Flying Interstate For A Con: The Real Packing List

Not the Pinterest packing list. Not the "10 essentials every vendor needs" list written by someone who's never actually flown a full booth interstate solo. This is what you actually need, in the order it actually matters.

Your display, sized for the flight

First decision, before you pack anything: which kit size is coming with you. Core (24 panels) or Shapeshift Base (46 panels) if you want a shot at carrying the whole thing on. The Shapeshift (70 panels), the most popular all-rounder, if you're checking one bag anyway and want full table coverage. Shapeshift Max (92 panels) only if the show genuinely calls for a bigger footprint, since it's the heaviest to fly with.

Whatever size, the panels pack completely flat, which is what makes any of this manageable in the first place. See the breakdown on our modular display kit page.

What goes in the checked bag

Panels, ABS connectors, PLA hooks, table cloth, business cards, extra packaging for sold prints. Basically everything that isn't fragile or irreplaceable. Pack the panels flat along the bottom, hardware in a zip pouch so it doesn't rattle loose.

What comes with you in the cabin

Original art. Anything one-of-a-kind. Your payment reader, cash box, and laptop if you're running a POS. Signage that's fragile or printed on something bendable, keep it flat in a portfolio bag, never rolled if you can avoid it. If your booth is small enough, this is also where the panel kit itself can go, inside the standard 56x36x23cm carry-on allowance.

Day-of essentials that get forgotten

Zip ties as backup, a small clip light if your venue runs dim, extra cash for a float, phone charger and a battery pack, snacks that aren't going to melt or crush. None of this is glamorous. All of it saves your show if you forget the obvious stuff.

If you're deciding between kit sizes for this specific trip, the full kit lineup breaks down panel counts against table sizes so you're not guessing.

Setup morning

You've got maybe 30 minutes before doors open and a line already forming. No tools needed, panels click into connectors, hooks go on last. Practice this ONCE at home before your first interstate show so setup morning isn't the first time you've built it under pressure.

Should I check my display or carry it on for an interstate flight?

Depends on kit size. Smaller kits often fit carry-on dimensions. Bigger kits should go checked, packed flat, as your one main checked bag.

What should never go in a checked bag for a con trip?

Original artwork, anything one-of-a-kind, and your payment hardware. Keep those with you in the cabin.

How early should I practice setup before flying to a show?

At least once at home before your first trip. You want setup morning to be muscle memory, not a first attempt with a line watching you.