Business trips can induce stress in the calmest among us. First, there’s the getting there; travel by plane, train or car can take its toll and leave us exhausted. Then, we adapt to being in a new place, or settle in somewhere familiar. Finally, we have to perform the job we were sent there to do.

The logistics can be taxing, so preparedness is key. Take much of the guess work out of your next business trip with this guide.

How to Prepare for a Business Trip

1. Sleep essentials. On a long-haul commute, sleep is the difference between arriving refreshed or burnt out. Invest in a neck pillow, an eye mask and earplugs.
2. Smart luggage. Avoid clunky baggage and, if possible, checked luggage altogether. Who needs a lost suitcase before a big meeting? Travel with a lightweight carry-on for shorter trips to make your commute hassle-free.
3. Away messages. To avoid any confusion with colleagues and clients, set your voicemail and email away messages before leaving. For urgent matters, always provide an alternate contact in your message.
4. Will your health insurance cover you in another province or country? Ask your provider or human resources what coverage you’ll need while away.
5. Portable phone and tablet chargers. Stay connected to your business and home life by keeping fully charged on all your devices, no matter where you are.
6. Foreign essentials. If you’re visiting another country, research which currency, adapters, phone plans and visas you might need. Nobody likes surprises after a long flight.

Heading to a new country on your next trip? Check out Inc’s complete list of Foreign Business Travel essentials.

When some think of Canada, they may think of the cold, Olympic winning hockey teams and Tim Hortons.  Little do they know, there is so much more than that!

Canada was founded on July 1, 1867, and was part of the British colonies. From there Canada has grown as a country and is now home to over 38 million people.

Here are 10 Facts About Canada, the Hockey loving, Tim Hortons drinking country.

1. Roughly 30% of Canada’s land area is covered by trees.

2. The Maple Leaf flag did not become the official flag of Canada until February 15, 1965 – almost 100 years after becoming a country.

3. In Banff National Park (located in Alberta), there are wildlife bridges over highways for the wildlife to cross the road safely.

4. Montréal is the largest French speaking city in the world, outside of France.

5. Canada produces 77% of the world’s Maple Syrup.

6. Foods that Canada considers to be theirs, include Peameal bacon, poutine, maple syrup and Timbits.

7. Canada holds two Olympic records: 1. The most gold medals won by a country in a winter Olympics and 2. The most gold medals won by a host country in a winter Olympics.

8. The Royal Canadian Mint created a coin that has a face value of $1 Million, the coin is made of 99.99% gold and weighs 220lbs.

9. Canadians eat 55% more Kraft Dinner than Americans do.

10. There are 47 National Parks located across all of Canada. There are no shortage of places to discover!

Canada is the home to many great places, people, athletes, entertainers, animals, and beautiful sights to see!