Business trips can often feel like an endless parade of meetings, rushed schedules, and sterile hotel rooms.
But with the right strategies, they can transform into memorable experiences that combine productivity with personal fulfilment. Blending business with leisure—known as “bleisure”—isn’t just trendy; it’s practical.
A study by Expedia Group found that 60% of business travellers extend their trips for leisure.
Here’s how you can join their ranks and make your next trip both professionally rewarding and personally enriching.
Plan Your Schedule Strategically
First, the foundation. Organization is key.
Arrive a day or two early or stay a little longer after your business obligations. This extension offers time to explore the destination without compromising work commitments.
- Check your itinerary: Identify gaps in your schedule. Maybe a morning meeting leaves your afternoon free to explore local attractions.
- Use apps: Tools like TripIt or Google Calendar can help you integrate work and leisure seamlessly.
Pro tip: Always communicate your plans to your employer and try to be available for emergencies.
If you need to send some additional documents, you should have digital faxing. This is implemented through the fax app for iPhone or iPad. Transparency ensures that leisure time doesn’t raise eyebrows.
Maybe you don’t have to be constantly in touch while traveling, but the ability to urgently close some issues is a clear plus.
Choose Destinations Wisely
Not all work trips are created equal. Some cities lend themselves better to leisure activities.
A conference in Paris? Golden. A sales meeting in a remote industrial park? Less so.
RELATED blog post to read: Paris, France: How to Spend 48 Hours Here
When possible, advocate for destinations that align with your interests. Love art? Aim for cities with vibrant galleries. History buff? Opt for destinations steeped in culture.
According to the Global Business Travel Association, 83% of millennials view business travel as an opportunity to explore new cultures. Why not align your goals with theirs?
Maximize Free Time
Even the busiest schedules have cracks. It’s about using them well.
- Early mornings: Rise before the city wakes. Jog through parks, watch sunrises, or enjoy peaceful coffee shops.
- Lunch breaks: Instead of eating at the conference venue, step out to sample local cuisines.
Evenings: Research local performances or events. A concert or cultural show can turn a mundane trip into an unforgettable one.
Pack Smarter, Not Harder
Combining work and leisure requires a versatile wardrobe. Formal meetings and casual explorations demand different attire, but that doesn’t mean overpacking.
- Choose dual-purpose clothing: A blazer that works for meetings and casual dinners saves space.
Gadgets matter: A lightweight laptop, universal charger, and noise-canceling headphones are must-haves.
Moreover, remember to pack some leisure essentials—a swimsuit for the hotel pool or hiking boots for nearby trails.
Leverage Company Benefits
Many companies encourage bleisure travel. Check your policies—some employers allow you to use frequent flyer miles or extend stays at discounted corporate rates.
The 2023 Bleisure Report by Skift shows that 37% of companies now actively promote bleisure travel. Use these perks to your advantage.
Network Beyond Meetings
Traveling for work isn’t just about shaking hands during formal events. Networking opportunities abound in informal settings. Invite a colleague to a local café or suggest a walk through a city landmark after a meeting.
These connections often lead to deeper professional relationships. Plus, they let you experience the destination with a local or seasoned traveler’s perspective.
Immerse Yourself in Local Culture
What’s the point of traveling if you don’t savour the unique flavour of a destination? Step out of the corporate bubble.
- Explore like a local: Ditch tourist traps. Use platforms like Airbnb Experiences or ask locals for recommendations.
- Learn something new: Whether it’s a quick cooking class or a wine-tasting session, these experiences enrich your trip and create lasting memories.
Balance is the Key
Blurring the lines between work and leisure requires boundaries. Ensure you’re meeting your professional responsibilities before indulging in leisure activities.
If you find yourself overwhelmed, step back. Overextending can lead to burnout rather than rejuvenation.
The Payoff
Combining work and leisure enhances not only your travel experience but also your productivity.
Employees who embrace bleisure travel report feeling more refreshed and engaged upon returning, according to research by Carlson Wagonlit Travel.
So, as you pack your bags for your next work trip, think beyond the boardroom. From crafting an itinerary that works double duty to making time for exploration, the possibilities are endless.
Travel isn’t just about moving from point A to point B—it’s about expanding horizons, both personal and professional.
Wouldn’t it be a shame to let a beautiful city pass you by while you’re stuck in a hotel conference room?
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