You probably rarely step outside of your place without your makeup kit, let alone travel outside the country. This is probably an already obvious item on this list that it might seem redundant to mention. However, there's a good number of female travelers out there who forget it. At the very least, they just bring their trusty lipsticks and palettes and leave the rest at home. And while you'll only need a fresh clean look for work anyways, that doesn't mean you can't leave a better impression with better makeup. And, of course, there's the possibility of attending all sorts of social events connected to your work. It never hurts to be fully equipped with your makeup kit.
Now, I know you might be thinking: the hotel you're staying at that the company booked for you will probably their own toiletries for you to use. Why bring your own on a trip? Well, you never really know how your body will react with those said products. Or perhaps, your body might be more used to certain products you use at home. And if you suddenly change it up, that might lead to physical effects you wouldn't want your clients or overseas clients to see. So to be safe, include a few trusty toiletries that you and your body abide by.
Then, of course, there's medicine. Again, you might think that the city might have the vitamins and medicine you need, but how sure are you of that? What about specific types of medicine or locally-produced ones? And there's the matter of the price. What if what you need to drink will actually cost you more than you expected? Similarly with toiletries, it's safer to bring your own medicine when you travel abroad, be it for a business trip or a vacation. Also, make sure you bring enough to last you your whole trip.
Let's face it ladies, the most appropriate shoes for the office are heels. But, the good thing is, it doesn't have to be high heels. You can save that for when you get invited to an evening gala while you're in the city. For everyday footwear, low heels are enough to go with whatever outfit you bring. A high-quality pair in leather is always a winner. And it's this type of footwear that you ought to invest in if you want to remain on-course to the top of the corporate ladder. In terms of color, the safes are neutrals but you can always play it up a bit with brighter hues.
If you're really not a heels girl, perhaps a sophisticated pair of flats will do. But take note, the keyword there is sophisticated. This means absolutely no sneakers, combat boots, and definitely no flip-flops. If you want an easy and elegant pair, ballet flats are always safest to invest in. Leather shoes are also fitting, especially since that's the unofficially required footwear for the men (talk about "being with the boys!"). And there will be some fashionable brands out here who'd offer flats in metallic shades or sparkling glittered hues for a nice evening footwear option.
You already know that you're going to need to bring your suits, blazers, and slacks for this trip, so there was no need to mention them anymore. However, if you want to pack casual clothes too, make them business-appropriate as well. Here's a scenario as to why: you're touring the city in your free time when you get a call on your phone. You're needed in the office right away. So, you have to rush from wherever you are right back to the office. How will it look if you're wearing revealing vacation clothes such as a tank top and short shorts? Now, if you were wearing a business casual outfit, you'll lessen the risk of being inappropriately dressed during your business trip.
As already mentioned, there might come a time where you'll need to bring out and wear evening attire during this trip. Part of working in the corporate world is attending all sorts of gala events where the cream of the crop of your industry congregate and socialize, often for a charitable cause. Be prepared for such an invitation by packing both an evening gown and a cocktail dress. You can even pack them in garment bags to ensure they won't get crumpled during your flight and the entirety of your trip. Also, make sure you know what to do in gala events too so as to not embarrass yourself and your office!
Finally, an unfortunately necessary group of items any woman traveling solo will need to pack: self-defense devices. A rape whistle, some paper spray, and even a tazer if you can bring it. You never know the types of guys lurking in the city that you're visiting. If you're one to walk alone at night from your hotel room to your office, it's better to be safe and armed with the right weapons of self-defense. And don't rely on buying them in your destination when you get there. In fact, such items should already be in your purse even when you're back home.
For all of you business women out there, make sure your next business trip goes smoothly by bringing many or all of the essentials on this list. Though some might seem unimportant and necessary, bringing them along will ensure that you're ready for any eventuality on this trip!
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