Beyond The Briefcase: What To Pack For Corporate Events

Beyond The Briefcase: What To Pack For Corporate Events

If you’re new to corporate events, or just haven’t attended one in a while, it can be hard to decide what to bring with you. While the classic briefcase might come to mind, they aren’t the only option. Here’s a guide from business travel experts on packing for corporate events:

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What Clothes Will I Need?

You’ll need an outfit for every day of the event (that you’re attending), as well as an outfit for any other associated networking events such as drinks the night before the event. It’s also worth bringing a smart-casual outfit in case your team goes for a meal. It’s a good idea to plan out some outfits reusing some of the clothes so you can travel light. While a briefcase could be very helpful if you choose to bring one (avoid a hard-case as they’re more dated), they aren’t necessary for looking professional.

Traditionally the advice has been to stick to dark or neutral colours, which also make reusing clothes easier, but some think that this advice is outdated. A memorable suit or accessory is likely to have the people you spoke to remember you, and therefore your company. Just remember to consider what preconceived opinions certain colours might be associated with. Barbie pink, for example, might leave people unfairly thinking of you as ditsy. Check with your company if they have any rules or guidance on what colours you wear, they may want you to wear brand colours.

Bonus Tip: A photo of you on your business cards might jog someone's memory of what you talked about when they look back over the cards they collected.

What Else To Bring?

The most important thing to bring is your business cards, and any other sales tools or branded giveaway items. On top of that, a lot of expo venues can get very warm in the summer, so a stylish water bottle is a good idea. You should also consider bringing some spare perfume/cologne and deodorant just in case. Bring a pen so you can make some helpful notes on business cards about what you discussed, and an elastic band to put around the business cards. And of course, don’t forget to bring your value proposition. It’s a good idea to write it down or have it printed off so you can refresh your memory before walking into the event.

If you’re going to multiple events in one trip, you’re going to be away for a while, which means it’s worth bringing some things to make being away from home easier. A good night's sleep can make a huge difference to your demeanor, so bringing anything to help with that is essential. If you can only sleep with your own pillow, then it’s worth the space in the suitcase it takes up. If you suffer from homesickness, a small framed photo doesn’t take up much room in your bag.

Bonus Tip: Bring some clothes pegs to pin the curtains shut in the hotel room, less light will get in!