What’s in Your Trade Show Kit?

You know it’s almost trade show season when school supplies start lining the shelves at your favorite retailers. I miss those days of stocking up on school supplies—my baby just turned 24—but I still get to go shopping for trade show kit supplies. While the kids are grabbing pencils and highlighters, we’re over here thinking about extension cords and lint rollers.

One of our clients, Continuant, is headed to the Telarus Partner Summit. Since they’re newer to the channel, we helped them get ready to make a splash—and that starts with building a solid trade show kit. So off we went to Walmart to stock up on the essentials.

Here’s what we added to their kit (and why you might want these too):

The Basics (a.k.a. things you’ll absolutely forget if you don’t pack them now)

• Lint roller – Because nothing says “prepared professional” like a fuzz-free polo.
• Pens & Sharpies – Multiple styles. Because someone always walks off with yours.
• Notebooks & sticky notes – Capture quick ideas, booth feedback, or that person’s name you forgot the second they walked away.
• Clear, double-sided mounting, gaffers, and electrical tape – You never know what you’ll need to MacGyver.
• Extension cord & power strip – Outlet access is prime trade show real estate. Stake your claim.
• Artist easel – For that tabletop sign announcing the giveaway.

Clean & Fresh

• Clorox wipes – For wiping down your booth or keeping things germ-free.
• OxiClean spray & wrinkle releaser – For those wardrobe malfunctions that happen five minutes before go time.
• Breath mints, dental picks & lip balm – Long days of talking = dry mouth and chapped lips. And don’t get caught with food in your teeth.

Medicine & Hydration

• Advil & Tums—Loud rooms and late nights can drain you. We stock Advil and Tums to keep you going.
• Liquid IV – Whether it’s one too many drinks at the bar or just not enough water and exercise, downing a Liquid IV can be the difference between peppy booth staff and droopy ones.

Just Smart to Have

• Mini tool kit – Screwdriver? Scissors? Zip ties? You’re now the team MVP.

Bonus: A clear tote to carry it all!

We packed all of this for around $75. Totally worth it for peace of mind and professional polish. The truth is, the most prepared teams are the ones who think beyond the booth design. Whether you’re a trade show rookie or a seasoned channel pro, having a go-to kit can make or break your experience.

And hey, if you’re ever in doubt, just hit the school supply aisle—trade show season is closer than you think.

Want help building your own kit or planning your next channel event? You know where to find us.