What’s in My Bag for Essen?

A veteran’s lighthearted guide to surviving - and thriving - at the world’s biggest board game fair

Introduction: Why Preparation Matters

If you’ve never been to Essen Spiel, let me paint you a picture. Imagine tens of thousands of board gamers, publishers, and content creators converging on a sprawling labyrinth of halls, each one bursting with cardboard dreams. Then imagine trying to find your favorite booth while carrying three tote bags, a backpack full of brand-new games, and a half-eaten pretzel in your hand.

I’ve been lucky enough to attend this legendary fair for five years now - soon to be my fifth! - and every year, I refine my packing list just a little more. The right preparation can mean the difference between a smooth, joyful convention and a four-day endurance test of sore shoulders, dehydration, and existential dread at Hall 6’s labyrinthine corners.

So whether you’re a first-timer wondering “What should I pack for Essen?” or a seasoned veteran who just needs a reminder of what not to forget, here’s my tried-and-true guide to what to bring to Essen Spiel.

Packing for Essen Spiel: The Essentials

1. A Sturdy Bag (or Two, or Three)

The first rule of Essen: you will underestimate how many games you’ll buy. Every. Single. Time.

Bring your largest, most comfortable backpack - something with padded straps and multiple compartments, preferably one of those dedicated board game backpacks. You’ll want space for water, snacks, brochures, and of course, your newly acquired treasures.

Pro tip: Bring a foldable tote bag or two. They weigh nothing and magically transform into lifesavers when you inevitably tell yourself, “I’ll just browse this booth,” and walk out carrying three new titles and expansions. Some publishers also hand out those for a purchase so never refuse these opportunities!

Bonus veteran move: A wheeled bag or small rolling suitcase can be a blessing if you’re doing serious shopping. Just be mindful of the crowds; there’s no faster way to make enemies than rolling over someone’s toes in Hall 3.

2. Water: The Potion of Life

Essen halls are massive, warm, and busy. After an hour of demoing games and chatting with fellow gamers, you’ll feel like you’ve just completed a marathon without moving more than 200 meters.

Bring a refillable water bottle. It’s good for you, good for the planet, and it saves you from paying €3 for bottled water every time thirst strikes. Most halls have restrooms or snack areas where you can refill easily.

Hydration isn’t optional at Essen, it’s a survival strategy.

3. Food (Because Pretzels Alone Won’t Sustain You)

Don’t get me wrong, I love a good German pretzel as much as anyone. But fair food queues can be long, and if you’re demoing or working, you may not have time for a full meal.

Pack light snacks that survive the day: granola bars, nuts, dried fruit, maybe even a sneaky sandwich if you’re organized. Essen is all about managing your energy, and there’s no shame in being the person who whips out a trail mix or a bag of nuts mid-demo.

Just remember to keep your hands clean; nobody likes cards with mysterious peanut residue.

4. Maps and the Messe App

Essen Spiel is big. Like, “bring-a-compass” big. Even veterans like me still find themselves in the wrong hall from time to time.

Download the Spiel app ahead of time: it has maps, exhibitor lists, and event schedules. Mark the booths you must visit (and star the snack spots while you’re at it).

If you prefer analog, print a paper map too or grab one at the event info stand. Wi-Fi in the halls can be patchy, and there’s something satisfyingly old-school about navigating by map like a cardboard conquistador.

5. Power Bank & Tech

Between taking photos, checking the app, and messaging your friends (“I’m by the giant dragon statue!”), your phone battery will vanish faster than limited-edition promos on Thursday.

Bring a fully charged power bank, preferably one with enough juice for two full charges. Add a charging cable and maybe even a small plug adapter if you’re coming from outside the EU.

If you’re a content creator or a publisher (like me), consider a portable tripod for recording demos or booth videos without needing to balance your phone on a stack of game boxes. (Don’t ask how I know.)

6. Wallet (and Cash!)

Not every booth at Essen takes cards, especially smaller publishers or promo stands, so cash is still a must. Bring a wallet with enough euros for impulse buys and snacks; so you can avoid the long ATM lines.

Also, don’t forget to tuck in your ID, credit card, and maybe even a small coin purse, many food stands and vending machines only take cash and coins.

Because at Essen, the only thing worse than missing out on that last copy of a hot new release is realizing you can’t pay for it.

Game-Specific Items: The Board Gamer’s Arsenal

1. Prototype Protection

If you’re bringing prototypes as a fresh board game designer, keep them safe. A hard-shell case or reinforced game box can protect your precious components from getting crushed. Label everything with your name and contact details: Essen’s controlled chaos means things will get misplaced.

Bonus tip: Bring extra plastic bags or ziplocks for components, and sticky notes to jot down quick playtest feedback.

2. Promo & Wishlist Tracking

Essen Spiel is heaven for promo hunters. But with hundreds of booths, it’s easy to forget which exclusive promo you meant to pick up.

Make a wishlist (digital or printed) of must-see publishers, games, and promos. I use BGG's Essen Preview list and a spreadsheet with booth numbers, notes, and price expectations. It helps me stay focused (and keeps my wallet semi-intact).

3. Business Cards (Yes, They’re Still a Thing)

Whether you’re a designer, publisher, or just love connecting with others, business cards are still very much a thing at Essen. Include your name, email, and social media handle. Bonus points if you have a small QR code linking to your portfolio or BoardGameGeek profile.

What to Leave Behind

Every year, I see new attendees hauling massive bags stuffed with “just in case” items, and every year, they end up regretting it by lunchtime.

Here’s what you don’t need:

• Too many games. You’ll buy plenty there, and there’s not really a suitable room for them to play on site. Trust me.
  
• Heavy coats. The halls get warm fast. Dress in layers instead.
  
• Bulky camera gear. Your phone is more than enough for most photos.
  
• FOMO. You can’t see everything, play everything, or meet everyone, and that’s okay.
  

Pack smart, stay light, and focus on the moments, not the luggage.

Tips for Navigating the Fair

• Start early - Crowds peak by midday: mornings are the best for demos and promos.
  
• Plan breaks -  Even 10 minutes sitting in a quiet corner can recharge you.
  
• Visit smaller publishers -  Hidden gems often live outside the big halls.
  
• Bring cash - Many booths still prefer it.
  
• Smile and chat! - Essen is a celebration of community. Whether you’re a publisher, fan, or first-timer, a friendly conversation can lead to lifelong friendships (or your next favorite game).
  

Final Thoughts

Essen Spiel isn’t just a convention, it’s a pilgrimage for board gamers. The noise, the excitement, the sea of dice and meeples, it’s overwhelming in the best possible way.

After five years of attending, my biggest advice is simple: pack light, stay hydrated, and embrace the chaos. No matter how much you plan, you’ll still stumble across surprises and that’s part of the magic.

So, fill your bag wisely, wear comfortable shoes, and I’ll see you in the halls of Essen (probably near the Mindclash booth), juggling a coffee, three games, and my fifth tote bag of the day.