10 Ways I Use Tech & AI to Buy Back Time During Business Travels
10 Ways I Use Tech & AI to Buy Back Time During Business Travels
When you travel often for work, the line between busy and burnout can blur fast. Between keynotes, client meetings, inboxes full of follow-ups, and multiple flights, it can feel like thereโs never enough time to breathe, let alone to think creatively.
Thatโs why over the last year, Iโve started treating technology and AI not as just some โnice-to-haveโ tools, but as systems to โbuy backโ a few hours (and my sanity) each week. The goal? To show up energised, creative, and present and focus on what actually matters: relationships, strategy, and rest.
And the funny thing? It wasnโt a big strategic plan that got me there. It all started with a bit of curiosity.
10 Ways I Buy Back My Time During Business Travel
Sonya Barlow while filming content
1. Let AI summarise threads and emails - tools like ChatGPT keep me in control of my inbox without getting lost in it. I use them to summarise long emails so I know what they're asking of me and what I can prioritise based on opportunities.
2. Use voice typing to capture ideas on the go - when inspiration hits mid-flight or between meetings, I open Google Docs and voice note my thoughts directly. Itโs messy, but itโs real, and it keeps ideas alive.
3. Note my energy levels to plan smarter - some flights are for admin. Others are for rest. I pay attention to when Iโm sharpest and plan my tasks around that. Productivity isnโt just time management, but energy management.
4. Automate repetitive tasks - tools like Google Workspace handle scheduling, follow-ups, and even client reminders. Itโs so helpful because I save hours by automating small admin tasks, freeing up time to make content, work on strategy, and hold meaningful meetings.
5. Use tech to stay connected - I use WhatsApp to stay in touch with my team for urgent tasks while on the move. Efficiency keeps projects flowing without burnout.
6. Learn something new every trip - whether itโs a podcast, audiobook, or even a new phrase in a local language, I always learn something on the go. It keeps my creativity sharp and my curiosity alive.
7. Create a โtravel modeโ workspace - I love using noise-cancelling headphones or popping on a white noise sound to clear my thoughts. One key notebook. A portable charger. A few digital tools. Having a go-to setup makes me instantly productive wherever I land.
8. Batch-create and schedule content - before any business trip, I use AI tools to generate a list of ideas to batch-create content in advance. Then, I use tools like Later, or built-in scheduling on LinkedIn and Instagram, to post while Iโm travelling. That way, my brand stays visible even when Iโm mid-meeting or mid-flight so no burnout can happen!
9. Use ChatGPT as my clarity coach - when my brainโs overloaded, Iโll brain-dump into ChatGPT and ask: โHelp me structure this thought clearly.โ Itโs like a non-judgmental business partner who helps me get unstuck fast.
10. Stay curious becaus etech evolves, and so should we - from getting opportunities to test the BYD Dolphin Surf to exploring new apps, I say yes to trying tech that makes life smoother. If you really think about it, tech creates efficiency, but curiosity keeps you adaptable.
The Future of Work Is Mobile, Human & Smart
Technology helps me work faster, but itโs the human side like empathy, connection, and curiosity that keeps it meaningful. And actually, not many people know that, but AI and automation donโt replace that. They just give us the space to be more intentional, creative, and human.
The truth is, weโre not just working differently, but living differently. Business travel isnโt about being always ON 24/7 anymore, itโs about working smarter, protecting your energy, and using tools that make space for what really matters.
So next time youโre travelling for business, donโt just pack your bags. Pack your tools, your energy, and your curiosity. Thatโs the real productivity hack.
This week's question: what tools are you using to buy back you time when business travelling?
๐ This newsletter was written by Sonya Barlow, award-winning entrepreneur, author, presenter, and founder of LMF Network. Work with Sonya for business consultancy, keynotes, and campaigns: hello@sonyabarlow.co.uk
Sonya Barlow is an award-winning entrepreneur, presenter, and author with over 100K followers. She hosts her self-titled YouTube show The Sonya Barlow Show, authored the business book Unprepared to Entrepreneur, and runs a business inclusion consultancy and networking app, the LMF Network. Connect via email ๐ฉ - Hello@SonyaBarlow.Co.Uk