As you’re potentially approaching the end of your billable year and likely last year’s incentive trip, now is the perfect time to start preparing for your team’s next adventure. Developing an exciting and engaging incentive travel experience can enhance team connections, foster loyalty, and increase productivity.
However, incentive travel is more than a company-sponsored event. It’s an opportunity to celebrate and reward team achievements in a new location (and endless chances for relaxation for those who worked hard to earn their spot).
Every detail counts if you’re planning a company trip with an incentive event gifting experience. From visa applications to packing smart, here’s everything you need to know before taking off.
4 To-Dos to Check Off for Incentive Trips
#1. Pack Smart with Branded Travel Gifts
An incentive travel program should be a seamless and relaxing experience. To make the trip stress-free, it’s recommended that you pack smart with high-quality essentials.
If your employees will be traveling long distances, consider pre-gifting noise-canceling headphones, stylish passport holders and personalized luggage tags. Packing cubes are a functional touch that can help keep everything organized.
These carefully selected gifts not only show appreciation but also reinforce your company’s commitment to a well-curated incentive gifting program. Check out The Best Employee Incentive Gifts for Travel for more ideas on creating a seamless, memorable journey for your team!
#2. Add a Special Touch at Your Destination
A well-planned onsite gifting event elevates the travel experience for attendees. Whether you’re welcoming employees at a luxury resort or a conference abroad, surprise them with thoughtful, high-quality gifts upon arrival and throughout the trip. Create a lasting impression by incorporating immersive onsite gifting experiences that engage and excite your guests, including:
Onsite Event Gifting Pavilions
Set up an onsite corporate gifts pavilion featuring a curated selection of travel accessories, tech gadgets, and wellness kits. These stations can offer a wide range of personalized gifts that showcase your attention to detail.
Onsite Custom Shoe Experience
Enhance the experience further with an onsite event custom shoe experience, allowing guests to choose stylish, comfortable footwear to wear for the rest of their trip — and long after!
Virtual Gifting Platform
For employees who can’t attend in person, our virtual gifting options provide an equally memorable and personalized experience. The gifts are delivered directly to their doorstep, ensuring no one misses the experience, even remote workers.
#3. Understand Visa Requirements for Traveling Abroad
If your employee incentive program includes a destination out of the country, check visa requirements well in advance. While U.S. citizens can travel to many countries for short stays without a visa, certain destinations may require travel authorization or specific documentation. You and your guests may need to apply for travel authorization, so be sure to:
- Verify country-specific entry requirements.
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months before your departure date.
- Check if any new travel authorization systems, like the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System), apply to your destination. If so, apply online if required.
For detailed and up-to-date travel regulations, consult official government websites, such as the U.S. Department of State, to confirm entry and visa requirements for your destination. Additionally, consult the TSA website for any restrictions your guests might need to know when packing.
#4. Maximize Your Incentive Travel Experience
The trip is planned, and it’s almost time to make memories that will last a lifetime!
Make sure your experience is seamless (and avoid last-minute stress) by confirming accommodations, transportation, and itineraries well in advance.
See where you can add more personalized touches throughout the trip to make attendees feel valued.
Bonus: Aligning the gifts with your team’s interests and preferences will ensure they have an unforgettable experience.
The incentive trip doesn’t end when the week is over, either. Follow up with a thoughtful thank-you note, a framed group photo, a survey, or even a teaser for next year’s incentive travel trip. Any of these keeps the excitement alive and motivates your employees to work hard to attend again next year — a win for both the company and them!
Create Lasting Memories With Your Team
Incentive experiences create unforgettable moments celebrating your company’s hard work and achievements. By incorporating well-planned onsite gift experiences and meaningful incentive event gifting programs, you can take these trips from “good” to “amazing.”
Ready to elevate your corporate travel rewards? Partner with Signature Group Events to have your next trip go off without a hitch. We handle it all — from planning the destination to gifting to after-trip follow-ups. Let us help you create an extraordinary event for your team. Contact us today!
