I like to buy the tote back sold by the show! It is very sturdy/roomy and I consider it a sovenier of the show. I will have the tote long after the fabric/goodies has been cut up and sewn. After the show I use it for projects etc. . I find it more useful that the pins they sell.
Everytime I use it when I go some where ... no matter where I am .. someone comments and asks "you must be a quilter". The last bag I purchased was at the Chicago show , and was the last year they had the show in Chicago, so many have offered to purchase that bag .
If you decide to bring one there are some great light weight/sturdy bag that fold up really well , that you can use while you are in the quilt exibition area , before the vendor spaces.