Health/Hygiene
Yes, it's the first on the list. As almost all of you know, it's one of the most violated rules. We've all been there. Walking through a crowd, then SLAM, right into a wall of a smell that can be described as the scent of sewage left in a car during a Texan summer day. That kind of stink holds tight to you even after you step outside. Since we can't have cannons filled with warm soapy water to deal with these people, the best we can do is make sure we aren't the source. That brings us to our first tip in this section.
SHOWER!!
For the love of all that is good, please take 10 minutes out of your day, and get under some running water with a bar of soap under your pits. If I had even a quarter for every time I ran into these people of ill-scent, I can start my own con where we will have staff walking around with soapy water cannons to deal with the scum. Don't forget your hair either. That holds the smell like no one's business. 10 minutes a day for a simple shower not that hard. Maybe two showers during summer cons. So please, for the sake of all this around you, shower at least once a day. It doesn't hurt to wear deodorant or baby powder either. Keep perfumes/colognes/body sprays moderate, they can be as bad pepper spray.
Sleep Well
It may seem like a ways of time. Hell, I remember my first few cons included me being up from Thursday Night til sometime Sunday. At least, when I was younger I could pull that off. Now a days, I need at least 6 hours a night. 3 at con. Honestly, if you can't score at least 3 hours of sleep, don't bother, as long as you plan on some soon after. You may think sleep is for the weak or that it's just poor man's caffeine, it can save you. When you sleep, your body has a chance to heal up a bit. Lack of sleep can lead to irritability, short fuses, and can even lead to the suppression of your own immune system.
Eat/Drink Well
We've all been there. We're at a con, we've been there a while, then we have a loud gurgle coming from our torso. It's easy to forget to eat when we're submerged in the excitement of being at a con. You reach into your bag to find something to munch on/drink only to realize you forgot to pack something to eat/drink. This is bad. Now you're stuck having to pay exorbitant amounts of cash for a hot dog, slice of pizza, or even something to drink. I'm sorry but $4 for a hot dog, and $3 for a bottle of water is way too much and there's no real health benefits. There's a way around this, bring your own.
For water, it's easy, bring a bottle or two. You can always fill it up at a water fountain. Gotta stay hydrated. Food is a different story. Bring some bread, peanut butter, and baggies to make a few sandwiches before the day starts to have something to snack on. Trail mix is a good option. You can make it yourself. Something as simple as some peanuts, raisins, and M&Ms. For something for those allergic to nuts, replace the nuts with dried fruits. Always take advantage of free breakfast if your hotel offers it. Try to keep it balanced and filling. It'll help, trust me. You might not even feel that hungry, but eat something anyway. It'll give you the energy to burn. And you will burn it.
Fruit is another great thing to bring. Preferably apples and oranges. They can handle being in a bag for an extended period of time and they can last a good week or so. Oranges also are a good source of vitamin C, great to have to prevent con plague. That leads us into our next section.
Remain Healthy
Oranges just won't cut it. Grab some Emergen-C drink mix, or something comparable. Since you have access to water, it's a great idea. Grab some Halls to keep your throat from getting sore, pain killers and allergy meds, just in case. Walking can be a pain, and last thing you need is to be wiping your nose off on your sleeve. Pick up something for your stomach. You never know when you get the squirts. That can fuck up the whole weekend. For something small and portable, get those Pepto Chewables and a pack of tums. You might praise yourself for bringing those.
For the external, hand sanitizer. Get one with aloe or something in it. Repeated use of the basic stuff will leave your hands dry and itchy. Don't grab the huge bottles, you don't need them. A few small ones will suffice. You can offer pick up 3 packs of pocket size sanitizer at the dollar store for, you guessed it, a dollar, same for tissues. Grab a couple. You need know when you may either run out or lose one. You'll have more as backup. Don't touch your eyes, nose, or mouth until you use some sanitizer most of the time. It'll keep you from getting sick. Last thing you want is to get sick on the first day and suffer all weekend while infecting everyone else.
