Amazon Re:Invent 2025: Complete Attendee Guide with Essential Tips

AWS Re:Invent is the world's largest cloud computing conference, bringing together 50,000+ technology professionals, developers, architects, and business leaders from around the globe. Whether you're a first-timer or a veteran attendee, this comprehensive guide will help you maximize your Re:Invent 2025 experience in Las Vegas.

Re:Invent 2025 Overview

Event Details

Dates: December 1-5, 2025 (Monday-Friday) Location: Las Vegas, Nevada, USA Venues: Multiple Las Vegas Strip properties Expected Attendance: 50,000+ professionals Registration: Opens May 2025

Main Venues (2025)

Re:Invent spans multiple mega-hotels on the Las Vegas Strip:

Primary Venues:

• Venetian - Main campus, Expo, Breakout sessions
• Wynn - Leadership sessions, Theater sessions
• Encore - Specialty sessions, Workshops
• Mandalay Bay - Keynote venue, Sessions, Expo
• MGM Grand - Sessions, Certification lounge
• Caesars Forum - Expo, Sessions, Chalk Talks

Distance Between Venues:

• Venetian to Wynn: 10-minute walk
• Venetian to Mandalay Bay: 2.3 miles (shuttle or rideshare)
• Walking the entire Strip: 45-60 minutes

Registration & Pricing

Ticket Types

Full Conference Pass: $1,899

• Access to all keynotes
• All sessions (workshops, chalk talks, builders' sessions)
• Expo access
• Evening events
• Free breakfast & lunch
• WiFi throughout

Expo-Only Pass: FREE

• Expo hall access only
• Select sessions
• Networking events
• No keynote access
• No meals included

Community Builder Pass: $399

• For APN Partners, community contributors
• Limited availability
• Most content access
• Some restrictions

Student Pass: $349

• Must verify student status
• Full conference access
• Limited quantity

Early Bird Pricing

Register before July 31, 2025:

• Save $300 on Full Pass ($1,599)
• Limited early bird tickets available

Group Discounts:

• 5-9 people: 10% off
• 10+ people: 15% off
• Register together with company code

What's Included

Full Pass Includes:

• ✅ 300+ breakout sessions
• ✅ 100+ workshops (hands-on labs)
• ✅ Chalk talks (small group)
• ✅ Builders' sessions (expert-led)
• ✅ Certification exam voucher ($150 value)
• ✅ Daily breakfast & lunch
• ✅ Welcome reception
• ✅ re:Play party (epic bash)
• ✅ Expo access
• ✅ All keynotes
• ✅ Networking events
• ✅ Conference swag

Planning Your Schedule

Session Types Explained

1. Keynote Sessions (3-5 per conference)

• Duration: 2-3 hours
• Audience: 10,000-20,000 people
• Style: Major product announcements, demos
• Venues: Mandalay Bay Events Center
• Priority: MUST ATTEND - Where big announcements happen
• Tip: Arrive 60-90 minutes early for good seats

2. Leadership Sessions

• Duration: 60 minutes
• Audience: 2,000-5,000 people
• Style: Executive-level strategic discussions
• Speakers: AWS executives, VPs, CTOs
• Priority: HIGH - Strategic insights
• Tip: Register early, fills up fast

3. Breakout Sessions

• Duration: 60 minutes
• Audience: 200-500 people
• Style: Technical deep dives
• Levels: 200 (intro), 300 (intermediate), 400 (advanced)
• Priority: MEDIUM-HIGH - Core content
• Tip: Mix levels, don't just do 400s

4. Chalk Talks

• Duration: 60 minutes
• Audience: 30-50 people
• Style: Interactive, whiteboard discussions
• Priority: HIGH - Most valuable format
• Tip: Register immediately when reservations open
• Best for: Deep technical discussion, questions

5. Workshops

• Duration: 2 hours
• Audience: 25-40 people
• Style: Hands-on, bring your laptop
• Priority: VERY HIGH - Best learning experience
• Tip: Reserve the moment slots open
• Requirement: Laptop required, follow prerequisites

6. Builders' Sessions

• Duration: 60 minutes
• Audience: 50-100 people
• Style: Code-level deep dive with AWS engineers
• Priority: HIGH for developers
• Tip: Ask technical questions
• Best for: Detailed implementation guidance

7. Bootcamps

• Duration: 4 hours (half day)
• Audience: 100-200 people
• Style: Comprehensive training
• Priority: MEDIUM - Time-intensive
• Tip: Schedule morning or afternoon, not middle of day

Session Levels

Level 200: Introductory

• New to the service/topic
• High-level overview
• Basic use cases
• Good for: Beginners, business users

