Business travel: Our pro tips!

Tip #1

“Always take the first flight in the morning.”

"I'd say taking the first flight in the morning is essential if your arrival time is important and non-negotiable. That way, the chances of the plane arriving late and impacting your departure are slimmer," explained Marie Pier Germain, Vice President of Sales and Marketing. They say the future belongs to those who get up early!

Tip #2

“Choose an e-reader rather than a book.”

In addition to taking up less space in a small carry-on, an e-reader allows you to read comfortably even in dim light and to take along an extensive collection of books, or even work documents. "I read a lot and love reading on the plane (for work or pleasure). The texture of the "page" on my e-reader feels pleasant to the touch, and the screen's backlight adjusts according to the light around it - so it's very easy on the eyes. I'm particularly fond of real books, but a good e-reader is a great compromise - especially on the go," said Clarah Germain, Director of Alt St. John's.

Clara 2E E-reader, Kobo, $160 (ca.kobobooks.com)

Tip #3

“When you can, take your car instead of flying.”

"I really enjoy driving," said Hugo Germain, Vice President of Operations. “If I can get somewhere by car, that's the way I prefer to go. I leave very early to catch the sunrise, sipping a good coffee while driving before the world wakes up. It's usually a pretty productive time to reflect before the hustle and bustle of the day begins." It avoids lines and even delays!

Nomad Travel Mug, Nespresso, $30 (nespresso.com)

Tip #4

“Always carry a portable charger.”

No power outlets on the plane, train, or at the airport? No problem! If you have an efficient portable charger, everything is under control. “For example, Air Canada Rouge Airbus 319s, often used for domestic flights, have no power in economy class. The charger comes in very handy after long days working on the road," said Hugo.

Portable charge, Belkin, $100 (bestbuy.ca)

Tip #5

“Stay well-hydrated while flying.”

Air travel is dehydrating, which is why it is important to drink plenty of water before, during and after your flight. Our skin also needs a little boost when travelling by air. If you travel during the day, protect yourself from UV rays with an SPF, and don’t forget to hydrate your skin when leaving the tarmac. You can even give it a hydration boost during the flight with a thermal mist!

Travel size thermal water, Uriage, $6.50 (jeancoutu.com)

Tip #6

“Arrive at the airport at the last minute.”

Yes, you read that right! Hugo explained that, over the years, he has managed to time it perfectly, so he never waits more than ten minutes in the waiting room before boarding his flight. "I arrive at the airport 30 minutes before boarding when I travel across Canada, and I always bring a carry-on, never a checked bag!" The result? He has more time before his trip to tackle his many tasks. Of course, if you have to go through customs, you need to get there a little more in advance.

The Carry-On suitcase, Away, $395 (awaytravel.com)

Family essentials

A few travel gadgets we can't do without on business trips:

• The Airfly Pro, from TwelveSouth, connects to airplane entertainment systems with wireless headphones.
• YS Park's mesh fabric diffuser for curly hair fits most blow dryers and is easy to lug around in our suitcases.
• The AirTag, is a tracker you attach to anything you want to make sure you don't lose.
• The patented Travelrest neck pillow, allows us to rest during travel without getting a stiff neck.
• Antibacterial hand gel from Maison Lavande, a Quebec company. Always practical - and very pleasing to the senses!