to Saguaro National Park , home of giant saguaro cacti and ancient petroglyphs.

Aspen, Colorado

Steve Whiston / Getty Images

We're betting that a trip to Aspen has always been on your bucket list, so if not now, when? You can kick it at The St. Regis Aspen Resort in downtown Aspen, located just a few blocks from Aspen Mountain , or escape the hubbub in the neighboring village of Snowmass , located about 20 minutes from Aspen by car. Snowmass is home to the largest ski resort in the area — the Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort — with endless options for ski-in, ski-out accommodations and easy access to the great outdoors.

When you're not skiing (or working — this is supposed to be a workcation, after all), book a day at the 7,000-square-foot Spa at Viceroy Snowmass or take a hot air balloon ride for bird's-eye views of the surrounding mountains.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu is a beautiful, multicultural city that just so happens to sit right near Oahu's famous Waikiki Beach. If that wasn't reason enough to make it your dream workcation destination , the nearby islands of Kauai , Maui , Molokai , Lanai , and Hawaii Island (also called The Big Island) are all a 30- to 45-minute flight away, giving you a chance to go island hopping and see everything the Aloha State has to offer.

Rooms at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach come with full kitchens, a work space, and washer and dryer, making extended stays a million times more comfortable. Just down the beach, the 'Alohilani Resort, Waikiki Beach and Outrigger Waikiki Beach both offer spacious rooms and suites with ocean views. When you're ready to explore (beyond your luxe accommodations and Waikiki Beach, that is), the Wiliwilinui Ridge hiking trail , Honolulu Museum of Art , and historic 'Iolani Palace — the only royal palace in the United States — are all nearby.

Jackson, Wyoming

Jackson may be small, but because it's a resort town , you'll find plenty of big-city amenities. Book a room at The Lodge at Jackson Hole (just don't get too used to the daily breakfast service) or settle into a spacious two- or four-bedroom suite at the Caldera House , perfectly situated in the heart of all the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort action.

When you're not working, there's plenty to see and do. You can spend the day skiing at one of the area's three world-renowned ski resorts, check out the National Elk Refuge (home to one of the largest elk herds in the U.S.), or plan a day trip to nearby Grand Teton National Park . Foodies will want to grab a slice from Pinky G's Pizzeria (made famous by Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives ) or grab dinner at the delicious Coelette . When the weekend rolls around, the less than two hour journey to Yellowstone National Park is well worth the drive.

Sonoma, California

Smith Collection / Gado / Getty Images

If a work day followed by a glass of pinot noir and a leisurely walk through a 19th-century plaza sounds appealing, a workcation in Sonoma, California , might be in the cards. Stay at the Sonoma Bungalows in downtown Sonoma — each comes with its own gourmet kitchen and open living spaces that are perfect for working (or schooling) from. Looking for a something a little more upscale? Just outside of town, is the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa , a laid-back luxury property that's home to its own geothermal pool.

Once work and school have let out for the day, there's plenty to do. Start by visiting the animals at the Jack London State Historic Park or the Safari West wildlife preserve. Those looking to find the next great wine should head to Walt Wines , known for its pinot noir offerings, or the stunning Ledson Winery & Vineyards .

New Orleans, Louisiana

Getty / John Coletti

There's more to New Orleans than just jazz and Mardi Gras; it's a city with a rich history, excellent food, and plenty of things to see and do in a surprisingly small radius. Those on workcations won't be disappointed with a stay at the Residence Inn New Orleans French Quarter , where you'll be treated to a full in-suite kitchen, separate living and sleeping areas, and a hot daily breakfast.

After a day "at the office," explore the historic French Quarter on foot, book a swamp tour, or grab a po' boy from Killer Poboys . Whatever you do, don't forget to head to Café Du Monde for some beignets — NOLA's signature fried-dough-dipped-in-sugar pastry — for dessert.

