Art fairs are exhilarating—but they’re also a marathon. Whether you’re managing inventory, meeting collectors, or navigating booth logistics, the right tools make all the difference.

This survival kit covers eight essentials that help you stay polished, connected, and in control. With ArtBinder in your pocket (literally), and a few smart extras in your bag, you’ll be ready to handle anything the fair throws your way with style and ease.

The Art Fair Survival Kit:

• • iPad

  • iPhone

  • Extra chargers / batteries

  • Laptop privacy screen

  • Cleaning supplies

  • Predesigned sales presentations

  • Robust and detailed CRM

  • Take away item

iPad and iPhone

Your digital sidekicks. These are always within reach, but don’t forget to install the ArtBinder app before the fair. With ArtBinder, you can instantly access your inventory, share artworks via text, WhatsApp, or email, and even pull up client details on the fly. It’s like having your gallery in your pocket—minus the shipping costs.

Extra Chargers / Batteries

If you opted out of the pricey booth power outlet (we see you), make sure you’re stocked with backup power. Between uploading images, sending packets, and texting collectors, your devices will be working overtime. A dead phone mid-sale? That’s a hard pass.

Laptop Privacy Screen

Art fairs are full of curious eyes—and not just for the art. A privacy screen helps keep sensitive client info, pricing, and internal notes away from wandering glances. It’s a small investment that protects big conversations.

Cleaning Supplies

A spotless booth is a silent ambassador for your gallery’s professionalism. Pack microfiber cloths for glass and frames, dusters for pedestals, and magic erasers for those inevitable wall scuffs. Bonus points if you bring gloves—because fingerprints on plexi are never in style.

Predesigned Sales Presentation Tools

Speed and polish matter. With ArtBinder Packets (private views), you can send beautifully designed presentations in seconds. Whether it’s a collector asking for a price list or a curator requesting a full artist overview, you’ll be ready with visuals that impress and information that converts.

Robust and Detailed CRM

Your CRM should be your best friend during the fair. Make sure client profiles are updated, tagged, and ready to go. When a casual booth chat turns into a serious acquisition conversation, you’ll be able to follow up with precision and purpose.

Take Away Item

Don’t let your booth be the end of the story. A well-designed postcard, zine, or sticker about your current exhibition or upcoming event can spark future visits. If the fair is in your gallery’s hometown, this is your chance to cross-promote and turn fairgoers into gallery regulars.

Intentional Prep, Lasting Impact

Every detail you prepare—whether it’s a polished presentation or a spare charger—adds up to how your gallery shows up at the fair. These tools aren’t just about convenience; they’re about creating a seamless, professional experience that reflects your gallery’s values and vision.

Art fairs are full of fleeting moments and fast conversations. The better equipped you are, the more likely those moments turn into lasting relationships. Pack with intention, stay nimble, and let your booth speak volumes.

Download the ArtBinder Art Fair Check List to see the full list of critical items. You can also check out our blog “Fighting Fatigue” to gain ideas on how to tackle this season one art fair at a time.

Ready to learn more about how ArtBinder can help you prepare for your next art fair? Speak with us today!