Whether it’s your first time attending TAA’s ONE Conference or you’re a seasoned pro, showing up prepared is the best way to make the most of this high-energy, career-elevating event. As you prepare to join thousands of industry professionals in Houston, having the right essentials on hand can make all the difference. From the moment you step into the George R. Brown Convention Center, you’ll want to be ready to make the most of every opportunity.
Here’s your official TAA ONE Conference Starter Pack—a simple guide to help you feel confident, organized, and energized onsite. Stay comfortable and conference-ready by packing a few personal essentials—think hand sanitizer, vitamin C, mints, pain reliever, and even a small umbrella in case Houston throws a weather curveball. Seasoned travelers swear by these little lifesavers, so if you know someone who’s often on the go, ask them for their favorite business travel must-haves before you head to TAA ONE.
Attire: Professional, Comfortable, Conference-Ready
Expect a high-energy environment with plenty of movement throughout the day. Opt for business casual attire that reflects your professionalism and allows you to stay comfortable from morning sessions to evening receptions. Plus, don’t forget to wear your conference badge to gain entry into the sessions, Expo and Planet Pop party too.
- Comfortable shoes are a must. The George R. Brown Convention center in downtown Houston is large, and you’ll be on your feet often.
- Bring a light layer. Meeting rooms can run cool, so pack a blazer or sweater just in case.
- Thursday, Sneaker Day: Showcase your best kicks and personalize your look with custom laces and shoe decorations in the Sneakerverse Club (Lounge 178).
- Thursday, Planet Pop Party: Get dressed in your best space-inspired attire. From astronaut and sparkling star to a sci-fi twist on a retro look, we can’t wait to see your style!
Tech Essentials: Stay Charged and Connected
Your phone is your lifeline at ONE—think session schedules, note-taking, networking, and photos. Be sure to bring:
- Your smartphone, fully charged and ready to access our ONE conference agenda, check schedules, and connect with attendees.
- A portable charger or power bank—you’ll be using your devices more than usual.
- Charging cables and adapters, especially if you plan to work from your laptop or tablet between sessions.
- Headphones, which are helpful during travel or breaks.
Hydration and Snacks: Fuel for a Full Day
Between breakout sessions, walking the expo floor, and networking opportunities, it’s easy to forget to hydrate or grab a bite. Keep your energy steady by packing:
- A reusable water bottle—refill stations are available throughout the venue.
- Light, healthy snacks like granola bars, mixed nuts, or fruit.
On Thursday, attendees will receive a TAA Tasting Ticket, granting them one delicious meal from our lineup of food stations and food trucks. We’ll have two timeframes for food in the TAA Expo Marketplace including:
- Lunch from 12-2pm in the Expo (Halls C, D, E)
- Afternoon snacks from 2-5pm
Our food stations will offer Dippin Dots, Docs Popcorn, Spuds BBQ, Cowboy Ken’s Beef Jerky, Southside Flying Pizza, and Chick-fil-A and the food trucks will be serving up Tex-Mex, halal street food, and chicken sandwiches. Don’t forget that exhibitors will be responsible for purchasing their own meals on Thursday.
Plus, Houston has plenty of options for food and drinks as well. Take a look at our Experience page for places to dine, unwind, and explore during your stay.
Networking: Mix Business Cards with Digital Connections
While business cards are still a tried-and-true tool for quick and meaningful introductions, the TAA ONE Conference app opens up even more ways to connect. Make sure your cards are up-to-date, but also take advantage of the app’s interactive networking features to connect with fellow attendees before, during, and after the event. And don’t forget to review your LinkedIn profile—many conversations that start at ONE continue online long after the conference wraps.
Note-Taking: Capture the Ideas That Inspire You
With sessions led by industry experts and thought leaders, there’s no shortage of insights to take home. Whether you prefer pen and paper or a digital device, bring something to help you capture ideas, quotes, and action items throughout the day. If you miss a few notes during a session or want to revisit a topic later, don’t worry—the conference app will have slide presentations available, so you can easily review them after the event.
Know Before You Go: Travel + Houston Fun
The ONE Conference is hosted in the heart of downtown Houston—a city full of culture, cuisine, and entertainment. After sessions wrap up, extend your experience by taking in some of the city’s most popular spots. From local restaurants and green spaces to live music and museums, there’s something for everyone.
Check out the Experience Houston page for suggestions on what to do before or after conference hours.
Final Prep: Travel and Accommodations
Make your arrival stress-free by checking out the ONE Conference Travel page for hotel and transportation info. There, you’ll find information on hotel accommodations, airport transportation, parking, and more.
You’re Almost Conference-Ready
Your ONE Conference experience is what you make it—and with this starter pack, you’re ready to walk in feeling confident, connected, and ready to learn. We can’t wait to welcome you to one of the most dynamic events in the rental housing industry.
See you at #TAAONE!