What I take in my carry-on facilitator kit

Recently, I travelled to facilitate a workshop, and I had to consider what had to be in my carry-on when flying and what was in my checked bag. The workshop participants asked me for a list, so here it is. Plus, don’t miss the hot bonus tips towards the end of the page (scroll down).

What I always take with me

My Laptop (and backed up at home first)
Laptop BAG, just in case the carry-on has to be checked
Slides or Presentation Clicker (remote)
Extra batteries
Computer Mouse
Mouse pad
HDMI cable (so you can plug your laptop into a projector)
High-speed internet Ethernet cable (Cat 6) & adapter
Extension cord (mine also includes USB plugs)
Memory sticks with my slides (and in the cloud online)
Presentation slides with notes printed
Flip chart markers
Whiteboard markers
Engagement tools & activities
Headphones or earbuds
Clear baggies for showing electronics during security check
[Batteries out of the remotes and mouse (either in the checked bag or in a clear bag)]
Adapter for different computers
USB extender hub for more ports
Stickers with my logo for my items
Backup power source for the phone (and charger)
Sticky notes, Q-cards, highlighters and pens
Handouts printed for tables
QR code ready in presentation and on-tables for downloads and additional resources (I will add next time)
Cough candies and chapstick
List of items in my bag
Water bottle (I use a Brita Filter option)
Clip for attaching an item to the outside of bag
Eyeglasses cleaner cloth
The steps printed to connect my phone data to the computer as an internet backup option and for the room if using activities that require the internet.

What I sometimes take with me

Tri-pods for recording
My projector
Projector screen
Speakers
Small fan
Extra activities
Chocolates & Treats
Play-doh
Back-up Power – Jackery
Flip Chart Paper
My books and other give-aways for draws
The Meeting Owl

Next Time I Will Bring

I ended up flying with a smaller plane than I typically have experienced before, and even though my carry-on bag fit in the test bin, it did not work – I could push the bag into the overhead bin, but it couldn’t close. Next, I had to put it under the seat ahead of me, by my feet, but it was also in the space for the person sitting beside me. They were okay with this for a 1.5-hour flight, but it wasn’t ideal. Therefore, before I flew back, I also planned to check that bag, which meant I needed a new bag for my laptop, which I had to purchase. Next time I will bring my small laptop bag!

My small laptop bag!
QR Codes printed and laminated (if that wasn’t going to be too glossy) on the tables for the downloadable resource

Podcast Version

Hot Bonus Tip

Pack your kit and laptop bag even when you don’t have an upcoming workshop, plus add a list to the box so you can double-check for next time.
Another Hot Bonus Tip: I always always bring Loop earplugs everywhere for my self-care. If I am at a conference and the music is way too loud, or the room is becoming overwhelming with the noise level of hundreds of people, I can put the earplugs in my ears and still hear the person talking to me or speaking from the stage. I also bring a second set that is completely quiet, for if I am rooming with someone and they snore, or the hotel sounds are loud.

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Author

Patricia Regier, MEd is the Online Expert who’s built a career on the belief that training and online learning doesn’t have to be boring. As Owner of Regier Educational Services and with a Master of Adult Education, Patricia is known for making her audience feel empowered, engaged, courageous and confident. Her debut book and keynote, The Online Shift teaches newcomers to the online space and seasoned professionals alike how to optimize their online presence and maximize engagement. She’s tried, tested and refined using the latest behavioral science, research and psychology to make sure your next online experience is a hit!