With Huntington's annual Tsubasacon on the horizon, many cosplayers are putting the final touches on their outfits, while gamers continue to hone their skills for the upcoming tournaments. Conventions across the country--and, really, the world--are wonderful events wherein people sharing a common interest can convene and form lasting relationships, and in general, the price of admission isn't too steep, either, making it readily accessible to virtually anyone. Of course, elaborate costumes and makeup are not mandatory for such gatherings; they're more along the lines of "come as your are" types of happenings, welcoming people of all ages, sexes, races, and sexual orientations. However, the list of preparatory items and advice can be a little overwhelming, especially for those that have never attended a convention, so the following is a relatively comprehensive collection of tips and tricks for surviving your first convention.
1. Cash is a Necessity
Nearly--if not all--of the vendors within the dealer room will only accept cash, since card readers can be tedious, and cash exchanges take far less time. From my previous experiences, most items range between twenty to thirty dollars, so be prepared for that kind of purchase. Generally, there are ATMs dotted around the vicinity, but most likely, there will be immense lines for access to the machine. I waited nearly thirty minutes to use an ATM in Lexington this past spring, and it was a huge inconvenience.
Additionally, there will be a plethora of pieces of merchandise that you will most likely want to purchase, so when withdrawing cash, take as much as you believe you'll need. I would highly advise going into the convention with a prearranged budget, as well, so the spending doesn't get too out of hand.
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2. Backpacks are Lifesavers
With your cash you will, inevitably, purchase lots of (probably) useless merchandise, and you won't want to lug them around in your arms all day. Backpacks are also handy for holding the obvious necessities like wallets and cell phones, as well as cameras that you don't want getting marred by the masses around you. Purses are great for a time being, but eventually, you're going to need more space. That giant Monokuma plush is going to get real annoying after a while (trust me, he's adorable, but I didn't want to hold mine all day, and neither will you).
3. Bring Food and Drink (If Allowed)
Most convention centers are relatively at ease with things such as water bottles and packed lunches, and even if the building prohibits such things, the event workers don't usually tend to care. If you're especially worried, place the consumable items in your backpack so as to not draw attention to yourself in the first place. Food can often be outrageously expensive, and you want to avoid that as much as possible. After all, you've got plush characters and t-shirts to buy; you can't be wasting your hard earned cash on a five dollar slice of pizza. Additionally, the cosplay that you choose to create or buy might be incredibly thick, causing you to sweat amongst the vast amount of bodies packed into that small space, and you don't want to get dehydrated, so always have a water bottle at the ready!
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4. Passes Should Always be Visible
Don't take your pass or badge off. Ever. It's much more liable to come up missing if you are continuously removing it for cosplay purposes (or, really, any reason), and security are required to ask to see your badges, passes, wristbands, etc. before admitting you to the event. No one will think the badge is cramping your style by wearing it around your neck. It's the most time effect manner of utilizing the thing. When approaching security, be sure the badge is facing forward with your name facing them.
Also, be sure to actually write your name. Retrieval of lost badges can be difficult at all times, but having your name on the item makes it much easier to find if it happens to walk off.
5. Bobby Pins and Paint
If you've got a complex cosplay that involves many an accessory and makeup aspects, you're going to need to pack emergency supplies to keep your outfit on point. While some conventions have cosplay repair stations, these are not common everywhere, so it is up to you to bring extra pins, paint, brushes, makeup, etc. The last thing anyone wants is their dress falling apart or their body paint coming away from their skin.
My final tip is pretty simple: have fun. These are not to be taken seriously. Bring your friends and buy fantastic artwork from local creators, dance the night away, and make someone's day by complimenting their cosplay. Meet new people, make new friends, and have a generally fantastic time. Remember, Tsubasacon's registration ends September 28, and the event itself will be held September 30-October 2, so be sure to buy your tickets soon! I hope to see you there!
