WordCamp St. Louis is coming up on May 12-13. If you haven’t been it’s a great event whether you’re new to WordPress, a developer, or a power user. And at $40 for a ticket and a t-shirt it’s a hard bargain to pass up.
For those less-seasoned WordCampers I’ve compiled a list of some of the must-haves to bring with you on your WordCamp adventure.
Notebook or Computer
For those of you fond of taking notes the old fashioned way make sure to bring a notebook with plenty of fresh pages. You’re going to be filling it up with a ton of great information.
If, like me, you’re handwriting is indecipherable even to yourself, don’t worry. WordCamp is a tech conference note taking on your favorite device is perfectly acceptable. Feel free to bring your computer, phone, or tablet and your favorite note taking app. I for one am partial to Bear so I can write in markup.
Chargers for Everything
If you choose to go with the electronic note-taking app make sure you bring your chargers. WordCamp is jam packed full of great talks and you’ll burn right through even the best battery.
Feel free to bring a power strip and you’ll probably make a few friends!
Swag Bag
In order to get the most out of WordPress both figuratively and literally you’re going to want to bring a bag. There are a lot of great companies sponsoring WordCamp and running booths. And they like to give away awesome swag.
Ever wonder where all those WordPressers get the awesome Wapuu stickers adorning their laptops? It’s probably from a WordCamp.
Reusable Water Bottle
Washington University, our excellent venue, is leading the nation in the charge to cut down on single-use bottle consumption. Their water bottle ban has been a great success in cutting back water bottle waste created.
That does mean the water bottle supply can be scarce at WordCamp. There will be some, but not a ton. Fortunately Washington University has stations throughout campus for refilling reusable water bottles. So make sure to bring your favorite Nalgeen, Camelbak, or other drinking device and keep yourself well-hydrated throughout WordCamp!
Business Cards
There’s a good chance that if you’re coming to a WordCamp conference you make a living using WordPress. Make sure to bring your business cards so you can easily share your information with all the great people you meet.
Even if you don’t make a living off WordPress you’ll be able exchange info with tons of potential mentors and experts to work with on your future projects. And you’re going to be overflowing with future project ideas after WordCamp.
Now You’re Ready for a Great WordCamp
Grab everything above and you’ll be fully loaded up for your WordCamp experience. You won’t have to worry about something you forgot and you can focus on making connections and learning new things.
Great list! I can’t wait to get there!