How to Pack for a Convention in 15 Minutes

When planning a convention trip, procrastinators sometimes run into trouble. It could be that they are trying to cram so many things into their schedule that they wind up cramming things into their suitcase less than an hour before they have to leave. Add in the good-byes, the rushing around to find the travel and hotel itinerary, finding the suitcase, and suddenly they have a mere 15 minutes to pack a suitcase for a three-day trip. It can be done. Open the suitcase and lay it on a flat, empty area, like the bed. Set the carry-on nearby and open it, too, then get packing.

Personal Necessities
First grab at least three zip seal gallon-size freezer bags and a shaving kit or make-up bag.
• Do a quick mental walk-through of the morning routine, from teeth brushing to skin and hair care to taking medication. Put anything needed that will pass an airport screening into the bags.
• Consider the nighttime routine before bed and add in any important items not already included. Slide them into the freezer bag.
• Any leftovers can go freestyle in another freezer bag. These can go in an interior pocket.

What to Bring
• Pack enough clothes and underclothes for one more day than the trip.
• Any required outfits or uniforms with insignia.
• Bring business casual clothes for the convention and two sets of casual clothes for socializing, exploring and traveling.
• If a suit and tie is needed, bring one more tie than is needed. Don’t spend more than a minute choosing which ones.
• For a hotel and convention center, bring a bathing suit and sandals or flip-flops.
• Pack at least one pair of other shoes that are comfortable for walking or standing for long periods of time. Don’t forget socks or stockings.
• Since most conventions are held in warm vacation places near beaches or cities, assume a winter coat and boots are not needed. Those would require another suitcase all their own.
• Put a handful of jewelry in a small bag and into the inside pockets with hair clips or hats.
• Convention credentials, sunglasses, business materials and cards, itineraries and travel information go into the carry-on, not the suitcase.
• Bring electronic devices of choice, such as smart phones, cameras, music players and computer devices, and don’t forget the chargers. Anything used in transit should go into the carry-on, not the suitcase.

At this point, the 15 minutes are almost up. If there is a book or magazine handy, slip it into the carry-on for easy access. Make a mental note of any unusual items needed. Zip up the suitcase and carry-on. Double-check for keys, proper identification, and a purse or wallet before leaving.

What Not to Bring
In haste, people sometimes grab anything and everything in sight. Some things need to be sacrificed for the sake of time; others are just impractical no matter how much time there is to pack. Here are a few things to leave behind.
• Anything illegal stays at home.
• Perfume, beverages or pure liquids may break, leak or spill without careful wrapping and protection. Leave them behind in a hasty pack-up for a convention.
• Only take a handful of swag unless it has been pre-arranged. This prevents space problems.
• Don’t spend time bringing food. Hungry or not, eat later when there is more time.

Keep in mind that a reliable hotel and convention center in Virginia Beach or other areas will probably have any necessary items that were forgotten. If the front desk can’t help, the hotel gift shop or nearby convenience store probably can.

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