How to Prepare for a Sci-Fi Convention

Ladies at a Sci Fi Convention.

Many a sci-fi fan has wandered along a convention center hallway hoping to have the chance to meet and greet with their favorite sci-fi stars. If you are one of these fans, you may know of a convention coming to your area.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Buy your pass as early as possible. Often conventions will offer advance tickets at a much lower price a month or two ahead of time. The closer it gets to the convention date, the more expensive your purchase will be. On the day of the event, prices can continue to rise.

2. Book your hotel as early as possible. Many hotels hosting conventions or located near conventions offer discounts for attendees. This is especially the case if the sci-fi convention is taking place within the hotel.

3. Decide on a costume. What’s the fun of a convention without the costume? Bring several, as you might want to change up your look from time to time. Remember, the more obscure the better.

4. Bring any memorabilia or photo you want autographed. If one of the guests that you want to see will be signing autographs (expect to pay $10-20 extra per autograph or photo), bring any memorabilia you want them to sign. Just keep a close eye on what you bring, especially if it is extra valuable. You definitely do not want to misplace it at the event.

5. Do your research online; you don’t want to lose your cred. Research the guests who will be attending the event or hosting panels. See which ones you know, which ones you don’t and do your research.

6. Review the schedule in advance. All events and panels listed on the schedule are subject to change, but reviewing the schedule will give you a chance to see what type of panels you would be most interested in attending.

7. Get directions. To and from the event, where to park, how much parking costs. You do not want to be worrying about this type of information on the day of your event. Get the info beforehand and keep printouts of this information with you at all times.

8. Bring your camera. Trust me, there will be sights that you will not want to miss. Plus, you better have photographic evidence of what you see or your friends who didn’t attend the convention will never believe you.

9. Save up. There will be all sorts of vendors hocking their amazing wares, and you do not want to miss out. Cut back on as many extra costs as you can while at the convention. For example, you may want to eat on the cheap. This will save you money for merchandise later. On a similar note, shop around. Don’t accept merchandise from the first vendor who offers it. Chances are, especially at a big convention, there will be more than one person selling the exact same thing for different prices.

Tips & Warnings

• Don’t be afraid to stray from the itinerary. Relax, have fun, live long, and prosper. You are there to have fun, not follow a schedule.