When you’re gearing up for a trade show, most of the focus goes toward the big-ticket items—your booth design, graphics, signage, and products. But often, it’s the little things that make the biggest difference in keeping your booth running smoothly from start to finish.

Even seasoned exhibitors can find themselves scrambling when a cable goes missing or an important document is buried in an inbox. Whether you’re headed to a small regional event or a large-scale expo, here’s a checklist of the most commonly forgotten (but crucial) items to bring along. 

1. Back-Up Print Materials

Never underestimate how quickly brochures, business cards, or handouts disappear—especially during busy hours. Bring extras of everything, and if you have pre-stuffed folders or media kits, double your expected quantity. You’ll be glad you did if your shipment is delayed or traffic exceeds expectations.

2. Lead Capture Tools & a Follow-Up Plan

Don’t let valuable connections slip through the cracks. Instead of relying solely on business cards, bring tablets or use scanning apps to capture attendee information instantly. Create a simple system to tag leads as hot, warm, or cold so you can prioritize follow-up after the show.

3. Power & Charging Gear

On a trade show floor, access to power can feel like winning the lottery. Pack extra charging cables, power strips, and portable chargers for both your team’s devices and any interactive booth elements. A dead battery can mean missed opportunities.

4. Your Emergency Fix-It Kit

Murphy’s Law applies to trade shows, if something can go wrong, it will. A small kit with duct tape, zip ties, scissors, stain remover, a lint roller, and a few basic tools can solve a surprising number of problems in seconds.

5. Printed Show Docs & Contact Info

In the middle of a busy show day, the last thing you want is to dig through your email for a shipping receipt or the AV team’s number. Keep hard copies of booth layouts, shipping documents, vendor contacts, and installation/dismantle (I&D) details in a folder or binder that’s easy to grab.

Preparation isn’t just about the big-ticket booth elements. It’s also about anticipating the unexpected and packing the small, often-overlooked tools that can keep your show running without a hitch.

Whether it’s an extra power strip or a roll of tape, these simple items can turn a potential disaster into a quick fix, helping you stay focused on what really matters: connecting with your audience.

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