Pumerantz Library Research Guides
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URL: https://westernu.libguides.com/conferencetips
Conference Tips: What to Pack
- This guide gives quick tips for students attending their first conference.
Contact@Reference
Introduction
Typically, conferences last for an average of 3 days; sometimes they last for a week, other times for a single day. Medical conferences often call for business casual style. Consider the weather at the conference site, and if you want to pack a carry-on or to check in your luggage, as the packing rules are different and may affect how you pack.
Clothing & Toiletries
Clothing
- Professional blouses/tops
- Slacks
- Knee-length skirts
- Dress
- Sweaters/blazer
- Jacket/coat
- Dressy jeans (for social mixers)
- 1-2 pairs of comfortable shoes
- Underwear
- Sleepwear
Toiletries (check with the TSA for rules if flying)
- Tooth care (toothbrush, toothpaste, floss)
- Shampoo
- Deodorant
- Shaving razor
- First aid
Essentials & Technology
Essentials
- Identification cards (driver's license, passport, medical insurance)
- Boarding pass
- Debit and/or credit card
- Reservation confirmations
- Hotel and conference location directions
- Medications (if any)
Technology
- Laptop or tablet
- Portable chargers
- Charging cables
- Phone
What Not to Pack
- Hair dryer
- Some toiletries: Hotels tend to provide soaps, shampoos, and conditioners in their rooms.
- Towels
- Uncomfortable or not broken-in shoes
- Jewelry
- White coat (unless you are presenting at the conference)
- If you ask yourself "What if...?" or "For this one occasion..." when packing