Level 300: Intermediate

• Some experience with service
• Best practices
• Architecture patterns
• Good for: Practitioners, architects

Level 400: Advanced

• Deep technical expertise required
• Complex architectures
• Edge cases and optimization
• Good for: Experts, specialists

Pro Tip: Don't just attend 400-level. Mix it up:

• 20% Level 200 (learn new services)
• 40% Level 300 (practical knowledge)
• 40% Level 400 (deep expertise)

Essential Re:Invent Tips

Before You Arrive

8-12 Weeks Before (September 2025):

• Book hotel (prices go up fast)
• Book flights
• Register for conference
• Request time off from work
• Check visa requirements (international)

4-8 Weeks Before (October-November):

• Session catalog releases (early November)
• Reserve chalk talks & workshops IMMEDIATELY
• Build session schedule
• Download AWS Events app
• Set up business meetings
• Arrange airport transfers

1-2 Weeks Before:

• Finalize session reservations
• Print badge/confirmation
• Pack comfortable shoes (crucial!)
• Prepare business cards
• Charge all devices
• Set up eSIM for connectivity

48 Hours Before:

• Check in online
• Review session schedule
• Set phone alarms for key sessions
• Pack backup battery charger
• Confirm hotel reservation
• Review venue map

Packing Essentials

Must-Bring Items:

Technology:

• ✅ Laptop with charger (for workshops)
• ✅ Smartphone with charger
• ✅ Portable battery pack (20,000mAh minimum)
• ✅ USB cables (lightning/USB-C)
• ✅ Power strip (hotel rooms = limited outlets)
• ✅ Headphones/earbuds
• ✅ Laptop backpack

Professional:

• ✅ Business cards (250-500 cards)
• ✅ Badge holder/lanyard (provided on-site)
• ✅ Notebook and pens
• ✅ Water bottle (refillable)

Comfort:

• ✅ COMFORTABLE SHOES (walk 10+ miles/day)
• ✅ Second pair of shoes (for day 3+)
• ✅ Casual tech attire (jeans, t-shirt fine)
• ✅ Light jacket (venues get cold)
• ✅ Pain relievers (walking = sore feet)
• ✅ Blister pads
• ✅ Snacks (energy bars, nuts)

Health:

• ✅ Medications
• ✅ Hand sanitizer
• ✅ Vitamins/supplements
• ✅ Sleep aids (Vegas is loud)
• ✅ Earplugs for sleeping

Session Reservation Strategy

When Reservations Open (Early November):

Minute 1 Priority:

1. Workshops - Fill up in 5-10 minutes
2. Chalk Talks - Fill up in 10-15 minutes
3. Leadership Sessions - Fill up in 30 minutes
4. Breakout Sessions - Most available

Reservation Tips:

• Be online when reservations open
• Use AWS Events app AND web browser
• Have backup sessions ready
• Reserve for entire group together
• Check frequently for cancellations

Waitlist Strategy:

• Join waitlists for must-attend sessions
• Check app constantly (people drop)
• Arrive early to overflow/standby line
• 20-30% no-show rate for sessions

Maximizing Your Schedule

Daily Schedule Template:

Monday-Thursday:

• 7:00-8:30 AM: Breakfast (networking opportunity)
• 8:30-10:00 AM: First session
• 10:15-11:15 AM: Second session
• 11:30 AM-12:30 PM: Expo hall walk
• 12:30-1:30 PM: Lunch (networking)
• 1:45-2:45 PM: Third session
• 3:00-4:00 PM: Fourth session
• 4:15-5:15 PM: Fifth session
• 5:30-7:00 PM: Evening reception or break
• 7:00-9:00 PM: Dinner meetings
• 9:00 PM+: Optional networking events

Friday:

• Lighter schedule (many leave early)
• Final sessions
• Expo last chance
• Depart afternoon/evening

Pro Tips:

• Schedule breaks between sessions
• Don't over-commit (save energy)
• Leave time for expo
• Build in travel time between venues
• Plan dinner reservations in advance

Accommodation Strategy

Where to Stay

Tier 1: Official Re:Invent Venues (Most Convenient)

• Venetian/Palazzo: Main hub, most sessions

  • Rate: $250-$400/night
  • Pros: Center of everything, don't need transport
  • Cons: Expensive, very crowded

• Wynn/Encore: Premium venue, leadership sessions

  • Rate: $300-$500/night
  • Pros: Luxurious, great location
  • Cons: Most expensive

• Mandalay Bay: Keynote venue

  • Rate: $200-$350/night
  • Pros: Keynotes here, large rooms
  • Cons: Far from other venues

