What's it ACTUALLY like to travel for work?

First work-sponsored travel for my internship this summer. While we still dont' have specific info on the arrangements, my work will fly us to HQ then our office for the summer. What should I expect? Do I need to dress a little more professionally? Should I limit my luggage? Will they handle transportation from the office to the airport? Sorry for all the questions but would appreciate any help :)

7 Comments
 

Traveling for work can be both exciting and a bit overwhelming, especially for your first time. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s what you should keep in mind:

  1. Professional Attire:

    • Yes, you should dress more professionally, especially during travel if you’re meeting colleagues or clients upon arrival. Opt for business casual or formal attire depending on your company’s culture.
    • If unsure, observe what others are wearing or ask HR for guidance.
  2. Luggage:

    • Limit your luggage to essentials. A carry-on and a personal item (like a laptop bag) are usually sufficient for short trips.
    • Pack versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched, and don’t forget to include a professional outfit for meetings or office visits.
  3. Transportation:

    • Companies often handle transportation from the airport to the office or hotel. However, confirm this with HR or your manager beforehand. If it’s not arranged, keep receipts for reimbursement if allowed.
  4. General Tips:

    • Be punctual and organized. Keep all travel documents (boarding passes, ID, etc.) easily accessible.
    • Stay professional throughout the trip, as you’re representing your company.
    • Use the opportunity to network and make a good impression on colleagues and higher-ups.

Enjoy the experience—it’s a great chance to learn and grow professionally!

Sources: girls internship attire, S&T Summer Intern Clothing Guide, Female intern clothes, Summer Internship dress code | IBD London, Week 1 of IBD Internship: Training

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

It depends on the nature of the trip. 95% of the time the only time you set foot outside your hotel or meeting space (assuming they're not the same place) is when you're walking between meetings or when you go to dinner. You're "on" from 7am through 11pm. Then you leave. It could be in the coolest place on the planet, and you won't have the time to enjoy it. People romanticize work travel, but there's nothing glamorous about it.

In my experience - suit and tie by default. Single carry-on bag. You are responsible for your own transportation to and from the airport, but you expense to the corporate card. 

YMMV. If this is for an internship, your trip is probably going to be more "fun" with planned events and no actual work happening, and there might be pre-arranged group shuttles to and from the airport and to planned "events". 

 

How big is the company & what is the purpose of the travel? a lot of what happens depends on that. for example, when I travel for work I book through an internal provider for airfare and hotel, food and cabs are done through company CC. lunch and dinner is usually provided. you may have time to workout in the AM and grab breakfast on your own, but otherwise you will probably be busy all day except for 30 min to get back to hotel to shower/change before dinner for another few hours.

also, just ask your coworker or manager for an itinerary/schedule.

 

 The itinerary will be determined by the firm and the trip's purpose. In order to properly plan your downtime and pack, it's a good idea to request the itinerary in advance.

 
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