AWS re:Invent 2023 Guide: 10 Tips for attendees

Spread across multiple venues with thousands of sessions, the size of AWS re:Invent can’t be overstated. With so many options, it may seem intimidating for attendees, but as an AWS partner, GFT is here to help. Review our top-10 tips for re:Invent to prepare for this exciting event: 

1) Plan your sessions and activities before the event 

To plan which sessions you want to attend, sign into your AWS re:Invent account and browse the catalog. Read our article, “Re:Invent 2023 Attendee Guide: Session Recommendations,” to discover a list of must-see sessions. In addition to the technical sessions, you might want to participate and engage in the Community activities, such as networking receptions. These side events are a great way to connect with others in your industry while enjoying a formal, but laid-back atmosphere. We’re looking forward to hosting a reception with Digibee during re:Invent, so be sure to follow our LinkedIn page for details. 

Participate in at least one of the few sport activities re:Invent hosts as well. You can run a 5k, play table tennis or even a video game, but take some time to decompress and network with professionals with whom you share common interests. 

Remember, less is more. Try to focus on a few meaningful activities or sessions per day to make sure you don’t overdo it. 

2) Consider commuting time 

AWS re:Invent’s exhibit floor is located at The Venetian, but throughout the conference, different activities are happening simultaneously in different locations. Make sure you don’t miss out on some sessions because of the commute. AWS provides commuting options for attendees. Depending on your destination, alternative means of transportation may be more appropriate. For example, if you’re going to The Venetian from the Wynn, it’s just a little walk. Other locations, such as MGM Grand or Mandalay Bay may warrant a shuttle ride. 

Study the area on a map to understand the general layout of the conference and be sure to add the commuting time to your schedule. 

3) Familiarize yourself with the AWS app and website 

Go to your AWS account on the re:Invent website or app to familiarize yourself with its features. There, you can manage your hotel reservation and conference pass as well as browse the event’s schedule and catalog. Register for the session you want to attend before the conference starts to guarantee you have access to the session. You can also find your check-in QR code on the website or app, so it’s helpful to use one ahead of time to make sure your check-in process goes smoothly. 

4) Pick up your badge early 

They say, “the early bird gets the worm”, and the saying remains true at re:Invent. Don’t lose precious time waiting in a queue to retrieve your badge and swag. Try to arrive early and cross this to-do off of your list right away. You can pick up your badge at four different locations: 

• Harry Reid International Airport – Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 (only available Sunday, November 26 and Monday, November 27) 

• Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino Las Vegas 

• MGM Grand Las Vegas Hotel and Casino 

• The Venetian Resort Las Vegas 

While you can pick up your badge at any of these locations, free swag and the AWS Certification Verifications are only available at The Venetian, so we also suggest you get verified and pick up your goodies before entering the event. 

5) Eat the event-catered meals 

Breakfast and lunch are on the house! Take advantage of the meals that re:Invent provides to save on costs and time during the conference. Go to Caesars Forum, Mandalay Bay, MGM Grand, The Venetian or Wynn for breakfast. The breakfast service runs from 7-9am. You can return to the same areas for lunch from 11am-1:30pm. In a hurry? No worries! AWS re:Invent offers both buffet and on-the-go options. 

As part of a sustainability initiative, there will also be plant-based menu days at Mandalay Bay on Tuesday, November 28 and at Caesars Forum on Wednesday, November 29. There will also be plant-based, kosher and halal options throughout the event. You can even contact AWS re:Invent support to reserve your meal ahead of time. Whether you’re grabbing food on-the-go or sitting down to enjoy the buffet, remember to take time to connect with others. Use this opportunity to meet new people and network before continuing with your day. 

6) Watch the keynotes virtually 

The keynote speaker sessions often fill up quickly, but they are still available to livestream. This means you can watch the session from the comfort of your hotel room or in an overflow room. Register for access to the livestream here. It’s free, which means those who are missing out on re:Invent this year can also watch its highlights. 

7) Participate in a charity activity 

The event offers two charity event options, Pack and Give Back and Hydrate and Help. Be sure to allocate time on at least one day to participate in one of these activities. Pick up your Hydrate and Help water bottle from the SWAG desk and refill it at one of the designated stations to fund clean water projects. 

Our Head of Innovation Solutions, Americas, Carlos Kazuo Missao and our Senior Vice President and Head of Asset+, Alfredo Neves, both participated in the Pack and Give Back exercise last year and enjoyed the opportunity to contribute to the local community. Just visit one of the designated stations throughout the event to build wellness kits, pack bookbags and organize other supplies for those in need. 

8) Stay comfortable 

AWS re:Invent is a massive event and spans over four days, so it’s important to prioritize your comfort to avoid fatigue. Consider adding shoe inserts to support your feet and wear outfits that can sustain activity throughout the day. Be sure to bring sunscreen with you to wear daily—this will keep you protected from the sun as you commute around the event. 

Keep in mind that re:Invent takes place in a desert region. Drink plenty of water by participating in Hydrate and Help and moisturize throughout the day to protect your skin. If you forget your lotion, we’ve got your back! Stop by booth #183 to pick up a special giveaway designed to ensure you stay comfortable at re:Invent. 

9) Disconnect from technology 

It may sound counterintuitive for a tech conference but be sure to disconnect from your phone during the event. Try to use it sparingly so you can stay present and active at the conference. Schedule time slots throughout the day to check your email and messages. This way, you can still stay connected without effecting your experience. We’ll send daily review emails to share the highlights from each conference day—contact us if you want to join our mailing list. This way, you can feel confident that you won’t miss anything. 

Disconnecting from your personal devices leaves more time for networking and real-time connections. Consider every activity within the event as an opportunity to learn more and create relationships with experts. 

10) Don’t miss out re:Play 

The must-attend last night event, re:Play, is a celebration of the new connections you make at the event. This party is hosted at the Las Vegas Festival Grounds and has two stages, the live stage and the main stage. The live stage will host seven acts throughout the night, including Grammy Award-winning musicians. The main stage will host the re:Play All Stars, and two DJs. AWS will reveal the surprise main stage headliner closer to the start of the event. Don’t miss this fun opportunity to unwind after the conference.