Do you remember my cousin who went on a two-month business trip? He got back last week, and is gearing up for his new job with frequent travel. (I got some very interesting stories from him, to come….) He came over to hang out over the weekend while I was packing for my trip this week. When he saw how I was able to fit all of the things I needed for four days into a tiny amount of space, he was intrigued. Then he asked me to recommend what he should buy for his first trip. After pondering for a bit, I came up with the five most important things to buy for your first business trip.

1. Rollaboard suitcase. If you are just starting out, it may be hard to justify spending top dollar for a suitcase. For the first seven years of my job I used an Ogio suitcase, very similar to the Blitz  and currently available for around $110. It’s a great bag with plenty of pockets, expands if you need extra room, and will fit in almost any domestic overhead bin.
2. Laptop bag. The most important features to look for in a laptop bag are construction, pockets, and good handles. The best ones also have a strap in the back to hook onto your luggage. This Samsonite Classic looks nice, has plenty of space for even a 17” laptop, and has 4.5 stars after 240 reviews. If you’re looking for something pretty, I love my Lo and Sons O.G.
3. Packing cubes. I can fit all of the clothes I need for four days into one packing cube. Not everyone loves them, but I couldn’t travel without them. If you’re trying to fit a bunch of stuff into a suitcase, packing cubes like these from Eagle Creek  will definitely help save space.
4. Refillable bottles. When I showed my cousin my toiletries, he was shocked. It honestly never occurred to him to decant his regular sized toiletries into smaller bottles like these Go Toob bottles. Men! Seriously though, unless you’re gone for a month at a time there is no reason to bring more than 3 oz. of your shampoo, conditioner, and lotion. In fact, for many things—face wash, moisturizer, etc—you can bring a great deal less than 3 oz.
5. Global Entry. It’s not gear, but it’s something you have to pay for! Global Entry is a great time saver, whether you travel solely in the US or internationally. Pay $100 and get five years of TSA Pre-check—you won’t have to take your shoes or coat off or take your laptop or liquids out of your suitcase. Plus with Global Entry you can bypass the long customs lines. Best timesaver ever!

Readers, what do you think are the most important things to have for your first business trip?

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