Business travel: if you’re lucky, it can take you to destinations far and wide – it’s important not to forget that unlike with private trips, you’re representing your company throughout. That means what you wear matters a lot more – especially if you’ve got to hop off the train and straight into your first meeting.
In 2021, UK residents clocked in a staggering 8.3 million business trips – so rest assured you’re not the only workplace traveller wondering what to pack. So how do you know what to wear when travelling for work? Should you go comfortable and casual, or sit ready in a suit? After all, projecting confidence and competence through your appearance is as vital as sealing that next big deal.
Banish those packing woes – we’ve got all the tips you need for business travel attire success in this blog.
TL;DR
- Business travel is about seizing opportunities and advancing your career through face-to-face connections.
- It’s crucial to dress professionally – if you’re unsure what to pack, business casual attire is a safe choice.
- Packing strategically, with wrinkle-resistant clothing and versatile outfits, ensures you're ready for any business occasion.
- Stick to essentials, roll clothes and use packing cubes to make the most of your luggage space.
What is the difference between personal and business travel?
Understanding the purpose and context of business travel
When you hop on a train for a business trip, it’s a chance to seize opportunities, build relationships and – hopefully – advance your career in the process. Research shows that 88% of employees believe face-to-face meetings are crucial for developing positive and enduring connections among colleagues.
Unlike leisure travel, business trips aren’t centred around fun – although that doesn’t mean they’re all boring! Work-related travel is about meeting company objectives and making a return on the travel investment. In face-to-face situations, you’ll be shaking hands, reading body language and establishing trust in a way that virtual meetings simply can't replicate.
Six out of ten professionals also see business travel as a vital component of their professional growth. Each trip offers a chance to learn, grow and expand your horizons, whether that’s when sharing canapés with potential clients or attending talks at industry conferences.
Why are business travel clothes important?
The moment you step off that train or plane, your appearance speaks volumes about your professionalism and credibility. Whether you're meeting clients or representing your company at important events, dressing the part is non-negotiable.
So, when it comes to business travel, remember: business travel attire is a strategic advantage that can open doors and build trust, and potentially drive your career forward at the same time.
Different considerations for personal vs. business travel attire
Your approach may vary when you are packing for business travel or personal travel, but the goal remains the same: to be comfortable, look confident – and be prepared for any situation.
Personal travel allows for more flexibility and casual attire – you can show off that brightly printed shirt or new floaty shift dress – but business trips demand a higher level of professionalism and attention to detail. It’s a great idea to pack well-fitted, wrinkle-resistant clothing in neutral colours so you can transition from meetings to networking events without needing to pop back into the hotel.
Top tip: invest in versatile pieces that you can mix and match to save luggage space and prepare for any unexpected twists in your itinerary.
What clothes are best for travelling for work?
With 80% of workplace travellers preferring to travel by train when possible, and 40% extending their work trips to include leisure time, it’s paramount to pack comfortable and versatile clothing that looks presentable.
Comfortable yet professional business travel outfits
Men:
- Tailored trousers or chinos
- Crisp button-down shirts or smart polo shirts
- Blazer or structured jacket
- Comfortable loafers or smart fashion trainers (choose leather or canvas), and dress shoes (if you have corporate meetings).
Women:
- Tailored trousers or midi skirts
- Blouses or tops in wrinkle-resistant fabrics
- Blazer or cardigan
- Stylish flats, smart fashion trainers (choose leather or canvas), or low heels for comfort
Additional layers and warmth
Men:
- Lightweight sweater or knitted jumper
- Packable rain jacket or trench coat
- Scarf for added warmth
Women:
- Cardigan or lightweight knit sweater
- Casual blazer or a smart, waterproof jacket
- Pashmina or oversized scarf for extra warmth
Business travel wear that is durable and wrinkle-resistant
For site visits:
- Performance fabrics like wrinkle-resistant shirts and durable trousers
- Stretchy yet polished-looking fabrics for comfort and style
- Lightweight and warm knitted sweaters or cardigans – breathable, natural yarns like cotton and wool work best
For corporate meetings:
- Crisp cotton or microfibre shirts, tailored suits in non-iron materials
- Structured dresses or skirt suits in wrinkle-resistant fabrics like polyester blends
For downtime:
- Casual yet smart options like well-fitted jeans or chinos paired with polo shirts or knitwear
- Comfortable and stylish separates such as leggings or fitted trousers worn with relaxed blouses or tunics
Top tip: Before you travel, take the time to research your itinerary. Will you be in an office or focusing on site visits? Does your destination for meetings or workshops have a formal business dress code? Keep this information in mind as you pack.
How do I pack for a 2-day business trip?
Four business-trip packing strategies
- Roll, don't fold: rolling clothes saves space and minimises wrinkles
- Use packing cubes: organise outfits and essentials in separate cubes for easy access
- Plan outfits in advance: coordinate versatile pieces to mix and match for different occasions
- Pack light: stick to the essentials and avoid overpacking to make it easier to transition from train to hotel – or straight to your first meeting.
Essential business travel clothes and other items
Clothing:
- Two sets of business attire (e.g., shirts, trousers/skirts, blazers)
- Casual outfits for downtime that can double as informal business attire (e.g., dark jeans, chinos, light sweaters, comfortable tops)
- Undergarments and socks
Accessories & toiletries:
- Shoes suitable for business and leisure (e.g., smart loafers, smart fashion trainers, comfortable flats)
- Belt, ties, or accessories to complement outfits
- Scarf or pashmina for added warmth and style
- Travel-sized toiletries (e.g., shampoo, conditioner, body wash)
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and other personal hygiene items
- Skincare essentials (e.g., moisturiser and sunscreen)
Business essentials:
- Laptop or tablet and charger
- Travel documents (e.g., passport, itinerary, train tickets)
- Notepad and pen
- Snacks and water bottle for on-the-go nourishment
How to maximise luggage space and minimise wrinkles
- Choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics: opt for clothing made from materials that resist wrinkles to maintain a polished appearance
- Use garment bags: keep suits, blazers, and dresses protected and wrinkle-free.
- Pack strategically: place heavier items at the bottom and lighter, more delicate items on top to prevent crushing
- Minimise toiletries: pack travel-sized toiletries or use multi-purpose products to save space in your luggage
- Consider a compact carry-on: choose a carry-on suitcase or travel bag that maximises space while also fitting neatly into the train luggage compartments. Look for luggage with exterior pockets or internal dividers to keep your belongings accessible and organised
Wrapping up
If you are travelling for work, every detail matters – including what you wear. With Roomex’s booking platform, you can book and manage all your accommodation needs in one place, taking advantage of filters that allow you to find hotels with the amenities you and your workplace travellers require, from gym facilities to on-site restaurants.
When you know what to expect, you can pack accordingly – making room in your business travel luggage for gym gear, or an extra wrinkle-free shirt for top-tier dining.
With Roomex, you can focus on dressing sharp and packing light for your next business trip, knowing that all your accommodation bookings, confirmations and expense reporting are taken care of with efficiency and precision.
