Preparing for a trade show is easier when you separate your supplies into two groups: the branded display products you need to order in advance and the practical items you need to pack for show day. This guide helps first-time exhibitors and small businesses choose trade show supplies for a 10×10 or 10×20 booth without buying equipment that does not fit the space, budget, or event rules.
Quick Answer: What Trade Show Supplies Do You Need?
Most exhibitors need one main branded display, a table or counter area, clear signage, basic marketing materials, a way to collect leads, and a small kit of tools and backup supplies. The exact combination depends on the booth size and how visitors will interact with your business.
- For a first 10×10 booth: Start with one backdrop or banner, one branded table cover, simple printed materials, and an organized supply kit.
- For a 10×20 booth: Choose a full-width 8.2' × 20' lightbox wall, a 7.5' × 13' tension fabric backdrop with a separate activity zone, or two coordinated 10-foot display zones.
- For a limited budget: Prioritize the items customers can see from the aisle before adding small accessories.
- For frequent events: Choose reusable display hardware and confirm whether replacement graphics can be ordered for future campaigns.
You can browse Anymade Display’s trade show booth supplies and expo displays while using this checklist.
What Counts as Trade Show Supplies?
The phrase trade show supplies can include everything from a full display wall to the tape in an emergency kit. Divide the category into four groups:
- Display structure: Backdrops, banner stands, canopies, display walls, counters, tables, and other items that define the booth.
- Branding and signage: Table covers, banners, flags, printed graphics, price signs, product information, and directional signs.
- Visitor materials: Business cards, brochures, samples, badges, giveaways, QR codes, and lead-capture materials.
- Operating supplies: Chargers, extension cords, tape, scissors, cleaning supplies, packaging, tools, and personal items for staff.
What Does the Venue Provide, and What Do You Need to Bring?
Never assume that tables, chairs, electricity, internet access, flooring, or material handling are included. Read the exhibitor handbook before purchasing your display.
| Check With the Organizer | Usually Your Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Exact booth width, depth, and height limits | Custom graphics and branded displays |
| Whether tables and chairs are included | Artwork, logos, and printed marketing materials |
| Electricity and internet ordering procedures | Lead-capture devices and charging cables |
| Approved display materials and installation rules | Product samples, giveaways, and packaging |
| Freight, loading, and material-handling instructions | Small tools, cleaning supplies, and backup items |
| Rules for outdoor tents, signs, and securing equipment | Organizer-approved outdoor equipment |
Confirm these details before ordering. A display that fits inside a 10-foot space at your office may still violate an event’s height, access, or installation rules.
Essential Branded Trade Show Booth Supplies
1. A Main Backdrop or Display Wall
The main backdrop usually carries the business name, logo, and primary message so visitors can understand who you are before reaching the booth.
A custom pop-up display backdrop is a practical starting point for exhibitors who want a straightforward display wall. The available 7.5' × 10' option can anchor one half of a 10×20 booth, but one unit does not cover the full 20-foot backwall. A tension fabric backdrop is better suited to exhibitors who prioritize a fitted appearance and plan to reuse the display; its 7.5' × 13' option provides a wider focal area for a larger booth. For a more detailed comparison, read the Trade Show Backdrop Guide for 10×10 and 10×20 Booths.
2. A Retractable Banner
A custom retractable banner works well near the booth entrance, beside a reception table, or in a second presentation zone. It can carry a focused message, product benefit, schedule, QR code, or directional information.
The available retractable banner sizes are 24" × 62", 33" × 81", and 47" × 81". They are useful for identifying a reception area, demonstration station, or product category inside a 10×20 booth, but they should not be treated as a complete replacement for the main backwall.
3. A Branded Table Cover
A custom full-color table cover gives an ordinary folding table a coordinated appearance and can help conceal supplies stored underneath. Anymade Display offers finished cover options intended for 4-foot, 6-foot, and 8-foot tables. Confirm the actual table dimensions before ordering instead of relying only on the table’s advertised length.
Place the logo or business name where it remains visible when staff, products, chairs, or customers are in front of the table. Avoid putting essential information too close to the floor.
4. Supporting Banners and Signs
A horizontal vinyl or mesh banner can identify the booth, support a table display, or communicate a short campaign message. A vertical banner can work in narrower sign areas.
