Business travel: preparing a trip abroad in 7 steps

A business trip abroad often comes down to tight deadlines. Methodical preparation avoids unpleasant surprises and lets the employee focus on what matters: their meetings.

1. Set the objective and the dates

Meeting schedule, trade fair, training: a clear objective makes every following step easier, starting with the visa application.

2. Check the formalities

Business visa, passport validity, any vaccinations: requirements vary from country to country. Plan ahead, as some application appointments are booked several weeks in advance.

3. Obtain the invitation letter

For many destinations, a letter from the company or organisation hosting you is expected. It states the purpose, the dates and whether any costs are covered.

4. Prepare the travel order

Signed by your employer, it confirms the trip, its duration and the coverage of expenses. It complements the employment certificate.

5. Book a suitable ticket

For business travel, flexibility matters as much as price. A changeable ticket costs a little more but avoids heavy fees if the schedule changes.

6. Choose accommodation and transfers

A hotel close to your meeting venues and a transfer from the airport save valuable time, especially when arriving on an overnight flight.

7. Plan for assistance

Emergency contacts, insurance, someone reachable if a flight changes: a single point of contact makes it easier to handle the unexpected.

Our advice

Wanderlust handles all of these steps for companies, institutions and executives, with follow-up from departure to return.