A typical day at the office rarely consists of a “crisis” of not having enough tape. Yet when you are at a trade show assembling your booth, it is an entirely different story. Whether you are a seasoned pro or brand new to managing a trade show booth, nothing is worse than showing up late, unprepared and running around frantically for last-minute supplies before everyone arrives.
To avoid the embarrassment of being caught off guard at your next trade show, start with the ultimate packing checklist. Pack essential trade show supplies like emergency items, display materials and personal comfort necessities to ensure you can focus on what really matters at the trade show-making connections.
Emergency Trade Show Supplies to Pack
Pens and pencils – Commonly known to grow legs and walk away, writing utensils are usually a coveted item at a trade show. Pack extra to jot down notes and make friends with your trade show booth neighbors.
Various kinds of tape – Are you familiar with the saying duct tape fixes everything? It’s there for a reason. Duct tape, packing tape, Scotch™ tape or any other of the 34 different types of tapes can help patch a tear on a backdrop or keep papers in place at a windy outdoor event.
Scissors and box cutters – All of your promotional materials delivered in boxes are not going to open themselves. Avoid papercuts-and extra hassle-by adding these to your trade show booth supplies list.
Extension cords and power strips – If you don’t bring them, that is when you will need them the most. Double check your exhibitor’s guidelines. Sometimes extension cords and power strips are included, sometimes they are not.
Stapler and paper clips – Equip yourself with proper desk supplies like a stapler, staples, paper clips, folders, clip boards and sticky notes. That way you will stay organized before your “crisis” arises.
Bags and boxes – Fast forward to the end of the day. Packing up all of your booth materials will leave your arms full and tired. Never underestimate the power of having shopping bags, plastic bags and a stash of trash bags to get your trade show booth supplies out the door.
Toolbox – That wobbly table or display that needs tightening? Having a screwdriver will save the day! Bring other valuable tools like a tape measure or a level and small problems will disappear.
Packing emergency trade show materials can set you up as a trade booth expert to those around you and can save you from paying unreasonable prices for supplies you can easily bring. Now that you have the basics, focus on the trade show booth supplies that will set your booth apart.
Lasting Impression Event Display Supplies
Promotional table covers – Don’t be that booth with the boring, bare table top. Set your table up with eye-catching tablecloths and runners. A properly branded, professional table cover will make a far better impression than a plain brown table every day.
Full-color banners and signs – Even though a large audience is roaming the trade show floor, it doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll stop at your booth. Provide that visual element “pop” of color and design of wowing backdrop banners at eye height or higher and you’ll be seen from far away.
Branded lanyards and badges – At a trade show, sometimes keeping track of everything can be a nightmare. Lose the stress of having trade show supplies bulging from your pockets. Attach your name card, USB flash drive or a pen to an one-of-a-kind lanyard and you won’t have to hunt them down later.
Trade show booth games – Keeping an audience engaged is easy with effective booth games like a prize drop or bean bag toss. Provide all the bells and whistles to make it an entertaining and productive day for everyone.
Cheap promotional giveaways – Games would not be complete without the proper prizes! Maximize your engagement with the best promotional giveaways.
One-of-a-kind business cards – The best way to have a lasting impression? Unique business cards! Imagine handing out a puzzle business card magnet, a business card truffle box or even a business card letter opener.
Now you are prepared for many visitors to stop by your booth and have the backups packed for emergency situations. Next on your list is making sure you take care of you. Setting up a trade show booth display and undertaking a multi-day event is no easy task. Pack personal comfort supplies for the day to go smoothly.
Necessary Personal Comfort Supplies
Personal hygiene supplies – When putting your best foot forward, nothing is worse than not having backups to help you stay confident. Bring mints, floss, toothbrush, a detergent pen and extra shirts to feel comfortable all day long.
Cleaning supplies – Trade show attendance can range from hundreds to thousands of people. Shaking hands and coming in contact with them makes it necessary to have cleaning wipes and plenty of hand sanitizer.
Safety pins – When you have a serious wardrobe malfunction, sometimes safety pins are the only answer. Pack plenty to keep everything in place.
Phone charger – Whether you are a social media specialist or representing a business, documenting the event should be on your to-do-list. Ensure your battery is fully charged for the entire trade show with a phone charger.
Bottled water and snacks – After working hard throughout the day, don’t let hunger get the best of you by packing plenty of snacks. Your fellow co-workers will thank you and everyone can continue to stay on task.
First aid kit – Small injuries can become big injuries if not treated properly right away. Pack a first aid kit. to provide immediate treatment and reduce risk.
Whether you’re packing emergency or necessary items or both, your trade show will be a much more enjoyable event when you plan for the unexpected. What’s the most unusual thing you’ve had to purchase in an emergency for your trade show booth? Share in the comments below!