Give supporting signs specific jobs, such as pricing, directions, schedules, or one clear call to action. Do not repeat long messages on every surface.
5. Outdoor Display Equipment
Outdoor vendor events may require a canopy, visible aisle signage, and organizer-approved methods for securing the setup. A custom premium canopy tent is available in 10' × 10', 10' × 15', and 10' × 20' sizes. The 10' × 20' option is the direct size match for an approved outdoor 10×20 space. A custom feather flag can improve visibility from different approach directions.
Outdoor requirements vary widely. Confirm the event’s rules, weather plan, placement restrictions, and securing requirements before deciding what to bring.
6. Giveaways, Badges, and Staff Identification
Promotional items work best when they support a clear next step. Use the custom giveaways and accessories collection to compare options, and consider who will receive the item and what you want that person to do after the event.
Trade Show Supplies for a 10×10 vs. 10×20 Booth
| Planning Area | 10×10 Booth | 10×20 Booth |
|---|---|---|
| Main display | One clear backdrop or main sign | A full-width display, a wider focal wall plus an activity zone, or two coordinated zones |
| Tables and counters | Keep the entrance and customer path open | Separate reception, demo, product, or meeting areas |
| Supporting signage | Use only what can be read without crowding the booth | Add signs to distinguish the purpose of each zone |
| Storage | Plan compact hidden storage | Keep additional inventory away from visitor paths |
| Staffing | Avoid blocking the limited floor area | Assign staff to different visitor activities |
A 10×20 booth is not simply a 10×10 booth with twice as many products. Use the extra width for a second purpose, such as a demonstration, product display, consultation, or meeting area.
If you are still planning the smaller format, use the complete 10×10 vendor booth setup guide for layout and table-placement ideas.
Which Anymade Display Products Fit a 10×20 Booth?
For a 10×20 trade show booth, “fits” can mean either one display spans most or all of the 20-foot backwall, or several products divide the booth into useful zones. The right choice depends on whether you need one large brand statement, a reception-and-demo layout, or an outdoor structure.
| Product | Confirmed Size | Best Use in a 10×20 Booth |
|---|---|---|
| Custom Collapsible Modular SEG Lightbox Display | 8.2' × 20' or 8.2' × 13' | Use the 20-foot option for a high-impact illuminated backwall, or the 13-foot option when part of the booth needs to remain open for meetings or demonstrations. |
| Custom Tension Fabric Background Banner | 7.5' × 13' | Create a wide main focal wall while leaving roughly 7 feet of booth width for a reception counter, product display, or consultation area. |
| Custom Pop Up Display Backdrop Banner | 7.5' × 10' | Anchor one 10-foot zone in a two-zone layout. Add a separate demo, meeting, or product area instead of expecting one pop-up to cover the full 20-foot wall. |
| Custom Premium Retractable Banner | 24" × 62", 33" × 81", or 47" × 81" | Label an entrance, reception point, product category, or second presentation zone without using much floor width. |
| Custom Full-Color Table Cover | For 4', 6', or 8' tables | Brand a reception, sample, checkout, or demonstration table. Choose the table position before deciding whether one or two tables will keep the visitor path open. |
| Custom Horizontal Vinyl or Mesh Banner | Custom sizes available | Add a supporting message where the organizer provides an approved mounting location. Confirm the finished size and hanging rules before ordering. |
| Custom Premium Canopy Tent | 10' × 20' | Cover an outdoor 10×20 vendor space when the organizer permits this tent size and the required securing method. |
Simple 10×20 starting points: Choose the 8.2' × 20' modular SEG lightbox when the goal is a premium full-width indoor presentation. Choose a 7.5' × 13' tension fabric backdrop plus a retractable banner or branded table for a flexible two-zone layout. Choose the 10' × 20' canopy for an approved outdoor booth. Always compare the finished dimensions with the exhibitor manual before ordering.
What Should You Buy First on a Limited Budget?
