It can be a challenge to pack your bag for any trip you are taking. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for the NACAA Annual Meeting and Professional Improvement Conference.

The conference attire is generally business casual. Keep in mind the Iowa Events Center is air conditioned and you may need an extra layer in colder rooms. You’ll want to bring semi-formal clothing for the annual awards banquet on Wednesday night. Women usually wear dressy separates or dresses, while men often wear dress shirts with jackets and/or ties.

Casual clothing will be perfect for the visit to the Iowa State Fair and for the tour day. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes since there tends to be a lot of walking throughout the week.

Dennis Todey, a conference guest speaker and director of the USDA Midwest Climate Hub, encourages people to check the National Weather Service (www.weather.gov) for forecasts as they get closer to travel. Dennis shares that Iowa in mid-August is generally warm and humid, highs in the 80s/lows in the 60s. Individual days in the low 90s or in the 70s are possible. People on tours should be prepared for warm and sunny conditions (water, sunscreen, hat, etc.). A light jacket might be necessary in the evenings.

Remember to bring a few business cards or program flyers to help you network and stay in touch with extension colleagues you meet at the conference.