THE LOGISTICS
What should I pack? The weather is usually in the 70s during the day but dips down at night, so make sure to bring a jacket or sweater. Don’t worry about having to be extremely fashionable (unless that’s your thing), just bring clothes you feel comfortable and confident in. Also bring 2-3 outfits for nighttime engagements. And shoes that you can walk in. Don’t forget to leave room in your suitcase for extra goodies you collect during the week.
Is transportation provided from the airport? Alt-sponsored transportation is not provided from the airport. We recommend grabbing an Uber. And remember, Palm Springs is small — the hotels are only a few minutes from the airport, so it won’t be a long ride.
Or, if you’re thinking about renting a car, that’s great too! Parking at all three of our conference venues is plentiful and free.
What do I need to pick up my name badge? All you’ll need is a photo I.D.. You’ll be able to pick up your badge at the Opening Party on Sunday. For those arriving later, there will be a registration desk at the Riviera hotel.
How do I get from one location to the next? Alt Summit provides free shuttles that run all conference long from venue to venue. It’s a great time to chat with fellow attendees, have a snack, and take a break.
It might help to think about the free shuttles like public transportation. The shuttles do the job nicely — and the price is right! But sometimes there is waiting involved and a couple of stops before you get where you are going.
If you’re in a hurry or have a tight schedule, we recommend sharing an Uber, or hitching a ride with an attendee who has a car.
And there are also attendees who plan their schedules so that they only go from venue to venue once each day. There’s plenty happening at each venue — classes to attend, sponsors to meet, lunch to eat — so don’t feel like you have to hop around constantly all day long.
How do I sign-up for a session? You don’t. All sessions are first come, first served. But don’t stress about having to be an hour early, because we plan for the most popular sessions to be in the breakout rooms with the most seating.
When you’re on the app, and you click the plus sign to add the class to your schedule, that doesn’t reserve a spot in the class, and it doesn’t mean you have to go to that class. It’s just for you so you can remember which classes you’re the most interested in.
Are meals provided? Lunch is provided at all three venues, Monday thru Thursday, with breakfast and snacks sprinkled throughout each day.
You can make your own plans for dinner, but keep in mind many sponsors will be hosting dinners and cocktail parties, and each venue has on-site restaurants (we know from experience the nachos at The Saguaro are amazing), plus there are tons of meetups happening too — so it’s not hard to find food.
Make sure to download the Alt Summit app for information about meal times and locations.
How many business cards should I bring? Business cards are not required, but if you want to connect with others at Alt Summit, they are a great way to do so. Plan on bringing about 150 cards. You can also easily share contact information with fellow attendees through the Alt Summit app.
ADVICE FROM SOME ALT ALUM
“Try to plan your schedule to be at one or two hotels (one in the morning and one in the afternoon). You’ll be able to arrive for your not-to-miss session early to get a good seat and with no stress.” — Eden
“No one knows how successful you are or aren’t. Even if think they do, they might be using a different measuring stick than you are. (Oh gosh, she has 200K followers! She is ‘successful’ Meanwhile that same person might feel like they’re not where they’re ‘supposed’ to be.) You just don’t know and it really doesn’t matter. Hold your head high… you belong. ” — Amy
“It’s the perfect place to practice and perfect your pitch! Come with your pitch in mind but be open to changing it! There are so many amazing minds to help each other be their best version!” — Sam
“Don’t be afraid to reach out to someone even before Alt! I’ve met amazing people before even arriving!” — Latoya
“Great practical advice I got for my first Alt last year was to bring an external charger because phone batteries run low quickly and outlets are at a premium, clear storage because you’ll be taking so many pics, and to dress as who you are, not what you think you are supposed to look like. At Alt, everyone is welcome and anything is possible. You’ll leave buzzing and inspired. Think of ways you can extend that buzz when you get home to make the most of the Alt experience.” — Erin
“Don’t feel like you need to go to every session! The down time here and there to chat with a neighbor or relax by the pool or take in some of Palm Springs and synthesize the amazing info is so important too!” — Laura
“Lunch is the best time to meet people. I’m introverted and going to sit down to a table of strangers is scary but I had some of the best conversations there. Almost everyone is by themselves too and are in the same situation. Plus all the food was very good. Don’t miss out because you are worried about sitting by yourself because you won’t. It’s definitely not like high school, everyone is super friendly!” — Lindsey
“Have your goals and write them down. Take that week completely off, sleep on time, and always have some snacks and a bottle water with you.” — Omaily
“Come with an open heart and mind to absorb, and take time for yourself to unwind from each day in the evening! Also, wear comfortable shoes cuz you’re gonna be walking (in a good way!)” — Eunice
“Don’t beat yourself up if you don’t make it to everything that is on your ‘schedule.’ If you miss a thing or two, something else will always be going on.” — Samantha
If you’re a first-timer and would love even more advice on how to get the most from the week – one of our first sessions on Sunday, March 1st is How to Slay Your Days at Alt Summit. We’re excited for you!
