Your Essential First-Time CES Experience Guide
In This Guide
Media Resources
This guide will help you prepare, plan, and get the most out of every minute you spend at the world’s most powerful tech event.
1. Before You Arrive
Setting yourself up for a successful CES starts long before you land in Las Vegas. Here’s how to hit the ground running:
- Download the CES App
The official CES app makes it easier to navigate the halls and plan your personal agenda. Connect with exhibitors in advance, map your way using blue-dot wayfinding technology, and view conference sessions available to you based on your registration type –– all from the palm of your hand. - Pack Smart
The CES campus is massive and spans multiple venues, which means you can expect to walk a lot. Comfortable shoes are a must, and it’s a good idea to bring layers (January days in Vegas see an average high of 57 degrees Fahrenheit and indoor venues are typically cool). If you’re bringing a bag, make sure to review our official policies in advance to avoid surprises. - Plan Your Vegas Experience
Want to catch a show or enjoy a meal at a celebrity chef’s restaurant? Make your reservations now –– Vegas gets busy during CES! For information about what’s playing and ideas on how to spend your time in this one-of-a-kind city, check out visitlasvegas.com. - Get Up to Speed
Stay on top of the latest trends with the CES Tech Talk Podcast and Tech 101 content. These resources come in handy when you’re determining which innovations and companies you want to see on-site.
CES Insider Tip
2. When You Get to Las Vegas
After you land at Harry Reid International Airport, you can pick up your CES badge before you even leave the airport. Then take a quick ride to get settled at your hotel – the airport is only about a 10-15 minute car ride from the Strip.
Once you’re checked in, take the time to revisit your CES game plan and ensure your objectives align with your agenda, then plan your path. Here are some tips for success:
- Focus on covering all must-sees in one venue, like the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC), before moving to another. This will help you avoid backtracking and save time. Use our venue guides to help figure out what to see at each location.
- To keep things easy, mark your favorite exhibitors in the official CES app and then map out your route.
CES Insider Tip
3. While You’re at CES
The No. 1 reason people come to CES from all over the world is to see and demo the latest tech. That all happens in the halls –– which are also home to education sessions led by many of today’s top tech innovators, and opportunities for impromptu conversations that lead to valuable connections. Watch our Meet the Halls video below to learn more about what to see in each venue, or check out our venue guides to learn about each of our unique campuses.
CES Insider Tip
4. Getting Ready to Head Home
When your journey at CES comes to an end, make sure to:
- Check your bag at one of the CES venues so you don’t need to return to your hotel to pick it up, adding extra travel time to your day.
- Drop off badges and any unwanted print materials at designated recycling bins located throughout the venues.
- Leave extra time to get to the airport and through security –– it’ll be busy!
- Keep an eye out for CES 2026 dates, so you can start planning your next tech adventure.
CES Insider Tip
CES is the Global Stage for Innovation
CES is the most powerful tech event in the world – the proving ground for breakthrough technologies and global innovators. Sign up to be notified when registration for CES 2026 opens.
