Packing for Conference: Is an Empty Suitcase Necessary?

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores the considerations and experiences of participants regarding packing for an upcoming conference, particularly the necessity of bringing an empty suitcase for additional items acquired during the event.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, expresses uncertainty about needing an empty suitcase, noting they have a large suitcase and questioning the amount of items they might purchase.
  • Another participant shares their experience of packing a suitcase inside a suitcase to manage weight distribution, which they found helpful in the past.
  • Several users mention the importance of the 50-pound weight limit for luggage, with one participant humorously acknowledging their concern about exceeding this limit.
  • One participant describes their packing strategy as light, using one checked suitcase, a carry-on, and a purse, and mentions a shipping station at the conference for sending items home.
  • Another participant notes that they prefer to pack lightly due to the logistics of traveling by train, emphasizing their lack of interest in souvenirs.
  • Some participants discuss the availability of mini catalogs and other materials at the conference, with a few expressing a desire to limit their purchases.
  • One participant reflects on their previous experience of overpacking paperwork and suggests a more measured approach this time.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the necessity of an extra suitcase, with some participants advocating for it while others feel confident in their current packing strategies. No clear consensus emerges on the best approach to packing.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal packing experiences and preferences, with a focus on managing luggage weight and the potential for purchasing items at the conference.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants preparing for the conference may find these discussions relevant as they consider their packing strategies and the logistics of transporting items home.

straitfan
straitfan
Gold Member
Messages
1,455
Trying to decide what to take to Conf. luggage wise. My recruiter talked like she was going to take an empty suitcase to bring "stuff" home in. I'm wondering if this is necessary? After all I'll be traveling w/o DH my "pack mule" and I don't want to wrestle with a bunch of stuff. I have what I consider a "huge" suitcase.

Unless they have a chance to buy like the 12 qt. stock-pot for 20 bucks, I can't IMAGINE needing that much space for souveniers. What sorts of PC things will I have a chance to buy?

Thanks for the advice! Getting close and I'm starting to panic!
 
I would really suggest packing your suitcase inside a suitcase, that way you have it in case you really do need it, that's what someone suggested to me and it worked out pretty good.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #3
REALLY? That's an interesting idea!
 
Just remember the 50 pound weight limit at the airport for each suitcase.
 
HMMM, don't remember that one, lol, but my suitcases weren't THAT heavy, hey, I'm too friggin short to be doing that anyway, lol.
 
I bought a "jumbo" suitcase, but now I'm worried I'll go over the weight limit! lol I'll have to pack it up and take it to my friends' for a weight... lol She's going to Chicago with us, so she'll understand ;)

I am taking this "jumbo" thing, plus an overnight bag for the "just in case I need more space" situation. I also will have my backpack (a mini one) and my laptop bag for carry-on.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #7
Hmmm, now I'm worried about weighing my suitcase. Have to buy batteries or something for the scale. It quit working and I like it better that way! LOL!
:)
 
jdavis said:
I would really suggest packing your suitcase inside a suitcase, that way you have it in case you really do need it, that's what someone suggested to me and it worked out pretty good.
Click to expand...

This is exactly what I am doing. After dealing with e 50lb issue last year this affords me the opportunity to move things around into the two bags to redistribute the weight. I am also bringing a wheely-backpack that I use throughtout McCormick for my snacks, water, notebook and extra shoes. For flying I will put Day 1's outfit, some minor toiletries and PJs...just in case my luggage gets lost.

I still need to get to WalMart and p/u an insulated water-bottle. Last year I used theone I got on the Navigator Cruise but is has gotten misplaced since then.
 
