Packing for a business trip careful thinking through; you want to have everything that you will need but at the same time you don’t want to have heaps of luggage. If you want to make sure that you have everything that you need, follow these steps.

1. Be sure of your itinerary

Most business trips also include some leisure. You need to know exactly where you will be so that you can pack the right items for each event. Get your flight information together, know your hotel reservations and if you will be going to more than one location, make sure that you know when you will be leaving one location for the next.

2. Get all your documentation together

If there are files that you will need on your trip, make sure you have them on your computer. This way, you can print out anything that you need at the hotel. Remember, carrying along files will only make your luggage bigger and that’s why you want to make sure that all documents are on your laptop.

3. Get yourself a good suitcase and a smart laptop bag

You want to look as professional as possible so you should invest in a good laptop bag. A good quality suitcase is also important because the last thing you want is a suitcase that comes apart from being handled. There are some brands that have matching suitcase and laptop bags; it would be an excellent idea to get these.

4. Think about the weather

You need to know what the weather will be like where you are going so that you can pack appropriately. Look online for temperatures in all the places that you will go. If you will be visiting a hot destination, pack more cottons and linens. If you are going to a cold place, you should pack thermal vests and underwear as well as a good overcoat.

5. Pack your best suits

You want to dress in a way that impresses everyone you meet so get out 2 or 3 of your best suits for the trip. Choose the ones that will not wrinkle during travel. When you arrive in your hotel room, unpack them and hang them in the closet so that they can air. If the shirts end up wrinkled, you can have the hotel staff iron them out for you. Choose the appropriate ties for the suits that you have packed.

6. Get your shoes in order

Pack a good pair of shoes that match the suits that you have selected. Very important to mention here is that you should never carry along shoes that you haven’t worn for some time. The last thing you

want on your business trip is shoes that pinch.

7. Pack social clothes

You want clothes that you can relax in after work so pack a few khakis and polo shirts or t-shirts. You should also take along a few dress shirts in case you are invited out for drinks.

These 7 tips will get you ready for your business trip. All business trips are different so if there is something you need that isn’t listed here make sure to include it.