You Are Here: Home - Expert Advice - The Organizer's Toolbox - Tip Sheets
NEW! - Keywords For This Page: Marketing / Publicity - Airlines - Travel
Feel free to use this tip sheet / checklist as you tackle your own ""do-it-yourself"" organizing projects. If you would like to REPRINT or DISTRIBUTE this information, please click here for reprinting instructions.
 | PACKING FOR YOUR TRIP |  |
- keep a pre-packed overnight bag ready for short-notice trips
- include duplicates of toiletries and sleepwear
- avoid over packing by planning ahead
- create a standard packing list to use again and again
- choose clothes that don't require special care or dry cleaning
- pack clothes that you can mix and match
- choose outfits that can convert into either business or casual
- avoid checking your luggage
- pack two small carryon bags (one for clothes and one for work)
| PREPARING A TRAVEL BRIEFCASE | |
- keep well-stocked with office supplies
- pens, stapler, notepads, paperclips, a calculator
- create a "travel folder" for papers and materials you will need
- presentations, reference items, unfinished work, travel info, etc.
- fill your folder as you plan your trip
- or attach a running list to the folder and fill just before you leave
- keep all travel info (agenda, flight, hotel, rental car) on one sheet
| SCHEDULING YOUR DAYS | |
- build in a cushion on either side of your appointment for delays
- have a contingency plan in case an appointment is cancelled
- bring work or reading material with you to fill time between events
- plan in some personal time to relax or sightsee -- to unwind
| STAYING ORGANIZED ON THE ROAD | |
- use separate credit cards for business and personal purchases
- keep all of your receipts in a manila envelope or zippered pouch
- mark your expense form as you go and retype when you return
- keep important paperwork all in one place in your hotel room
- label "don't throw away" (for cleaning staff) when out of your room
- review the materials you have received at the end of each day
- categorize and make notes you while it is still fresh in your mind
- keep a running list of items that require attention when you return
| THEY CAN SURVIVE WITHOUT YOU | |
- take care of as many items as possible before leaving
- return phone calls, answer letters, etc.
- let clients and colleagues know when you will be unavailable
- make it easy for your staff to reach you should they need you
- give copies of your itinerary to your spouse and secretary
- also give a copy to the front desk at your hotel
- clearly define those items that warrant interrupting your trip
- train your staff to handle issues without you
- back up your computer and sync your PDA so office has your current info
- change your voice message to point callers to the correct colleague
| TRAVELING FOR CONVENIENCE | |
- make your arrangements through a travel agent to save time
- request your flight seat assignment when getting your reservation
- be seated near the front of the plane to be one of the first off
- the earliest flight possible gives you "buffer" in case of delays
- choose a hotel that offers special services to business travelers
- fax, copier, internet connection, courier service, etc.
- also free services that make morning easier
- continental breakfast, newspaper, iron in your room, etc.
| WHEN YOU RETURN | |
- take a few moments to put everything away at home and work
- go through mail, voice messages, and e-mail as soon as you can
- make note of any issues that require your attention
- create three piles -- "to delegate," "action items," and "to file"
- delegate items to others immediately upon return
- put your list in order of priority with most urgent items at the top
- plan time to tackle each item, from top of the list down
Copyright 2000-2009 Ramona Creel -- you are welcome to reprint any article, but you MUST include this resource box.
"Ramona Creel is a modern Renaissance woman and guru of simplicity -- traveling the country as a full-time RVer, sharing her story of radically downsizing, and inspiring others to regain control of their own lives. As a Professional Organizer and Accountability Coach, Ramona will help you create the time and space to focus on your true priorities -- clearing away the clutter other obstacles and standing in the way of that life you've always wanted to be living. As a Professional Photographer, Ramona captures powerful images of places and people as she travels. And as a travel writer, social commentator, and blogger, she shares her experiences and insights about the world as we know it. You can see all these sides of Ramona -- read her articles, browse through her photographs, and even hire her to help get your life in order -- at www.RamonaCreel.com. And be sure to follow her on Twitter and on Facebook."
Would you like to reprint this tip sheet in your publication -- or distribute it to a wider audience? Click here for reprinting instructions.
Click here if you would like to submit a tip sheet or checklist...
Related Products:
View More...
OnlineOrganizing.com is a service mark of Bradford, LLC.
