Packing List for a Minimalist Business Trip

Whether you’re packing for a short or long business trip, the lighter you travel, the easier your travels will be! When packing for a work trip, your list will consist more of electronics, documents, and gear rather than swimsuits and sunscreen.

Here, we will break down your packing needs for all types of business trips!

How to Pack for a Business Trip

For a business trip, you should pack a carry-on-sized piece of luggage plus one personal bag that fits your laptop. The best personal bag option is a backpack since it can fit more; however, you can still manage with a large purse or laptop bag. Make sure your laptop is packed in a protective sleeve. Some of these bags already have a built-in option, but if not, it is best to purchase one before traveling so that your laptop arrives as safely as you do!

Roll Your Clothes

Rolling your clothes rather than folding them gives you more space, is more organized, and leaves less room for wrinkles. All pieces of clothing should be folded along the seams and then rolled, except your suit.

Upon arrival, be sure to unpack your clothes and hang them in the closet (pro tip: hang them in the bathroom while you shower to release wrinkles). If you are still worried about wrinkles, most hotel rooms come equipped with an iron.

Packing Your Suit

To pack your suit in your carry-on, make sure to fold it. You can pack your suit accessories such as socks, ties, and pocket squares in your shoes (which also helps preserve their shape).

Basic Business Trip Packing List

Every business trip packing list is not complete without your personal items. These include:

Paperwork

Passport + Copy
Copy of itinerary
Boarding Pass

Transportation & Accommodation Reservation Information
List of emergency contacts
Vaccine ID Card

Electronics

Phone + Charger
Headphones/earbuds
Laptop + Charger

Tablet + Charger
Adapter (if traveling abroad)

Other

Kindle or Book
Pen + Notebook
Toothbrush
Deodorant

Hair Brush
Contact Lenses + Solution
Shaving Supplies
Medications

Overnight Business Trip Packing List

Pack the following plus everything in the essential packing list above for overnight trips.

1 Dress Shirt
1 Casual Shirt
1 Pair of Dress Pants/Skirt
1 Pair of Casual Pants

1 Pair of Dress Shoes
1 Pair of Casual Shoes
1 Pair of Underwear
1 Pair of Socks

3 Days Business Trip Packing List

When packing clothes for a work trip, make sure to pack items that can be dressed up or down so you can get more than one use out of them. For a 3-day business trip, you should pack:

2 Dress Shirts
1 Casual Shirt
1-2 Pants
1 Dress
1 Blazer/Suit
3 Pairs of Underwear

3 Pairs of Socks
2 Bras
1 Set of Pajamas
1 Pair of Dress Shoes
1 Athletic/Casual Shoes

5 Days Business Trip Packing List

In addition to the basics in the 3-day business trip packing list, you’ll want to include:

2 Pairs of Socks
2 Pairs of Underwear
1 Pair of Pants/Skirt

1 Blouse/Dress Shirt
1 Casual Shirt
1 Blazer/Suit

Whether you are traveling overnight or for five days, make sure to pack only what you need by using our minimalist packing list for your next business trip!