Things You'll Need:
- Camera
- Maps
- Con Info
- If money, some cash
- Cell phone, or access to one
- Snacks
- Water (Absolute must!)
- Backpack, or likes
- Parking Info
- Cosplay (Optional)
- Cosplay Quick Fix Kit (Optional)
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Step 1
Extended Research on your convention. Assuming you have already done some basic research to choose a con, now is the time for some more. Look up the basic rules of the con, every convention has a set of rules. It would be terrible if you were kicked out of your first anime convention because you broke a silly rule. Also, look up hours for the con, including registration.
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Step 2
Have a copy of the schedule. Most cons give you a copy of the schedule the day you register and pick up your pass, but it is still nice to be able to pick out specific events you want to see/do before hand. Be warned, however, most conventions have last minute changes to the schedule, so always re-check the schedule on a daily basis, either online or through newsletters handed out at the con.
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Step 3
Be realistic on what you can attend. If you have decided to go to every panel on the schedule, you will be let down. Most cons have multiple things happening at once, in several rooms. It is impossible to go to everything. Look at the layout of the hotel or convention center, pick events that give you enough time to actually go from one to another.
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Step 4
Print off a map of the local area. It's always good to know where you are, so print off a map of the area and make notes of certain things like food, ATM's, and places to park.
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Step 5
Know about parking in advance. Most conventions are held in large cities, and in large cities, parking is rarely free. This mostly applies for people who are not staying at a hotel where the parking is added to your room cost. Most parking lots or structures do not accept cards, especially places like LA. You should look up the rates, or assume amounts if rates are hard to find. Bring that money in advance. (If you cannot find a rate, bring about $15 in 5s with you). Most convention's websites will have some info on parking.
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Step 6
Bring some cash. The dealer' s hall will have neat things to buy, and a lot of them only accept cash. Do not bring a lot with you, for it is easy to lose, but some would be a good idea.
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Step 7
Have a cell phone or access to one if you go to a con with friends/family. At some point, you will split up and it is extremely aggravating to look for someone, or not be able to contact them. Bring a cell so you can keep in touch. Just remember to silent it when going to a panel.
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Step 8
Have a camera. At cons there are celebrities, cosplayers and more that you might want to take pictures of, so it is a good idea to carry a camera. Remember, cosplayers and celebs are people to, and always ask before taking a picture. Also, if there is an artist's alley, it is generally against the rules to take pictures inside it.
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Step 9
Have some snacks and water. You will get hungry and thirsty during this, and even if you have the money to eat out, you might not find the time to leave the con area, especially if waiting for an event. It is always smart to have something to tide you over until you can get real food. Please remember, you cannot live off junk food. Eat at least one real meal a day while at the con, you tummy will thank you later.
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Step 10
Cosplay! If you have the time or money to buy or make a cosplay, do it. Most people at cons cosplay or at least appreciate cosplayers. It makes your con experience go from good to great. It doesn't matter if it is simple or not, just go with it. But, please do not feel bad if someone does not recognize your costume, it is just for fun after all. If you do cosplay, it is a good idea to carry safety pins, and the like for emergency costume fixes. (To see more on your first cosplay, see: http://cosplaycute.com/fancyindiablog/?p=136)
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Step 11
Last of all, have fun! A convention is suppose to be a fun experience, if something doesn't go your way, don't flip out, just go with it. You never know what might happen at a con, so be ready!
Comments
jenng said
on 11/1/2009 GREAT ARTICLE ON How to Survive Your First Anime Convention 5*
riefderrico said
on 10/17/2009 Interesting!
mtwyman said
on 10/16/2009 Great info
fcornelius said
on 10/15/2009 Informative article on how to survive your first anime convention.
vicecj said
on 10/15/2009 Dear cosplaycute, I have been reading your Article on Anime. It has truly cought my interest. ViceCJ
Please reciprocate, and check out my very first Article: How To Live With A Sick Loved One
God Bless
ViceCJ