I have been to countless conventions since 2010, and ever since the number I go to each year gets bigger and bigger. This summer break alone I went to five conventions, and each and every one gave me a new memory I will always hold close.
I get asked a lot about what it’s like and how I manage to go to so many conventions. And in all reality, I hardly know the answer to that.
But there are a few tips I’ve learned throughout the years of how to go to lots of conventions and still find each as magical as my first.
First, it’s important to get down-to-earth with conventions. When I first started con-going, I was star struck by every cosplayer I found. I was obsessed with the voice actors and industry guests that were there and wanted autographs from everyone.
But as I went to more and more conventions, I started to realize that all of those cosplayers and guests are real people, and should be treated as such. Conventions were much more fun when I realized I didn’t need to treat everyone around me as heroes.
Another thing I found that made it easier to go to a lot of conventions was budgeting. When I first went to cons, I would bring as much money as I could to buy merchandise and fan-made items. Now I find I might buy a poster or a few buttons, but it’s easier to save money and go to more conventions than buying endless useless items.
Also, I bring food with me. I still go out and get a full meal at least once per day, but it’s much cheaper to bring snacks with you and keep them in your hotel rather than buy snacks in hotel gift shops.
It’s also easier to limit how many new cosplays I make. I try and make one new one per convention, but I don’t hold myself to that all the time. I focus rather on going to conventions to make those new experiences.
It’s important just like real life to balance fun with necessity. I find it important to actually go to the conventions rather than spend a ton of money.
And ever since I took up doing this, I find I’ve enjoyed conventions a lot more. I’m able to go to more, and meet new friends and go places I would have never gone. Prioritizing is the most important thing for me.
