Tips for work travel
Travelling for work can be a whirlwind of new experiences—different locations, shifting routines, unfamiliar smells, and a cacophony of sounds. For someone like me, who thrives on consistency, this can be overwhelming. But over time, I’ve learned how to create a sense of “sameness” even when I’m on the go.
Stick to what you know: Snacks and comforts
I always pack my favourite snacks and drinks that don’t spoil easily. There’s something incredibly grounding about having familiar foods on hand—whether it’s a trusted cereal bar or my favourite tea (rooibos, please!) Not only does it save me from the stress of searching for food that meets my needs and remove the pressure of going down for hotel breakfast when I just can’t face the people-ing, it also adds a comforting touch to my day.
Plus, I never underestimate the power of a soothing scent—I always bring a room spray or essential oils to create a familiar atmosphere. Whether it’s lavender for relaxation or my favourite perfume, these little sensory touches can make a hotel room feel more like my personal space, and give my brain a little bit of relief.
Create your own sanctuary
Unpacking as soon as I arrive is another crucial step for me. It might seem simple, but taking the time to settle in helps me reclaim my space. I’ll lay out my toiletries, arrange my snacks in the fridge, and put on my favourite pyjamas. Having a routine for unpacking allows me to know where everything is and reduces the mental load of searching for my essentials.
I also make sure to have my sensory toys and familiar comforts with me. Bringing along the same toiletry bag I use at home and wearing the same pyjamas I wear if I’m at my partner’s house creates a sense of continuity that I find reassuring. These small items can help bridge the gap between my home environment and wherever I am for work.
Manage expectations
When I’m on a short trip, I remind myself that it’s okay not to hit all my morning rituals or keep up with my regular exercise. The key is to set realistic expectations—there’s no need to overwhelm myself by trying to maintain my “ideal” routine when travel is already demanding.
For longer trips, I give myself permission to ease into my routines rather than forcing them from the start. Maybe I’ll start my morning with a short stretch or a few deep breaths instead of a full workout. This flexibility allows me to adapt without feeling guilty or stressed about what I’m missing.
Keep a daily to-do chart
To help keep my mind organised, I’ve found it beneficial to have a reusable daily to-do chart. It’s a simple way to outline what I need to accomplish at home or while on the road without overloading myself. It includes basic self-care activities, and time for relaxation.
The joy of coming home
After navigating the whirlwind of travel, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of coming home. Stepping back into my familiar space, with its comforting sights and smells, helps me recharge. Knowing that my home will be there, waiting for me at the end of a trip, is something to look forward to no matter how chaotic the travel.
Before I leave for a trip, I try to take time to clean my space and change the bedding, as well as wash some of my favourite pyjamas. There’s nothing better than coming home to fresh sheets and cosy pyjamas that smell like home. To balance out my energy levels, I also make sure to carve out time for recovery when I get back. Whether it’s a long bath, candlelit yoga, or watching familiar TV, this self-care is essential for resetting after the demands of travel. I always allow a bit of time between coming home and needing to start work (or anything else, for that matter!) again, even if that means needing to take a day off.
Reflect on your needs
Everyone’s sensory needs and routines are different, so take some time to reflect on what matters most to you. Whether it’s a specific snack, a favourite playlist, or knowing a friend is on the other end of the phone at a certain journey stage, think about how you can package those essentials up to bring along on your travels.
February 2025
