Your Ultimate Guide to Being Prepared for a Convention (FREE DOWNLOADABLE PDF INCLUDED)

Your Ultimate Guide to Being Prepared for a Convention (FREE DOWNLOADABLE PDF INCLUDED)

Whether you're attending your first-ever convention or you're a seasoned cosplayer with a con calendar longer than a college syllabus, one truth remains: if you're not prepared, you're gonna feel it.

From overpriced food to forgotten chargers, poor planning can turn a great event into a stressful mess. That’s why we put together this ultimate guide—to help fans, collectors, and travelers show up prepared, stress-free, and ready to enjoy every moment.

At the end, grab your FREE downloadable Convention Checklist PDF that you can print, save, or share with your squad.

1. Start With the Essentials: Travel & Hotel Tips

Book Early

Hotels near conventions sell out fast—and prices only go up. As soon as tickets drop or dates are announced, lock in your lodging. Look for:

  • Walking distance or shuttle access to the venue

  • Free breakfast (one less thing to buy)

  • Fridge & microwave access (a game-changer for food costs)

Bonus tip: If you’re traveling with friends, split the room. A shared $200/night room becomes a $50/night room real quick.

Know the Parking Situation

If you're driving, research:

  • Where to park (convention center, garages, street)

  • Daily cost

  • How early you need to get there for a decent spot

Hold The Phone! 6 Tips for Converting Hotel Calls to Bookings - WebRezPro

2. Pack Like a Pro (Not a Tourist)

Here's what seasoned con-goers never forget to pack:

In Your Backpack:

  • Water bottle (Refillable! Save $5 per bottle easily)

  • Snacks (Protein bars, trail mix, fruit gummies)

  • Portable phone charger (Or two. Con Wi-Fi drains batteries)

  • Cash (Some vendors still don’t take card)

  • Hand sanitizer & baby wipes

  • Deodorant / small cologne/perfume (You’ll be around thousands of people...)

  • Badge, ID, tickets (Printed & digital backup)

  • Small foldable tote bag (For extra merch haul)
    Adam Anson on X: "#tipsforyear7s Make sure to get a massive backpack, the bigger the backpack the cooler you look http://t.co/l1Qa2UPylf" / X

3. Food Hacks: Don’t Pay $30 for a Slice of Pizza

Convention center food is often overpriced and underwhelming. Here’s how to eat smart:

  • Eat a big breakfast before arriving

  • Pack lunch if your hotel has a fridge (wraps, sandwiches, microwaveable meals)

  • Bring high-protein snacks to avoid crashes

  • Scope out nearby restaurants the day before (check for long wait times or reservations)

Advanced Tip: Some hotels offer grab-and-go snacks at check-in. Don’t sleep on those.

Unexpected Restaurant Bill Reactions

4. Dress Smart: Comfort Over Cosplay (Sometimes)

We get it—cosplay is a huge part of con culture. But if you’re planning to walk the floor for 8+ hours:

  • Wear comfortable shoes no matter what

  • Bring a backup outfit or shirt if you're in costume

  • Don’t forget weather backup gear (poncho, hoodie, etc.)

If you’re not cosplaying:

  • Breathable clothes, layers, and a light jacket for cold A/C areas are key.

5. Budget Wisely (So You Don’t Go Broke on Day One)

Conventions have everything: collectibles, art, apparel, food, and exclusive drops. It’s tempting to drop your whole paycheck by lunch.

Here’s how to manage it:

  • Set a merch budget before you go

  • Bring cash in set amounts to avoid overspending

  • Walk the floor first, then buy. You might find a better deal a few rows down.

  • Support small artists in Artist Alley—they often have the most unique stuff

6. Maximize the Experience

Plan Your Schedule

Download the con app (if available), or check the website ahead of time to:

  • Mark panels you don’t want to miss

  • Know where main stage events or autograph sessions are

  • Locate bathroom areas and food spots

Respect Cosplay Culture

  • Always ask before taking a photo

  • Compliment don’t critique

  • Don’t touch props or costumes without permission

Network & Have Fun

  • Follow creators, artists, or vendors you meet

  • Use social media hashtags to connect with other attendees

  • Don’t be afraid to go solo—cons are full of people just like you
    Megacon Orlando 2024: Celebrities, tix, Universal event, and more

7. Stay Healthy & Safe

Thousands of people in tight spaces means:

  • Wash your hands frequently

  • Avoid touching your face constantly

  • Keep your immune system up (hydration, vitamins, rest)

Pro tip: Carry a mini first-aid pouch—band-aids for blisters, aspirin for headaches, and mints for bad breath moments.

8. What to Do After the Convention

Organize Your Merch

Unpack smart. Organize your items, and make note of anything rare or exclusive so you don’t misplace it.

Post Your Experience

Share photos and videos. Tag the con. Review panels or booths. Your feedback helps others and grows the community.

Rest & Recharge

Con fatigue is real. Take the next day easy if you can. Hydrate, stretch, and decompress.

FREE DOWNLOAD: Convention Survival Checklist

We've turned everything in this guide into a super clean, printable checklist you can use before every con. Whether you're traveling out of state or going local, this PDF has all your essentials, reminders, and packing tips.

[Download the Convention Prep Checklist PDF Here]


Final Words

Conventions are more than events—they’re memories in the making. But great memories don’t come from stress, hunger, or dead phones. A little prep goes a long way toward a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Bring your energy, bring your fandom, and bring your best self. The con floor is waiting. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter to be notified when we post a new blog. Thank you and welcome to the Generation Anime and More family. 

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