Miami Beach, Florida

Alexander Spatari / Getty Images

For a beachy escape on the mainland, Florida is hard to beat — and when you're looking for a sun-filled getaway, Miami Beach is where you'll want to be. Stay in the heart of the island city at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach , which makes that workcation feel just a little more luxe. For families taking both work and school on the road, the Shelborne South Beach offers high-speed Wi-Fi and the charm of a 1940s Art Deco building by the water.

When the work (or school) day has come to an end, there's more to do than sit on the sand. Check out The Bass Museum of Art's outdoor installations or grab a bite at Pubbelly Sushi . If you need a full-day escape, head to Everglades National Park , located just a one-hour drive from Miami Beach. While you're there, keep an eye out for alligators and turtles along the Anhinga Trail or climb the 70-foot Shark Valley Observation Tower for stunning views of the everglades.

Asheville, North Carolina

rodclementphotography / Getty Images

For those who enjoy being in a scenic and mountainous environment without missing out on big-city attractions like great restaurants and breweries, Asheville makes an ideal workcation spot. Whether you're into outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, fishing, and zip-lining, want to visit all your favorite places from The Hunger Games , or like touring historic homes and museums, you're bound to find something that piques your interest.

Once work is done for the day, spend some time unwinding at the Asheville Pinball Museum , where you can spoil your inner child with classic arcade games, or dig into the city's vibrant beer and cider scene at Archetype Brewing , Barn Door Ciderworks , or any of the region's other well-known establishments . History buffs and wine lovers can visit the Biltmore Estate's historic home, gardens, and winery — or, for a real treat, stay at one of its onsite accommodation offerings , the Village Hotel, The Inn, or the Cottages on Biltmore Estate. After a long workcation stint, treat yourself to a relaxing day of pampering at The Horse Shoe Farm's Stable Spa , located about 30 minutes south in Hendersonville.

Savannah, Georgia

Dennis Macdonald / Getty Images

This charming southern city offers plenty to see and do whenever you're not on the clock — picturesque streets and squares, a vibrant riverfront district, and tons of eateries and nightlife spots, just to name a few. Spend some time relaxing among the live oak trees and fountains in Forsyth Park, learning about the city's intriguing history on a ghost tour with Old Town Trolley Tours or Old Savannah Tours , wandering the beautiful but haunting Bonaventure Cemetery — featured prominently in Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil — or chilling on the beach in nearby Tybee Island .

Back in the historic city center, grab a scoop at Leopold's Ice Cream as you stroll through the walkable downtown historic district, then shop 'til you drop along River Street. Treat yourself to a classic Southern-style lunch at Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room , a cash-only spot serving favorites like fried chicken, black eyed peas, corn bread, biscuits, and okra gumbo as you dine around a large table with your fellow foodies. Stay anywhere from historic inns and B&Bs to haunted hotels like The Marshall House , Kehoe House , and the 17 Hundred 90 Inn , Savannah's oldest. Upscale (and less-likely-to-be-haunted) accommodations such as The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa and The Bohemian Hotel Savannah Riverfront can be found along the scenic Savannah River.

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How to Work and Travel at the Same Time

• Pam Kosanke

There’s a right and wrong way to do “bleisure” (business + leisure).

If you’re finding it tough to work remotely while on the road, your best bet is to put some practices into place to keep yourself organized and your performance level on track.

• Define what you want to get out of your travels — and out of your job. What would be my ideal day-to-day work life? How does it feel, and what does it look like? The more well-thought-out your own goals are, the less friction you’re likely to encounter when structuring your days.
• Create a structure that supports the lifestyle you want. The simplest way to avoid burdening yourself or your colleagues is to construct a detailed plan. Know where you’ll be and what you’ll be doing the whole time you’re traveling. How much time do you need between transitioning workspaces? How far apart are these locations? Will there be a place to charge your laptop and headphones?
• Overcommunicate with your manager and colleagues. Be respectful and honest. Communicate your availability and average response times well in advance and in multiple media channels (via Slack, one-on-one texts, live meetings, etc.)
• Hold yourself accountable for meeting expectations. Keep yourself focused by traveling with all the accountability tools you need. These can include business operating system tools and project management solutions, as well as reliable devices. Make sure you’re able to update everything regularly and track your progress.
• Travel with people who understand remote working. Explain your commitments to your traveling pals. For instance, you may want to establish times of the day when you need to hop onto Zoom calls or be available for business.

