With ICDC around the corner, packing and preparing for this conference can seem overwhelming. Before you embark on your journey to Atlanta, we asked some past ICDC attendees what items they actually found essential and what they wished they had brought.

What to Pack

Portable Charger
If there’s one thing you don’t want to forget, it’s a portable charger. With long days and constant communication, your phone battery can drain faster than you expect. Alyssa Chen from Granada Hills Charter High School shared, “I wish I packed a portable charger, so my phone won’t die during moments I want to capture.” To avoid losing contact with your chapter or missing out from recording fun memories, make sure to always keep a charger with you during the conference.

Digital Camera
While your phone works, having a digital camera can also make documenting your trip in Atlanta much more memorable. Stella Philips from Torrey Pines High School recalls, “My digital camera was perfect to take photos and vlogs. It made documenting the memories much better and way more fun!” ICDC goes by quickly, so bring a camera if you want something beyond phone photos to remember it.

Water Bottle and Cough Drops
From roleplays to late-night conversations, you will be talking constantly at ICDC, and losing your voice could be possible. Stella adds, “Bring some cough drops and a good water bottle so you’re good to go, especially if you’re competing.” Staying hydrated and taking care of your voice can make a huge difference in your overall experience.

Tips to Make the Most of ICDC

ICDC isn’t just about what you pack, it’s also about the energy you bring and the moments you choose to be a part of. Past attendees shared their biggest tips on how to make the most out of this trip.

Talk to New People
For many attendees, ICDC is a once in a lifetime experience to connect with thousands of students across the globe. The best memories often come out of spontaneous conversations and trading pins, so to have the full experience, try talking to new people. Sabine Chung from Canyon Crest Academy highlights, “I’ve made some of my closest friends from around the world at ICDC!” The connections you make at this conference can last long after you return from Atlanta, so start those conversations and get to know others.

Balance Competition and Fun
When competing at an international level, it is easy to get caught up in stress, but ICDC is much more than the competitions. Vincent Cheng from Lynbrook High School explains, “My best advice is to not be afraid. Whether it is making that funny introduction at the start of your roleplay or putting yourself out there to meet new people, don’t be afraid to do something.” Remember that even with the high stakes of this conference, ICDC is best when you can fully experience the opportunities around you and have fun in each of your activities.

Make it a Chapter Experience
Even with the many connections you may build, remember you are ultimately traveling and experiencing Atlanta alongside your chapter. From late nights in your hotel room to time spent together throughout the conference, use ICDC as a way to get to know your chapter better. As explained by Rachel Hodgson from San Pasqual High School, “Take the opportunity to form tighter bonds with people in your chapter!”

As you prepare to head off to Atlanta, remember to take time to pack well and make space for the moments and connections that will stay with you long after you return home.