Know Before You Go

Pack the following items to ensure you are prepared, comfortable, and productive during the conference.

Download the Conference App
Make the most of your conference experience by using our mobile app to plan your agenda. Search AZA Meetings and Conferences in your app store to download it. Access to the 2026 Annual Conference schedule, maps, and additional features will be available about one week before the conference begins.

Business Cards
You’re likely to meet many new people throughout the conference, so be sure to bring plenty of business cards.
Pro tip: Take brief notes on the business cards you receive—who the person is and what you discussed—to make follow-ups easier after the event.

Other Important Cards
Always travel with your photo ID and health insurance card.

Comfortable Shoes
Conference sessions often flow directly into networking events and dinners. Pack shoes that can transition from day to night and, most importantly, keep you comfortable..

Dress for the Occasion
Conference rooms are notoriously cold. Even if the weather is pleasant, consider bringing a sweater or light jacket in case you get chilly. Be sure to check the latest weather forecast for Portland to help guide what you pack. You may also find yourself with downtime during the conference and prefer not to relax in business attire. Consider packing comfortable clothes—such as sweats and tennis shoes—for lounging or casual outings..

Notebook and Pen
Even if you usually take notes on a device, there may be occasions when doing so could be distracting or inappropriate. Having a traditional notebook and pen ensures you’re always prepared. Please note that AZA does not allow AI note taking tools in meetings or conferences. Participants are expected to rely on traditional methods of note taking to ensure confidentiality and security of the discussion.

Pro tip: Bring extra pens—fellow attendees often borrow them, and they tend to disappear easily.

Charger/Extended Batteries
Whether you’re taking notes on a laptop or tablet, posting on social media, or navigating the conference app, your devices will get plenty of use. Conference days can be long, so bring chargers and/or portable battery packs for all your devices..

A Watch
While your phone can tell time, checking a watch is more discreet and far less distracting during sessions.

Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is important, especially when you’re sitting or talking for much of the day. Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it as needed—fillable water stations will be available throughout the convention center.

Snacks
Food will be provided at the Convention Center (see schedule below), the Icebreaker (heavy appetizers), and Zoo Day (lunch and dinner). However, you can never have too many snacks, especially during a jam-packed day of conference sessions and networking. Pack healthy and easy-to-eat choices such as granola bars, nuts and dried fruit.

First Time Attendee Meeting 
Attend this informative session on Monday, September 28, 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM.

Network
Go to the social events to see old friends and meet new collegues! Look at attendee badges and introduce yourself. More than likely the person sitting next to you is just as shy as you are. Make a point to share contact information if you meet someone at the conference. They will remember you and be interested in following up after the Conference to keep in contact. Or, connect with them using the AZA Network.

Exhibit Hall
Review the floorplan and schedule of activities with exhibitors. Don't be shy! Even if you don't plan to purchase anything, you can learn a lot from the suppliers. You can also visit AZA staff at AZA Central, located in the center of the Exhibit Hall. They are available to assist with questions, concerns or just want to see what they look like.

Poster Presentations
Another opportunity to discuss and meet authors of poster presentations on a variety of topics. Check your Program Guide or App for a full listing.

Stay Safe
Don't wear your conference badge outside of the convention center, unless you are at a conference event.