What I Pack For a Convention Day
Most comic-cons and conventions typically have their rules posted on their website. Make sure to check ahead of time to avoid the hassle of an issue regarding types of bags allowed and what items are allowed.
First off, pick a bag you will be comfortable carrying all day. Do what you think will work best for you, maybe a crossover/messenger bag, or a tote and a fanny pack might work. I don’t like to carry a separate purse, so for me, the bag needs to have multiple compartments and room for smaller items I might purchase.
Water. Super important. I live in Phoenix so I have been well trained to always carry water with me. For a day at a convention, I would suggest freezing a bottle and then only freezing half of a second bottle, then topping it off before you leave for the convention. This is where reading the rules in advance come into play. Maybe you need to have bottles factory sealed etc. I have a friend that brings her refillable bottle and uses the water fountains. For me, I don’t want to worry about misplacing it, so I bring two plastic bottles. Do what works for you, but if you are allowed, you should pack water. (Who wants to pay for bottled water there? Not me!)
I pack my two waters wrapped in paper towels and place them into a plastic bag. This helps deal with the icy bottles “sweating” and you don’t want them to get anything nice in your bag wet. I like using see-through bags. Just in case you need to have security check your bag, this helps put them at ease and makes things easier.
Snacks. Conventions can be long days and you don’t want to spend time in line just getting something to carry you through. Having a small variety of granola snacks and treats help a ton and they allow you to save money for more special purchases.
Phone and charger(s). I always pack portable chargers along with a wall charger. You might not have planned to be live tweeting or texting with a friend from Tumblr you plan to meet up with, but it happens and you need to have that phone charged. Make sure to pack all cords needed.
Your wallet. You will want to buy stuff. Have your wallet in a safe, designated location in your convention bag.
Mints. I tend to live off of mints at conventions. So I pack more than maybe most would.
Toiletries. I utilize a small makeup bag for these items. It’s great to have something like this for a long day. These items would include, but not limited to: feminine products, aspirin etc., bandaids, eye drops, toothbrush, toothpaste, earbuds, coin change, pen, hair tie, cough drops, nail file, makeup, etc.
Other items I pack near wallet for quicker access: Chapstick, Kleenex, hand sanitizer and wet wipes
Any items you like to have autographed. Keep these items in their own plastic bag. You want to protect these items the best you can, but also have quick access to them.
Working Markers/Pens. Depending on the situation, you might need to provide a pen or marker. Be ready. If it’s a paint style pen, prep it.
Schedule. I like to pack a highlighter or even post-it notes to help mark what events I want to attend. If the convention has a phone application, that can be awesome too.
A book or magazine to read/something to do. There might be downtime and your feet might be too sore to walk the exhibitor hall. I don’t like to waste power on my phone, so I typically will pack a book. You never know if you will get stuck in a longer than expected line or you just want to relax for a few minutes. Just don’t pack something too heavy, you have to carry this bag.
Your tickets! If they are physical tickets, printed or on your phone. Make sure you have them! If you are buying at the door, make sure you know if they take your form of payment and that they still have tickets available.
Other things to consider:
Items for cosplay. Are you going to be in costume? Be prepared so you don’t end up with a massive wardrobe malfunction. I pack: Mini sewing kit, glue, extra pantyhose, back up parts/pieces and any needed makeup or hair items. For Phoenix Comicon, I knew I would be taking public transit. I packed a pair of thin flats to change into so I didn’t need to wear high heel boots on the light rail in 100+ degree weather.
Prescribed Medications. This will be a long day, be ready with anything you might need.
Camera. I typically just use my phone, but if the convention allows photos and you want to get some nice shots, pack it. Remember though, you will be carrying it with you all day and you might have to remain in your seat during panels.
Feel free to add any tips/suggestions you may have when you reblog this post!
