How To Survive (Brutal) Business Travel
Several years ago I had a boss who insisted we always take the first flight out to anywhere - even if our presentation was at like 4.30pm. His theory (which I think is fact-based) is that the first flight out is less likely to be canceled, and even if it's terribly delayed, you're at a distinct advantage in the war against disastrous lateness.
Because he had trained me to do this, when I started traveling for my own business, I was fearless about doing 1 day only trips ... i.e. fly out around 6 am, fly back at night and get in around midnight. I live in NYC and I've done like 6 hours in LA, 12 hours in Chicago, whatever. Bring it! I love sleeping in my own bed, what can I say.
Read on for the keys to this madness.
The only way you can survive this disgusting idea is to travel light (obviously carry-on only) and dress comfortably and like the chic professional you try to show the world you are. Please note, you cannot do these things at the same time. Here are the steps/items:
AM flight in: Choose a shift dress that won't wrinkle, wear flats, and if you wear contacts, don't put them in yet. Don't wear makeup on the plane - you might look pretty drooling on your next door neighbor when you inevitiably fall asleep, but you won't look good by the time you land.
Upon arrival: Do your makeup, a nice low ponytail/brush your hair, and change into some sharp shoes. Bonus points for brushing your teeth; otherwise mints - the kind that make your eyes water.
PM flight out: Change into leggings, flats, long sleeve, glasses once again. It feels so good you won't believe it.
Tips: Don't bring your heavy shearling coat no matter how cute it is. It will fit nowhere. Bring the warmest/lightest coat you have. Bring a wrap-like sweater that doubles as a pillow/blanket/scarf. Mine is not so pretty, but the DKNY Cozy is a classic. Invest in a good roll-ie bag - I fully support a rolling backpack (this is a good one from Quiksilver) because if you have coffee and stuff in your hands, you can put it on your back. Who cares if that's lame! It's not about looking cool. This is about survival people.
^^ SHOP IT ^^
1. Elie Tahari Lolly Dress ($368) - gift of the brand | 2. Leonello Borghi bag - no longer available (Phillip Lim 3.1 does a similiar shape) | 3. Lazerade velvet bellbottom leggings - Topshop has a velvet legging right now| 4. A) Diamond studs (mine are fake) - similar here B) Michael Kors Men's Style Watch ($225) C) Spex Club glasses (similar here) | 5. Stylemint long sleeves | 6. Forever 21 Green Wool Military Coat (similar here) | 7. Aldo booties (similar here) | 8. Dolce Vita for Target studded flats (similar here).
What are your travel tips ... do you ever embark (and disembark) on this kind of insanity?
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Thursday, November 10, 2011 at 04:16PM
Reader Comments (5)
Even though I don't really travel that much, I freaking LOVE this post. You make it seem so fun and easy! I'll never understand the women I see in the airport wearing stilettos... wtf. I would love to see what you travel with in the way of beauty products!
x, Emily aka TooManyRonis
http://abetterroni.blogspot.com/
ronez, that's a good idea... I did a post on cult of pretty about this but it was for an overseas trip
I loved this post... such great tips; all so true! Loving your blog - discovered you via Glitter Guide and newly addicted!
really great post. love all of your advice and your style is great. so glad i found your blog!
http://vanillachic.wordpress.com/
You have a very good idea if I’m looking for a man at the airport but I usually prefer to travel in business casual since not every flight is short and comfortable. I usually focus on how I can distract myself and fill my mind with other inspirations other than work. I do have a film blog that I do research for while I’m traveling as it distracts me and relaxes me. I got my hands on some awesome technology called the Sling Adapter available through Dish Network free thru a rebate to qualifying new and existing customers, which has changed an important part of my life. The DISH Remote Access app is free and downloads to iPads, laptops, and Smartphone’s plus there are no additional monthly charges and it is really that simple. It has given me the ability to have unlimited access to all my subscription programming and I need those movies. With the online content I can get tons of movies and thousands of TV episodes but I can also schedule my DVR events remotely if need be and utilize the recordings. I found it strange that other companies restrict programming to their customers, charge for the app and the Sling technology. This technology is important because allows my creative side to blossom. My work for Dish Network will always require travel, which will take me away from my blog, but I can research everything I need while I am away. Then when I get home, I am prepared to write. I may not have made it to the salon before my flight but I sure feel better mentally. Great site, thanks for sharing your ideas!