I’ve seen a lot of blog posts detailing how and what to pack for a conference. The influx of posts on the web has been due to the lead up of a lot of us bloggers going to the Problogger Conference on the Gold Coast this week. I’m bringing along my most prized accessory – Phoebe. I decided to add a new dimension to the posts already being shared on the blogosphere: How to pack for a conference when travelling with a baby.
If you breastfeed, like I do, all outfits need to have good access for feeding. If you don’t breastfeed, you still need to consider what you put on your top half because most babies drool, spew and wipe their boogas on you as they rub their face into your chest or shoulder.
Dresses that cross over at the breast, made out of a jersey material are a great outfit choice. You won’t have to worry about ironing and if they are patterned, no one will notice if you have smears on your shoulder as the print should camouflage them.
Button up shirts with a breastfeeding singlet underneath also work well too. Partner these with a bold print pant and a feature necklace or scarf and you will be feeling confident as you meet new people for the first time.
Pants with an elasticized waist will help you feel comfortable with your post baby belly. There is a lot of sitting at conferences, so you don’t want anything tight around your waist.
Consider packing a few extra tops to change into if a major spew occurs. Wipes are great at cleaning small spills, but not great at mopping up number threes which can take you by surprise at any time.
For night time attire when something a bit more special needs to be worn, dresses with zips or wrap dresses can work well for this too.
When it comes to shoes, flats are best. Carrying a baby around means you need good, supportive footwear. For stylish options try boots, ballet flats, brogues or loafers.
I’ve put together a gallery of items that can work well for a trip away with baby. If you are going to a conference that requires business attire, add a blazer to lift the style up to business standard.
1. Sussan Mini Motif Loop Scarf $39.95
2. Sussan Linen Utility Shirt $79.95
3. Katies Geometric Soft Pant $49.95
4. Witchery Zip Front Blouse $99.95
5. Leona Edmiston Stacy Dress $395.00
6. Styletread Boston Belle Ria Black Ballet Flats $74.95
7. Sussan Spliced Waterfall Jacket $99.95
8. Leona Edmiston Toni Dress $276.00
9. Styletread Gamins Amazings Neutrals Boots $74.97
I have just sorted out my outfits and added some extra tops and dresses for ‘just in case’. Here is a list of what I will be packing for a two night get away which should help give you an idea of what to pack.
Day 1 Arrival
1 pair of maternity jeans + 1 maternity singlet/tee + 1 kimono/cape + 1 necklace + 1 pair of ballet flat shoes
1 Jumpsuit and or Cross over Jersey dress for night time networking + 1 necklace + 1 jacket + 1 pair of wedges
Day 2 – First Day of Conference
1 Pair of printed pants + 1 button up blouse + 1 maternity singlet + 1 necklace + 1 pair of ballet flat shoes
1 Jumpsuit/and or cross over dress with different accessories and jacket + 1 pair of wedges
Day 3 – Second Day of Conference
1 Pair of elasticized pants + 1 maternity singlet + 1 printed button down shirt + loafers
Go home in this outfit.
With the Jumpsuit, I have an alternate cross over dress in the same colour should I need a replacement outfit. I’ve also added two extra nursing tops just in case of baby accidents too.
You can follow me on Facebook or Instagram to see what I wear and I will blog about my outfit choices next week.
How do you go about packing for a Conference? How many shoes do you usually take when you go away?