It's also a good idea to bring a first aid kit. I'm not talking a field surgeons kit, but just some simple things. A few band-aids/plasters of different sizes, a small tube of triple anti-biotic ointment, an Ace bandage or two. Just enough to cover you in the case of bumps, scrapes, sprains. When handling new books, the chances of a papercut is great.
Preparation
You got all your shit for the con, now, what else are you bringing and how are you bringing it. People not staying at hotels can skip to the second section here.
Clothes/Toiletries
When packing at least include clothes for everyday plus one or two sets. That's not including your costumes. Reason for the other set is in case either one set gets too sweaty or gets stuff on it. Last thing you want to do is have to wear something coated in grime, dirt, puke, blood, toxic waste, and so on. And please change everyday. The shower means nothing if you put on the same dirty clothes you had the day before. Same with socks bring one pair for each of the days, and a few pairs more. Also, use some powder on your feet. Gold Bond works wonders for me. Plus, it'll keep your shoes dry which means less smell. Also, don't depend on your hotel room having enough little shampoos and soaps for you and all your room mates. Be sure to bring your own. When packing them, put anything in a bottle into its own separate ziplock bag. Last thing you want is for all your clothes to be covered in your favorite body wash because it popped open in transit.
Badges/Paperwork
You want to make sure these are easy to find and readily accessible when packing. You might not want to wear your badge en route to the con to prevent losses on the way. Same goes for various paperwork you may want like, if your con supports it, tickets to get in to different events. But seriously, don't forget you badge among all else. The last thing you want to have to do is be in the main line getting in with a few thousand fellow attendees behind you only to realize you forgot your badge. Ever try to swim upstream in a river? Yeah, not that easy to get out of line if you forget your stuff.
Money
You don't need to have hundreds of dollars in your wallet at any given time, no matter how much you plan on buying. Just take what you think you need + 25%. Just in case you come across something you might impulse buy. That way you don't have all your cash on you. Also, invest in a wallet with a chain, a neck wallet, or something of the kind. If it's connected to you, it'll be harder for it to get lost or stolen. Check every so often to make sure it's on you just in case. If you can, invest in some travelers checks. Most hotels can exchange them for you when you want the cash. Leave the rest in your room or at home. You just don't need it.
Packs/Bags
You gotta put all your swag somewhere right? Booths are always giving out free shit on the first day or two, it's how they draw you back. And, if you buy anything, your hands will fill up fast. Now, there are a few different styles, and for those staying at convention hotels, you don't need much. Sometimes the bag they give you at the door will suffice for your stuff. Others carry tactical vests that have room for almost anything. you can always offload the stuff when need be. Others, don't have that luxury. You may be in a hotel as far as a mile from the con. There's no way in Hell you'll want to run back and forth, or, you live nearby and don't feel like going home to come right back. That's when a good pack comes in handy. Now, there are a few different kinds of packs you can go for. I'm just covering a few here. Along with some pros and cons.
Satchels
These are not to be confused with messenger bags. These are a bit smaller. They are often worn on the same side as the shoulder the strap sits upon, like a purse. Most even have a handle for hand carry. This bag is perfect for those that carry just the basic things and don't plan on getting too much. They are often small and lightweight. The downside is they don't hold that much stuff.
Messenger Bags
These are the ones you mainly see worn by people on bikes. Use of the cross strap allows for improved weight distribution over the satchel, also has a notable space increase. It allows you to keep it under your arm and snug to your side. Problems with this style are small. You may need to switch shoulders once in a while as the weight can get to you.
