CONEXPO-CON/AGG is already the largest trade show in North America, and in 2026, it will be BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER. It can be overwhelming if you're attending for the first time.
To prepare for the show that is set to break records, we asked veteran attendees to share their best advice for first-timers coming to the show. Here are 20 things everyone should know before traveling Las Vegas, plus tips for maximizing your time once you arrive.
1. Have a plan
There is 2.9 MILLION SQUARE FEET of equipment and technology to see and experts to network with on the show floor. There is no way you will do everything you want to do without having a plan in place.
Check out our Exhibitor Directory to see the 2,000 companies exhibiting and where they will be located at the show.
2. Understand what badge option is right for you
The type of badge you register for all depends on what you want to get out of your CONEXPO-CON/AGG experience, so these are questions you'll have to ask yourself:
- How much time can I spend at the show? (PRO TIP: Be there all five days to make the most of it!)
- What do I want to learn?
- What do I want to see?
- Are you interested in doing an interactive workshop?
- Can I access the education session recordings after the show ends?
- How much can I spend?
These are all important things to consider when you're registering for your badge, because ultimately, the best option is what will work best for you!
Learn more about the different badge types here - Registration and Pricing
3. Book a hotel with free transportation to and from the show
Many hotels on the Las Vegas Strip are designated pick-up and drop-off points for free shuttle transportation to and from the show. Please see the hotel shuttle route schedule on our website for more info on the specific routes and pick-up/drop-off points of your hotel shuttle. Be aware that the route of your hotel shuttle drops you at a designated location at the show campus. Check in advance which location your route will arrive at the show.
PRO TIP: The earlier you book your hotel accommodations, the better!
4. Take advantage of flight discounts
Flight discounts through Delta and Southwest Airlines are available for everyone on domestic and international flights to Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) during the week of the show. Get your discount code now!
5. Attend education sessions
What’s changing in construction? What are the latest trends? How will you manage emerging technology and a changing workforce? This is where these questions get answered.
Attend panels, discover ideas, and create lasting connections within the construction community to grow yourself and your business. There are TONS of sessions covering every education track: Equipment Management & Maintenance, Workforce, Technology Solutions, just to name a few. Check out the Education page on the website for more information on the sessions and tracks available.
Your access to attend education sessions depends on the type of badge. Visit the Registration and Pricing page for more details.
6. Check out what's new!
New for CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, we've got our Ground Breakers Stage. The stage will provide a platform for industry leaders to present and have conversations on key industry topics. Daily schedule will be announced closer to the show, be sure to follow the show social media pages for updates.
Also new in 2026 are brand new interactive workshops that will offer additional learning and networking opportunities for attendees really looking to take it to the next level. Learn more below.
- EmpowerHER Workshop: This workshop brings together women in construction to share experiences, explore inclusive strategies, and build connections through panels, keynotes, and networking. Key takeaways include actionable tools to grow your presence, insights into overcoming industry-specific challenges, and support for women’s health and leadership development.
- Small Business Workshop: This workshop is designed for small business owners, entrepreneurs, and family-run businesses to connect, share challenges, and gain practical strategies for growth. Key takeaways include innovative tools to expand your industry presence, solutions to common small business hurdles, and valuable networking opportunities—all part of the Small Business Saturday movement at CONEXPO-CON/AGG.
- Shop Talks and Walks Workshop: This hands-on workshop focuses on preventative maintenance and equipment efficiency through demos, Q&As, and collaborative learning. Key takeaways include practical strategies to reduce downtime, optimize jobsite productivity, and extend equipment lifespan—plus opportunities to connect with industry professionals and explore the latest maintenance technologies.
7. Follow your favorite brands on social media to find out about special events
Many exhibitors post on social media about things like new product debuts, live equipment demonstrations, celebrity guest appearances, and more happening at the show! Be sure to follow to get the latest info!
8. Download the official show mobile app
Featuring the show map, schedule of events, and more, the mobile app is your one-stop location for all the important information you’ll want onsite. Available in January 2026 for Apple and Android devices, search for "CONEXPO-CON/AGG" in your mobile app store.
PRO TIP: Login with your credentials linked to your show badge to personalize your schedule!
If you’re having trouble logging in to the app, click the “Help” button during sign-in for assistance.
9. Know when and where to pick up your show badge
Take advantage of remote badge pickup at the airport and select area hotels to save time!
Be sure you are pre-registered and have a valid photo I.D. to be able to pick up your badge. Locations and times for pick-up will become available closer to March 2026.
10. Add the Community Zone to your schedule
Open throughout the show, this welcoming hangout spot is a great place to unwind while also featuring exciting free events like a live recording of the CONEXPO-CON/AGG Podcast with host Taylor White and special guest Mike Simon, aka Dirt Perfect, as well as prize giveaways, phone charging stations, comfy seats, and more.
Stay tuned for the full schedule of events going on in the Community Zone coming soon!
11. Take in some world-famous attractions while you're in Vegas!
There's no shortage of things to see and do in Las Vegas. Catch a show, eat at one of the many world-famous restaurants, attend a Las Vegas Golden Knights game, or catch one of your favorite musicians live that same week. CONEXPO-CON/AGG show hours are Tues - Fri: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM · Sat: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, so there is plenty of time in the evening to make the most of your Las Vegas experience!
PRO TIP: Simply present your badge at participating restaurants, attractions, shops and entertainment venues throughout the city to unlock special offers and savings. View Deals.
12. Pack for all weather conditions
Even though it's in the desert, it does get quite cold in the mornings, and rain in March isn't uncommon. But with the right attire, you'll be ready for anything!
PRO TIP: Visit outdoor exhibitors in the morning and indoor booths in the afternoon, when the temperature rises.
13. Pack comfortable shoes
We cannot stress this one enough. There is a lot to see and so much walking involved, comfortable shoes are essential for CONEXPO-CON/AGG.
PRO TIP: Make sure to break in those new shoes before wearing them to the show.
14. Reserve a wheelchair or electric scooter if you're nervous about walking
If you are interested in renting a wheelchair or motorized scooter to use at the show, we suggest reserving them prior to the show, which you can do by contacting ScootAround. Call 888-655-7511 or book online at this website.
15. If you're bringing children, consider bringing a wagon or stroller
This may come as a surprise, but kids can be moody. It's not a bad idea to bring a wagon or stroller for young kids.
16. Pack a power bank/an external battery charger
Trust us, you'll be using your phone to take plenty of photos and videos of the awesome equipment and innovations on display. Be sure to bring an additional phone charger so you're not left disconnected.
17. Leave some space in your luggage to bring things back
Let us tell you, you will get so many freebies and swag! Plan to leave some extra space to bring them back home with you. You will be picking up plenty of stuff and info. You're going to want a place to keep it all.
18. Follow the CONEXPO-CON/AGG social media for the latest information
Stay up-to-date on the latest show information, by following the show on social!
Instagram Facebook LinkedIn TikTok YouTube X
19. Subscribe to the 365 Newsletter
Join the more than 60,000 industry pros who get all the latest news about construction and CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026. Sign up for the CONEXPO-CON/AGG 365 newsletter here.
20. CONEXPO-CON/AGG only comes once every three years, make the most of it!
Have fun, make some friends. It is the North American family reunion for construction professionals after all. Plus, it won't be back until 2029 after this 😏
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