9 Tips For Your First Con
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This is a post from Lydia Sinclaire, an attendee at the first MultiverseCon last year! Thank you, Lydia!
My first convention was MultiverseCon 2019, and wasn’t it exciting! While I may have been late on the convention train in comparison with my peers, I must say that it’s an experience you don’t want to miss – no matter what stage you are in life! I found advertising bookmarks at Barnes & Noble and thankfully had a few months to prepare – and if you’re going to any convention, I strongly recommend that you prepare!
Here’s 9 tips for your first convention…
Water is very important – whether you are cosplaying in heavy outfits or not. Personally, I like to keep a large water-bottle that’s sturdy and re-fillable, like what athletes take to the gym. I’ve heard at least one horror story from a Guest Speaker about how an air conditioning unit ‘broke’ during summer in the South. Talk about sweltering heat! Don’t get stuck in a situation where you need water and can’t easily access it – especially if you’re listening to some amazing people with great advice on topics that interest you!
Snacks (and Mints) – there may be food at the convention, but it could be expensive depending on where you go. I don’t recommend eating during the panels, but you’ll usually have some time in-between to munch on something quick as you’re going from one event to the next. You’ll want something that’ll keep you from getting hungry and offer an energy boost. I chose trail-mix and beef jerky (hence the need for mints!) They’re easy to store in a backpack without getting messy for long periods of time. Depending on your health/diet, you may have to choose something more suitable for you.
Smartphone and Portable Charger (plus a wall charger) - I’m assuming most people have smartphones nowadays. The reason I say you need a ‘smart’ phone is because you’ll probably want to take pictures and maybe even record videos of your experience! You’ll need the portable charger (fully charged in advance) so that you can keep your phone functional while walking around. There’s no guarantee of open outlets, and even if there were, you don’t want to restrict your experience based on being tied down to a wall!
Cash – there’s TONS of goodies to be had at a convention! While some sellers may carry devices that can process debit/credit cards, it varies by individual (and the internet connection or power supply!) Almost no one accepts hand-written checks anymore, so your best bet is to play it safe and carry cash! If you’re a spending fiend like myself, it also gives you an exact budget to prevent yourself from going over. ;)
Comfortable shoes – you’ll be doing a loooooot of walking! Take care of your feet! For the love of all that’s good, don’t show up to a convention wearing heels (unless it’s part of your cosplay!) But even then, ask yourself if they’re really necessary. If so, bring a spare set of comfortable shoes that you can ease into when your feet are ready for them.
Small medicine kit – are you prone to headaches? Bring ibuprofen or Excedrin - whichever your body responds best to (and you may want to consult a doctor in advance!) Do you have seasonal allergies? Claritin or Zyrtec.
Extra considerations - Depending on whether the convention is indoor or outdoor, you may need to bring extra gear. I have a Renaissance Festival that comes through every year, and while it may not be a ‘convention,’ the principles of preparing are very similar. You’ll need sunscreen, an umbrella, or a sweater depending on the conditions. Prepare accordingly.
Consider: What is the purpose of you coming to the convention? If it’s to learn, bring a notebook and pens (yes, plural), or audio/video recorder of choice. If you’re coming to network with others who share the same interests as you, then bring some business cards with your logo and personal information to swap with other people. If you’re coming to Cosplay, then bring extra make-up, a hair-brush, and a small sewing kit.
Scheduling -The convention’s website should have a list of panels and their corresponding rooms/time slots. Knowing this information in advance helps you get the most out of your experience! I didn’t have to wonder around aimlessly, having no idea of where I wanted to go or what to do.
Final thoughts…
Ultimately, if you’re going to a convention – have fun! Try not to stress if anything goes wrong, and do the best you can! People don’t come to conventions to nitpick tiny things about you – they’re there for the experience and camaraderie just as much as you are! You’re among people (and potential friends) who share the same interests and hobbies as you. So enjoy the ride for what it’s worth, and cherish the memories! ♥