Backpacks
This classic con bag is usually enough for anyone. Hell, the Bag of Holding pack is little more then a large backpack. These are great for most. Not only can they hold you basic stuff but have enough room for almost all you purchases. And still have room for your Minis/Cards/Dice/Books/
Military Field Packs
My personal favorite. These things are huge. They can hold damn near everything. Hell, if you're a con camper, you can even have a change or two of clothes inside with your stuff. Most even have a piece of material that covers all the little pockets and such to deter all but the most skilled thieves. The aluminum frame allows it to keeps it's form to prevent any prints you buy from the artists areas from bending. Many of them even have extra straps to allow more bags/pouches to be connected. Now, this can be the most troublesome bag of all. Mainly because it's HUGE! It's good and bad. The bad is, unless you have the experience walking in close quarters and are able to walk it likes it's a complete part of you, you're going to wind up hitting people, knocking over dealer merch, or even taking out that kid following a little too close behind you.
Only a handful of people I've seen at cons, including myself, have been able to properly handle this bag without injuring someone. You'll notice people that can use them walking strangely. They'll shift slightly even after they pass people to ensure their bag isn't hitting anyone. Please don't walk too close behind them. If you can master this bag, you're one of the few. I've seen people knocked over then hit in the head by people who can't use these bags. So please, if you choose this bag, you must use extreme caution. You could be kicked out because of it.
Shoes
Some of you thought I forgot this oldie, didn't you? You would think it commonsense to know this. Sorry, but common sense isn't that common. Anyone who has been to a con know a good pair of shoes are worth their weight in mithril. They can be almost new, or half torn, but you need shoes you know you can be in for at least 20 hours straight. Trust me on this. Take function over fashion on this at least. If you work retail, you know this already as well. You want shoes that feel good and can handle being on your feet. You want good arch support and a soft cushion. Wear your new shoes constantly at least 2 weeks prior to con, to ensure they had time to properly break in. Last thing you want are blistered, pained feet be the middle of the second day. Pained feet is one of the worst things that can happen at con that you could have prevented.
What Else to Bring
This isn't about what was already covered. Food, water, meds, clothes, it's about everything else. Most of this stuff depends on the type of con you go to.
Autographs
Most, if not all, have autograph sessions. some you need to pay for, some you don't. Some will allow you one item, others whatever you have. Sometimes you need a paid ticket for each item you want autographed. Now please, have some sense on this. I was at a con to get a couple autographs from the comic god, Stan Lee. I had a total of three items from my personal collection, all of them first runs of number one issues. I wasn't going to try making money off of them, just to own the awesomeness. Each item, I had to get a paid ticket for. I gladly did.
However, what I didn't know while standing in line, there was a guy in front of me about 30 people down with a longbox full of comics, and two large containers of other stuff. All items had a paid ticket. That meant, everything could and would be signed. The line was at a standstill for almost 2 hours. Never before did I hear so many people that wanted to kill one person in such close proximity. After that, Stan Lee needed a break, for another hour. I can't fault Stan the Man for that. No one could. However, we could fault that guy for it. If it was legal to kill in that situation, all of us would have happily done it. Rumor had it, that guy's room was robbed. No one saw anything.
So please, DO NOT BE THAT GUY!!!! Bring a few things for each person. Remember, other people want autographs too. And most of them for themselves.
Cards
If you play any TCG from MTG to YGO, feels free to bring your best decks. Relish in the slaughter you provide to your opponent. But please, remember something simple. Treat another's deck, while shuffling, as you would have your own treated. Also, if you're not in a tournament, feel free to bring proxy cards for your really expensive ones. You have the Power Nine autographed by the artist and Richard Garfield himself? Awesome, but if you lose them, what'll happen. You're out a shit ton of cash if you want them back. Be mindful of your's as you play too. You never know, that gamer that challenged you to a duel, might have a buddy on the side that will take your cards. It's heartbreaking that we have these problems, but it's the same wherever you go.
Minis
Some people play games that forces them to have a large rolling case of stuff, along with their packs. Please be mindful of others when you have these. Unless your intent is to sell/trade them, please stay out of the dealers area with these. It's crowded enough without having to watch for something on the floor.
