Wow! Did I just have the most terrible experience in traveling? If something could go wrong on this trip, it did. I won’t bore you with the details, but I learned something. Never travel without having your address book with you.

The only thing predictable about business travel is that it is unpredictable. Your plane might be delayed, making you hours late for an appointment, or anything else. I’ve had times when I’ve finished up my appointment earlier that I calculated it would last, and had two hours to kill.

To minimize stress and confusion, always carry all important contact information with you and keep it handy.

Here are a few things you should have on your list. It should include the airline name and phone number, just in case you want to check on or change a flight; the name, address and telephone number of the hotel you will be staying at; information on the car rental agency you are using if renting a car; phone numbers for business contacts and any other people you might need to call to notify about your being delayed.

Please add other things you put on your list in the comment box below.

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