Business travel can be rewarding, demanding, tiring and rejuvenating in equal measure. While it’s a chance to explore new places, meet new people and do important business, it also comes with the responsibility of maintaining your health and safety away from home. Whether you’re a seasoned business traveller or embarking on your first work trip, prioritising your well-being is essential.
In this blog, we’ll provide you with top travel care tips to keep you safe and healthy when travelling for business. From understanding your workplace’s duty of care to actionable advice on hydration, nutrition and staying connected, these guidelines will help you get the most out of your time away both personally and professionally.
Duty of care in business travel
When travelling for work, it’s important to be aware of your workplace’s duty of care to you. Employers have a legal and moral obligation to ensure the health and safety of their employees, even when they are away from the office. This includes providing the necessary information, resources and support to help you stay safe during your travels.
Employer responsibilities can vary but generally include conducting risk assessments, offering safety training and making sure employees can easily access emergency assistance. It’s crucial to know who is responsible for health and safety in the workplace and how they extend this responsibility to business travel. Before you go, get clued up on your company’s travel policies and the resources available to you.
Knowing your employer’s procedures can be a lifesaver in an emergency. Make a note of contact information for key personnel and understand the steps to take if you encounter unsafe conditions or health issues while on your trip. You should also regularly check for updates or changes to travel policies and make sure you’re aware of any new protocols.
Employers should also provide you with travel insurance that covers a range of potential issues, from medical emergencies to lost luggage. It’s essential to understand what your insurance covers and how to access these benefits when needed.
At Roomex, we understand the unique needs of business travellers. Our platform not only makes hotel bookings and payments a breeze but also keeps an eye on your team with our handy live Duty of Care map. This displays travel history, contact information and upcoming trip details, providing employers with real-time visibility and control. Should any problems arise, Roomex offers best-in-class support with assistance via phone call or live chat.
Health and safety tips for business travel
Hydration
Staying hydrated is fundamental to staying in tip-top health while travelling. Dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches and decreased concentration, which can affect your performance and just make you feel rough overall. Always carry a water bottle and make a conscious effort to drink water regularly, especially during flights and lengthy meetings. Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol that third double espresso might seem a good idea at the time, but it may end up dehydrating you further.
Drinking water is particularly important on flights, where the cabin air is dry and can quickly lead to dehydration. A good rule of thumb is to aim to drink at least 250 ml of water for every hour you’re in the air. Many airports now offer water bottle refill stations, so you can quench, quench, quench without having to purchase bottled water.
Nutrition
Eating well on the go can be challenging it’s easy to fall into the trap of grabbing greasy pastries, fizzy drinks and confectionery but it’s essential for your overall well-being. Aim for a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. Avoid fast food and snacks high in sugar and unhealthy fats. If possible, plan your meals ahead and take the time to choose restaurants offering healthy options.
Consider packing healthy snacks such as nuts, fruits or cereal bars to avoid the temptation of unhealthy airport or convenience store options. Many hotels offer in-room dining with healthy menu options or have partnerships with local restaurants that can deliver nutritious (and still delicious!) meals.
Sleep
Adequate sleep is crucial for staying alert and effective during business trips. Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule, even when crossing time zones. Use tools like eye masks and earplugs to create a restful environment, and keep away from screens before bed to help your body wind down.
Anyone who’s travelled long-haul knows that Jet lag can be a true energy drain when travelling across time zones. To reduce its effects, try adjusting your schedule to the new time zone a few days before you travel. Once on board, adjust your watch and tech to the new time zone and start living by your new time so sleep if it’s nighttime at your destination and stay awake if it’s daytime. Once you arrive, it’s crucial to spend time outside in natural light to help reset your circadian clock.
Take breaks
Sitting for long periods is bad news for your health but it’s tricky when many of us work at computers. Try to schedule in regular breaks to stand, stretch and move around. If you’re in meetings all day, take advantage of those breaks to walk around and get some fresh air. This will help you stay energised and focused.
Incorporate short, frequent breaks into your workday to avoid prolonged periods of inactivity. You could try using a timer or an app to remind you to stand up and stretch every hour. Alternatively, why not make the most of each toilet break to head outside for a few minutes, too? At your desk, simple exercises like neck stretches, shoulder rolls and leg lifts can help reduce stiffness and improve circulation. Chair yoga is a fab one, too there are plenty of free videos online to help you out.
Stay active
Staying on the subject of combatting the sedentary lifestyle, it’s important to incorporate physical activity into your routine, even while travelling. If you’re lucky, your hotel will have a fitness facility or you can explore local parks and walking routes in your downtime. Staying active helps reduce stress, improves mood and keeps you physically fit.
Why not pop some lightweight exercise equipment in your luggage, such as resistance bands or a skipping rope? You can easily use these items in your hotel room for a quick workout. If you prefer guided exercises, get on the hotel Wi-Fi and get online there are numerous apps and resources offering short workout routines with minimal equipment. You’ll feel better for it.
Be aware of surroundings
Always be mindful of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar places. Stay in well-lit, populated areas and keep your belongings secure. Being aware of potential hazards and taking proactive steps to avoid them is key to staying safe.
When travelling in a new city, research the area beforehand to understand which neighbourhoods are safe and which to avoid. Use a map app to plan your routes and avoid travelling alone at night if possible. Be cautious when using public transportation and keep an eye on your personal belongings.
Report unsafe conditions
If you encounter any unsafe conditions, report them to your employer immediately. This could include anything from unsafe working environments to health hazards. Prompt reporting ensures that the issue can be addressed quickly, preventing potential harm to you and others.
Keep a record of any incidents or hazards you notice, including dates, times and details of the conditions. This information can be crucial if further action is needed. If you’re unsure how to report an issue, ask your employer for guidance on the proper procedure.
Risk assessments and preparation
Conducting a risk assessment before any business trip is vital. Identify potential risks associated with your destination, such as political instability, health risks or environmental hazards. Your employer should provide guidance on how to conduct these assessments and what measures to take to mitigate risks.
Protect yourself against theft, health issues and travel disruptions when travelling. Know your local emergency contacts, have travel insurance and keep copies of important documents. Preparation is key to handling unexpected situations smoothly.
When planning your trip, research the destination’s local laws and customs. Understanding these can help you avoid potential legal issues and show respect for the local culture. It’s also a good idea to have a basic understanding of the local language, particularly key phrases that could help in an emergency.
Staying connected
Staying in touch with colleagues and family is important for both your safety and peace of mind. Let the relevant people know your movements and locations to help you stay connected and provide a support network while you’re away.
Before you head off, check that you have reliable communication tools such as a mobile phone with international roaming or a local SIM card. Apps like WhatsApp, Skype or Zoom make it easy to keep in touch. Schedule regular check-ins with your team and family to update them on your status and any changes to your plans.
Wrapping up
By now, you should have a comprehensive understanding of how to maintain your well-being during business travel. From understanding your workplace’s duty of care to implementing practical health and safety tips, each step you take can contribute significantly to a safer and more enjoyable trip.
Remember, your employer has a duty of care to ensure you are safe and well-prepared for any business travel. This includes conducting risk assessments, providing essential resources and offering support throughout your journey. Make sure you’re familiar with your company’s travel policies and utilise platforms like Roomex that centralise bookings, payments and provide real-time travel tracking with a Duty of Care map.
By integrating these travel care tips into your routine, you can make your business trips productive but also safe and healthy. Your well-being is paramount, and by taking these proactive steps, you can handle your trips with confidence and ease. Safe travels!