I'm a light packer; cause I hate carrying around too much! I check one suitcase, & have 1 carryon & my purse. I think I did the extra bag inside my suitcase my first year, but I don't remember if I used it or not. If you buy goodies at conference, in the past they've had a shipping station there so you can just ship it all home--much easier!
 
lacychef said:
I'm a light packer; cause I hate carrying around too much! I check one suitcase, & have 1 carryon & my purse. I think I did the extra bag inside my suitcase my first year, but I don't remember if I used it or not. If you buy goodies at conference, in the past they've had a shipping station there so you can just ship it all home--much easier!
Click to expand...

I pack REALLY light because my bag has to be lifted over my head into the storage compartment on the train and I walk from the train station to the hotel (a few blocks). I never purchase very much. . .but I'm not into souvenirs. The shipping service can be helpful. . .just make sure you wait to make your vendor purchases after they have the mini-catalogs available so you can send everything in one box. The mini catalogs are the only thing I'd like to take home this year. . .have to wait and see what Merrill has up their sleeve.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #11
So I will be able to purchase new catalogs? I'm still not thinking I'll get that many just "Chicago Souveniers", and some PC logo shirts won't take up that much space. Still debating on the extra piece of luggage. I like the idea of shipping things home.
 
straitfan said:
So I will be able to purchase new catalogs? I'm still not thinking I'll get that many just "Chicago Souveniers", and some PC logo shirts won't take up that much space. Still debating on the extra piece of luggage. I like the idea of shipping things home.
Click to expand...

Mini CAtalogs, not full size
 
  • Thread starter
  • #13
Okay--thanks!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #14
Are any other paperwork/supplies available?
 
chefjeanine said:
I pack REALLY light because my bag has to be lifted over my head into the storage compartment on the train and I walk from the train station to the hotel (a few blocks). I never purchase very much. . .but I'm not into souvenirs. The shipping service can be helpful. . .just make sure you wait to make your vendor purchases after they have the mini-catalogs available so you can send everything in one box. The mini catalogs are the only thing I'd like to take home this year. . .have to wait and see what Merrill has up their sleeve.
Click to expand...

I'm the same as Jeanine. I'm taking the (commuter) train and then either taking the CTA bus or walking to the Hilton (depending how hot it is).

I'll buy some minis (have to make a plan for those before I go so I don't buy too many or not enough) and we'll see what kind of cash & carry Merrill has. Otherwise, I don't *need* to buy anything! I might even skip the surprise boxes.

But my director is being picked up by her husband and offered to take home any luggage for me....hmmm....
 
Last year I OD'd on paperwork because I was so excited. You can order all materials as a regular supply order fairly soon after conference, so don't do what I did! A regular suitcase -- packed loosely with an additional collapsable bag to check in is more than enough!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #17
Great advice Mandy--Thanks! I'll try to control my urge to OD on paperwork! :)
 
I'm too lazy to check through the other posts, so forgive me if this has already been mentioned. You'll also have the conference bag to carry some things back.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #19
Oh yeah--the great looking BAG!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really need to bring an empty suitcase to the conference?

While it's not strictly necessary to bring an empty suitcase, many attendees find it helpful. An empty suitcase allows you to have extra space for any products, materials, or promotional items you may acquire during the conference.

What should I pack in my suitcase for the conference?

In addition to your clothing and personal items, consider packing business cards, promotional materials, a notebook for taking notes, and any necessary technology like chargers or laptops. If you plan to participate in workshops, bring any required materials or tools.

How can I maximize space in my suitcase for the conference?

To maximize space, roll your clothes instead of folding them, use packing cubes to organize items, and wear bulkier clothing like jackets or boots during travel. Also, consider packing versatile outfits that can be mixed and matched.

What if I don’t have an empty suitcase but still want to bring back items?

If you don't have an empty suitcase, consider using a foldable tote bag or backpack that can be packed within your main luggage. This way, you can easily carry back any items you acquire without needing a separate suitcase.

Are there any restrictions on what I can bring back from the conference?

Generally, there are no specific restrictions on items you can bring back from the conference, but be mindful of airline baggage policies and weight limits. Additionally, check if any items are subject to customs regulations if you're traveling internationally.

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