If you work as a Solutions Consultant, you’re probably no stranger to the road – or the rails, airports, hotels, and customer offices. Whether you’re onsite for a workshop, attending a trade show, or leading a virtual demo from a coffee shop, being prepared with the right gear can make all the difference. Inspired by this LinkedIn post from fabulous Max Lüpertz (if you’re in presales, he’s a strong follow-recommendation!), I came to the idea to create my own list of 10 travel essentials based on my own personal 20-year experience on hundreds of business travels near and far.
Here are ten tried-and-tested items that belong in every SC’s travel bag.
1. Whiteboard Markers
Meeting rooms are a gamble. You never know if the whiteboard markers will work (or even be there). Bring your own. Whether it’s sketching out a process, capturing pain points during discovery, or diagramming a proposed solution, a working marker is a small thing that has a big impact. Also, using various, especially also non-digital media during meetings helps creating something tangible.
2. Privacy Screen for Your Laptop
Customer data, pricing, roadmaps – none of that should be visible to the person in the next train seat or on a tradeshow floor. A privacy filter is a must-have for travel and events. It’s one of the easiest ways to avoid a major security fail in a public place for every business traveller.
3. Pen and Notebook
Note-taking on paper feels more personal, keeps you more engaged, and avoids putting a screen between you and your customer during meetings. It also allows for note taking while you present on a projector. After the meeting I often take a quick photo of key pages and drop them into OneNote for future reference.
4. Branded Company Lanyard
Nothing says “unprepared” like showing up to a partner or industry event with another vendor’s lanyard – especially if it is full of competitor logos. Bring your own, ideally with subtle company branding. It keeps things consistent and professional.
5. Portable Second Screen
A lightweight USB-C monitor adds real flexibility. Show slides on one screen while taking notes or checking reference docs on the other. Great for hotel desk setups or hybrid workshops. Once you get used to it, it’s hard to go back. If you’re a Mac user, even an iPad will do. And if you have two separate Apple IDs for business (maybe on your company MacBook) and private (on your private iPad), use the Duet Display App to connect the two.
6. HDMI Adapter and Cables
You’ll run into every possible display setup in the field. Always carry a USB-C to HDMI adapter—and maybe even a VGA adapter if you’re working with older equipment. Don’t assume anything. Bring the cables too. And without telling: Charger cables for your devices should be a standard, of course. Make sure to charge while you present – nothing more awkward than a dying computer in the midst of your ideal future state or value prop.
7. Noise-Cancelling Headphones
Perfect for customer calls from loud places, focused work sessions, or even catching up on training videos. A good pair with a built-in mic also doubles as a headset for virtual meetings. I never travel without. It’s not only a good working tool, it also helps reducing the stress of travel blanking out the noisy airport, train station or annoying traveller on the train that has constant calls.
8. Presenter (e.g. Logitech Spotlight)
If you’re presenting in person, a solid presenter is key. The Logitech Spotlight is a personal favorite: reliable, USB-C rechargeable, and intuitive to use. The built-in pointer works even on screens, and the design is sleek and portable. No more awkward keyboard-hopping during live demos.
9. Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is underrated. Events, travels and customer visits can stretch for hours, and finding water is often harder than it should be. A reusable bottle saves money, cuts plastic waste, and keeps you sharp. Go for something lightweight, durable and leak-proof that fits easily in your bag. I like the memobottle A5 a lot – it’s shape fits in every backpack.
10. Portable Power Bank
You’ll almost certainly have a day where you can’t find an outlet – and your battery’s running low. A reliable power bank helps you avoid that low-battery anxiety. Choose one that supports USB-C and can handle your laptop, not just your phone. But keep in mind – in order to take it in your hand luggage – the power bank is not allowed to exceed 100 Wh or 27.000 mAh! Many power banks advertise with “hand luggage safe”. One that I like very much is this Anker power bank.
Final Thoughts
Every Solutions Consultant has their own travel style, but these ten essentials cover most of the real-world challenges that come with the job. They’re small things – but they add up to better meetings, less stress, and more professional delivery.
Did I miss your go-to item? I’d love to hear what’s in your bag.