How to survive your first comic con

Ok nerds, it’s coming up to con season and with the UK hosting comic cons all over the country, you might be wondering what this is all about.

If this isn’t your first rodeo, you will already know all this, but for those of you who are going to be attending your first comic con or are interested in finding out a bit more about it, then here are some simple rules to help you through.

1. Make sure you have plenty of water with you
   It doesn’t matter whether you are cos-playing or just being casual with your geekery, you will be surprised how thirsty you will get. You will spend a lot of time on your feet, you will spend a lot of timer walking around and you will want to spend your money on what is on offer rather than water. So bring a bottle with you and make sure it is topped up, some convention centres have water fountains in and around them for this very reason.
2. Wear comfy shoes
   They might not quite go with the cosplay, but if you can, go for comfy shoes. Like we said, there is a lot of walking and queuing.
3. Decide what you want your con experience to be and stick to it.
   If you’re only at the con for one day, this might be a bit tough, but for those of you doing a whole weekend, you’ll be able to see everything you want to if you decide what you want and stick to it. Cons will give out schedules either on the day or a few days before hand so you can see where and when everything is going on. Want to prioritise panels? Or shopping? Plan your time and you won’t miss out on the best bits.
4. Bring a phone charger
   Everything will be going on on your phone and you do not want to run out of juice, some cons have apps with the schedules/announcements, but even if they don’t you’re going to want to be checking the guest’s twitter for their movements and of course, uploading all your pictures and keeping in touch with your friends. So, either bring a charger and hope that there is a spare plug somewhere nearby or make sure that you have a portable charger.
5. Don’t touch the guests
   Shouldn’t really be said, but they don’t appreciate being pawed at by super fans, no matter how much you love them. Always check they’re ok with it first. Don’t be afraid to ask for certain poses for your photos though, that they’re cool with. Mostly.
6. Want those con exclusives? Good luck and keep your eyes open
   Some studios and companies take items that are exclusive to that particular event, either to buy or win. Everyone wants these, so you had better be there early and prepared, hunting for these can take a lot of time, so prioritising what you want to do is key!
7. Don’t record anything you’re not allowed to
   If you’re told to put the phone down, do it. Don’t be that guy.
8. Add two hours to every queue
   Whatever you queue for and however long you’re told it will be, add extra time. Always.
9. Bring a small fortune with you but look after it
   There will be lots of things you will be tempted to buy, these days it is likely that there will be the option to pay by card, but this isn’t always the case, be prepared to carry cash and to make sure you are aware of where your money is and how much you’re spending.
10. Enjoy yourself!
    Comic Con is a wonderful place to express your enjoyment of stuff and it is full of like minded people so enjoy it!