Heading to a Conference? Here’s What You Need to Pack

While some conferences are local, others require you to leave your city or even country. That is when forgetting something crucial can ruin the entire experience. But what should you pack as an attendee?

In this article, we will discuss all the essentials you should pack before leaving for a conference, whether it’s in town or hours away. This will ensure that you are ready to network with other experts without any roadblocks.

Phone and Laptop

Our smartphones are vital for any type of event nowadays. They lead the way to the conference, serve as your ticket and credit card, and let you access the internet. You can also use an eSIM app to always stay online, even when you are abroad. It will allow you to text, call, and turn on a hotspot for your other devices, such as your laptop, without the need for a physical SIM.

A laptop is an outstanding tool at the event, too. When you are speaking, it will help you showcase a presentation. When listening to others, you can type in any notes and access electronic materials. Additionally, you can write blog posts and communicate with other attendees through social media.

Chargers and a Power Bank

Your smartphone and laptop will become a dead weight once they die in the middle of the conference. Whether you will be taking calls, networking and adding people to your contacts on social media, or noting down presentations, using them will completely drain your batteries. So, it’s important to grab suitable chargers and a big power bank to keep them alive throughout the whole event.

Suitable Attire and Shoes

The clothes you choose to wear will depend on your occupation, but most conference attendees are expected to wear professional attire, such as suits and dress shirts. Following a dress code helps create a respectful atmosphere during the event, boosts your confidence, and brings a sense of belonging.

As for shoes, try to opt for your most comfortable pair. You will be walking and standing all day, so wear something that won’t cause blisters or foot pain. If you really want to show off new dress shoes or heels, don’t forget a spare pair for the rest of the day.

Business Cards

Despite social media and messengers being prevalent in networking, business cards still provide an amazing way to exchange personal information, such as your name, phone number, email, company, and position. Someone might prefer to stay in touch by phone, not social platforms.

Moreover, your personal business card is a great way to leave a long-lasting impression. From the way you initially present them to the visual design of the card, all this information will establish your credibility and professionalism.

Now, imagine just sharing your social media handle with someone in charge of a large business. Not as impressive, right?

First Aid Kit

A business conference doesn’t seem like a place for injuries, but they can still happen. Burns, cuts, and allergic reactions are unpleasant, and it’s great to be ready to treat them. Prepare for an emergency with a kit.

Include common treatments, such as bandages, cold and hot packs, pain medication, antihistamines, and so on. Don’t forget disposable gloves and antiseptic wipes in case you have to treat someone else. Your first aid kit should also contain any medications you take regularly, your prescription, and anything specific you might need.

If an emergency occurs, make sure the list of local medical service phone numbers is in the kit as well. They should be readily available to contact when the problem is more severe and requires medical professionals on-site, such as:

• seizure;
• broken bones;
• confusion and trouble speaking;
• deep cuts;
• severe stomach pain;
• sudden fever;
• head injury;
• burns;
• vomiting accompanied by other symptoms;
• sudden problems with vision;
• chest pain;
• breathing problems.

Do not try to treat these without any medical background — the best option is to call an emergency service and follow their instructions while you wait for them to arrive.

Documents

Traveling abroad for a conference? Your documentation should be with you even when you’re out of your hotel room. Keep your travel documents, including your ID card, Visa, and plane tickets, in your bag when you’re attending an event in case you need to prove your citizenship and provide other personal details. Once you’re ready to enter a conference, remember to show the document that proves you can attend it.

Having all important papers gathered in advance can ensure that your trip is successful and you can enjoy networking as much as possible without restrictions or emergencies.

Snacks and Water

Food and water are the fuel that you’ll need when walking, talking, and learning for hours on end. With the lack of the two comes the lack of energy. Some conferences give out free water and snacks, but some do not — it is better to be on the safe side. Furthermore, traveling to a different location means that not all your food preferences might be met. If you are a vegetarian, vegan, or have specific allergies, take snacks suitable for your dietary restrictions with you.

Not to mention that your schedule might be packed so much that there’s no time to eat properly! Even a small bite will give you the boost of energy you need to carry on until a big meal.

Stay On Top of Your Game at Any Conference

A business conference is an important professional event that requires proper preparation. Make sure you have your tech with you, including your phone and laptop, and everything needed to keep them on. Then, grab suitable attire and comfortable shoes.

Remember your business cards — these will make an impression and help you stay in touch with others. A first aid kit and documents are also a must and will help you avoid emergencies. Last but not least, stay hydrated and eat snacks so you don’t lose your energy. These tips will ensure that your event goes flawlessly!