Tier 2: Nearby Strip Hotels (Walking Distance)

• Harrah's/The LINQ: Good mid-range

  • Rate: $150-$250/night
  • 5-10 minute walk to Venetian

• Flamingo/Paris: Affordable strip

  • Rate: $120-$200/night
  • 10-15 minute walk

Tier 3: Off-Strip (Budget Options)

• Marriott/Courtyard off-strip
  • Rate: $100-$150/night
  • Pros: Cheaper, quieter
  • Cons: Need rideshare/shuttle to venues

Booking Tips:

• Book early (August-September)
• Official hotel block opens late summer
• Use conference rate code
• Split stay if needed (cheaper)
• Check cancellation policies

Getting Around Las Vegas

Transportation Options:

AWS Shuttles (FREE):

• Between official venues
• Run 7 AM - 11 PM
• Every 10-15 minutes
• Can get crowded during session breaks

Walking:

• Venetian to Wynn: 10 minutes (easy)
• Wynn to Caesars Forum: 15 minutes
• Most Strip walking: doable but tiring
• Wear comfortable shoes!

Rideshare:

• Uber/Lyft everywhere
• Surge pricing during peak
• $10-20 between venues
• Pick-up can be complicated at casinos

Las Vegas Monorail:

• $13 all-day pass
• Limited stops (not all venues)
• Good for MGM area

Rental Car:

• NOT recommended
• Parking expensive ($30-50/day)
• Traffic on Strip terrible
• Hard to find parking

Best Strategy:

• Walk when possible
• Use AWS shuttles
• Rideshare for long distances
• Plan route before leaving sessions

Networking Like a Pro

Meeting People

Best Networking Opportunities:

Breakfast (7:00-8:30 AM):

• ✅ Casual, relaxed atmosphere
• ✅ Sit at communal tables
• ✅ Small talk leads to connections
• Tip: Arrive early, introduce yourself

Lunch (12:00-2:00 PM):

• ✅ Longer time to talk
• ✅ Mix of topics
• ✅ Share session insights
• Tip: Join groups, don't eat alone

After Sessions:

• ✅ Walk with people going same direction
• ✅ Discuss session together
• ✅ Exchange contacts
• Tip: "What did you think of that session?"

Expo Hall:

• ✅ Vendor booths (collect swag)
• ✅ Partner pavilions
• ✅ Demo stations
• ✅ Casual conversations
• Tip: Qualify which vendors useful before deep diving

Evening Events:

• ✅ Welcome reception (Monday)
• ✅ Community events (various)
• ✅ re:Play party (Thursday night - MUST ATTEND)
• Tip: Best networking of entire event

Hotel Bars/Lobbies:

• ✅ Spontaneous conversations
• ✅ Late night discussions
• ✅ International crowd
• Tip: Badge = conversation starter

Business Card Strategy

Bring 300-500 Cards:

• Give to everyone you talk to
• Collect cards from others
• Write notes on back of cards
• Scan cards with app (CamCard, LinkedIn)
• Follow up within 1 week

Digital Alternative:

• LinkedIn QR code
• Bump app
• iPhone/Android contact sharing
• Less personal but works

Making Meaningful Connections

Do's:

• ✅ Ask about their projects
• ✅ Share your challenges
• ✅ Listen actively
• ✅ Offer to help
• ✅ Be genuine
• ✅ Follow up after conference

Don'ts:

• ❌ Only talk about yourself
• ❌ Hard sell your company
• ❌ Hog someone's time
• ❌ Interrupt conversations
• ❌ Collect cards without engagement

Staying Connected

Connectivity Essentials

WiFi at Re:Invent:

• Free conference WiFi throughout venues
• Usually reliable but can be slow
• 50,000+ people on network
• Backup plan essential

Cellular Coverage:

• Las Vegas = good coverage
• Inside venues can be congested
• Data speeds may be slow
• International roaming = expensive

AlwaySIM for Re:Invent

Why eSIM is Perfect for Re:Invent:

For International Attendees:

• ✅ Arrive with USA connectivity ready
• ✅ No hunting for SIM cards at airport
• ✅ Activate before you land
• ✅ Keep home number active (dual SIM)
• ✅ Much cheaper than international roaming
• ✅ Reliable US network access

For Domestic Attendees:

• ✅ Backup connectivity if primary fails
• ✅ Extra data for hotspot
• ✅ Business vs personal line separation
• ✅ Conference WiFi backup

Recommended Data:

• 5-10GB for the week
• More if streaming sessions
• Hotspot for laptop
• Video calls to office

