Favorite Conference Gear

I personally use the Quiet loops. They are great to keep on me when traveling because often the networking events can get loud. I am still able to hear conversations and be active but they protect my hearing and prevent headaches. Much better than disposable foam earplugs.

I love having this dongle but there are other brands that make similar products. The most important thing to consider is compatibility with your computer and what ports are available. The reason I like this Targus dongle is because I can connect to older VGA projectors along with newer HDMI. It also has USB and ethernet. It's smaller than a deck of cards so I always have it ready to use if needed.

I'm sometimes a little nervous about security. Just like criminals put skimmers on credit card readers, now they are starting to do it to USB charging ports in public places. This data blocker prevents scammers from being able to download information off your phone or computer when you plug into a public charging port.

I have been a Jansport fan since I was young. Their bags are high quality and their warranty is above average. My old bag started to have the inside lamination peel and they replaced it, no questions asked.

Currently, I have multiple bags for different uses but for conferences and work I use the Landing Pack. It's perfect for carrying a laptop and accessories. I love that it has the slip to put on a suitcase's handle. Also a great safety feature, the buckle has a built-in whistle.

These days, a digital business card is just as valuable as paper cards. This past year, I have seen recommendations for a few programs and I have chosen to use Hi Hello. Their free tier is great and does everything I need. I have three profiles that I can easily choose to share based on the occassion: personal, work, and consulting.

I have a variety of powerbanks. From the free ones that are often given by vendors and easy to carry to a powerhouse that can last for a week without a recharge if there's a power outage.

Some powerbanks can even power your USB-C laptops now, so check the description and reviews to pick the right one for you. I recommend getting one with USB ports and not built-in cables for more flexibility. 

I am currently shopping myself for a more compact option, but always pack a power strip when traveling. Hotel rooms will not have enough outlets to charge all your devices and it's also great at events. If you need to plug in and charge, it's easier to say "can we share that outlet" than "are you almost done with that outlet?" Plus, it's a great conversation starter.

Not every conference will provide a remote, so keep on in your bag. This way you're not tethered to the podium when presenting.

Before buying, check the range. Some won't work from the other side of a room because the signal isn't strong enough. If you're presenting in a regular classroom, you won't need one powerful enough for an auditorium. 

You'd be surprised how often having cables in my bag comes in handy. I recommend getting a short 3ft HDMI cable. It's long enough to connect from a nearby chair to an interactive panel or projector.

The HDMI cable also comes in handy at hotels because you can connect to the room's TV as an extra monitor for last minute work.

My travel bag always has a mini first aid kit. You never know when you're going to need a band-aid or ibuprofen. 

I also recommend alcohol wipes. They are great for not only first aid, but disinfecting earbuds and phone screens.

A reusable water bottle is a must. You can fill it up at airports once past TSA and most conferences will have water stations throughout.

While I have some branded bottles I've gotten from vendors, I prefer a bottle that is dishwasher safe and BPA free. I also recommend a bottle that is leakproof and has a large enough mouth to add ice.

You have your reusable water bottle but water can be boring. Mix it up with individial drink mixes for a flavor boost.

There are tons of brands and flavors. Some advertise added vitamins, electrolytes, and more.