It’s that time again, CES is upon us! As many celebrate the Holidays spanning Thanksgiving, Christmas and the New Year, the consumer electronics industry is busy at work preparing for its biggest, most influential trade show of the year. That’s right, as soon as the Times Square ball drops, it’s a last-minute scramble to finish preparation for the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas—the premier launchpad for innovation, from televisions to next-generation car electronics, smart home devices, and so much more.
Commonly known as CES, the show is expected to attract more than 130,000 consumer tech insiders including manufacturers, retailers, media, and more.
What’s the attraction? Well, it’s the one place where the latest technology goes on display for all to see, and it provides a sneak peek at the new gadgets and trends that will shape the consumer experience in the year ahead.
While CES does bring with it glorious tech-filled days, it’s also a brutal endeavor filled with massive crowds, endless lines, and it is daunting to navigate the seemingly endless exhibit space.
For those venturing to their first CES in 2026, or for veterans looking for a refresher, here are a few survival tips that I’ve learned along the way.
CES Survival Tip #1: It’s All About the Shoes
CES is spread over multiple convention centers and countless hotels around the Las Vegas strip. While the exhibit halls at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) have set hours, chances are your working hours will far exceed those times. Opt for sneakers over dress shoes, and layer your clothing to adapt to changing temperatures inside the halls and outside. Regardless of your schedule or planned attire, wear comfortable, broken-in footwear—it will be crucial to your survival!
CES Survival Tip #2: Hydrate, then Hydrate More
Las Vegas is a desert—dry and unforgiving. Plus, with long hours, running to meetings around town, and constant networking, it’s very easy to forget to drink water. Keep a water bottle handy and refill often; staying hydrated is your best defense against burnout and the dreaded "Vegas Voice."
CES Survival Tip #3: Rest Up When You Can
A good night’s sleep is probably rare in Las Vegas regardless of the time of year, but it’s especially difficult during CES. Between early mornings on the show floor and late-night dinners with customers, colleagues, and partners, the days can be extremely long. Find time to get off your feet when you can and prioritize sleep where possible. Remember, when it comes to CES, it’s a marathon, not a sprint.
CES Survival Tip #4: Always Give Yourself Extra Time
Normally in Las Vegas, getting around is pretty easy, thanks to plenty of taxis and no shortage of rideshare options. But with the influx of people in town for the biggest show in Tech, just getting a cab can feel like an eternity. If you have a meeting you’re trying to get to at the booth in the sprawling LVCC, or elsewhere on the strip, always pad the amount of time you expect it will take to get there—you are going to need that buffer.
CES Survival Tip #5: Master the Maze
Las Vegas hotels are intentionally designed to be labyrinths. However, it is sometimes better to cut right through the hotels to get to your next destination, rather than walking around them or waiting in long taxi lines. Make time to familiarize yourself with the layouts of the convention centers and the hotels you know you’ll be visiting. You might just find that navigating through the indoors is quicker, so long as you don't get lost in the maze of the casino (hat tip M. Brandon Lee)!
CES Survival Tip #6: Prioritize Health
Things have been back to normal for a while, but even in a typical year, the sheer number of people from around the world, together in tight spaces, poses a health risk. It's always important to get plenty of rest, eat healthy meals, and review the latest health and safety guidelines. Consider carrying masks, keep your distance from fellow attendees if you're feeling under the weather, opt for outside air flow and open spaces whenever possible, and never be far from hand sanitizer.
CES Survival Tip #7: Learn Something New
There’s a lot of work that goes into CES before the show's official start, and many grueling hours once you hit the floor. But after many years of attending this show, there’s truly nothing quite like it.
CES showcases new and revolutionary technology. It’s where tech trends for the year ahead begin. It is the one place where the world comes to display the latest innovations, and not just in areas like home entertainment, smart home gadgets, and automotive tech.
As both a marketer and as someone who loves technology, there’s a lot to absorb. Take plenty of pictures. Bring a pocket notebook to take notes. Be sure to capture interesting things you see, even if they aren't directly related to your primary focus.
Just make sure you come away from this event with some new insights and learnings.