When you think of business travel, two images usually come to mind. One is the image of a tired, overworked employee staying in a cheap hotel, and the other is probably someone working for a modern company that sends them across the country and beyond to close deals and party along the way. Whether you're part of the former or the latter image, there's no denying that business travel can be a fun, productive and enjoyable experience if you take the time to plan your trip properly and bring all the essentials you might need.

You need to equip yourself to turn a boring business trip into a memorable experience, and even slow down a party-fueled trip so you can get work done. So today we're going to go over the five things you need to make that business trip productive and enjoyable. Here's what you need.

Professional and casual attire

You may have scheduled back-to-back meetings, but that doesn't mean you should only pack your business attire. Not only is there bound to be a time when you can go explore the city and have some fun, but you might also be invited to an informal meeting by the new client or business partner, and you don't want to be the only one looking opera ready. But if you are invited to the opera by chance, you should have an outfit for that occasion as well.

That said, it's also important to take a minimalist approach to packing, which means you don't need to pack your entire wardrobe. Instead, pack two formal outfits, a more extravagant one for more important occasions, and a casual set that you can mix and match without repeating yourself. That way, you'll look great for any occasion, ready to party but also ready to close the deal of a lifetime.

Technology and gadgets needed

Next, you'll want to pack all your essential tech accessories. It can be easy to forget an important gadget when you're traveling abroad, which is why you need to make a detailed list of all the devices and technology you'll need during your trip. In addition to your smartphone and laptop, you should also pack a power adapter if you're traveling to a country with different power outlets, you should pack and organize all of your cords and chargers, and of course, a USB Internet device that will keep you online at all times.

Additional gadgets should include a spare smartphone, a Bluetooth headset, spare cords and chargers, and even a DSLR camera if you want to take high-quality photos in your spare time. Don't forget to install some essential travel apps, especially if you're heading to an unfamiliar country, and make sure they'll work even if you're not connected.