She Strengthens

The Unseen Challenges of Frequent Work Travel

As someone who loves to travel, I never thought I’d say that frequent work trips can be overwhelming. But with one to three trips per month and four to five international trips per year, maintaining a work-life balance, pursuing side projects and hobbies, and spending time with loved ones becomes a daunting task.

Avoiding Burnout

The constant travel can wear you down, especially as an introvert. To combat burnout, I prioritize rest and self-care before each trip. I make sure to get plenty of sleep, exercise, and eat nutritious food. Treating myself to small luxuries, like an adult coloring book and pencils, helps to reduce stress. I also prep books, music, and podcasts in advance to make long flights more enjoyable.

Navigating Travel Policies

Understanding your company’s travel policies is crucial to avoiding unexpected expenses. Be aware of per diem rates, receipt requirements, and deadlines for submitting expense reports. Don’t forget to ask about benefits, such as frequent flyer points, TSA pre-check, and comp time for travel during weekends or evenings.

Eating Well on the Road

Maintaining a healthy diet while traveling can be challenging. My strategy is to follow the “good, bad, and ugly” method: eat healthy foods first, followed by indulgent options, and save desserts for last. Staying hydrated is also essential, so I bring a reusable water bottle and avoid carbonated drinks on flights. Packing snacks like almonds and granola bars helps me resist airport temptations.

Finding Time to Exercise

As an introvert, I need time to unwind after a day of meetings. However, I’ve learned to prioritize exercise while traveling. If my hotel has a gym, I take advantage of it. Otherwise, I explore outdoor activities like running or swimming, or do workouts in my hotel room using YouTube videos.

Making the Most of Your Destination

Work travel doesn’t have to mean sacrificing exploration. If possible, extend your visit to include a weekend or plan evening activities like walking tours, museum visits, or concerts. Even in “boring” destinations, research can uncover hidden gems, making your trip more enjoyable.