Rulebooks
So your into book-based RPGs. You want to have a quick random game somewhere? That's great! Do you really need to have every damn book for the system you're playing, hell no. That's about another 20-30 lbs of crap you don't rightly need. Just bring your couple favorite game's PHs. Maybe an advanced guide or two. You don't need every system book on classes, spells, monsters, modules. You just don't need them. Remember, you have to carry these most of the day. Do you really want that on your back? Do ya? I didn't think so.
Communications
So you and you 5 buddies are heading to the con. As soon as you walk in, each one goes a different way. No worries, you can still reach each other. Nowadays everyone has a cell phone. Most of which have cameras. See something awesome at a booth you think a friend might like, give them a call or text. Can't describe it, feel free to ask the person on the other side of the counter if you can take a snapshot to send to your buddies. Almost always they'll say yes, they want to make the sale. Always best to ask. Some may get pissed if you don't. Over the constant road roar of the floor, texting may be your best option. Also, set your phone on vibrate in an inside pocket. That way, if they try to contact you, you know when they are. Alas, phones can die or service can be restricted. That's when you break out an old classic, walkie talkies. You can often pick up some good quality ones for cheap at most hardware/sporting good stores. Basic units that can be as cheap as $10-15 can have 5 mile LOS range and privacy channels you can use to ensure its mainly your friends on it. Not to mention at events like this, scan the channels, you can be entertained for hours, maybe even find some fun not on the program. Think old-school Twitter.
Power
Not in rings. Pack batteries and power cords. Electronics die, it happens. Most of the time, if you look, you can find power outlets almost anywhere at a con. Need a smoke, head to the designated smoking area. You might find an outlet to help you charge while you puff. Just keep an eye on your stuff. Many hotels have boxes of chargers that people have left. They may loan one to you or even give you one if you ask nice enough, or say you left it in the room when you checked out a month ago. You never know.
Cameras
May as well, there will be things you want to have pictures of. If its people in costume, feel free to ask them. Most are more then willing to pose. If they say no, please don't harass them.
Miscellaneous
You may notice that there could be alot of things I didn't mention on here. I can't list them all. You might want to bring other things. Eyedrops, contacts, eyeglass prescriptions, condoms, beer, the list can be huge. Don't be a fool and carry 50 lbs with of useless crap when you only use about 10% of it. Remember, when it's on your back, every ounce counts.
Planning
So you've figured out what you're bringing, how your carrying, and what you're wearing. Now, it's time to figure out what you're doing. Most cons will have the program of everything online. This is a good way to figure out what you're doing. You might find a panel, premier, or event you know you want to attend, you NEED to attend. You may want to start planning now. It sure beats starting when you get there. All events have a duration, keep that in mind while planning.
Maps
Most cons will have maps online so you can begin your journey. Study these, check the orientation of the maps as well. I know a few people that will bring a compass to help guide them. That way, thy always know which way their going. Also look for on-site signage. They are a bit more general, but can help you to where you need to go. Why try looking for something on the north end when it's on the south end.
Read the Info
Most, if not all the events, have information on what the thing is about. Read this. Just to make sure you know what it's about. It may say something like "Sex at (con name)". You may think, 'Awesome, other people here who want to have sex like me!'. You get there only to find out its about the gender diversity at your con. Something you may, or may not, have interest in. Always read.
Check the Times
Everything has a start time, mostly everything has a stop time. If there's anything you want to do, make sure they don't cross over. You might miss the next thing. Good rule of thumb is that if it's something small, show up 30 minutes prior. A little larger, as much as an hour may be needed. Some of the huge con events, it might be wise to get there a few hours ahead of time to ensure you can get in.
Check for Cost
Certain events require a cost to get in. Often times its used for materials for the panel or whatever. Not every group has enough money to provide books and such to 100 people and not be broke. Some times it may be a painting class and costs cover the paint, brushes, minis, and so on for you to use. Often times, you can take all that home with you. Sometimes it may be a beta test for a new TTG, and you can keep the stuff you used for the test. All these costs are available on the site or in the program guide.
So remember, start planning the fun before you get there so you don't wind up in the middle of an aisle with your friends planning to do something while holding up the flow of traffic.
