Conference day is a long one. Doors open early, the program runs until late, and in between there’s walking, talking, and not much time to run out for anything you forgot.
So we asked experienced CFW attendees & insiders to share what they pack for Conference Day. Here were some of the most beloved items — with helpful links to purchase from longtime CFW sponsor Target.
1. A refillable water bottle
Conference venues are busy, dry, and dehydrating, and you’ll be on your feet more than you plan to be. Bring a bottle you’ll actually drink from. This Owala stainless steel bottle is a CFW favorite because you can sip or swig from the same lid (and Target-sponsored refill stations are available in each CFW venue!)
2. Comfortable shoes or flats
Your feet will thank you after a full day of walking. We’re loving the whole Cushionaire line at Target right now, including these slip-on loafers with a low heel and a chain detail that dresses them up.
3. Hair refresh essentials
Travel-size dry shampoo plus a mini UNbrush is a power move. They take up almost no room and buy you a full reset in five minutes. (Worth doing before headshots at CareerWorks, if that’s on your list.)
4. A hydrating mist or lotion
A quick spritz of e.l.f. hydrating coconut mist revives your face between sessions, and Being Frenshe milky hydrating lotion handles the rest.
5. A tinted lip balm or lip oil
The easiest way to look pulled together for a photo or a conversation you didn’t see coming. Lip oils are the CFW team favorite because they hydrate and add polish in one step. Try versions from Burt’s Bees or Kaja Beauty.
6. Hand sanitizer and hand cream
This VQ sanitizer keeps germs at bay while this eos cream combats the dry indoors.
7. Snacks that travel well
Good & Gather has the category covered with protein bars, nuts, and dried fruit that won’t melt or crush in your bag.
Ready for Conference Day?
The 2026 Texas Conference for Women takes place October 5 at the Moody Center in Austin, with America Ferrera, Hoda Kotb, Ilona Maher, Tunde Oyeneyin, and Codie Sanchez on the keynote stage. Learn more and get your tickets today.
The 2026 Pennsylvania Conference for Women is on November 5 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia. Don’t miss keynote speakers Tayari Jones, Kylie Kelce, Mindy Kaling, Bozoma Saint John, and Lindsey Vonn. Learn more and register.
The 2026 Massachusetts Conference for Women takes place in Boston on December 10. Featuring a keynote lineup that includes Bobbi Brown, Bozoma Saint John, Lindsey Vonn, and more. Tickets are now sold out, but you can join our ticket notification list at conferencesforwomen.org/ma.
