It’s that time of year again! Comic Con is this coming Saturday and to say I’m overly excited is an understatement. Its a hard days travel (over 5 hours) but i can’t wait to see all the indie artists and visit the booths.
Attending a Comic Convention is for me, one of the great lifetime experiences. Patience and a friendly attitude are critical at Conventions but without essential items the convention experience can be uncomfortable. With that in mind I’ve compiled a basic list based on recommendations and my own experiences.
Comfortable Footwear: With two days of walking you need to be prepared when it comes to footwear. Pack decent socks and comfortable shoes. If your feet do get sore it can be nice to de-shoe and just sit for a minute, maybe spritz bare feet with some refreshing foot spray to perk them up.
Tickets: You are thinking this should be obvious but it’s essential to have this on the checklist. You wouldn’t believe how many dreams I’ve had abut forgetting my tickets. The tickets for the MCM Scotland Con are etickets which you print out at home. To be on the safe side I like to print two copies and keep one safely in my suitcase and one in my bag.
Bags and contents: I like to have two bags, one to carry my essentials and an empty one to stuff with what will inevitably be many many comics/leaflets/plushies and collectibles. I specifically bought a strong canvas bag that is large enough to hold the biggest of Comics, it has a really nice dinosaur print which makes it a fun thing to carry around. An awesome bag (like a dinosaur one) can be a great conversation starter if you are looking to meet new friends at the con
As for the essentials bag I like to have a strong bag that zips and can hold what I need safely but leaves my hands free. A crossbody messenger bag or a backpack are good choices. As for what is classed as essential contents it’ll differ for everyone but I have a standard list that might help you through your first convention experience.
- Pack of Tissues (Not just for your nose) –there is nothing worse than sitting down in the toilets to find the last of the loo roll has been used by the previous occupant. The shake dry is not pleasant for ladies.
- Anti-Bacterial Hand Gel – I don’t normally use this stuff outside work but the con will be packed and there are bound to be cold/flue germs etc floating around. Better safe than sorry, you do not want to bring convention cooties home.
- Purse/Wallet and Spending CASH – A decent sized purse/wallet is a must, they are handy for storing business cards and believe me, cash is essential for almost all booths. I’d suggest making a realistic budget for each day, my plan of action is to scan all the stalls quickly on trip one and then buy on the second trip round. Don’t forget to keep an eye on social media etc on the days before the con to make sure you know about any exclusive items you might want to buy and where to find them.
- Business Cards – This is a new one for me. I had mini business cards made which I’ll be handing out during the convention. This will not only let publishers/artists keep an eye out for their comics appearing on NoisyGeek but its handy to have your email address down so you can easily give it for mailing lists (no worrying about it being incorrectly spelled due to confusion over my Scottish accent thank you)
- Sunglasses/Suncream – The events are indoors but there are queues to get in so be on the safe side and protect your skin/eyes. Remember to reapply throughout the day
- Deodorant – This is a given folks, you are spending a weekend in a packed convention hall. Show some respect to your fellow adventurers and refresh yourself throughout the day.
- Mouthwash/Mints/Gum – So easy to carry and they take up such little space in your bag. Definitely a better alternative than breathing your stinky lunch on your favourite guest.
- Autograph book – If you are meeting guests you’ll want something for them to sign, I prefer to have guests sign collectibles/photos but if you are short on carry space an autograph book is a nice alternative.
- Sharpie – The supreme goddess of pens. Seriously, these are the pens of choice for autographs and noting things down on your glossy program. Bring two just to be safe.
- Notepad – I love meeting new people at a convention, its lovely having a common interest with complete strangers but what’s also great is that you might pick up some recommendations for other books/comic series based on what you’ve bought. Write those down and you have something to search for when you get home. It’s also handy for noting down contact details of any new friends you make (or blogs/websites etc)
- Snacks – Some people say that convention food makes the experience but if you are on a budget or worse yet on a diet you might want to consider taking some snacks to keep you going all day. I’d recommend harder fruit, yoghurt covered raisins and some cereal/protein bars.
- Water in a sturdy bottle – You don’t want to be dehydrated and have to head back to the hotel by lunchtime. Hydration is everything.
- Small Med Kit – Blister Plasters (lots of walking), Ibuprofen/Paracetamol and your prescription meds are essential to combat any pain/allergies that could stop you from enjoying the full con experience.
- Mobile and Charger – Ideally a smart phone to keep updated with latest convention news. These days smartphones make excellent cameras, ideal for spontaneous celeb photo ops. Charging Sockets are gold dust but it’s worth searching for one to keep your phone charged and ready.
I hope you find this helpful, Have i forgotten anything you consider essential? Let me know in the comments!
NG xox
Noisygeek 