Business Trips to Europe: What to Consider When Traveling Abroad

If your line of work takes you on regular business trips to Europe, there’s plenty to consider before you travel.

It’s estimated that around one in 10 UK SMEs export to the European Union and if you’re one of them there may be any number of reasons you might need to travel for business purposes.

Meeting suppliers, securing new clients, visiting employees based overseas – or whatever cause is specific to you and your business.

Whether you’re an experienced business traveller or planning your first trip, here is an essential checklist of things to bear in mind.

Travel Planning and Logistics

Some business trips can’t help but be last-minute affairs, however planning as much as possible in advance has a multitude of benefits. 

If you’re flying or taking the Eurostar, booking tickets in advance could help you control the costs of your trip. Similarly, any accommodation you need will likely be found at a better rate a few weeks or months ahead of time.

If you’re driving into the continent, look into temporary car insurance cover if your existing policy at home does not extend to travel overseas.

Cultural Awareness and Etiquette

It’s important to be aware of cultural differences between you and the people you are travelling to meet – or simply those you will encounter while in their country.

Making an effort to learn a local language is a simple way to enhance your communications while away and could even help you close a business deal or negotiate a better rate!

It can be prudent to accept that you might not know all of the customs and traditions of a place you are visiting, so communicate this with your hosts or others and ask the correct way to do certain things. This shows a level of basic respect that can take you far in business dealings.

Documentation and Legal Requirements

Since the UK left the European Union in early 2020, there is a bit more to think about when travelling to Europe. 

Primarily, you may have to wait longer at airports and other terminals, while your ability to remain overseas for extended periods of time can also be impacted. 

You won’t need a visa to travel to EU countries or those in the Schengen area (Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Iceland), but you will only be able to travel for 90 days before returning to the UK.

For some business activities you may need to secure a visa or permit before entering the country, while operating in the EU and cross-border into the UK now comes with extra paperwork and tariffs, so bear this in mind before striking any new business deals!