Betcha Didn’t Know… The Ultimate IMEX Survival Guide

By: Shelly Archer, Managing Partner

Get ready because this ain’t your average IMEX article. This is a deep dive into our insider secrets, pro tips, and a few cheeky surprises for those attending IMEX 2024. We’ve got the DL on what to bring, what to avoid, and how to keep your sanity intact while navigating the bustling show floor. We don’t just want you to survive IMEX; we want you to THRIVE! We’re talking foot care strategies, tech must-haves, and unexpected essentials that’ll make your IMEX experience smoother than a freshly hydrated face. Buckle up for a wild ride!

Staying Fresh and Fabulous

Dos:

• Travel Humidifier: The air in Vegas is drier than a Nature Valley granola bar. Put a little moisture back in the air; your skin and sinuses will thank you.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Don’t believe anybody who tells you not to worry because “it’s a dry heat.” You’ll have cracked lips and a desert cough in no time if you aren’t prepared. Hydrate like a hero. Bonus points for avoiding single-use plastics!
• Liquid IV/Electrolytes (LMNT, ZipFizz): This is our secret potion to prevent dehydration. The trick is to load up before you get depleted. Drink one of these packets first thing each morning. Sip and sparkle! ✨
• Emergen-C/Airborne: You’re going to get introduced to people from all over the world… and their germs. Do your immune system a solid by loading up on vitamin C and other essential nutrients that will help keep your body firing on all cylinders. (You can also add tomato and pickle juice to the menu if you need help bouncing back after a particularly late night with clients. Trust us, it works!)
• Portable Steamer: For when your clothes look like they’ve had a rough night or a cross-country flight. Freshen up in minutes.
• Mini USB Travel Blender: Blend breakfast smoothies on the go, make yourself frozen drinks, or concoct the perfect hangover cure. Everyone will be asking where you got your glow!

Don’ts:

• Leave anything to chance. Travel doesn’t have to be a guessing game! Use TripIt Pro to track your flights and MyTSA to check current wait times at TSA checkpoints. Get ahead of the chaos, breeze through the airport, and keep your cool.
• Forget Your Chapstick/Lip Balm: We already warned you about this. Dry, cracked lips are not a good look, and we want you to feel 100% like the rockstar you are!
• Overdo It with Perfume: IMEX is an olfactory jungle. Keep it subtle; don’t cause a scent-splosion.
• Leave the Handi Wipes at Home: Bid bye-bye to bacteria and germs! We were all hoping to get the C-O-V word out of our mouths for good, but it’s sadly making a comeback this summer. Keep your hands clean while giving your immune system a helping hand.
• Forget to Read our Guide to Corporate Travel Must-Haves: For even more essentials and self-care tips to get you through IMEX 2024 and beyond, check out this great article by 360 Destination Group COO Craig Caron.

Keep Those Feet Happy… No Dogs Barkin’ On Our Watch!

Dos:

• Comfortable Shoes: Sneakers are your best friends. If you’re looking for a stylish, comfy, cohesive team look, check out these IMEX-branded shoes on Instagram. Cute, right?
• Band-Aids/Blister Patches: Prepare for battle. Your feet are in for serious action, especially if you want to rock a pair of boots or heels.
• Quick Pair of Foldable Flats: Let’s be real, ladies–you’ll want to change out of those power pumps at some point. Do your heels and toes a favor and invest in some purse-ready flats so you can take it easy on your feet. 

Don’ts:

• Break In New Shoes: We promise you you’ll be crushing your step goal each day of the conference. The last thing you want is a stiff pair of shoes wreaking havoc on your feet. 
• Ignore Foot Care: Neglecting your feet is like forgetting to charge your phone—disastrous and avoidable. Wearing heels? Foot Spray is a godsend.

