Next look up the agenda of activities. You'll want to map out who you want to hear or what you want to see most. That goes back to what you want to learn and your purpose to going. Print out the schedule and mark the "must see - can't miss" and "like to see" events. This will make it easier to be flexible (if a class is too full or it wasn't what you thought it was going to be) and open to opportunities (visiting with an industry friend or going to a class you didn't plan on) without compromising on what you came for. Also, check if there are any add on meet ups or activities to be a part of.

Finally, look up the organizers of the conference. These people put in a lot of work to bring real value to you. Know them so you can tell them what you liked. 

It seems like a lot of "looking up" but it makes for more productive days at the event.

#7 • PLAN TO LEARN

There's a reason you're going to the gathering. Likely it's to learn something. You want some new skill, information, experiences or expertise. There's a purpose.

A purpose always brings things back around to its original intent. No aimless wandering. No missed opportunities. No getting home and thinking that the conference was a waste of time. When it's clear what the target is there's a better chance of hitting it.