Everyday Fangirl Convention Tips

  

It is now Spring and for many Fangirls and the Fanboys who support them, this means the beginning of the ‘con season’.  During the con season there are at least one or two fan related conventions almost every weekend.  

These conventions can vary in both size and in scope.  Some of the can be small, some can be big, some can include multiple fandoms or franchises, while others can focus on just one fandom or franchise.  No matter which of these conventions you plan on attending, if you are a newbie or a veteran attendee, these tips may be of help to you.

If you want to do it or buy it, then do not hesitate

There are plenty of opportunities and choices when attending a convention. Whether it’s attending a panel or special event, meeting a celebrity, or buying a piece of artwork, or collectible these opportunities may not come up again. Therefore, if you have the time or the money required, then do not hesitate or else you may regret it.

Best laid plans can be changed or interrupted

Many survival guides out there recommend that you plan before you go to the convention.  Planning is a great way to determine which panels or special events to attend. However, the best laid plans can be derailed due to crowds, changes in programming or any other unexpected circumstances.  Therefore, as part of your planning, include some contingency plans as well, just in case.  If Plan A does not work out, then Plans B, C or even D, may be just where you needed to be after all.

Bring extra clothes and accessories, epecially if you are cosplaying

Wearing fandom related clothes or dressing up as a favorite character can be really cool and enhance your overall convention experience. However, there can be times when an unexpected incident could happen to your clothes or outfit, such as food or drink being dropped into your lap.  Those types of incidents cannot be fixed quickly without having extra clothes or accessories with you.  If you have these items with you when these types of incidents happen, then you have a greater chance of correcting this quickly and getting back to the fun!

Breaks are a must, not an option

No matter how busy you are during the convention it is important that you get as many breaks as you can.  Even a couple of short breaks can help can keep you going longer.  Sitting down away from all the hustle and bustle, eating a snack, drinking some water or just talking with friends and other attendees can revitalize you and help you get ready for your next experience at the convention.

Bring Hand Sanitizer and Wipes

Either during or after a convention many people come down sick with what is commonly know as ‘con crud’.  The best may I found to help reduce the likelihood of coming down with something is to bring and use both hand sanitizer and wipes.  The use of both a hand sanitizer and wipes will help you reduce the possibility of coming into contact with bacteria or germs that can cause the ‘con crud’  In addition, using these may help prevent the spread of bacteria and germs to other attendees.  A win for everyone!

And last, but certainly not least…

Bring your patience, your manners and most of all your respect

Whether big or small, a convention is a great way to celebrate your fandom.  However, some attendees, especially those that are new to THAT con, may not be prepared for the size, the variety, the crowds or the long waits.  Even those that are prepared and have attended multiple times need to remember that there are plenty of others that may not be.  If attendees, both newbies and veterans, brought their patience, their manners and their respect, then everyone can have an awesome convention experience and go home happy!