Since we’re headed to Louisville, we’ve borrowed inspiration from a few hometown legends – the Derby, Muhammad Ali, and Louisville Slugger – to help build the ultimate INSTcon26 packing list.
If this is your first INSTcon, you might be thinking, "Time to buy a whole new wardrobe!" And hey—if you need an excuse to treat yourself, no judgment here! But InstructureCon is less about dressing up and more about showing up. In true Louisville fashion, it’s relaxed, welcoming, and all about making connections – so wear whatever makes you feel comfortable and confident and get ready to enjoy the ride!
Historically, Louisville is hot and humid in late July – we can expect temperatures in the upper 80s to low 90s°F with plenty of humidity. Fortunately, most conference activities are indoors (thank goodness for AC!) — but be prepared for the occasional trek between venues.
🐎 Dress like a Champion (What to Wear)
🌹 Dress Code: Business Casual? More Like Bluegrass Casual
InstructureCon has always embraced a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Jeans, sneakers, polos, Canvas T-shirts, and comfortable dresses all fit right in. Bring a light sweater or jacket—you might go from Kentucky summer to conference-center tundra in about thirty seconds.
🎓 Represent Your Stable
Canvas gear, Instructure swag, or apparel from your school are fun conversation starters. You're not just representing yourself—you're representing your entire educational "stable."
Some attendees like to go the extra mile for the last day’s evening party. Since we’re at Churchill Downs, think: jockey, racing fan, your best Derby hat, or Southern gentleman/belle.
🌆 Beyond the Track / Exploring Louisville
Planning to explore Louisville before or after the conference? There is so much to see: museums, bourbon district walks, baseball games, or simply discovering the city. Consider packing an extra outfit for your outings!
🏃 Train Like a Thoroughbred
If you're joining the early morning activities (Downtown Walking Tour or Sunrise Stretch & Strength) you may want to pack athletic clothing, walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and definitely enough motivation to get up before sunrise.
🥊 Defend your Title (Tech Essentials)
📱 Phone + Portable Charger = Your Corner Team
Between the Instructure Events app, photos, social media, session notes, and networking, your phone will work harder than a heavyweight champion. And while typically there are charging stations, avoid the corner by bringing a portable power bank and a charging cable.
🤝 Business Cards or Digital Contact Sharing
Like any champion, your network is one of your greatest assets. Be ready with QR codes, digital business cards, or traditional cards to make connecting easy.
💻 Laptop (Optional Heavyweight)
Most attendees get by with a phone or tablet, but presenters, note-takers, and productivity enthusiasts may appreciate bringing a laptop.
⚾ Louisville Lineup (Survival Kit)
📲 Download the Events App Before First Pitch
The Instructure Events app is your lineup card for the week: agenda, maps, announcements, session materials, and all the latest updates. Becoming familiar with it before arriving means fewer curveballs once the conference begins.
🎒 Your Bullpen Bag
Pack a few conference MVPs:
- Pain relievers
- Bandages or blister pads
- Hand sanitizer
- Breath mints or gum
- Lip balm/gloss
- Tissues
- Fidget toy
- Face mask (optional, but never a bad idea)
- Handheld fan (my personal must-have)
- (some of these can be found as swag at the exhibit hall 😉)
🌹 Leave Room in the Winner's Circle
Save Space for Swag
Please take this tip seriously. Save room in your suitcase – in fact, come with half your suitcase empty – you'll thank yourself later.
Much like collecting roses after winning the Derby, you'll return home with pens, stickers, T-shirts, socks, notebooks, plushies, mystery giveaways, tech gadgets, fliers….and at least one item you absolutely didn't know you needed. In fact, the T-shirts alone may save you from packing as much as you think!
🥇 Final Bell: Before You Step Into the Ring
Before heading to Louisville, do one final pre-flight check:
- ✅ Government ID and travel confirmations
- ✅ Hotel reservation
- ✅ Presentation files backed up (cloud, downloaded file, and maybe USB as well)
- ✅ Devices and chargers
- ✅ Reusable water bottle (filled after security!)
- ✅ Pins from previous INSTcons (show off your prior "medals" on this year's badge!)
- ✅ Shoes that are comfortable and already broken in (you will get your steps!!)
🎉 The Finish Line
Whether you're chasing innovative ideas, making new connections, collecting enough stickers to decorate a laptop for the next decade, or simply looking to recharge professionally, InstructureCon2026 is your chance to go the distance. In a city known for champions—from Derby winners and prizefighters to Louisville Sluggers—we're excited for an incredible week of learning, connection, and Southern hospitality. We'll see you in Louisville!
🏆 What’s your Conference-Packing MVP?
What's your must-pack item for INSTcon? Share your conference-packing MVP in the comments!
