The right event credential can enhance security, streamline operations, improve the attendee experience, and provide organisers with valuable real-time event intelligence.

Whether you're planning a sports event, music festival, corporate conference or another high-profile live event, the type of credential you choose, and how it functions, will influence everything from access control and accreditation to branding and sustainability.

Drawing on our experience across a wide range of events, we've curated a selection of credential options and key considerations to help you identify the right solution for your event and better understand what's possible.

Below are four key areas to consider when selecting an event credential: Smart Technology, Size and Format, Material, and Added Functions.

1. Smart Technology

Would your event benefit from RFID, NFC or QR code functionality?

At RFIDentikit, we often use Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology embedded within a smart badge or wristband, allowing it to communicate wirelessly with a scanner. This creates a frictionless access control and data collection method, enabling people and processes to move seamlessly throughout an event without disrupting attendee flow.

RFID is one of several credential technologies available. Depending on the needs and objectives of the event, NFC and QR code functionality can also be incorporated, either as standalone solutions or alongside RFID within a dual-chip credential, to deliver the optimal balance of security, functionality and user experience.

Every smart credential contains a unique encrypted ID. That ID is linked to our cloud-based accreditation platform, connecting each individual to their profile, access permissions, compliance requirements, operational privileges, allocated resources and any other event-specific entitlements required for their role.

The credential itself stores almost no personal data. Instead, it acts as a secure key to information managed within the platform.

When an attendee passes a scanner, the chip is automatically detected. Our platform checks their permissions in real time and logs the interaction with a timestamp. The scanner then displays simple colour-coded status, providing a live record of who is on site and where they last scanned.

2. Size and Format

What information needs to be visible on the credential?

We typically provide credentials in one, or a combination of the following three core formats, depending on how it should be worn and what needs to be visible:

• Credit Card: CR80 (85 x 54mm / 3 x 2 Inches) format. Rigid, durable, and universally recognised. These slot neatly into lanyards horizontally or vertically and are a familiar size alongside typical cards such as bank cards and IDs. 

• Large Format: Oversized credentials (125 x 88 mm / 5 x 3 Inches), designed for high visibility. Ideal where security staff need to identify all levels of multi factor authentication, physical, facial and visibility of zone permissions at a glance across a busy or fast moving site. 

• Wristbands: Worn credentials for venues and events where lanyards are impractical or where the pass should be difficult to remove or transfer. Tamper proof and comfortable for multi day wear. 

Each form factor can be either pre printed or printed on site to suit the requirements of your event. All formats are available with or without any RFID, NFC, QR Code combination. 

3. Premium Credentials and Features

Does your credential need to feel more premium or offer protection against duplication?

Beyond the core formats, we offer several options to add a premium feel and aesthetic, increase security, and reduce the possibility of fraudulent duplicates being created.

A) Holograms

For events requiring an additional layer of visual security, we can incorporate holographic overlays into credential production. Holograms are difficult to replicate and provide immediate ‘at a glance’ authentication for security staff, a useful complement to digital RFID verification in high risk environments.

B) Metal clip attachment

We engineer bespoke metal clips that attaches directly to a pass, replacing the traditional lanyard loop. This creates a clean, premium finish, used by clients such as LIV Golf Green Room VIP event and Sail GP. 

C) Wearables: Premium RFID prototype pin and clip badges

For events where a hanging pass is impractical or aesthetically out of place, we produce wearable pin and clip badges. The RFID chip is built directly into the badge body. The credential clips to a lapel or garment with no lanyard required. Full scanning capability, invisible integration. An alternative option for conference keynote speakers, VIP hosts, and awards ceremonies.

D) Customised lanyards

We produce fully branded lanyards to complement your credentials, custom colours, printed logos, breakaway safety clips, and material specifications included. Lanyards can be matched to zone colour coding or event branding as required.

4. Material

What material best suits the needs and brand image of your event?

Each pass size can be made in multiple materials to suit event needs:

A) Traditional PVC

The industry standard material for event credentials. Hard wearing, water resistant, and reliable in demanding outdoor environments.

B) Sustainable materials

PETG plastic offers a more environmentally responsible credential solution for events looking to reduce plastic waste and support their sustainability objectives without compromising performance. These credentials deliver the same print quality, durability, and RFID functionality as traditional plastic passes, providing a sustainable alternative without sacrificing reliability or user experience.

C) Paper passes

Paper passes can still include RFID technology by embedding an RFID sticker within a folded pass.

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Choosing the Right Pass for Your Event 

Contact us to discuss your event in more detail and explore how our credentials and solutions could add value.