First of all, it is probably better to prepare a packing list in advance to reduce your anxiety before your departure. Additionally , if you can keep your luggage to one carry-on, you’ll cut down on your time in the airport, and eliminate the chances of losing your baggage.

Documents

As a paralegal, the first thing to pack is the documentation required for the meetings. Do not rely too much on internet and modern technologies; pack all papers you need to support the meetings justifying the travel expenses.

Do not forget your itinerary, which should include contact information for the airline, the hotel you are staying at, and the car rental or pick-up service you’re using. Keep a copy of your schedule with the phone numbers and addresses of the people that you are meeting. Print out the directions to your meetings.

Technology for paralegals

You can scan the most important documents. These back-ups can be priceless and extremely time and effort saving.

Add the important electronic equipment you are suppose to carry for this trip. Make sure you have chargers for every piece of equipment. Before you leave, check that your laptop is charged, and can connect to your company network.

Clothing

Prefer clothing that doesn’t wrinkle easily, like lightweight wool, or “wrinkle-free” cotton.

Pick out the clothes and shoes you will wear on the plane and, if possible, pick shoes that are easy to slip on and off your feet.

Pack sports clothes and shoes and, if you know that the hotel has a pool, a swimming suit, so you will be able to relieve the stress of business travel with some exercise.

Choose dress clothes for meetings with clients and lawyers, then add to them some items that you can mix and match. You can also include some cocktail evening outfits you can wear in case of being invited to a dinner or party in a more relaxed and casual atmosphere.

Luggage

Choose your luggage with the length of your stay in mind. A 22-inch suitcase is sufficient for most trips. If you're going for only one night, bring along a smaller tote bag and a briefcase.

Miscellaneous

Pack snacks, a book, any company gifts, and of course toiletries, sunscreen, hair products, moisturizer, a shaving kit and any special shampoo or soap you prefer (we are sure that your list is even longer).

In conclusion,

deciding between what’s essential and what’s extra is a highly personal decision, and the best way to be prepare is probably to ask the rest of the team for advice and learn more on the client's style and level of formality.

For more information

CNN.COM: How to pack for a business trip
USA TODAY: How to pack for a business trip
NY Daily News: How to pack for a business trip