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By 2025,  more than 40 million Americans  are estimated to be working remotely. As such, they’ll be introduced to one of the most highly attractive benefits of telecommuting: the freedom to travel without taking vacation days.

• PK Pam Kosanke is the chief revenue officer for EOS Worldwide , a former professional athlete and multisport member of Team USA, and a Professional EOS Implementer®. She has broad experience working with organizations ranging from Fortune 500 companies to nonprofits and small businesses, and across a variety of industries including franchising, packaged goods, QSR, professional services, sports marketing, and retail.

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April 21, 2019 By Michelle Maraj 1,396 Comments

5 Out of Office Examples for Traveling on a Business Trip

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning that we will receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase. All opinions are those of the author.

When you need to travel for work, you might need to set an out of office message. Out of office messages are useful if you are not available during regular work hours. This may be necessary if you are out of the office in transport, such as on an airplane without WiFi, or if you are participating in a conference and cannot be online.

Out of Office Message Requirements

Your out of office message can be as detailed as you would like, but there is one requirement for your auto reply email: state when you will be back. You do not  need to explain why you are away, however you should at least communicate when you will be able to respond to your emails. Otherwise, you can be as creative as you would like.

A typical business travel out of office email will have the following components:

• Thank the person for their email.
• Let the person know when you will be returning.
• Provide an alternate contact person or emergency contact number.
• State that you will respond to emails when you return.

Additional components of your out of office message could include:

• Whether you are checking your email, versus if you are out of the country
• Why you are currently out of the office

See some of our business trip out of office messages below.

Out of Office on a Business Trip

If you are out of the office on a business trip, you can state so in your auto reply message. If you are traveling for a client, you do not want to get too specific on the location. Instead, leave your email vague. Put your location on your corporate calendar. If your coworker needs to know where you are, they can check your calendar for details.

Thank you for your email. I am currently out of the office on a business trip, and I will be returning on [Date]. I will respond to your email upon my return. Sincerely, Michelle

The above should be the bare minimum included in your auto reply message. If there is the possibility of urgent matters coming up while you are gone, you should include a contact person or an emergency contact number in your message as well.

I am currently out of the office on a business, and I will be returning on [Date]. If your matter is urgent, please contact [Name] at [Name’s Email], or call me at [Number]. Otherwise, I will respond to your message when I return. Thanks, Michelle

Only include your phone number in your out of office message if you do not mind being reached. If you are traveling to a place without service or will be unable to talk, it is best to only leave a contact person.

Out of Office during Business Travel

Occasionally for work, you may find that you are in commute for an entire day and will have limited access to email. If many of your coworkers will wonder where you are, it may be ideal to set up an out of office message for business travel.

I am currently traveling with limited access to email. If you need immediate assistance, please contact [Contact]. Otherwise, I will respond to your email as soon as possible. Thanks, Michelle

You might also be traveling to work, but find yourself at a client with a poor Wifi connection. While you are working, many of your coworkers may be wondering why you do not appear online, or why you are taking longer than usual to respond. In these circumstances, you might want an auto reply message similar to the following:

I am currently on-site with limited access to Wifi. If your matter is urgent, please contact [Contact] or call me at [Number]. Thanks, Michelle

Out of Office Attending a Conference

If you are on a conference business trip, mentioning the conference in your out of office can be beneficial. If a client who is also attending the conference emails you, your client may notice the opportunity to meet up with you.