Start with the supplies that solve the most visible problems. A simple booth with a readable sign and coordinated presentation is usually more useful than a crowded booth filled with unrelated accessories.
| Priority | What to Consider | Why It Comes First |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Main backdrop, banner, or canopy branding | Helps visitors identify the business from the aisle |
| 2 | Branded table cover or front-facing sign | Creates a cleaner and more coordinated presentation |
| 3 | Clear product information and pricing | Reduces confusion after visitors stop |
| 4 | Lead capture and take-home materials | Gives interested visitors a next step |
| 5 | Additional signs, giveaways, lighting, or accessories | Supports a booth that already has a clear foundation |
First-time exhibitors do not need a complete system at once. Start with reusable pieces, then add products after learning what visitors notice and what the team uses.
What to Order in Advance vs. What to Pack
| Order or Confirm in Advance | Pack for the Event |
|---|---|
| Backdrop, banner, canopy, or display hardware | Tape, scissors, clips, fasteners, and small tools |
| Printed graphics and table covers | Phone, tablet, chargers, and backup battery |
| Business cards, brochures, badges, and giveaways | Cleaning supplies, paper towels, and trash bags |
| Electricity, internet, furniture, and show services | Order forms, pens, labels, and inventory list |
| Freight, delivery, loading, and storage arrangements | Packaging, bags, samples, and replacement materials |
| Artwork approval and production schedule | Water, snacks, staff information, and event documents |
Keep essential tools accessible, label containers, and use an inventory list so the team can confirm that everything returns after the event.
What Should You Check Before Ordering?
- The exact booth width, depth, and height restrictions
- Whether the event is indoors or outdoors
- The finished dimensions of every display
- How many people are available for setup and breakdown
- Whether the frame, printed graphic, and carrying case are included
- Whether replacement graphics are available for future campaigns
- The delivery address, receiving hours, and event deadline
- Whether freight or material-handling services must be arranged separately
- Whether electricity, lighting, furniture, or other accessories are needed
- Whether the artwork is ready at the correct size and quality
- Whether the logo, main message, and important text remain visible
- Whether the digital proof has been reviewed before production
Share the event date before ordering. Custom displays require time for artwork review, proof approval, production, and shipping. The appropriate schedule depends on the product, quantity, destination, and selected delivery method.
Common Trade Show Supply Mistakes
- Ordering before reading the rules: Height limits, approved materials, installation rules, and required services can change what is allowed.
- Buying accessories before the main display: Solve booth visibility and message clarity before spending on decorative extras.
- Giving every surface a different message: Backdrops, table covers, banners, and handouts should support the same brand and offer.
- Ignoring replacement graphics: If you will reuse the hardware, ask how campaign artwork can be updated later.
- Packing without a checklist: Keep a reusable list and update it after every event.
Frequently Asked Questions
What supplies do I need for my first trade show?
Start with one main branded display, a table or counter area, a readable business sign, product or service information, a way to collect leads, and a small operating kit. Add accessories only when they solve a specific need.
How are supplies different for a 10×10 and a 10×20 booth?
A 10×10 booth normally needs one clear focal point and careful use of floor space. A 10×20 booth can use a full-width display such as an 8.2' × 20' modular SEG lightbox, a 13-foot focal wall with a separate activity area, or two coordinated zones. Keep the visitor path simple and confirm all venue limits before ordering.
Can I reuse custom trade show supplies?
Many display products are intended for repeated use when they are stored, transported, and handled correctly. Before ordering, ask whether graphics can be replaced separately and what is included with the selected product.
How far in advance should I order?
Order early enough to allow for artwork preparation, digital proof review, production, and shipping. Share your event date, destination, product selection, and quantity so the appropriate timeline can be confirmed before production.
Can someone help me prepare the artwork?
Yes. You do not need to worry if you do not know how to design the display. After you place your order, one of Anymade Display’s professional designers will contact you directly and help develop the artwork with you until you are satisfied. You will also receive a digital proof to review before production begins.
Build a Trade Show Supply Plan That Fits Your Booth
The best trade show supply list fits the booth dimensions, event rules, visitor experience, budget, and plans for reuse. Start with one clear branded foundation, confirm what the organizer provides, and separate advance orders from show-day packing.
Explore Anymade Display’s Trade Show & Expo Booths collection or Event Booth Essentials. Share your booth size, event date, delivery destination, artwork, and budget with our team. We can help you choose suitable trade show supplies, prepare your artwork, and provide a digital proof before production.
Do not have a finished design? There is no need to worry. After you place your order, one of our professional designers will contact you directly and work with you on the design until you are satisfied.