Attending an anime or comic convention can be an exciting experience, but it can also be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. With so many events, guests, and merchandise to explore, it’s easy to get lost in the crowd. To help you make the most of your experience, we’ve put together this ultimate guide to preparing for an anime or comic convention.
Choose Your Convention
Attending an anime or comic convention can be an exciting experience, but it can also be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. With so many events, guests, and merchandise to explore, it’s easy to get lost. Before you start preparing for an anime or comic convention, you need to choose which event to attend. There are many conventions held throughout the year, so you’ll need to do some research to find one that suits your interests and budget. Look up the event website to learn about the schedule, guests, and vendors. Cons are wonderful events where fans of all demographics can come together and celebrate the movies, shows, books, and comics they love. Conventions come in all shapes and sizes – from small local or show-specific conventions to San Diego Comic-Con with over 150,000 attendees in 2018.
New York Comic Con, is the largest comic convention on the east coast. While the weekend-long events are a blast, it takes a lot of prep work to have a successful and stress-free time, especially when going 3 days in a row.
Plan Your Cosplay
One of the most exciting aspects of attending an anime or comic convention is dressing up in cosplay. Cosplay, short for costume play, is the practice of dressing up as a character from a movie, TV show, video game, or book. Plan your cosplay well in advance so that you have time to create or purchase your costume. Make sure your cosplay is appropriate for the convention, follows the event’s dress code, and is comfortable enough to wear for several hours.
Pack Your Bag
Make sure to pack everything you need for the convention in a backpack or tote bag. Bring a water bottle, snacks, and any medications you might need. Don’t forget your wallet or purse, as well as your phone and charger. If you plan to purchase merchandise or artwork, bring some extra cash or a credit card.
Don’t bring home a sunburn. Snacks: considering how often you’ll be waiting in line to get into exclusive panels and screening, you do not want to waste time waiting in line to buy disappointing, unhealthy, and overpriced food in the convention center. Pack some healthy snacks to munch on during the wait times instead. An extra bag within your bag: between the merch that you can buy and the freebies given out, you’ll probably walk away from Comic-Con with more than your backpack can carry. Don’t pick up every freebie you see. Tempting though it may be, consider that you’ll have to lug all of that around with you for the rest of the day
Bring hand sanitizer. There will be lots of people and you’ll be touching many booths and eating so we suggest keeping your hands clean!
Most conventions have a first aid station, but if you’re in need of a bandaid or a pain reliever, it’s handy to have one with you. For myself, I always keep extra bandaids, Tylenol, alcohol wipes, and antacids in a small compartment in my backpack.
Respect Other Cosplayers
Ask before you touch a cosplayer. Sure, most people cosplay because they enjoy the attention, but you should always respect personal boundaries. As it can get loud in the convention center, put your phone on silent so you can notice it going off better.
Plan Where to Stay
Keep an eye on when the convention hotel block opens. SDCC hotels sell out in a matter of minutes. The con has an “early bird” hotel sale for those who already have tickets. Options are limited and non-refundable, but you actually get to choose. Find roommates to share the cost of the hotel room (or suite). If you need to get online but can’t connect on the convention floor, hit a nearby hotel lobby. Hotel internet access is often faster early in the morning than late at night because fewer people are using it. That’s the time to upload your photos. Cell reception can vary a lot by carrier in some convention centers, especially those with basement exhibit halls
Dress Comfortably
While you want to look your best in your cosplay, it’s also important to dress comfortably. Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be on your feet for several hours. Dress in layers, as convention halls can be chilly, but crowded areas can be warm. Consider bringing a small bag to hold your layers if you need to remove them. Please take good care of your feet when you’re cruising the Convention Center and wear shoes that will keep your feet happy.
Plan Your Schedule
Before you arrive at the convention, take some time to review the schedule and plan which events and panels you want to attend. Make a list of the guests you want to see, the merchandise you want to buy, and the panels you want to attend. Prioritize your must-see events, but also leave some time for wandering and discovering new things. Pick ONE major event that you want to do each day, and plan your whole day around it. If it’s a really popular panel, chances are you’ll be waiting in line for a good chunk of the day. You’ll only be disappointed if you try to do too much and spread yourself too thin.
Stay Hydrated and Fed
Make sure to take breaks and stay hydrated and fed throughout the day. Convention halls can be crowded and overwhelming, so it’s important to take care of your body. Bring snacks and a water bottle, and take breaks to sit and rest when you need to.
Have Fun!
Finally, remember to have fun! Anime and comic conventions are exciting events filled with like-minded individuals who share your interests. Take photos, meet new people, and enjoy the experience. With the right preparation and attitude, you’ll have an unforgettable time at your next anime or comic convention.
