We have all been there: we are at a trade show event and all of a sudden we need something unexpected. At a show venue, a hardware store or supply store is NOT right around the corner and usually is a taxi drive away. So for those unexpected situations that can occur at trade shows – whether the exhibit frame got damaged, someone spilled a drink on your floor, or you don't have enough office supplies at the show – make sure you have the following items with you to be prepared for the unexpected. No matter how prepared you are for the event, glitches can easily occur and derail your trade show success. Instead of waiting for these problems to happen, be proactive and have these items available in case of emergency.
All cell phone numbers of suppliers and employees - usually work is done on the week-ends and nights!- Extra AV cables - make sure you have all technology hook ups!
- First-aid kit: Just in case a member of your staff isn’t feeling their best, have a kit available with Band-Aids, pain relievers, allergy medicine, eye drops and disinfectant.
- Breath mints: You will be speaking to a lot of people at the event, so keeping your breath in tip-top condition will keep attendees wanting to talk to you.
- Hand sanitizer: With all of the hands you will be shaking, having this on hand is important.
- Duct tape. Might have to do some last minute fixing.
- Small sewing kit - you never know!
- Light bulbs: Booth lighting helps spotlight your products, graphics, and booth in general. Having extra bulbs will help with any unexpected outages.
- Packaging tape: This will make dismantling and packing up the exhibit after the show much easier.
- Hardware like a hammer and/or screwdriver: Some components of your display may need to be adjusted or tightened.
- Extra screws and connectors.
- Double-sided tape: If your flooring starts to come apart or your graphics aren’t staying on your frame like they should, having heavy-duty double-sided tape will fix the problem.
- Cleaning wipes: These wipes will take out any smudges or dirt that shows up on your booth.
- Stain remover: Spills happen. Instead of waiting for the event to be over before you do something, stain remover will almost immediately take out the noticeable spot.
- Extra pens: You would be surprised how many people walk off with pens that you loaned them.
- Additional giveaway items: Just in case traffic is higher than expected
- Paper: Take notes or write down your lead s information.
- Plenty of batteries
- Backup emergency contacts for all staffers and the backup staff: In case of an emergency, you may need to contact another staffer or will need extra help.
- Office supplies like scissors, paper clips and a stapler with extra staples
Many of these items will most likely not need to be used, but it’s better to be prepared than deal with an emergency without the proper tools. Keep these 20 items on hand and you will be prepared for anything that comes your way!
