The countdown to Vancouver is officially on. Between the crisp Pacific air and the energy of agents from coast-to-coast connecting, eXpcon is shaping up to be the highlight of your spring calendar.
Packing for a massive event in the Pacific Northwest is an art form. You want to look sharp for those hallway run-ins with industry leaders, but you also need to be ready for Vancouver’s famous "liquid sunshine."
Here is how to curate a suitcase that keeps you comfortable from the first keynote to the final dinner.
The Host Hotel Advantage: How to Outsmart the Vancouver Mist
If you snagged a room at one of the host hotels, you just won the logistics lottery. You can navigate the entire day without ever needing to step outside or worry about a sudden drizzle. Flow from your morning coffee straight into a general session while staying perfectly dry and polished.
However, Vancouver is a city built for exploring and since the weather is unpredictable, we recommend keeping a water-resistant layer, like a sleek trench or tailored technical blazer handy for transitions between venues. Adding a compact umbrella to your bag is the easiest way to stay looking polished for the next handshake.
Pro tip: Since the weather can be a little unpredictable, thin layers will be your best option for staying comfortable. If you find yourself missing a piece or need an extra layer, be sure to check out our Brandstore on-site!
Smart Footwear for the Win
Gold standard networking can come with sprawling layouts. You’ll likely clock a good amount of kilometers walking between the general session stage, the expo floor and the breakout rooms.
Skip the stiff dress shoes or heels and opt for something with built-in support. If you're heading outside, look for leather or treated materials that won't soak through if you step in a puddle. Stylish, water-friendly loafers or high-end sneakers that can handle 10,000 steps are the way to go.
Tech Essentials for the Busy Agent
It’s no secret that your phone is going to work overtime. Don't let a low battery cut a great conversation short.
A Portable Power Bank: A slim one that fits in a blazer pocket is your best friend.
Clip-on Mic: Convention halls are loud. A small wireless lavalier mic that plugs into your phone will make your content sound professional and polished.
Portable LED Light: A pocket-sized light ensures your "on the scene" videos look crisp, even in dimly lit breakout rooms or evening events.
Extra-Long Charging Cable: This is a pro move for when you finally find a wall outlet during a session.
A Slim Notebook: Even in a digital world, sometimes a quick sketch or a handwritten note is the best way to capture a brilliant idea. Don’t forget a pen!
One Tap to Connect: Mastering the Digital First Impression
It’s time to retire the clunky stack of paper business cards. They get lost, crumpled, or left in the hotel room.
If you’re planning to use NameDrop on your iPhone to swap info in Vancouver, just double-check your settings before you hit the convention floor:
Go to Settings > General > AirDrop.
Make sure Bringing Devices Together is toggled On.
Ensure your Contact Poster is set up and looking polished, it’s essentially your digital first impression!
This video walks you through the exact requirements and physical positioning needed to make the NameDrop transfer work smoothly every time.
Don’t have an iPhone? No problem.
Switching to a digital business card is the fastest way to make sure your contact info actually lands in someone’s phone. It’s professional, eco-friendly, and you’ll never run out. You can also brush up on your real estate networking tips to make sure you're leading with value the moment you scan that code.
Pro tip: Make your digital business card your homescreen on your phone, so it’s readily and easily available.
Pack for the Celebration: From Backyard Bashes to Enchanted Gardens
Your suitcase needs room for more than just blazers and notebooks. We have two major celebrations on the books that require their own specific vibe.
April 20 | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM: The Welcome Reception Backyard Bash
Kick off the week at our eXp PARQ–inspired Backyard Bash. This is an elevated take on a casual hangout, think "Pacific Northwest Chic." You’ll want an outfit that’s comfortable enough to move through interactive sponsor activations but sharp enough for a live DJ set. A smart blazer over a crisp tee, a stylish jumpsuit or a comfortable dress is the perfect play here.
April 22 | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Enchanted Garden Closing Reception
We’re closing out at The Douglas Hotel with an immersive celebration inspired by Earth Day. The vibe is lush and atmospheric, so this is your moment to lean into 'Garden Cocktail' attire. Think elevated floral prints, rich earthy tones, or soft pastels in luxe fabrics like silk or linen for a look that’s as fresh as the Vancouver air.
Looking for more inspiration? Check out our Pinterest board.
