Packing List for the Business Traveler: Cybersecurity and Productivity Tools

Cybersecurity and Productivity Tools

Traveling for business can be a rewarding yet demanding experience, especially in the dynamic and diverse APAC (Asia-Pacific) region. 

Among some difficulties that you can experience when traveling to Asia and the Pacific, business travel professionals say that the rising cost of travel (73%), corporate budgets not keeping pace with needs (58%), and technology advancements (12%) are just some of the issues they faced. 

That doesn’t mean you’ll go through the same experience, especially if you pack well and come prepared.

Whether you’re heading to the bustling streets of Tokyo, the tech hubs of Bangalore, or the financial district of Singapore, being well prepared can make all the difference.

Now, it’s one thing to pack as a tourist, and completely another when packing for a business trip. Let’s see what kind of tools you need.

Gadgets and gear

Your gadgets are your lifeline when going on a business trip. You can stuff your laptop with all kinds of data and usable tools, but it won’t matter if you manage to forget it. To be on the safe side, make a list of all the necessities you need to pack.

Your laptop is definitely the most important tool in your business arsenal. Make sure it’s lightweight, has a long battery life, and is equipped with all the necessary software. Your laptop alone is not enough, so don’t forget to pack

  • Portable charger–an absolute must for long flights and remote work locations
  • External hard drive–just in case, for backups and extra storage
  • Laptop sleeve or bag–to protect your laptop from damage
  • Universal power adapter–APAC countries have different socket types and voltages

Another necessity that will never leave your side is a smartphone. It’s been a long time since phones were meant for communication only. Now they are your travel guide, translator, business tool, alarm clock, photographer–your best friend, your whole life. 

Well, in the APAC region counties have different mobile network standards, so an addition in the form of an eSIM card can be incredibly beneficial. It can be another life saver when it comes to communications and internet usage. 

An eSIM (embedded SIM) will let you switch between carriers without changing physical SIM cards. In regions like APAC this is particularly useful as you can switch to local carriers for better connectivity and cost savings. For example, Singapore eSIM offers a great experience for travelers, letting them stay connected with local networks instantly. Do you want to know what other benefits eSIM has? 

  • Instant activation–no need to visit a store, you can activate your plan online
  • Multiple profiles–switch between different carriers easily
  • Cost-effective–no more expensive roaming charges

Do you also need tablets and e-readers? Well, why not? They are perfect for reviewing documents, reading reports, or you can simply read a book. They are usually lightweight and portable, not to mention multifunctional.

Translation tools

Do you know how many languages are spoken in the APAC region? Are you thinking that the English language is the business language of the globe? Even if that might be the case, it’s still a good idea to overcome language barriers. 

You can do so with various translation or transcription softwares. Your future business partners or clients will surely appreciate the effort of you translating the materials for presentation.

When it comes to translation apps, they can nicely translate text, speech, or even images in real-time. Some of the popular options are Google translate that supports over 100 languages, Microsoft translator that translates text, voice, and photo, and iTranslate that can do translations of text, voice, and websites online or offline.

But, when dealing with multimedia content, an audiovisual localisation platform is important. It can make sure your content gets subtitles and the  transcription. You can get new materials without the need to actually make anything new, and your content will be relevant and accessible to local audiences. What can you expect from platforms like these?

  • Multilingual subtitles–you can choose subtitles in any language they offer to reach a broader audience
  • Voiceover services–some of the platforms may offer professional voiceover in local languages for videos and presentations
  • Cultural adaptation–fit the content for different cultures and preferences

Cybersecurity tools

No matter where you go, keep your security with you. Cybersecurity has become an extremely important part of business, especially for business travelers since they are often prime targets for cyber attacks because they have access to sensitive information. Here are the holy three security tools you must have: 

  1. VPN
  2. Password manager
  3. Antivirus software.
  1. Virtual Private Network (VPN) is securing your internet connection, especially in cases where you need to use public Wi-Fi in hotels, airports, or cafes. 

VPN encrypts your data and shields your activities from curious eyes. When looking for the right VPN for your needs, take into consideration those that offer high-speed servers, no log policy so that your data is not stored or tracked, and global servers so you can access your data from all around the world.

  1. Managing multiple passwords can be challenging, even more so if you took advice and made them all strong (lowercase and uppercase random letters, numbers and signs that you definitely forgot as soon as you created it). A password manager can help you create unique and strong passwords, and then it will store them safely, so you don’t need to memorize them or take care of them further. What can that mean for your business?
  • Two-factor authentication–that’s an extra layer of security
  • Cross-platform sync–you can get to your passwords from all of your devices
  • Secure sharing–you can share passwords with colleagues on the most secure way
  1. And when it comes to antivirus software, it will protect your devices from viruses and malware. When you go to pick one, make sure it has real-time protection which means that it will constantly monitor for threats, automatic updates so you don’t have to worry about following trends–the antivirus will do it for you, and multi-device support so you can buy one for all your devices.

Productivity tools

You’re on a business trip, so you want to be productive and keep track of tasks, deadlines, and team collaboration. Even though it’s called travel, you can’t sightsee all the time, but if you are fast and productive, and have good time management, you can still make it and enjoy the foreign country. 

You can try some project management apps such as Trello, Asana or Monday.com. They are the most popular ones.

Note taking apps are also important. You’ll get to capture ideas, meeting notes, and to-do lists. Most devices already come with those tools, but if you want to try something new, there are OneNote or Notion. Getting to experience new tools can sometimes bring new vigor for the project you’re working on.

And now that you made sure that everybody knows what to do, you can choose your communication tool to stay in touch. There are Slack, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams, depending on your needs. Slack is mostly for sending messages, Zoom is great for video conferences, and Microsoft Teams combines everything.

 

Travel apps

Traveling to the APAC region can be complex, especially if you’re coming from afar. You’ll probably meet with varying transportation systems and regulations. Languages too, but we already spoke about them. 

Some travel apps that can definitely make your life easier are those to help you with booking flights and hotels. 

  • Skyscanner can compare flights, hotels, and car rentals across multiple providers
  • Booking.com it the most famous app for finding an accommodation
  • Airbnb is where you’ll find unique lodgings and local experiences

Local transportation apps are also important, and in a case you have a tight budget, expense management apps. For example, Expensify can scan receipts, track expenses, and submit reports.

Staying fit on the go

?ow, we did said you are on a business trip, but did you thought it will be work only? Even if it is so, you still need to look after your mental and physical health. If, God forbid, anything happens to you, you won’t be able to do your job effectively and with care, and the company might replace you–and where would that lead you? 

So make sure to stay healthy and fit no matter where you are and what you do. That is for the best for you and your company.

Some of the apps that can help are those for tracking eating and exercise habits like MyFitnessPal, or any of the series of apps that sound like 7 or 10 Minute Workouts. 

After an eventful day, mediation and relaxation apps can help you as well. Meditation can calm your mind so you can fall asleep faster and have a quality sleep. Well rested, you’ll be more prepared in the morning to charge into job obligations. 

Also, try out some apps that can monitor your heart rate or sleep–you might be surprised how little you get to sleep on business travels. 

And yes–don’t forget to bring a first aid kit. If you do, at least ask around to know where one is, just in case.

Trip to success

You’re going on an adventure. You’ll work, but you’ll also get to know a lot of interesting people and a new country (or new corners of the one you’ve already been to). To do so with utmost pleasure, you need some necessary cybersecurity and productivity tools.

Knowing that everything is in good hands with these tools will bring you peace of mind, so you can enjoy your business trip better. 

Bon voyage, safe travels and successful business endeavors in the APAC region!