What to Pack for the Tucson Gem Shows

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Planning is key when preparing to take in the Tucson gem, bead, mineral, and fossil shows each year. After 20 years of attending the shows, my level of planning might seem unnecessary to anyone who is unaware of what traveling to “Tucson” means. It seems easy enough to pack a bag with a few outfits, a notepad, and a business license, but it always turns into two suitcases that are bursting at the seams and the need to ship some things home via USPS. Makes me laugh out loud thinking about it—maybe you’re laughing, too?

The phrase “don’t leave home without it” is a good motto when heading to Tucson. There are so many layers to being in Tucson for the 42+ shows: all the events, all the fun, and all the hard work requires extra stuff. Plan ahead to avoid extra stress.

Book Accommodations Early

For me, preparing for Tucson really starts in July. Simply put, find a place to stay and book it—don’t wait. Historically, the best time to book a flight is by end of November. In 2022, you could’ve booked mid-December and still gotten a decent fare, but after that, prices were nearly double what I paid in November.

Packing clothes for Tucson Gem Shows — Roll your clothes to make extra room for tools and supplies. Be sure to bring masks, vitamin C, or whatever you need to stay healthy while traveling.

Pack Your Suitcase

Start packing a few weeks ahead of time. This helps avoid that mad dash packing the day before you head out only to arrive and figure out everything you forgot. This also allows time to find the right clothing for the climate, including layers that are easily packed and work well together for business and evenings out. Be sure to pack comfortable shoes that can endure various types of terra firma, from indoor ballrooms to outdoor parking lot shows. Bring some personal supplies to stay healthy—no one likes to come home with the Tucson crud, ie. scratchy throat and congestion (or worse).

Jewelry tools wrapped up for safe travel — Some tools require extra TLC. Use recycled bubble wrap or (the eco-friendlier) socks to wrap hammer heads and wrap wire or sheet in polishing cloths for protection. Use tubing or similar over tips of pliers, scissors, and tweezers, to protect you and the tools.

Bring Your Tools

The other piece, for me, is allowing enough time to pack the right tools and supplies for workshops or any making you plan to do. Leave time to order what you still need. And, be sure you have the right cases and pouches to safely pack your tools and supplies so everything arrives undamaged and so the tools don’t damage your other belongings.

More Resources

Over the years we have published several articles that help with each of these pieces. Here is a short list to help get you heading to Tucson with the best advice. Be sure to download your copy of the Tucson Show Guide for all the show information, including maps and more.

10+ Tips for Traveling to the Tucson Gem Shows
Helen Driggs’ Tips on Packing Jewelry Tools for Travel
Top Tips for Traveling with Your Beading Supplies
Tips for Buying Gemstones and Jewelry While Traveling
Betsy Lehndorff shares tips on Traveling with Our Tools and Materials