When it comes to trade shows, they can be a pretty exciting event for the industry that you’re in. You get to take a glimpse into the newest technology that’s available, and this even includes what trends and other industry changes will take effect in the near future. You get to talk to competitors, see what they do and how they run their business, and of course, there are the consumer or even prospective clients if your business is B2B. With that said one thing that should be noted is the fact that if you’re going to a tradeshow as a consumer, just an individual who doesn’t have a booth, you don’t need to pack much or even think of much for this event.

Maybe some business cards and a nice outfit to wear, but that’s about as far as it goes. It’s not like that if you’re working a booth, though. In fact, if you’re working a booth, you’re going to have more responsibilities. Therefore, you’re going to need to pack more. At the end of the day, it’s all being done in the name of brand awareness and ensuring that your company has a steady income. So, here’s what you need to pack for a trade show as a business owner. 

Business Cards

Starting off with the most obvious, you’re going to have your business cards. This is one of those items that you would think everyone remembers to pack when they go to a trade show, but it’s also surprisingly easy to overlook. Make sure you bring plenty of business cards that feature your logo and other important information. Of course, you’re going to want to make sure your business cards are eye-popping enough, so ideally, during a trade show, you could opt for a design that might be considered a tad more memorable. 

Booth Supplies

Sometimes the trade show coordinators or even the venue will provide items such as booth supplies, but this isn’t always the case. So ideally, it might be best to have some stuff with you too. Something you might want to consider is the hop up banner for your business, something that’s fairly obvious to begin with, but it shouldn’t stop there. Be sure to look into other supplies such as tape (in case it’s needed for an emergency), some additional string for tying up, and maybe some scissors (ideally, don’t pack them if you’re going to fly to the tradeshow), and maybe some pens and markers wouldn’t hurt either. But overall, you’re going to need your booth supplies and the items themself to make the booth captivating. 

Promotional items

Depending on your type of business, you may want to bring promotional items like pens or mugs that feature your company logo. They are great conversation starters and help make your brand stick in attendees’ minds. Everyone loves freebies, and this is going to be the best way to get people to not only recognize your brand but to even want to come over to your booth and talk. Free items, especially big ones like cups and shirts, can be pretty powerful!