What to pack in your conference survival kit bag.

Not sure what to pack for your upcoming conference? Then you’ve come to the right place. 

Those 12-hour conference days can be a real grind, and it's nice to feel ready for whatever comes your way. From unexpected blisters to sudden headaches or needing a quick energy boost, we've been there. You want to have all the necessities on hand without weighing you down.

Quick summary.

This article offers a practical guide for what to pack in your conference survival kit bag.

Based on insights from seasoned project managers, it covers personal care, health, nutrition, tech essentials, and a few miscellaneous items to help attendees stay prepared and comfortable during long, busy conference days.

Whether you're facing a headache, a tech hiccup, or a snack emergency, this checklist has you covered.

What we’ll cover:

• Personal care items

• Health and wellness essentials

• Energy and nutrition must-haves

• Tech gear and accessories

• Miscellaneous items (like sewing kits and stain removers)

Click here for the full printable checklist.

Personal care conference survival kit items.

Arguably the most important items to include in your conference survival kit are personal care items. We understand the importance of staying fresh and comfortable during long conference days. 

Consider these essentials to ensure you're covered from head to toe:

• Gum/mints
• Bobby pins/hair bands
• Travel-size deodorant
• Feminine products
• Under-eye patches/eye drops
• Hand sanitizer/ hand wipes

Health and wellness conference survival kit items.

We've all been there—the nagging headache from lack of sleep or the inconvenient scratchy throat. Be sure to pack the items below to help alleviate these discomforts and boost your immune system during the conference:

• Emergen-C
• Advil/Tylenol
• Liquid IV
• Cold medicine
• Essential oils (lavender, peppermint, Thieves to boost your immune system)

Energy and nutrition conference survival kit items.

Keep your energy levels up and stay focused by having some healthy snacks in your bag that you can grab on the go. Choose a couple of different snack options to satisfy any craving you may be having throughout the day. 

• High protein options: Beef jerky, protein bars, nut butter packs, a handful of mixed nuts
• Quick carbs: Popcorn, crackers, dried fruit
• Keep it fresh: Whole fruit (apple or banana), carrots, bell peppers, celery
• Caffeine boost: AG1 greens powder, instant coffee mix, matcha latte powder
• Refillable water bottle

Technology conference survival kit items.

Make sure you have all your technology prepared in advance, as it can be frustrating to wake up on the day of the conference only to realize your phone charger wasn't plugged in overnight.  Packing a portable charger will keep you connected throughout the day.

• Chargers (phone, computer, watch, camera, etc.)
• Portable charger
• Travel plus adapter (if traveling for an international conference)

Miscellaneous conference survival kit items.

Be prepared for everything from minor wardrobe malfunctions to unexpected spills with these essentials on hand:

• Mini sewing kit
• Bandaids
• Stain remover stick
• Pens, Sharpie, highlighter

Your conference survival kit bag.

Hopefully, this list gives you an idea of what essentials to include in your own conference survival kit. 

Related: Looking for swag bag ideas for your upcoming conference? Here are 10 swag bag ideas for events that won't end up in the trash.

We hope you have a fun and successful conference experience!