Frequent business travel means spending a significant portion of the year away from loved ones. Some positions demand travel as part of the job description.

It’s tough to say no to attractive salaries, benefits packages, and travel. However, those with loved ones must figure out how to balance their job with life outside the office.

The good news is that business professionals in 2022 live in the digital age. Plenty of solutions exist.

We outline how to stay close to loved ones when you’re a frequent business traveler.

Pick Up a Smartphone

An estimated 97% of the population owns some cellular phone. Increasingly, most individuals own a smartphone. When the first iPhone launched, most people used it to call and text loved ones.

Then, they figured out that they could download apps and use the smartphone as a productivity tool. Now, most people will not leave home without their phones.

Therefore, put the phone to use.

It’s a good idea for families to share a plan. Then, families can pick up phones that sync with each other or use the same operating system. For example, all operating systems can access FaceTime. However, it’s easier on iOS. 

If iOS is not your group’s cup of tea, you can pick up Androids that make communication easy.

Here is a list of other electronics that make corporate trips easier.

Make An Appointment

Once you have figured out the devices you will use to communicate with loved ones, make an appointment. Sales road warriors might schedule nightly calls with those who miss them at home. Occasional corporate travelers might phone home from the airport before they leave and land.

The appointment depends on what works for your group. If you have children, you’ll need to check your time zone against theirs. Then, figure out the best time to call before they go to bed.

You might have the opportunity to call later if you need to get in touch with adults.

Nonetheless, establish a schedule and stick to it. Remain realistic about your availability so that you do not let your loved ones down. Missing an appointment feels worse than not checking in at all.

Pick a Way to Contact Them

Now, pick a way to contact them since you have a few options. For example, you can use FaceTime. You can also use Zoom, Skype, and Whatsapp. It depends on what your group likes and can handle.

Sometimes logging into one platform poses challenges for some. Therefore, before you leave, ensure everyone is on the same page.

If anyone needs a tutorial, ensure they receive it from you or someone at home. Some platforms will log you onto video conferences through a link. Others require you to download the app, depending on the device.

Therefore, straighten out the details before you leave on your next trip.

Make Them Part of Your Travels

Consider making your group part of your travels. For example, contact them when you arrive at landmarks or after meetings.

Most people use their smartphones for texting, followed by emailing, checking Facebook, and taking pictures. You can combine all of these features to highlight parts of your trip.

Corporate trips require focus, and you rarely have time to double as a tourist. However, your cab might pass a landmark on the way to your hotel, or you might see another from your hotel.

The United States has landmarks across the country. The National Park Service maintains about 420 historical sites, including

Therefore, you might bump into one of interest to your group. Snap a pic of it and text it to them. Then, give them a call later on to discuss it and check in on how they are doing.

Send Postcards

Postcards have not gone out of style in 2022. When you visit any gift shop, most convenience stores, and tourist areas, you’ll find postcards celebrating the region.

Although most people receive digital mail, they’ll still check their physical mailbox for something special.

Postcard companies have also become more creative. At the National Archives in Washington, DC, you might find old-time baseball players on postcards at the gift shop – something unexpected.

Conclusion

Staying close to loved ones during frequent travels is easier than ever in 2022 – simply use the technology at your disposal. Pick up a smartphone, make an appointment, and pick a way to contact them. Consider making them part of your travels and send them postcards from each destination.