With Blogfest just a few weeks away, it’s time to start thinking about what to bring. I always tend to over-pack, and since I’m driving to Las Vegas, that’s not too big of a deal. However, if you’re flying in you will want to make sure to pack as lightly as possible, yet still bring everything that you need.
Heading to #Blogfest or other #fitness #blogging conference? Here are packing tips. #IDEAWorld
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Blogfest is different than any other blogging conference, even those designed for healthy living bloggers. In addition to two days of blogging education, Blogfest also includes registration for the last two days of IDEA World Fitness Convention, which is the largest fitness convention in the world. So what does that mean?
1. At four days (five if you arrive on Wednesday to attend any of the pre-conference classes), Blogfest is twice as long as most blogging events.
2. While healthy living blogging events include a variety of exercise classes, IDEA World kicks that up a notch with even more classes and workshops, including the opportunity to work out with Todd Durkin and Tony Horton, plus other celebrity fitness pros, not to mention the Blogfest-only Strong by Zumba workout on Thursday. That’s a lot of sweating, which requires a little planning so that you don’t end up sweaty and stinky at your next session.
3. Blogfest also includes an invitation to the IDEA World opening party. The theme this year is “Viva Idea” and party-goers are encouraged to dress in their Vegas best to celebrate Idea’s 35th birthday.
4. Your registration includes access to the IDEA World Fitness Expo, where you will not only have an opportunity to meet and network with a variety of vendors, you will probably load yourself up with freebies, great deals, and other fitness purchases, all of which take up luggage space on the way home.
5. You’re in Vegas, baby! Not only does that imply the opportunity to see a great show, hit the casinos, or dance the night away, it also means Nevada in July, where the average temperatures are around 105 degrees.
These are just a few reasons why packing for Blogfest takes a little extra planning and consideration. To help you out, I’m sharing my suggestions for what to pack when you head to Las Vegas on July 20.
How to Pack for Blogfest
Clothing
Face it. It’s a fitness bloggers conference, so you will mostly be wearing fitness clothing. Four or five days of fitness classes mean that you’d better bring a lot of fitness clothes (think yoga, Zumba, circuit training, and possibly running and walking). Unless you have access to a laundry, that’s a lot of clothing.
In addition, fitness clothing is the norm for attending both Blogfest and IDEAWorld sessions too. I like to change into fresh clothes after a workout, but that’s entirely up to you. Fortunately, fitness wear doesn’t take up a whole lot of room in your suitcase. While you’re at it, throw in a couple gym towels too.
After hours, in addition to the party, you’ll probably head out for dinner or cocktails with your new friends, plus you’ll want to attend the Blogfest networking party on Friday evening. Pack according to your tastes, a pretty dress, jeans, or more yoga pants!
Oh, and if you’re sharing a room like I have in the past, you’ll probably want to pack pajamas, a robe, or at least a big t-shirt. Your roommates will thank you.
What does take up a lot of room is shoes. You’ll need comfortable shoes for the sessions and walking around the expo, a good pair of cross training shoes for most of the workouts, running shoes if you plan to go for a run, and if you’re going to spiff up for the evening, appropriate shoes for the partying. And, of course, a pair or two of flip flops or sandals. It is July is Las Vegas after all.
And even though you’re in Vegas, where the temperatures in July will rarely fall below the mid-seventies, the air conditioning inside the convention center can definitely be chilly. Bring a sweater or sweatshirt. Or two!
All your regular accessories: Hair and skin care, makeup, underwear, etc.
Since you will be going straight from exercise classes to sessions, I recommend a fitness specific body wipe like Shower Pill. They come individually wrapped, they’re large and thick, plus they’re anti-bacterial.
For the Sessions
Bring something to write on and with. Paper, pens, pencils, computer, tablet. One of the best purchases I made a couple years ago was a keyboard
plus I can toggle back and forth between notes, Twitter and Instagram. This year I’ll also be bringing my Lenovo Chromebook. It’s small (11.6″), lightweight, and has a touchscreen, so I can take notes, keep up with social media, and even update my blog on the go.
Power! You’ll be active on social media during Blogfest and taking a lot of pictures so don’t forget your charging cables and an extra battery if you have that option. If you want to make a lot of friends, bring a power strip. These were provided last year at Blogfest, but you’ll find plenty of people at IDEAWorld who would be extremely happy to share your power.
You’ll be taking a lot of pictures, so if you have one, bring your “real” camera. And a Selfie Stick
Business cards! Blogging conferences are all about networking so bring plenty of business cards with you. Don’t have cards yet? Order now and you’ll get them in plenty of time. I love Moo.com. They’re very customizable and can be printed on both sides. And you’ll get 20% off your first order if you use this link.
A reusable water bottle and snacks. You’ll need to stay hydrated and refueled with all that working out going on! I also like to bring along some Nuzest protein powder and a shaker cup. Because I’m vegan I can’t always count on having plant-based food available, so at least I can know that I’ll be able to start my morning off right.
A roomy but light bag or briefcase to carry all of the above around at the conference. A messenger-style bag works well. A backpack is another great idea that was suggested by one of my readers. Rock ‘n’ Blog sent me an Eagle Creek Sport Daypack that I’m bringing this year.
For the Expo
If you’re a shopper, you’ll probably want to save room in your suitcase or bring an extra bag to carry it all home. Plus you’ll be getting some great swag at Blogfest, so remember that when you’re packing.
I’m sure I forgot something, so if you think of something not on the list, leave it in the comments and I’ll add it.
I have had an amazing time at each Blogfest I’ve attended. I know that BlogFest 2017 will be even bigger and better. I am an IDEA Inspired Advisor and Inspired Blogger, so I will be there (with bells on). I hope you will be there too!
Can’t get enough of Blogfest? Here are my other posts:
Blogfest 2016: Amazing Adventures at Blogfest and IDEAWorld
Blogfest 2015: My Top 10 Takeaways
Meet My Blogfest Buddies!
The Scoop: Blogfest and IDEAWorld, Gabby, Jillian, Beto and More!
5 Reasons You Need to Go to Blogfest 2015
Blogfest: It Starts with the People
(From 2014) 6 Women (and 1 Man) I Can’t Wait to Meet at Blogfest
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. This post is updated for 2017.
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