Thank you for your email. I am currently at the Tableau Conference in Las Vegas, with limited access to email. I will be returning on [Date]. If you need immediate assistance, please contact me on my cell at [Number]. Sincerely, Michelle

Auto Reply Messages for Business Travel

Depending on your company culture, your out of office messages may be more casual or fun. However, if you work in professional services, it is best to keep your auto reply messages as fluff-free and simple as possible. State that you will be out, say when you will be back, and include what to do if it is an emergency.

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Welcome to Travel After Five, a blog for business professionals that travel for work. Along with advice for business trips, Travel After Five focuses on activities you can do after 5:00 pm, after you get out of your last meeting or conference.

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Business trips don't have to be dull. These 4 tips will help you plan personal fun around work obligations.

• Insider spoke with three experts on how to extend a work trip to include personal travel.
• Changing accommodations and including family members will help you feel refreshed after a business trip.
• This article is part of "Work + Play," a series about blending business travel with personal experiences.

Last year, Kelly Ferraro arrived in Paris four days before the Paris Blockchain Summit where she would network and learn more about blockchain technology. She spent the extra free time sightseeing and visiting Disneyland Paris and the Eiffel Tower with her family.

By the time the summit rolled around, the cofounder and CEO of River North Communications said her body was fully adjusted to the new time zone, and she was on her "A game." 

The practice of mixing business and leisure travel is gaining popularity, especially as employers are being more flexible with remote work, but it takes some planning and communication to pull off. If you've ever thought about adding a few personal days before or after a business trip, Insider got some expert advice on how to extend a work trip to include personal travel. 

Check with your higher-ups first

If you're not self-employed, the first thing you should do is check with your higher-ups to see if adding days to a work trip is an option. "Thirty to 60 days is a fair notice period for employees," Ferraro told Insider. "If one of the folks on my team wants to enjoy an extra few days in a city like Barcelona, for instance, I need to ensure we have coverage for that period." 

Start communication with your supervisors early, and don't book any activities or additional accommodations until you've been approved. Essentially, treat your added days the same way you would a regular PTO request and follow company policy. And if there are flights involved, it's also important to discuss if your workplace will be covering all of your transportation costs. Your modified flight may cost more, and you may be asked to cover the difference. 

Consider the pros and cons of when you take your PTO

Adding days before or after a work trip have both advantages and disadvantages that need to be considered. "Given the opportunity, I prefer to have some personal days before a work event to explore and enjoy myself," Ferraro said. "Also, know your body clock and circadian rhythm, as time zone changes can affect people differently. If I'm traveling across time zones, I'm my best self when I have at least 36 hours to adjust." 

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Others treat their added days as a reward at the end of a work trip, but there is a possibility that work responsibilities can cut into your PTO time. "I generally like to add days at the end of a trip, and I always like to make sure the work gets done before I take time off to play," said Mark Herschberg, author of " The Career Toolkit , a book that offers guidance on developing professional skills. "However, if you're self-employed, or work for a company that doesn't have clear PTO boundaries, it's possible that some of your work responsibilities can cut into your vacation time."

Squarespace consultant and digital educator Tanya Moushi said she sees work trips as a way to explore places that she may not have considered before and likes to sandwich time off before and after work trips. "I recently flew to Savannah, Georgia, for work and wanted to stay an extra day to explore the city, and it was lovely. It's a place I would have never been otherwise," she said. "I recommend arriving one day before in your new city to get settled and then at least one to two days after to get a feel for the city, take the opportunity to explore, and meet people." 

Change accommodations for your leisure travel 

Though you may get a discounted rate at your work hotel, experts recommend changing accommodations for your extra days to designate between work and leisure travel. "Honestly, I try to avoid staying at the same hotel and utilize Airbnbs when possible. I like to separate myself from work when the day is done," Ferraro said. 

Though packing up and checking into a different hotel or Airbnb can be inconvenient, another thing to consider is running into coworkers at the same hotel, which may dampen the vibe of your personal travel time. 