Must-Have Apps:

• AWS Events (official app)
• Uber/Lyft
• Google Maps
• LinkedIn
• Session note-taking app
• Slack (team coordination)

Food & Dining

Conference Food

Included in Full Pass:

• Daily breakfast (7:00-9:00 AM)
• Daily lunch (11:30 AM-2:00 PM)
• Welcome reception snacks
• Coffee/tea throughout day

Food Locations:

• Venetian: Multiple breakfast/lunch stations
• Each venue has food areas
• Long lines 12:00-12:30 PM
• Go early or late

Quality:

• Generally good
• Variety of options
• Dietary restrictions accommodated
• Better than most conferences

Dining Out

Dinner Options:

Quick & Easy:

• Food courts in casinos
• In-N-Out Burger (off-strip)
• Fast casual chains
• $15-$25 per meal

Mid-Range:

• Vegas casual dining
• Italian/Asian/Mexican everywhere
• $30-$50 per person
• Good for groups

Fine Dining:

• Celebrity chef restaurants
• Make reservations NOW
• $100-$200+ per person
• Best for client dinners

Pro Tips:

• Make reservations for nice dinners
• Dinner meetings very common
• Share costs or expense
• Stay on Strip for convenience
• Uber to off-strip for better value

Coffee:

• Starbucks in every hotel
• Lines can be long
• Conference has coffee stations
• Bring reusable cup

The Famous re:Play Party

Thursday Night Bash

What is re:Play?

• Epic party for all attendees
• Thursday night (Dec 4, 2025)
• Usually at Mandalay Bay or similar
• Live music (major acts)
• Food, drinks, games
• 30,000+ people attend

Past Performers:

• Steve Aoki
• deadmau5
• Foo Fighters
• DJ Khaled
• And more major acts

What to Expect:

• Time: 8:00 PM - 1:00 AM
• Venue: Massive space
• Food: Unlimited (amazing spread)
• Drinks: Open bar
• Music: Multiple stages
• Games: Carnival games, activities
• Swag: T-shirts, giveaways
• Networking: Best of entire week

Tips:

• Don't schedule late Thursday sessions
• Arrive by 8:30 PM
• Wear comfortable shoes (again!)
• Eat dinner first (long lines early)
• Stay for entire event
• Best networking of conference
• Don't drink too much (Friday sessions!)

Expo Hall Strategy

Making the Most of Expo

Expo Details:

• 300+ exhibitor booths
• AWS services booths
• Partner solutions
• Startups showcase
• Demo theaters
• Swag galore

Best Times to Visit:

• Early morning (less crowded)
• Late afternoon (eager vendors)
• Avoid lunch hour (mobbed)

Booth Strategy:

Tier 1: Must-Visit (AWS Booths)

• Learn about new services
• Get questions answered
• Deep-dive demos
• Technical experts
• Free swag

Tier 2: Solutions Providers

• Identify solutions for your needs
• See demos
• Get quotes/pricing
• Set up follow-ups
• Collect literature

Tier 3: Startups/Small Vendors

• Discover new tools
• Quick conversations
• Innovative solutions
• Good networking

Swag Collection:

• Bring empty backpack
• Collect t-shirts, stickers, etc.
• Popular items run out
• Don't grab everything (heavy!)
• Focus on useful items

Qualifying Vendors:

• Ask specific questions
• Share your use case
• Get contact info
• Schedule follow-up
• Don't waste time on irrelevant vendors

Certification Opportunities

AWS Certifications at Re:Invent

Included Benefits:

• 50% off exam voucher (full pass attendees)
• Certification lounge at MGM Grand
• Practice exams
• Exam prep sessions
• Study groups

Recommended Strategy:

1. Schedule exam for Friday morning
2. Attend exam prep sessions early in week
3. Study in hotel evenings
4. Take exam before departing
5. Celebrate certification!

Popular Exams:

• Solutions Architect Associate
• Developer Associate
• SysOps Administrator Associate
• Specialty certifications

Health & Wellness Tips

Surviving Re:Invent

Physical Health:

Expect to Walk:

• 10-15 miles per day
• Sore feet by day 2
• Blisters common
• Solution: Best shoes you own, backup pair

Stay Hydrated:

• Vegas = very dry climate
• Drink water constantly
• Bring refillable bottle
• Avoid excessive alcohol
• Combat dry air

Get Sleep:

• Tempting to party every night
• Need 6-7 hours minimum
• Vegas is 24/7 (bring earplugs)
• Don't burn out by day 3

Eat Well:

