First Convention? Here's What You Should Bring (Besides Your Wallet)
THE WACKY TIMES | Convention Corner
By Ciara Perez | Senior Multimedia Correspondent
So you've decided to attend your very first convention.
Congratulations!
You're about to enter a magical world filled with cosplay, collectibles, celebrity guests, artists, gamers, anime fans, comic lovers, and at least one person dressed as a giant banana.
Whether you're heading to a comic convention, anime convention, gaming expo, or pop culture event, there are a few things you'll want to bring if you hope to survive the adventure.
Your Phone Charger Is Not Optional
You may think your phone battery is ready for the day.
It is not.
Between taking cosplay photos, checking schedules, texting friends, and posting your latest convention haul online, your battery will disappear faster than a limited-edition collectible.
Bring a portable charger.
Future-you will be grateful.
Comfortable Shoes Beat Looking Cool
This may be difficult news to hear.
You are going to walk.
A lot.
You'll walk to the exhibit hall.
You'll walk to the panel room.
You'll walk back to the exhibit hall because you forgot to buy something.
Then you'll walk back again because you remembered another thing.
Wear comfortable shoes. Nobody is judging.
Bring Water
Conventions are exciting.
They're also crowded, noisy, and surprisingly exhausting.
A reusable water bottle can be the difference between feeling energized and feeling like you've been wandering through a desert made entirely of Funko Pops.
Leave Room for Unexpected Purchases
You may arrive with a budget.
You may even stick to it.
But if we're being honest, there's a pretty good chance you'll find something you absolutely must have.
A cool backpack with extra room can save the day when that happens.
Pack Snacks
Convention food is amazing.
Convention food prices can be... an adventure.
A few snacks can keep your energy up while you're waiting in line for your favorite panel or celebrity guest.
Protect Your Collectibles
Nothing hurts more than getting home and discovering your brand-new art print now resembles a folded road map.
Bring a poster tube, protective sleeve, or folder if you plan on shopping.
Your collectibles deserve better.
Bring a Friend
Everything is more fun with friends.
Plus, they'll help carry your stuff.
Or encourage bad purchasing decisions.
Either way, it's a win.
Don't Forget to Have Fun
Many first-time convention attendees worry about seeing everything.
Here's a secret:
You won't.
And that's okay.
The best convention memories usually happen when you're not looking for them. A random conversation, a funny cosplay encounter, or discovering a hidden artist booth often becomes the highlight of the entire event.
The Wacky Verdict
If this is your first convention, don't stress.
Bring comfortable shoes, a charger, water, snacks, and an open mind.
You'll meet awesome people, discover amazing creators, and probably spend more money than you planned.
But don't worry.
That's part of the convention experience.
Have fun, stay hydrated, and remember:
If you see someone dressed as a six-foot-tall taco fighting a medieval knight with a pool noodle, you're probably in the right place.