"You may be getting a special rate at the hotel through your company, or the event may have a special rate that will be valid for a few days before or after," Herschberg said. "But be careful about staying at the same hotel if you're going to socialize and don't want your coworkers to know about it. You could easily run into coworkers in the lobby."

Consider including partners or family members 

If you're planning on including your family or a partner, the same rules apply when it comes to communicating with your employers: Start early, and be transparent. Some employees will have their families stay with them during a work trip: However, if your company allows it, think about how much time you'll be spending on work-related responsibilities with your family there. Be clear about your work responsibilities and how present you can be with your family as it may be easier to include your family members after your work trip is over. 

Also, if you decide to include family, book their flights and hotel as early as you can as hotel and flight costs can quickly escalate, and you'll be paying for these costs out of pocket. 

While there's some extra planning involved, Herschberg said that companies can build goodwill with employees by being flexible with work-sponsored travel. "Companies should recognize that travel can be taxing on employees," he said. "In addition to the physical effort of all the cabs and planes and changing time zones, there's the work and personal items piling up back at the office and at home. Letting employees tack on some personal time on trips often has little or no overhead and becomes a great perk."

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• May 30, 2024

The conviction of former President Donald J. Trump on Thursday is just the latest step in his legal odyssey in New York’s court system. The judge, Juan M. Merchan, set Mr. Trump’s sentencing for July 11, at which point he could be sentenced to as much as four years behind bars, or to probation.

It won’t stop him from running for president, though: There is no legal prohibition on felons doing that . No constitutional provision would stop him even from serving as president from a prison cell, though in practice that would trigger a crisis that courts would almost certainly have to resolve.

His ability to vote — for himself, presumably — depends on whether he is sentenced to prison. Florida, where he is registered, requires felons convicted there to complete their full sentence, including parole or probation, before regaining voting rights. But when Floridians are convicted in another state, Florida defers to the laws of that state, and New York disenfranchises felons only while they are in prison.

The Trump Manhattan Criminal Verdict, Count By Count

Former President Donald J. Trump faced 34 felony charges of falsifying business records, related to the reimbursement of hush money paid to the porn star Stormy Daniels in order to cover up a sex scandal around the 2016 presidential election.

“Because Florida recognizes voting rights restoration in the state of conviction, and because New York’s law states that those with a felony conviction do not lose their right to vote unless they are incarcerated during the election, then Trump will not lose his right to vote in this case unless he is in prison on Election Day,” said Blair Bowie, a lawyer at the Campaign Legal Center, a nonprofit watchdog group.

Mr. Trump will almost certainly appeal his conviction, after months of criticizing the case and attacking the Manhattan district attorney, who brought it, and Justice Merchan, who presided over his trial.

Long before that appeal is heard, however, Mr. Trump will be enmeshed in the gears of the criminal justice system.

A pre-sentencing report makes recommendations based on the defendant’s criminal record — Mr. Trump had none before this case — as well as his personal history and the crime itself. The former president was found guilty of falsifying business records in relation to a $130,000 payment to Stormy Daniels, a porn star who says she had a brief sexual tryst with Mr. Trump in 2006, in order to buy her silence.

At the pre-sentence interview, a psychologist or social worker working for the probation department may also talk to Mr. Trump, during which time the defendant can “try to make a good impression and explain why he or she deserves a lighter punishment,” according to the New York State Unified Court System.

The pre-sentencing report can also include submissions from the defense, and may describe whether “the defendant is in a counseling program or has a steady job.”

In Mr. Trump’s case, of course, he is applying — as it were — for a steady job as president of the United States, a campaign that may be complicated by his new status as a felon. Mr. Trump will likely be required to regularly report to a probation officer, and rules on travel could be imposed.

Mr. Trump was convicted of 34 Class E felonies, New York’s lowest level , each of which carry a potential penalty of up to four years in prison. Probation or home confinement are other possibilities that Justice Merchan can consider.

