Safety and Travel Tips

Hotels near the convention center will sell out fast. Being within walking distance saves time, money, and energy.

• Register + download the event app
  The AAA 2027 app will be your portable guide to the convention.  The app will have our schedule, maps, and last-minute updates. You can even access CEU Manager to record your CEUs through the app.  The app will be available in March 2027.
• Plan your "must-dos"
  As the AAA 2027 Convention program is released, pick your top presentations, booths, or meetings per day and leave buffer time. Convention burnout is real and we want you energized when you go back home with all the great ideas and connections you will collect while in St. Louis!
• Pack smart

  • Comfortable shoes (non-negotiable!)
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Snacks or protein bars
  • Portable phone charger
  • Light jacket (for inside the venue)
  • Keep essentials in your carry-on: Badge confirmation, business cards, meds, chargers, and one outfit-just in case luggage goes rogue.

• Hydrate + eat regularly
  It's easy to forget. Dehydration sneaks up fast when you're walking miles indoors.
• Use a daypack, not a shoulder bag
  Your back will thank you after 8-10 hours on your feet.
• Schedule downtime
  Even 15-30 minutes off the floor can reset your energy and focus.
• Network intentionally
  Have a short intro ready (who you are + why you're there). Follow up the same day while connections are fresh.
• Photograph everything important
  Booth numbers, slides, business cards, schedules-your brain won't remember it all.

• Mind Your Stuff
  Zip bags, keep phones secure.
• Don't overshare your location
  Posting what a great experience you're having at AAA 2027 in real time? Keep it vague until you've moved on.

• Convention Name Badge + Identification
  Be careful leaving valuables, purses and especially IDs in meeting and hotel rooms. At a minimum, make a copy of your driver's license/Passport in case ID's are lost or stolen.
  Carry identification with you at all times and if you are an international delegate, have your visa with you, as well as, the number for your emergency consulate.

• Ensure you have your AAA 2027 name badge with you when entering the venue to gain entry into our meeting space.
• Cash
  Do not carry large amounts of cash with you. Avoid displaying large amounts of cash or other items of value.

• Purses/Bags
  If you are carrying a bag, carry it securely under your arm.

• Be Aware of Your Surroundings
  Communicate the message that you are calm, confident, know where you are going, and know what is going on around you.

• Remove Convention IDs
  Remove your name badge and lanyards upon exiting the building.  Similarly, leave the convention totes back in the room. These are signs you are from out of town.

• Buddy System
  Periodically check on each other and agree on departure times.

The Explore St. Louis Visitor & Volunteer Team will be available to welcome and assist you throughout their visit to St. Louis. Their Gateway Greeters will be on hand at St. Louis Lambert International Airport to welcome you and provide general information to help you get to your hotel and navigate the city. During the conference, Explore St. Louis volunteers will be stationed throughout the America's Center Convention Complex and key locations in downtown St. Louis to answer questions, provide directions, assist with wayfinding, and offer recommendations for nearby restaurants, attractions, and services. Easily identifiable in Explore St. Louis attire, the volunteers are knowledgeable local ambassadors dedicated to helping you have a smooth and enjoyable experience while visiting St. Louis.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or an alcohol-based sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Avoid touching eyes, nose, mouth with unwashed hands.
• Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing.
• Visit our First Aid Office inside the convention center if you feel unwell. For medical assistance after hours, please contact the front desk staff at your hotel.
• Before you travel, evaluate your own health and that of the people you are in close contact with. Stay home if you feel sick.