What's in my tote

Words by Grace Kay

With the Women in Media Conference 2022 coming up soon, knowing what to take in your bag for the event is essential. So, here’s a rundown of all the necessities you’ll need to get you through the weekend.

Photo: Women in Media

Phone, Keys, Purse You would think this would be obvious, but here’s a friendly reminder not to forget! Plus you'll wanna get pictures with all your favourite media femmes.

A reusable water bottle I always carry a reusable water bottle wherever I go, so why would the WIM conference be any different? Be environmentally friendly and use the water fountains in the SU instead of wasting your money on a plastic bottle of water. Stay hydrated kids.

Coat/Umbrella As we all know, Manchester’s weather is unpredictable. To ensure you don’t turn up to the conference looking like a drowned rat, take a coat or umbrella just in case. You can thank me later.

Something to take notes with Whether it’s on your phone or with a good old-fashioned pen and notepad, it’s always worth taking something to jot down any useful information. Great advice is always guaranteed from professionals working within the media industry, make sure you don’t miss out.

A book of your choice When you’re not networking or socialising, I always find having a good book to read is a great way to spend your lunch hour or the journey on the bus. If you’ve not got a book on the go, here’s a couple of recommendations that tie in with the WIM conference theme:

Reclaiming Our Space: How Black Feminists Are Changing the World from the tweets to the Streets (Feminista Jones)The Gender Games: The Problem With Men and Women, From Someone Who Has Been Both (Juno Dawson)90s B*tch: Media, Culture, and the Failed Promise of Gender Equality (Allison Yarrow)

Portable charger Make sure you’ve got enough power for the day and stay charged; keeping all your socials updated with all the juicy content from the event. You'll also want to be adding everyone's socials in WIM's networking event after!

Snacks Arguably one of the most important items in your bag, and definitely a necessity. Ensure you aren’t hungry during the day and pack a couple of snacks. Whether it’s something healthy like a banana or something downright delicious like your favourite bag of crisps – keep your energy levels up and stomach rumbles down.

Carmex or Vaseline? The dreaded debate: no matter which lip balm you use, it’s always handy to have access to one if you’re in need. Better safe than sorry.

All that’s left to say is: don’t forget anything, enjoy the event and have a great weekend filled with all things Women in Media!

Get your tickets for the Women in Media conference here, it will be held 26-27 March in the SU, with online events taking place in the week prior.