That said, Justice Merchan has indicated in the past that he takes white-collar crime seriously . If he did impose prison time, he would likely impose the punishment concurrently, meaning that Mr. Trump would serve time on each of the counts he was convicted of simultaneously.

If Mr. Trump were instead sentenced to probation, he could still be jailed if he were later found to have committed additional crimes. Mr. Trump, 77, currently faces three other criminal cases: two federal, dealing with his handling of classified documents and his efforts to overturn the 2020 election , and a state case in Georgia that concerns election interference.

Mr. Trump’s lawyers can file a notice of appeal after sentencing, scheduled for July 11 at 10 a.m. And the judge could stay any punishment during an appeal, something that could delay punishment beyond Election Day.

The proceedings will continue even if he wins: Because it’s a state case, not federal, Mr. Trump would have no power as president to pardon himself .

Jesse McKinley is a Times reporter covering upstate New York, courts and politics. More about Jesse McKinley

Maggie Astor covers politics for The New York Times, focusing on breaking news, policies, campaigns and how underrepresented or marginalized groups are affected by political systems. More about Maggie Astor

Our Coverage of the Trump Hush-Money Trial

Guilty Verdict : Donald Trump was convicted on all 34 counts  of falsifying records to cover up a sex scandal that threatened his bid for the White House in 2016, making him the first American president to be declared a felon .

What Happens Next: Trump’s sentencing hearing on July 11 will trigger a long and winding appeals process , though he has few ways to overturn the decision .

Reactions: Trump’s conviction reverberated quickly across the country  and around the world . Here’s what voters , New Yorkers , Republicans , Trump supporters  and President Biden  had to say.

The Presidential Race : The political fallout of Trump’s conviction is far from certain , but the verdict will test America’s traditions, legal institutions and ability to hold an election under historic partisan tension .

Making the Case: Over six weeks and the testimony of 20 witnesses, the Manhattan district attorney’s office wove a sprawling story  of election interference and falsified business records.

Legal Luck Runs Out: The four criminal cases that threatened Trump’s freedom had been stumbling along, pleasing his advisers. Then his good fortune expired .

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WASHINGTON — Jeff McNeil appeared to have turned a corner on the Mets’ last road trip, but his latest turn is toward the bench.

After a 5-for-32 (.156) homestand, the slumping second baseman was on the bench as the Mets began their three-game series against the Nationals on Monday.

It was the second time in four games that Jose Iglesias started in McNeil’s spot , but unlike the last instance the desire to give McNeil a rest wasn’t cited by manager Carlos Mendoza.

“We’re giving Jeff another day to continue to work on some things and get back on track,” Mendoza said at Nationals Park.

What types of things?

“Impacting the baseball,” Mendoza said. “Hitting line drives — I think he’s lifting the ball a little too much. He’s a guy that won a batting title by hitting line drives from line to line and right now we’re not seeing that consistently. There’s been stretches of a couple of games where you go, ‘OK, he’s back,’ and then he goes some games where he is just missing pitches. We want him to square baseballs and hit line drives the way he is capable.”

McNeil homered in consecutive games two weeks ago in Cleveland as part of 7-for-23 (.304) stretch, but entering play had only one extra-base hit since then and was without a multi-hit game.

The fact lefty MacKenzie Gore started for the Nationals likely weighed into Mendoza’s decision.

But McNeil has equally underperformed against lefties and righties this season.

Against righties entering play he had a .618 OPS. Against lefties he had a .613 OPS. Overall he owned a disappointing .227/.296/.320 slash line with three homers and 14 RBIs.

The Mets selected Iglesias from Triple-A Syracuse before Friday’s game and are still evaluating what they might have in the veteran, who received praise for hustling out a ninth-inning infield hit on Saturday in a lopsided game.

Iglesias’ hit extended the inning and helped the Mets score three runs.

