By Politiquette’s Marissa Mitrovich: Politiquette is a place to be inspired by the art of fashion. Readers gain an understanding of the politics of why to wear–and the etiquette of when to wear–specific styles. Marissa Mitrovich founded Politiquette with the goal of bringing further substance to the dialogue surrounding style in DC.
Since 2000 I have been to many political conventions and every 4 years I get better at packing, but it’s STILL. SO. STRESSFUL. I decided to ask some other convention travel experts for packing advice in order to selfishly help myself and generously help all of you! My Fashionably Famous friends have offered the packing tips below.
What are your necessities for convention travel?
Jackie Kucinich
Washington Bureau Chief, The Daily Beast
JK: Noise canceling headphones (best.investment.ever.), jewel-tone dresses with pockets, flats, several “it’s ok if I lose this” sweaters and Diet Coke (I swear I’ll quit…again…in 2017).
FF: The sweaters are key, the convention halls are often freezing contrasting the the brutal heat outside. Also, for women planning to be on tv – you never know – solid jewel tones are a good call.
James Hohmann
National Political Correspondent, The Washington Post // Author of The Daily 202 // Anchor of Power Post
JH: In some ways, it is easy to pack for conventions: Traditional suits with unadventurous ties are de rigueur, though some guys can get away with khakis. It’s really not appropriate to show too much flair if you’re a reporter for a mainstream news organization, unfortunately.
On the other hand, there are credible reports of potential violence in the streets and rioting is not out of the question. Just look at the clashes we’ve seen outside Donald Trump rallies so far this year. You never know if you’re going to get deployed into the streets, even if that’s not part of the original plan. During the 2008 Republican convention in St. Paul, I was assigned by the Los Angeles Times to cover the protests on the night that John McCain accepted the nomination. I wound up getting hit by some tear gas as I followed a group of activists. I wish I had not been in a pin-striped suit at the time because it was so darn hot outside, and it was uncomfortable to sit on the pavement on a bridge and write 700 words quickly. So, this year, I’ll be sure to bring some more sensible clothes that I can wear – just in case. (Here’s my story from that night.)
Chargers, chargers, chargers
Water: Always stay hydrated. Next week could be a scorcher, see Capitol Weather Gang.
FF: I am totally with Hohmann on the chargers. I think my bag is quite flammable at this moment from the number of chargers I have packed.
Jay Newton-Small
Author of Broad Influence: How Women Are Changing the Way America Works // TIME magazine correspondent
JNS: Steel toe boots, energy bar, scarf (for sweat and head coverage or to wipe your eyes in tear gas as needed)
FF: Jay has covered stories in many countries during times of unrest and knows the reality of possibility when it comes to covering the political conventions this year. In order to be prepared for anything, she suggests steel toe shoe that you can run in. Many reporters have mentioned the same to me o-t-r. We all hope for peace and safety, but it’s foolish to not be prepared
Brad Jenkins
Managing Director & Executive Producer, Funny Or Die DC
BJ: Funny or Die will be at both conventions and so hopefully everyone attending (on both sides) are able to laugh at themselves. Having a sense of humor (and humility) is a rarity in the world of politics. And, that may explain why young people are not as willing to identify with a political party — or convention for that matter.
So put on that police-issued riot helmet! FOD is coming.
FF: FYI – you won’t be allowed into the conventions with a helmet on, this does not apply to “helmet” hairstyles or obviously the candidates won’t be allowed.
Alexis Williams
Executive Director of Events, POLITICO
AW: Convention travel is an art. I’m a firm believer that how you dress is how you feel, so I actually spent a lot of time planning. I even flew my mom out to help.
I think in “outfit” so I don’t over pack. I avoid too many light colors, when you’re in your close from 7am-1am, it helps. I don’t worry about purses for conventions – I’m constantly hauling stuff (laptop, notebooks, etc.) so I focus on having the most functional bag possible. To get me through the days, I recommend bring a lint roller, travel toothbrush, multivitamins and Burts bees.
FF: Alexis is obviously one of the most thoughtful packers and planners, which is why she excels at her position at Politico. Please do note there will be a bag size allowed at conventions, DO NOT BRING A LARGER BAG or you won’t get in or they will take it and not return it.
Tom Williams
Photographer for Roll Call on Capitol Hill // Capitol Lens Contributor
TW: Neckties featuring pictures of celebrities. They are good conversation pieces. At the 2008 DNC in Denver, security swept all the press off the floor but the Connecticut delegates pulled me into their group so I could stay. I wasn’t wearing a funny tie but it highlighted the importance of becoming familiar with the delegates as they might help in some way. Delegates are pretty good about being approached for photos, but it helps when, unprompted, someone says, “Hey, nice tie!”
FF: I couldn’t agree more that a conversation piece can make or break a career opportunity, follow Tom’s advice!
Summary: Fashionably Famous Top 10 Things to Pack
- Comfortable Shoes, I recommend two pairs. A pair of shoes you can walk and run comfortably in and a nice pair that looks good, but is also comfortable.
- Portable chargers – so much news to cover on your social media all day long
- Lara Bars – they should sponsor me, but they are really one of the most healthy option to fuel energy. I have multiple on me at any given time.
- Conversation piece clothing. Mine will be my cape from Project Gravitas, so I will be feeling “super” fashionable.
- Sweater/Wrap/Coat (it gets really cold going in and out of the a/c convention halls)
- Advil and vitamins and prescription meds should be with you at all times
- Business Cards/Cash/ID
- Lint roller – never leave home without it.
- Parka – umbrellas are NOT allowed and rain is in the forecast for CLE next week
- Your sense of humor! It’s going to be a long couple of week without the right attitude.