Transport
So you've figured out everything before you go. Awesome. Now, how are you going to get there? This is often the thing that prevents people from going to cons. There are many cons I want to go to. The main reason I can't isn't always due to money, but often no way to get there. You just can't hop on a bus or in a van and go. What about all your stuff? Not only the stuff you bring, but the stuff you'll take home? There are a few ways. These at in no order.
Plane
This is often the fastest. It's also most expensive way. sadly, the amount of stuff you can bring without being charged even more is minimal. Not to mention what you can bring with you is restricted by law.
Trains
Slower then planes but more time to relax. Also, you can bring more stuff with you. Who knows, you may even find a few gamers heading your way on the train have have a game or two. It can be a little pricy, but allows you to see more outside as you travel.
Busses
Good old Greyhound or Megabus. A little slower Then trains, cramped too. Many times space is restricted so you can't bring that much with you. Not to mention, being cooped up with other people like that for hours on end, can be bad.
Your vehicle
You have your own car and want to take that. Sure. But don't forget parking fees. Make sure you take it in for a tune up and basic maintenance. No one wants to be trapped in the middle of no where with a broken down car.
With Friends
Your buddy, who's also going to the con has a large van. Your 4 other buddies noticed the same damn thing. Guess what, all 6 of you decide, let's do this. Of course, you'll have to pitch in gas money. Maybe even do some driving if the con is across the country. But consider this, do you really want to be in the same vehicle as all your buddies? More then likely. Hell, if there's a CB Radio installed, you can use it to ask about hidden gems on your travels, like the diner with the best food, station with the cheapest gas, and so on. Truckers in an area have good info. Hell, if you want to be nice, let the truckers know when you pass cops. It's a good bit of info for any drivers really.
Ride posts
Don't have a way to use any of these methods of transport, fear not, you still have a chance to get there. Almost all cons have forums where you can go. They may even have a separate section for rides. Usually drivers that have vehicles want some extra cash themselves. They may offer rides to and from con, for a price. It's a bit more then paying gas with your buddies, but hey, at least you can get back and forth. Some will even post what cities they may go through on their way for some extra people. But a few things about them. What they say in their vehicle goes. If they want to stop somewhere, let them. If they say they are leaving con at a certain time, be sure to get ready or you'll be left behind. If you can, try to make sure they have a valid license and their insurance is up to date. Shouldn't be too hard.
I'll post more later as I write it. This'll get you there at least, but this isn't the end of this. Oh no, this isn't the end. Next up, Do's and Don'ts, Basic Courtesies, and More. Feel free to link this page on any convention forums. Have anything else to add, leave a comment. Questions? Ask them.
TL;DR? Don't care. It wasn't meant to be a short list.
Arrival
So, you've finally made it. You may have dreamt of this day for years, or maybe it was a spur of the moment. This could be your first time, or you've come here since the start. Either way, you made it. You have your badge, program, stuff and things. You've got everything planned, you're checked in, car parked, rides ready, and things are looking good. You have all the rules memorized but there are things the rule book just doesn't cover. These are some of the things they hope everyone already know. Seriously, people don't. Here's a list of do's and don'ts.
Do's
Have a good time.
This is self explanatory.
Follow the flow of traffic.
This is my biggest pet peeve at cons. There is a flow at every con. Especially in the dealer's area. Go with the flow, as it were.
Take Pictures
See something awesome you want to show everyone, ask if you can take a picture. See someone with an awesome costume from that thing you like? Ask to take a picture. Please, ask first. In almost all cases, you will be allowed to take a picture. If not, don't act like a self-entitled prick. Just leave it well enough alone. If you take the picture anyway, you're just a dick.
Relish in the Fandom
Geek out with your fellow geeks. Just don't make too much of an ass out of yourself.
Drink!
Please do this in moderation. Some cons nowadays partner with some breweries. They release limited editions beer for cons only. Hell, I know a couple that have beer gardens. But please, don't get wasted. It can be a bad thing if you get wasted.
