Don’t Show Up Unprepared! What Authors Should Bring to a Book Signing
What to Bring to a Book Signing: Author Essentials You Don’t Want to Forget
If you’re preparing for your first (or next!) book signing, you might be wondering what exactly you should bring with you. Book signings are exciting, but they’re also a lot of work—and having the right tools can make the entire experience smoother, more professional, and way less stressful.
In the video below, Darlene Panzera and I—her daughter, Samantha Panzera—take you behind the scenes at a holiday book market and walk you through all the must-have items we bring to every event. Whether you’re an indie author, traditionally published, or somewhere in between, this checklist will help you show up prepared and confident.
Watch the video, then browse the full list below!
1. A Foldable Wagon or Cart
This is honestly a game changer. We use the Elegear Collapsible Wagon, which is lightweight, compact, and super easy to maneuver—especially during rainy Pacific Northwest book events where you’re hauling boxes of books, posters, and gear from the parking lot to your booth.
Any foldable wagon will make your setup and tear-down so much easier.
2. Professional Tablecloths
Black tablecloths instantly give your table a polished, clean look. They’re inexpensive, easy to order online, and work for any event theme or venue.
3. A Pop-Up Poster or Banner Stand
If you want your table to stand out (and help readers spot you from across the room), a pop-up banner is a must.
Ours is from Vistaprint, and it comes with:
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A protective carrying case
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Magnetic poles that snap together
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A sturdy base
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A quick “pull-up-and-lock” mechanism
It takes less than a minute to set up and looks incredibly professional.
4. Book Display Racks
Simple wire racks help elevate your display—literally!
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Large racks work well for children’s books or hardcovers
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Small racks are great for mass-market paperbacks
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They keep your books upright and eye-catching
These make a huge difference in how your table looks.
5. Removable Price Stickers
Most book signing events require price labels on your books. These removable stickers are perfect because they peel off cleanly and let you change pricing anytime.
6. Poster Board of Your Book Cover
You can order these from places like GotPrint, VistaPrint, or other print shops. They’re durable, lightweight, and come with a stand—perfect for showcasing your latest release.
Bonus tip: Add a QR code to your poster so customers can scan and buy your book online!
7. Sturdy Book Boxes or Plastic Bins
We transport all of our books in plastic bins with locking lids.
They:
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Protect your inventory from rain
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Stack neatly
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Fit under your table
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Keep everything organized and easy to access
A must-have for outdoor and indoor events alike.
8. Thank-You Bags for Purchased Books
We use custom black “Thank You” bags in both small and large sizes.
These help:
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Protect books from rain
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Add a nice professional touch
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Keep purchases private for customers
Small detail, big impact.
9. Payment Tools
Most buyers prefer paying with card, so make sure you have:
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A Square reader
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Or the Square App and turn your phone into a tap to pay
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Or alternatives like PayPal, or Stripe readers
- Venmo App
- A small cash pouch with change is also helpful—you’ll use it more often than you think.
10. Promotional Items
Bring items your readers can take home! Some great options include:
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Bookmarks
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Postcards
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Business cards
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Flyers
We bundle them with rubber bands to keep everything neat during transport.
11. Signing Gear + Personal Essentials
Don’t forget the simple stuff that makes your day easier:
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Multiple pens for signing
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A small notepad to track sales
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Water bottle or thermos
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Snacks (granola bars are life-savers during long events!)
Event days are long—you’ll thank yourself later.
Book Signing Essentials Checklist
Here’s a quick summary you can use when packing:
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Foldable wagon/cart
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Black tablecloth
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Pop-up banner
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Book racks (large + small)
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Poster board/book cover sign
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Removable price stickers
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Thank-you bags
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Plastic storage bins
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Square or payment reader
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Cash/change pouch
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Bookmarks, postcards, promo items
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Pens + notepad
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Water + snacks
Want Even More Book Signing Tips? Grab Our Ultimate Checklist!
Stay organized, prepared, and confident at your next book signing with this handy PDF. Packed with essential supplies, insider tips, and easy transport ideas, it’s perfect for first-timers and seasoned authors alike.
Final Thoughts
Book signings are a wonderful opportunity to meet readers, make connections, and share your books with the world—but they run so much smoother when you show up prepared. With the right setup, not only does your table look more professional, but you also feel more confident throughout the entire event.
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Samantha Panzera is an adventurous travel blogger, graphic designer, and multi-media business entrepreneur who uses the experience she’s gained over the years to teach aspiring writers the skills they need to build an author platform and take their careers to the next level.