What to Pack for a Blogging Conference {Like IFBC 2014!}

If you're blogging professionally, or moving in that direction — or just want to grow your presence in the blog world, knowing that you can check google ranking whenever you want (to see how the blog is doing when it comes to traffic) and going to a blogging conference is a must. I went to my first conference, Go Blog Social, in Kansas City last April and LOVED it. I made some great friends in the blogging real (and outside of it, too!), found new sources of inspiration, learned all kinds of new tips and tricks, and came away from the weekend motivated.

I was completely unsure of what to expect, or what to bring, and could definitely have used some tips before arriving as a newbie. So, if you're heading to IFBC this weekend, or plan to go to a conference in the future, here are some of my essentials to bring with you!

1. Business Cards

   This is absolutely the most important thing you can bring with you. COME WITH HUNDREDS. Seriously, come with at least as many as there are people attending the conference. You'll have them out willy nilly and it would be a shame to run out! Chances are plenty of brands will be at the conference too, and you need to be professional if you want to work with them! How cute is that Kate Spade business card holder??

2. Smartphone or Tablet

   Blogging conferences light up the Twitterverse like you wouldn't believe. You want to get in on that action! You also want to be able to easily look people up, show them your work, connect on social media, etc. I just use my iPhone, which is so handy to whip out anytime and anywhere! I'm drooling over this Michael Kors iPhone case with space to hold ID and cards!

3. A Means of Taking Notes

   This could be your tablet or computer, if you work well that way, but for me it means good ol' pen and paper. I bring my notebook to every panel, discussion, lecture, etc. and take furious notes. My high school teachers would be impressed, I tell you what! Writing down tips, methods, philosophies, resources, etc. is so helpful, because I know I'd forget them within ten minutes if I didn't write them down! This is also great to go back through every few months for a new kick in the pants! Moleskin always has beautiful notebooks — check out the Evernote Edition!

4. Comfortable Clothes and Shoes

   Conferences generally mean long days. You'll probably make friends who want to go out to lunch, then happy hour, then post-party pizza — typically in a city where you'll be walking around. Yes, everyone wants to look cute and stylish, but you also want to be able to last from 7am until 11pm (or later) in the same outfit. Plan accordingly! Also: layers. Some event centers have crazy wonky heating and AC settings, so be prepared for any temperature. I'll probably have Toms on all weekend!

5. Water Bottle

   I'm a hydration nut, so this is always on my list. Most conferences provide some sort of food, or at least snacks, but finding a glass of water can sometimes be a challenge! To prevent frequent water-fountain trips, bring your own and stay hydrated! Again, drooling over this super cute water bottle!

Of course, you'll need something to carry all of this {plus the goodies from conference sponsors!}, so get out your totes! I used my city backpack in Kansas City and felt like a total dork next to all the fashion bloggers, so this time I'll be bringing my Longchamp and trying avoid dork-status. Wish me luck!

Are any of you going to IFBC this weekend? Let me know you're coming on Twitter — I can't wait to meet everyone!