If you’ve ever traveled for business conference or work function, you’ve most likely forgotten one or several very important items.
You have to get quite a few business trips under your built in order to reach all-star packing status!
And that's exactly why we created this Essential Conference Packing Checklist, so everyone will know how to pack like a pro.
A few years ago, I was a business trip virgin. All-inclusive business trips weren’t exactly part of the job description at my previous jobs, so you can imagine how excited I was... and nervous.
It was Content Marketing World 2014 in Cleveland, Ohio, and I wanted to look my absolute best. Mistake #1. What I should have been thinking was "I want to feel my best." Stilettos and stretches of hot pavement are not friends.
Day 3 rolls around, and I’m in Oxfords. I’m on top of the world, my blisters are healing and I’m slightly amused by my fellow female conference-goers limping around in their heels. Well, Karma reared her ugly head too soon and I fell victim to Mistake #2.
Unlike my savvy business traveler boss, I did not think to pack backup batteries for my computer or phone. He also packed comfortable shoes.
With conference season in full fledge, I would hate for anyone to make the same rookie mistakes I did. And now that I have my second conference (this one all solo!), I have a few more tips to add.
Whether you are a conference first-timer or a veteran business tripper, our Essential Conference Packing Checklist will help make your travels go much smoother.
Essential Conference Packing Checklist
1. Chargers and batteries for all devices
Plan on spending at least 8 hours a day at your conference. That time will be spent typing up notes and recapping all the details on social media.
Most conferences will have charging stations spread throughout the venue, but people will snatch those faster than a front-row seat. Bring chargers, back-up batteries and battery packs for all of your devices to the conference each day.
2. Comfortable shoes and clothing
Sometimes fashion over function is not the mantra to follow. Ladies, invest in comfortable yet stylish flats and pack layers. If you feel your outfit is a bit drab, spice it up with an eye-catching necklace or earrings, or fashionable scarf. Men, I recommend wearing lightweight, breathable clothing and layers.
3. Business cards
You can never have enough business cards. Freshen your stack each day of your conference. If you come back from your trip with a full stack of your own and nobody else’s, you didn’t work hard enough.
For the eco-conscious or for those who just detest clutter, download a business card scanner app to manage and exchange cards.
4. A spacious, sturdy bag
You’ll want a good bag to bring to the conference. A cross-body sling is the most comfortable and secure. Make sure you have ample room for all of the relevant items mentioned above and below.
5. Notebooks and pens
Even though you brought every electronic device you own, you can't go wrong with a handy notebook and a set of pens.
This is especially true if you forget your chargers and backup batteries, or you aren’t near an outlet when your electronics run out of juice. This one comes from personal experience.
6. Toiletry necessities
You may think this an odd item to include, but I promise you, when you are frantically trying to come up with a brilliant question for Rand Fishkin and you start to sweat profusely, you’ll be glad you packed that tissue and deodorant.
Oh, and never forget Band-Aids, especially if you are a woman. Whether you are wearing flats or heels, I promise you, you will get blisters.
7. Reuseable water bottle
Complimentary drinks will be readily available, but it’s nice to have a reusable bottle you can easily fill and refill. I recommend a Yeti tumbler or S’well bottle to keep your water extra cold or your coffee piping hot for those hour-long sessions and panels.
8. A schedule
Printed schedules and maps will be located throughout the conference, but it sure is convenient to have one already on hand. Another perk: You won’t have to wait in line to get one! If the conference offers an app, download it!
9. Vitamins, supplements and medications
Conferences can be exhausting. All that listening and networking can take its toll! Therefore, you should bring all of your vitamins, supplements and medications, especially EmergenC. You want to feel your best at a conference.
If you wear contacts, be sure to bring your glasses with you, too. Staring at bright, white screens and computers all day can irritate your eyes.
10. Smell-good products
Gum. Always bring gum. Enough said.
11. A good attitude
This one’s a bit cheesy, but 100% true. When it comes to representing your company's brand and your personal brand ALWAYS put your best self forward.
Heading to a conference? Be sure to read our blog on Social Media Etiquette at Conferences before you go!
This blog was updated on Sept. 16, 2016.
