I like to go to conventions. I go to as many as I can afford each year, and with the experiences that I have gained from going to these conventions, I discovered some universal rules that anyone going to a "con" should know.
So, here are 11 basic tips for anyone going to a convention.
1. Bring water!
When you go to a convention, you will be walking around a lot. You may not feel it at first, but all of that walking and talking is going to dehydrate you.
Bring extra water so you don't pass out on the con floor. Plus, being packed in a building full of hundreds of people doesn't help.
2. Plan ahead.
When you arrive at the convention, you may be overwhelmed with the amount of things to do. So, look at the list of events ahead of time and plan out your day, so you don't miss that awesome "Star Trek" panel.
3. Bring extra cash.
You may think a 100 dollar bill will be enough to get you through the convention, but that's often not the case.
Always bring extra cash, in case you need food or find some amazing thing that you want to buy at the dealer's room. Take it from me: You don't want to be stranded because you didn't have enough cash.
4. Bring extra clothes.
Always pack extra clothes, just in case something happens. You're going to be in a room filled with a lot of people, so use caution because you could bump into someone carrying a drink and end up covered in soda.
You may think you won't need them, but it's better to be safe than sorry.
5. Use proper hygiene.
I know that you're going to be busy having fun, but don't forget to take care of yourself. Take a few minutes and brush your teeth.
Please, for everyone's sake, don't forget deodorant. No one wants to take a picture with someone who smells terrible, so don't forget hygiene.
6. Bring a sewing kit.
You never know when you'll need to repair your costume or help someone else with theirs.
7. Get plenty of rest before.
You're not going to get much sleep once the con begins, so get plenty of sleep before.
8. Leave extra room in the car.
While in the dealer's room you may find an awesome prop you want to buy, but can't fit it in the car for the ride home. Don't risk it. Leave some extra space.
9. Be early.
Get there early, because the lines for panels and autographs can be really long, and you don't want to miss getting that autograph you've been waiting for.
10. Respect the cosplayers.
Ask before you take pictures of or touch the cosplayers. You wouldn't like random people harassing you, so don't harass them. Let's keep it fun for everyone, and not make people feel uncomfortable.
11. Have fun.
Remember that conventions are meant for people to have fun, so don't stress out. Just relax and enjoy the experience.
I hope that this was helpful to some people who are getting ready for a convention. These may not be all of the rules you should follow, but these are things I've figured out from going to conventions myself. I wanted to pass them on to those who may need to know some of these basic rules.
Have fun at your next con, and be safe.