“[Iglesias] gives you a little bit of flexibility, especially with guys going through stretches where it’s hard for them,” Mendoza said. “It’s important to have that flexibility, a guy that can play multiple positions and I feel good with that.”

Mendoza was noncommittal about the possibility of a platoon between McNeil and Iglesias.

“When [McNeil] is on it doesn’t matter who is on the mound,” Mendoza said. “He’s pretty good against lefties when he’s on. When he’s feeling right … this is not strictly a righty or lefty matchup. It’s just more getting Jeff back on track. Right now he is working through something.”

McNeil is still among MLB’s toughest hitters to strike out — he’s whiffed in just 11.2 percent of his plate appearances this season — but his metrics in regards to solid contact are low in all categories.

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Though an emotional player, Mendoza said McNeil was understanding about the decision to start Iglesias in his spot.

“We know he shows emotions at times when things are not going his way,” Mendoza said. “But he will continue to work, that is what we have seen. He’s out there. He’s battling. He’s playing hard.”

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What makes AirCove Go a great business travel router?

As I mentioned in the beginning, one of the reasons I’ve never gotten into traveling with a portable router is the complexity of configuring it at each hotel. Aircove Go eliminates the need for a wired ethernet connection altogether. Its Wi-Fi Link feature enables wireless connection to any local network, including those with “captive portals” that often hinder the connection of streaming sticks and similar devices.

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Even devices that can’t typically support VPN apps, like game consoles, smart locks, and certain smart TVs, are protected when they’re using AirCove Go.

Setup experience

I had been holding off on unboxing the AirCove Go until I had some business travel so I could see how easy it made it. Once you unbox it, you’ll see how small it is. There are no external antennas and it’s about as big as some of the larger MagSafe battery packs.

I plugged it up and connected it to the new SSID it created. You’ll find the SSID and password on the unit’s underside. Once getting to the SSID, you’ll go to expressvpnrouter.com to start working through the setup experience. It’ll go a little faster if you can connect the device to ethernet, but you certainly don’t have to. As I mentioned earlier, you can connect the Aircove Go to another Wi-Fi connection and use it as a middle ground between public Wi-Fi and all of your devices. Connecting the device to Express VPN’s service was really simple, and you can pick from a long list of locations.

I brought an Apple TV with me on this trip and it immediately connected as well and bypassed the new to use the hotel’s captive portal.

Aircove Go includes Wi-Fi 6, allowing it to deliver wireless speeds of up to 1,200 Mbps for 5GHz and 600 Mbps for 2.4GHz. Overall, it’s a great device that is perfect for someone who spends a lot of time in hotels. Instead of manually connecting your Mac, iPhone, iPad, etc to the hotel Wi-Fi, you’ll only need to connect the Aircove Go and then you’ll be up and running. It’s not powerful enough where I’d want to use it in my home, but it’s not designed for that. It’s designed to be a portable VPN router, and it does an amazing job at that.

You can buy the Aircove Go from Amazon , and it comes with a free 30 day trial of ExpressVPN .

Full specs of the AirCove Go

• Wi-Fi: Dual-band (2.4 GHz/5 GHz) Wi-Fi, ​​AX1800 MU-MIMO
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• Interface: 1 x WAN Ethernet port, 2 x LAN Ethernet ports, 1 x LED, 1 x reset button, 1 x USB Type-C power input, 2 x external antennas
• Coverage: 750 sq. ft. / 70 sq. m
• Processor, memory, and storage: 1.2 GHz 64-bit Quad-Core CPU, 512 MB RAM, 128 MB flash storage
• Ethernet connectivity: DHCP, PPPoE, Static IP
• Security features: Built-in ExpressVPN protection, WPA2/3 Wi-Fi security, Automatic updates
• Advanced protection features: Threat Manager, parental controls, and ad blocking
• Dimensions: 125 mm x 82 mm x 36 mm
• Weight: 245g

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