The morning of the convention can be hectic, and things tend to get even more stressful throughout the day. While you can never plan completely for every possible problem, there are many things you can bring, ranging from tools to phone numbers that will help you handle problems in stride. These five things are almost universally helpful, and all of them are small enough that they can be easily stashed away within even the smallest trade show exhibit, never revealed to your visitors.

#1: A Screwdriver

If you've attended a convention before, you have probably found yourself in need of a screwdriver and missing one. Despite the easy setup of most trade show displays, the screwdriver is usually one of the most commonly requested items at any convention help desk. In fact, well-prepared organizers usually keep one on hand just in case. You can't guarantee that your organizers will be well prepared, so ensure your own success by keeping one on hand anyway. It's easy to tuck one inside your carrying case, or even wrap it in a cloth and put it inside your briefcase or handbag.

#2: Duct Tape

Duct tape functions similarly to the screwdriver: it doesn't have a stated purpose, but it always comes in handy. It can be used to securely stick two things together, making it great for posting information for staff behind your unit, or even for taping together a broken banner stand in the worst case scenario.

#3: Setup Instructions For Your Trade Show Displays

Even if your trade show exhibits are incredibly easy to set up, you should still have something that helps you remember how to work with them on convention day. People often overestimate the amount of time they will have the morning of the event; you'll almost certainly be rushed, and you will probably run into at least one unexpected problem. Simplify things by bringing along your setup instructions. You never know when you'll need them, and they're always good to have for reference.

#4: Display Guide For Trade Show Exhibits

Bring along an outline that shows what goes where. This outline should also tell your staff where they can find extra leaflets, extra items that you're giving away, et cetera. This display guide should ideally be placed at the back of your trade show displays, possibly even taped on with that duct tape you brought. That way, no one will ever have to wonder where that one banner stand goes - it's all on the diagram.

#5: Phone Numbers For Company Contacts And Your Banner Stand Designer

If something goes wrong, you need to contact your supervisors and the people that built the trade show exhibits you're using. If you don't have those numbers, it's awfully hard to communicate. Program them into your phone, and also post them in the back of the trade show displays themselves. That way, if there's an emergency, it will be easy to get in touch.

Following these easy tips takes a matter of minutes, but could save the entire convention if something goes wrong. Whether you have a small banner stand or large trade show exhibits, these helpful hints are always useful.