What you need to pack for TechEd 2004

May 19, 2004 · 2 min read

TECHED 2004 SAN DIEGO IS SOON! BE PREPARED!

This is the third TechEd that I have been to and I have found that you have to properly prepare for this event to make it the best event for you. If this is going to be your first time to TechEd - then listen up!

WHAT YOU NEED TO BRING TO TECHED:

  • A BIG suitcase. You will be getting a ton of giveaways from TechEd. There hasn't been one TechEd where I didn't come up with a minimum of five new books. You will also be getting free software, t-shirts, papers, mementos, etc. You will need the space to bring this stuff home so be ready for it!
  • A laptop! Don't come without your computer if you can. If you have a laptop, get a wireless card as there will be usually some shoddy wireless available for you to use at the convention center.
  • An additional outlet expander plug thingy! I have this small outlet expander that turns one three-pronged plug into three three-pronged plugs. Why do I need this you say? Well, think about it my laptop friends: 11,000 people at TechEd and 10,000 of those with laptops... only 1000 (tops) or so places to plug these laptops into. With this expander, or an extension cord, or a power strip - you can then go up to anyone, unplug them and have the two of you share an outlet. It's all about brotherly/sisterly love in the community sharing of electrical power!
  • Walkie-talkies! I just bought a pair of two-mile range walkie talkies. Seems like a cool thing to bring even if I don't need it.
  • Business Cards! You will make a lot of new friends at TechEd and you will want to be handing out your contact info. You will also be meeting a lot of technologists that can help you in the future and you are going to want their cards. Whenever you get a business card - write a message to yourself on the back of the card on who the heck this person really is and what you promised... otherwise it is a lost cause!
  • Pen/Pencil! (see above)
  • Digital Camera! Great for remembering the moment and also great for blackmail situations.
  • Ziplock bags! To put your wallet in for when you get thrown into swimming pools. Stay away from me  and!
  • Extra pair of shoes! (see above)
  • Funny T-Shirt! With 11,000 people, you are going to need to stand out in the crowd somewhat. A funny t-shirt is always a hit. "Hey did you see the guy with that Bush/Kerry/Ballmer/Gates t-shirt... oh man was he funny.".... see you would be remembered.
  • Bottle-opener. For the evenings. :)
  • Aspirin and breath mints... for the mornings.:(
  • USB Pen! For passing PPTs/Notes and good blackmail digital photos to your friends with.
  • MSDN Card! (via Julie Lerman): In the past few years, the MSDN booth in the exhibition hall has had great (free) gifts for those that show their MSDN card to them.

I know that I am missing something else and will add to the list if I remember. Please add your own items via the comments. Have fun everyone and see you at TechEd!!!

This article is part of the GWB Archives. Original Author: Bill Evjen

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