Business traveller wellbeing

Business travel can be exciting and rewarding, presenting employees with the opportunity to visit new places, engage with different cultures and make valuable business connections and transactions that drive results for the business.

Whilst leisure travel is restricted, business travel is still permitted under the new lockdown rules in England, with that in mind it’s increasingly important to consider all elements of the business travel experience which can impact a traveller’s wellbeing and mental health, it is vital for every traveller to know the benefits of every travel experience.

When travelling for business, you can easily fall prey to bad habits while on the road, from unhealthy eating, disrupted sleep patterns, lack of exercise and hectic schedules.

We’ve put together some recommendations to help you stay on top of your health whilst on the road so you get the very best out of your business trip.

General hygiene

By practising good hygiene routines while travelling, you can help reduce the risk of catching an infection and infecting others:

• Practise good hand and sneeze/cough hygiene
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, before and after eating, and after going to the toilet
• Cover your cough and sneeze, dispose of tissues, and use alcohol-based hand sanitiser
• If unwell, avoid contact with others (stay more than 1.5 metres from people) and seek medical assistance. Follow the advice of official local health advisories

Pre-trip planning

• Check the latest travel advisories for any countries you plan to visit and stay on top of health, vaccinations, passport and visa requirements well before departure
• Make sure you follow the COVID requirements of the country prior to flying
• Pack comfortable or exercise clothes. Try and make some time on your trip to go for a walk (if permitted)
• Drink plenty of water. Stay hydrated before, during and after your flight
• If you find meditation helps clear your mind, look ahead to see if your airport has any meditation or quiet rooms available. Alternatively, it might be worth exploring what lounge access is available
• Prior to your flight don’t consume alcohol, sugar or unhealthy foods

At the airport

 

• Wear a mask (unless exempt)
• Stay hydrated.
• Avoid carb-heavy meals as it can make you feel sluggish and bloated. You don’t want to feel uncomfortable for your flight, especially if it’s a long haul
• BYO snacks on the plane, such as plain nuts, fruits, or protein bars
• Try to mimic your usual sleep routine or that of your destination

At your hotel

• Choose a hotel with a fitness centre (due to covid restrictions – fitness centres may be prohibited)
• Ask at the hotel what facilities are available following the COVID guidelines
• Ask your Corporate Travel Management (CTM) consultant prior to travel to find a hotel that suits your needs

Minimising the effects of jetlag

 

• Jetlag can lead to impaired judgement and decision making
• If you can prepare your body a few days prior, you can try and beat jetlag
• Travelling west is less confusing for circadian rhythm as it prolongs the normal day-night cycle. Travelling eastward runs in the opposite. If you suffer severely from jetlag, try a westerly route if possible

Heading home/post-trip

• Rehydrate after a flight and eat plenty of fruit and vegetables. By replenishing your body, you can help limit your exposure to feeling tired or unwell.
• Try and get back into your regular routine (sleep, gym routine, etc.) as soon as possible
• If your body is craving sleep when trying to adjust back into its regular time zone, take naps rather than straining to stay awake
• If you feel unwell, ensure that you seek medical advice and, if necessary, practice self-isolation to reduce the risk of infecting others

Disclaimer

CTM recommends all travellers conduct their own thorough, independent research and take out adequate travel insurance prior to travel. Please contact your health care professional if you have any concerns or queries.