• Conference food is good
• But also eat vegetables
• Don't just snack/drink
• Maintain energy levels

Pace Yourself:

• It's a marathon, not sprint
• Take breaks
• Skip a session if needed
• Don't over-commit

The "Re:Invent Flu":

• 50,000 people = germs
• Wash hands frequently
• Hand sanitizer
• Don't share drinks
• Get adequate rest

Mental Health

Information Overload:

• Can't attend everything
• FOMO is real
• Choose what matters
• Don't stress missing sessions
• Videos posted later

Networking Exhaustion:

• Introvert battery drains
• Take social breaks
• Skip some events
• It's okay to recharge

Work Balance:

• You're still getting emails
• Set expectations with team
• Don't work full days remotely
• Focus on conference

Money-Saving Tips

Budget-Conscious Re:Invent

Conference:

• Early bird pricing ($300 savings)
• Group discounts (10-15% off)
• Community Builder pass if eligible
• Expo-only pass (free)

Accommodation:

• Book early (save 30-50%)
• Off-Strip hotels ($100/night)
• Split hotel room
• Use points/rewards
• Consider Airbnb (check location)

Food:

• Eat conference meals (included)
• Breakfast in room (cheaper)
• Lunch from grocery store
• Happy hour specials
• Avoid casino restaurants

Transportation:

• Walk when possible (free)
• AWS shuttles (free)
• Share rideshares
• Skip rental car
• Monorail day pass ($13)

Entertainment:

• re:Play party (included & awesome)
• Skip expensive Vegas shows
• Free hotel entertainment
• Focus on networking events

Total Budget Examples:

Minimal:

• Conference: $1,599 (early bird)
• Hotel: $125/night × 5 = $625 (off-strip)
• Flights: $300-$600
• Food: $30/day × 5 = $150 (supplements)
• Transport: $50
• Total: ~$2,400-$3,000

Comfortable:

• Conference: $1,899
• Hotel: $250/night × 5 = $1,250 (venue hotel)
• Flights: $400-$800
• Food: $75/day × 5 = $375
• Transport: $100
• Total: ~$4,000-$4,500

Premium:

• Conference: $1,899
• Hotel: $400/night × 5 = $2,000 (Wynn/Venetian)
• Flights: $600-$1,200
• Food: $150/day × 5 = $750
• Transport: $200
• Entertainment: $300
• Total: ~$5,500-$6,500

After Re:Invent

Maximizing Post-Conference

Immediately After:

• Organize business cards
• Connect on LinkedIn
• Send follow-up emails
• Download session recordings
• Expense receipts

First Week Back:

• Share learnings with team
• Schedule presentations
• Review session notes
• Implement new ideas
• Follow up with vendors

First Month:

• Try new AWS services learned
• Build POCs
• Evangelize within company
• Share recordings with team
• Plan for next year

Session Recordings:

• Available 24-48 hours after conference
• YouTube AWS channel
• Re:Invent session catalog
• Watch sessions you missed

International Attendee Tips

Traveling from Abroad

Visa Requirements:

• USA requires visa for most countries
• ESTA for visa waiver countries
• Apply 2-3 months in advance
• Conference letter available for visa

Currency:

• USD everywhere
• Credit cards widely accepted
• Notify bank of travel dates
• Have $100-200 cash
• Tipping expected (15-20%)

Time Zone Adjustment:

• Las Vegas = PST (UTC-8)
• Arrive 1-2 days early if possible
• Fight jet lag
• Stay awake until local evening

Cultural Tips:

• Very casual attire
• Americans are friendly/chatty
• Networking is expected
• Direct communication style
• Tipping mandatory (15-20% restaurants)

Conclusion

AWS Re:Invent 2025 will be an incredible experience whether it's your first time or your tenth. The key to success is:

✅ Plan Early - Book accommodation, register ASAP ✅ Reserve Sessions - The moment they open ✅ Pace Yourself - It's a marathon ✅ Network Actively - Make genuine connections ✅ Stay Connected - eSIM for seamless communication ✅ Comfortable Shoes - Cannot overstate this ✅ Attend re:Play - Best networking event ✅ Have Fun - Enjoy the experience!

Quick Checklist:

• Register for conference (early bird)
• Book hotel (August-September)
• Book flights
• Get eSIM for USA connectivity
• Reserve sessions (November)
• Pack comfortable shoes
• Bring portable charger
• 300+ business cards
• Download AWS Events app
• Schedule exam if pursuing certification
• Make dinner reservations
• Set expectations with team

See you in Las Vegas December 1-5, 2025!

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Have Re:Invent tips to share? Been before? Drop your advice in the comments!