Tech Essentials: Because Dead Batteries Are Not an Option

Dos:

• Portable Charger: Power up on the go. Extra or even branded chargers for clients and partners? Now that’s next-level. Ensure you have the right cables so you don’t have a USB-A to lightning when you need a USB-C to Mag charger.
• Long Extension Cord with Phone Plug: Because wall sockets are never where you need them.
• Step Counter: Track your miles walked and wave your fitness goals goodbye as you leave them in the dust. Consider IMEX high-intensity interval training with a side of business cards and free SWAG!

Pro Tip: Dictate your brilliance! After a big meeting or appointment, take 30 seconds to voice-record a summary of key points or what you’d like to say in your follow-up email. Trust us, this tiny time investment will save you loads when drafting those follow-ups later. Work smarter, not harder!

Don’ts:

• Forget Your Power Strip: Multiple devices need power– don’t make them battle over one socket.
• Skip the Portable White Noise Machine: If you’re a light sleeper, this is your bedtime BFF. Trust us; Vegas never sleeps, but you’ll definitely need your winks. Sharing a room with a snorer? Instead, invest in a pair of sleep-friendly, noise-blocking headphones.

Pro Tip: Organize your digital life with a quick photo album hack! Create a dedicated album on your iPhone for all those business cards, name tags, and bursts of inspiration you collect at IMEX. Snap a pic and toss it in there—no more fumbling through piles of paper or searching for that one important contact. It’s your digital filing cabinet right in your pocket!

For When You Need a Little TLC

Dos:

• Sleep Mask: Essential for those over-bright Vegas lights. Escape from the visual noise with an eye mask, or check out this luscious, over-the-head sleeping experience. Yeah, no electronic billboards or flashing neon can compete with that!
• Eye Drops (Lumify and Refresh Plus): Combat red eyes and avoid squinting or headaches. Ensure your eyes sparkle as much as your smile! And let’s be real: Vegas has some top-notch dispensaries; we’re not just blowing smoke.
• High-Protein Snacks: Forget the carb crash and keep your energy up with string cheese, nuts, or protein bars. For when you need to be a boss, not pass out in the middle of the expo hall!
• Treat Yourself to IV Therapy: Vegas is a decadent place, and it doesn’t get much better than having an IV drip delivered right to your room. Whether you’re looking for an immune boost, a hydration multiplier, or a banana bag after a night to remember, you can find plenty of private, convenient, and affordable options in Sin City.

Don’ts:

• Forget Your Travel-Sized Essentials: Toothpaste, toothbrush, and deodorant are a must. No one likes BO or bad breath… or rushing to find a pharmacy or convenience store at 1 AM when you’d rather be having a great time out on the town.
• Overpack Makeup: Touch-ups are good, but avoid a full makeover in the middle of the day. Less is more–especially when you’re trying to beat the Vegas heat. Keep it demure; keep it mindful. Oh, and try a spritz of this!

Break the Ice and Brand Like a Boss

Alright, you’re hydrated, your feet are pampered, and your tech is charged. You’re ready to rock! Well, not just yet. First, let’s talk about the magic formula for making meaningful connections at IMEX 2024. Spoiler alert: It’s not just about the SWAG.

Ice Breakers

Say goodbye to awkward silences and hello to effortless conversations! Keep a few clever ice breakers up your sleeve—think less “So, what do you do?” and more “If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be and why?” It’s all about sparking memorable conversations and avoiding the dreaded elevator small talk.

Networking Yourself

You’re not just a name tag—you’re uniquely you. Show up as your true self, and let your personality shine through. Authenticity is your best asset; after all, no one remembers the guy in the gray suit, but they do remember the one who made them laugh, had a crazy story to share, or offered genuine insight. Want more tips on reflecting your authentic self and amplifying your personal brand? Check out our guide on personal branding here.

There you have it—your guide to thrive at IMEX 2024! From hydration hacks to foot care and tech tricks, you’re now equipped to navigate the conference floor like a seasoned pro. Remember, the key to a successful IMEX experience is preparation and a dash of humor. So pack wisely, stay hydrated, and enjoy every minute of the excitement. You’ve got this! We’ll see you there.