Writing and creative conventions are a vital part of every author’s life, and I highly recommend finding one that teaches, encourages, and makes you feel like the best writer/poet/artist/creative you can be.

I enjoy the Imaginarium convention in Kentucky, and this will be my fourth year attending.

In those four years, I feel like I have a pretty good idea of what you need to take, and what you can leave behind.

Here are my thoughts.

Basics

Obviously, there are things you have to take on every trip. They include:

• Clothing (I recommend layers in case a location is warmer or colder than expected)
• Shoes you can stand/walk in all day
• Jewelry
• Any daily medication
• Toiletries/ Makeup
• Comfort items (pillows, blankets, activities, etc.)
• Chargers (phone, tablet, etc.)
• A first aid kit (painkillers, Band-Aids, allergy meds, tissues, whatever you think you’ll need)

Useful Things

These are things that I’ve learned to depend upon to make my time a smooth, satisfying experience. They are:

• A laptop and charger (for taking notes, testing ideas, and browsing during the downtime)
• Headphones
• A notebook
• MANY pens
• A portable battery pack (in case you can’t get to your phone charger)
• A Bluetooth keyboard for you phone (for times when the laptop isn’t available/ is too bulky and you need to type)
• A video camera (this one is optional, but can be fun to take videos of/with the friends you make! Or, if you run a YouTube channel/ podcast, to make a special episode while on site)
• Business Cards (networking is important! Bring plenty of cards to hand out)
• A Sticker book (stickers are a HUGE way to promote products, and I guarantee you’ll end up with more than a few. Having a sticker book on hand is the perfect way to keep them safe. I bought mine from Earthbound)
• A sturdy bag (you want enough room for everything, easy access, and a strap that won’t dig into your shoulder)
• A reusable cup (trust me- you don’t want to spend money every time you need some water. I like this one since it’s two cups in one)
• Ear Plugs (if you’re sharing a room, you might want these to help you sleep)
• SPENDING MONEY! (every conference will have booths with people selling books or merch, and you will want to bring some of those treasures home. Make sure you have some dedicated spending money set aside for just such an occasion)

Non-Material Things

When packing for a writing or creative conference, you need to consider the non-material things as well- like an open mind, a friendly attitude, and a willingness to learn new ideas in your field of choice.

There will be a lot of people there, and not everyone will enjoy your work or see things your way.

That’s ok.

As long as you stay true to yourself and embrace the knowledge and critiques that make you better, you’ll likely come out of the convention with more ideas, encouragement, and confidence than before.

I always do!

Final Thoughts

Packing for a trip can be equal parts exciting and stressful, and it’s easy to forget something that you may need. By making a list and checking it twice, you’re more likely to stay on target and get to your destination without having to stop for last-minute purchases.

Then, you can enjoy your conference knowing that you have everything you need to make it a smooth, memorable experience!

What writing or creative conferences do you attend? Let me know in the comments!