By Luna Dominic, @deca.luna_ | Florida Atlantic University, FL
ICDC is almost here! As the fun-filled conference approaches, you may be wondering, “What do I pack??”
Whether this is your first ICDC or you’re a returning ICDC member, here is a packing guide for both the under-packer and the over-packer.
Clothes
Clothes can be broken down into three main categories: travel, business professional and downtime.
Travel: Consider the method by which you are traveling to Atlanta – bus, plane, car – and be sure to prepare a comfortable outfit for this time.
Business Professional: Required for all ceremony sessions (opening/awards), testing, competition rounds (preliminary & final) and leadership academies. This includes your Official DECA Blazer and appropriate undershirt, bottoms, shoes and accessories. Pack at least two full professional outfits to allow for a change in case of spills or for multiple days of competition.
Downtime: When you’re not competing, there are many fun activities to do nearby in Atlanta, such as visiting the World of Coca-Cola or the Georgia Aquarium. You may also attend DECA Night events such as Rock the Block Party, Six Flags, Pemberton Place or the Football Hall of Fame. Plan for 3-4 days of casual outfits, plus a dressier option if you plan to go out for dinner!
Clothes Summary: General guideline – adjust as needed
- Shoes: 2 (1 travel/downtime, 1 business professional)
- Blazers: 1 (official DECA Blazer)
- Professional Outfit: 2-3
- Casual Shirts: 5
- Casual Bottoms: 4
- Sweater/Jacket: 1-2
- PJs: 4
Check out the DECA ICDC Dress Code for more information! If you missed the March 30th deadline to order your blazer, you may purchase it at Shop DECA, located inside the Georgia World Congress Center.
Technology
Recommended items include: phone, earbuds for travel, cable charger and portable charger.
- If you are competing in a prepared event and presenting on your computer, you’ll want to bring it and a charger.
- If you’re a student studying for AP exams or working on homework from school, you’re also welcome to bring any device (iPad, tablet, laptop) that you have study materials on.
- Optional: digital camera, tripod and mini microphones - for the content creators out there.
Toiletries
Bring all personal care items you need, such as skincare, hair care, dental care and makeup.
If you’re flying with a carry-on bag, toiletries must be stored in 3.4 oz containers, fit into a 1-quart bag and 1 bag per passenger. Certain items are prohibited; be sure to review TSA guidelines if you’re unsure if an item is allowed. Guidelines may differ for checked bags.
Competition Notes
You’ll need to present a form of ID when checking in for your competitive events, so be sure to have one on hand. You’ll also need an ID or passport if traveling through the airport.
Double-check that you have all the required materials for your specific event: a presentation board, a laptop, a 4-function calculator and handouts, as applicable.
Additional Items
- Eye Care: Glasses & case, contacts, contact case & solution
- Emergency Kit: Tide pen, safety pins, small sewing kit, lint roller, Band-Aids.
- Accessories: Jewelry, watches, ties/scarves
- Day-to-day: Extra hangers, a small backpack or fanny pack for daily items on the go, and a form of payment (credit card, cash)
Final Tip
Plan out what you are going to bring a few days ahead of time so you ensure you bring everything you need and don’t leave anything behind! If you need to have business formal clothes dry-cleaned, do this at least one week before the trip.
Good luck packing, and see you at ICDC!
