Since the COVID-19 pandemic, we have all learned to work, live and play in a new normal wherein virtual connections have become more prevalent. However, a 2022 study from Tourism Economics for the U.S. Travel Association and J.D. Power’s Travel and Hospitality Intelligence found that the average business traveler expects to take around 1.6 business trips per month in 2023 and beyond—almost up to the pre-pandemic level of 1.7 trips per month. Additionally, “many business travelers who work partially or fully remote report that their employer encourages them to travel to engage with other team members in person (38%), to attend training sessions in person (32%) or to attend in-person company or team celebrations (29%),” according to the study.
As business travel rebounds, today’s road warrior will need more support than ever to make travel go smoothly. Here are 10 accessories and clothing items that may help your business travel be less stressful.
6 business travel accessories
1. Monos Hybrid Carry-On
Having a roomy carry-on such as the Monos Hybrid Carry-On is a must. Say goodbye to sitting on your luggage to close it, as this piece has a zipperless aluminum frame that makes it sturdy yet stylish. Two latches with integrated TSA-approved combination locks provide added security.
Price: $325
2. Filson 48-Hour Tin Cloth Duffle Bag
For shorter business travel or even an overnight trip, Filson’s 48-Hour Tin Cloth Duffle Bag is an ideal accessory. The oil-finish Tin Cloth acts as a water repellent against rain or snow, so all your gear stays dry no matter the weather. It also has an adjustable and removable strap that allows for a shoulder or cross-body messenger carry. An added trolley strap means it can be combined with your rolling carry-on for a hands-free sprint through the airport terminal, if need be.
Price: $495
3. Monos Compressible Packing Cubes
Travelers also agree that packing cubes take packing to the next level by saving and optimizing space. Compression cubes like the ones from Monos are a great travel hack because they encourage organization and streamline the unpacking process. They even have a see-through mesh top, so you know the contents of each at a glance.
A quick tip: Bring an extra cube to hold dirty laundry that you can empty directly into your washing machine upon return.
Price: $90 for a set of four
4. OtterBox OtterGrip Symmetry Series
This pocketable case has a built-in finger grip that presses flat to slip in and out of pockets flawlessly.
Price: $60
5. OtterBox Charging Pad for MagSafe
Together with wireless power banks, these energy-saving charging pads keep your device fully powered up all day long.
Price: $30
6. Solis
Solis “delivers fast, secure mobile Internet in over 135 countries worldwide via patented virtual SIM™ technology” for a flat rate, according to their website. That means no more contracts, SIM cards to swap out or surprise fees. Solis is a business travel accessory that helps you stay connected and maximize productivity during travel no matter your destination.
Price: $9 for a global day pass, $99 for a global monthly plan
4 business travel clothing items and accessories
1. Prana Emerald Lake Dress
This sleek, versatile piece is described as “the dress that does it all”—perfect for transitioning from plane to boardroom.
Price: $99
2. Covert 1/2 Zip Neck
Imagine a midweight fleece relaxed enough for a flight yet tailored enough for a quick coffee meeting. Whether wearing it alone or midlayer, the Arc’teryx fleece is well-ventilated and durable enough for a range of seasons and conditions.
Price: $160
3. Hoka Transport
Classic, neutral shoes are always great business travel accessories. Hoka has a cult following among celebrities such as Cameron Diaz, who wore them during a talk show appearance, and Reese Witherspoon, who reportedly owns at least two pairs. Perhaps the most endearing feature of this shoe is the quick-toggle lace—no more jumping on one foot trying to put your shoes on after passing through TSA.
Price: $140
4. DUER Performance Denim Mid-Rise Slim Straight Cut Jeans
These are the most comfortable, stretchable jeans for every style and occasion. When paired with a blazer, they instantly transform into a more business casual look.
Price: $139
Editor’s Note: All prices and items were available as of press time.
This article originally appeared in the July/August 2023 issue of SUCCESS magazine. Photo by Prostock-studio/Shutterstock