Preparing for a fan convention can be overwhelming, but packing smart can make the experience much smoother. When it comes to packing for a fan convention, start with the basics: bring your tickets, ID, and a portable charger to keep your devices powered throughout the day. Comfortable shoes are a must for all the walking, and a small backpack is perfect for carrying water, snacks, and any merch you pick up. If you’re cosplaying, pack a repair kit for quick fixes. By planning and following these packing tips for a fan convention, you’ll be ready to enjoy the event stress-free.
We have attended cons from London to Los Angeles, and have been accredited press for cons in Anaheim, Orlando, New Orleans, and Chicago. I have attended cons by myself, with my wife, with my wife and daughter, and with groups. I’m in my fifties and have a disability.
In other words, I put a lot of thought into what I and others should bring to cons.
That’s why these are my 10 essential packing tips for a fan convention.
1. Comfortable Backpack or Easy-to-Carry Bag
A sturdy, comfortable bag ensures you can carry everything you need without straining yourself.
- For Families: Parents should bring one larger ergonomic backpack for snacks, water, and extra clothes. Teens can carry smaller cosplay repair kits or personal items. If you have smaller kids, strollers are a great place to store things as well!
- For Solo Adventurers: A compact, lightweight backpack is great for carrying essentials like a charger, snacks, and a water bottle.
- For Older Con-Goers: Look for crossbody bags or bags with padded straps for easier carrying.
- For Attendees with Disabilities: Consider a wheelchair- or mobility-device-friendly bag or attachable pouches to make carrying items more accessible.
2. Reusable Water Bottles
Hydration is a must at conventions! Bring one reusable water bottle per person and refill it at water stations throughout the day.
- For Families: Color-coded or personalized bottles make it easy to keep track of each person’s drink.
- For Solo Adventurers: A collapsible water bottle is a great space-saving option.
- For Older Attendees and those with Disabilities: Lightweight bottles with easy-grip handles or built-in straws are easier to manage.
3. Snacks for Every Need
Long lines and overpriced food can be stressful, so pack snacks to keep energy levels up.
- For Families: Bring kid-friendly snacks like granola bars, crackers, or fruit snacks, plus something more substantial like sandwiches for parents.
- For Solo Adventurers: Portable, high-energy snacks like trail mix or protein bars are perfect.
- For Older Fans: Soft snacks like dried fruits or pre-cut fruit can be easier to eat.
- For Those with Disabilities: Pack snacks that meet any dietary restrictions or special dietary needs, and ensure they’re easy to open.
Note: Not all cons allow outside snacks in, so be aware of convention rules before. My sister is a Type I Diabetic, and one convention hall almost didn’t even let her bring snacks in, until she showed her medical bracelet.
4. Cosplay Repair Kit
If you or your kids are cosplaying, a repair kit is essential to avoid costume mishaps. Include:
- Sewing kit, safety pins, and fabric glue.
- Duct tape and super glue for quick prop fixes.
- Extra buttons, Velcro strips, and double-sided tape.
- For Families: Pack a small kit in the parents’ bag so you’re ready to help with emergencies.
- For Solo Adventurers: Keep your kit compact and tailored to your costume’s needs. Many cons now have a Cosplay Aid Station to help you.
- For older fans and those with Disabilities: Consider lightweight and easy-to-use repair options, like adhesive patches or pre-threaded needles.
5. Portable Charger or Power Bank
Conventions are notorious for draining phone batteries due to constant photo-taking, schedule checking, and navigation. Also, turn your phone on low power mode as soon as you leave the car.
- For Families: Bring at least two chargers and make sure they’re fully charged before leaving. Teens can carry one in their bag.
- For Solo Adventurers: A compact power bank with multiple charges is ideal for long days.
- For Older Fans: Look for chargers with easy-to-read indicators and simple plug-in options.
- For Those with Disabilities: Ensure your charger can also power any assistive devices you might need, such as communication or mobility tools.
6. Comfortable Shoes, Blister Prevention Kit, and a First Aid Kit
Conventions involve a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are essential.
- For Families: Make sure everyone, from parents to kids, has well-fitted, supportive shoes. Pack band-aids or moleskine for potential blisters.
- For Solo Adventurers: Prioritize comfort over style—your feet will thank you!
- For Older Fans: Consider shoes with extra arch support or cushioning.
- For Those with Disabilities: If walking long distances isn’t an option, research wheelchairs or scooters available at the venue. If you are like me (my disease often hurts more when I stay still in longer lines), research portable chairs or stools to use when waiting. Still, pack blister-prevention items if you’ll be on your feet part-time.
Also, it is common sense for everyone to have a basic travel first aid kit with them. TSA-approved first Aid Kits are the perfect size and don’t take up much room in a backpack.
7. Autograph and Photo Storage
If you’re planning to meet your favorite celebrities or creators, pack these essentials:
- For Families: Bring a sturdy folder for signed photos and posters to prevent damage. Kids may want to bring their favorite item for autographs. We highly recommend Itoya brand folders(we don’t receive compensation from them, but would love to lol)!
- For Solo Adventurers, a photo-safe case or sleeve is perfect for protecting autographs. Cons often have someone selling single photo sleeves, which are easy to protect while putting in a backpack.
- For Older Fans: Keep items lightweight to avoid carrying heavy memorabilia all day.
- For those with Disabilities: Again, you can’t go wrong with the Itoya folders or the single sleeves (which can only hold two pictures back to back), which can easily fit into a wheelchair or bag.
8. Quick Refresh Kit
A small refresh kit helps you stay clean and comfortable all day. Include:
- Deodorant, wet wipes, and a travel-sized comb or brush.
- For Families: Add hand sanitizer and wet wipes for sticky kid messes.
- For Solo Adventurers: A compact kit with just the essentials will keep your bag light.
- For Older Fans: Include any medications or personal care items you may need during the day.
- For Those with Disabilities: Tailor your kit to your needs, ensuring items are easy to access and use.
9. Printed Convention Schedule and Map
While most conventions have apps or digital schedules, having a printed copy is a lifesaver if your phone dies or you lose signal.
- For Families: Highlight panels or activities for each family member to keep everyone organized. If you are splitting up and doing your things, have predetermined meeting points set out on the map. Trust me, even though cons do a great job of labeling everything, finding others is sometimes like finding needles in a haystack, especially at peak times.
- For Solo Adventurers: Use the map to prioritize must-see events and booths.
- For Older Fans: Larger printouts can be easier to read and more accessible.
- For Those with Disabilities: Mark accessible entrances, elevators, and rest areas on your map.
10. ID, Tickets, and Emergency Information
This is what you should have on your person at all times for a con. Keep these items secure and accessible:
- For Families: Parents should carry the tickets and IDs for everyone, along with emergency contact information for kids. If you trust your teens to go on their own, make sure they have this as well. Also, if your child is like ours, pack a set of noise-muffling headphones so they can avoid sensory issues. Another pro-tip: Life 360 is great if you have older children and spouses/partners who want to do their own thing.
- For Solo Adventurers: Keep your ID and tickets in a secure spot, such as a badge holder or zippered bag compartment. Money belts can also be a great idea. Check with the convention center about items like mace. Again, Life360 is great for family members not at the con to keep an idea of where you are.
- For Older Fans: Store these items in an easy-to-reach spot, like a crossbody bag.
- For Those with Disabilities: Include medical ID cards, accessibility documentation, and any emergency instructions.
I would also carry at a minimum of $100 in cash (more if you plan on spending a lot). Parking is often cash only, and while most vendors have gone digital, some vendors and most celebrities only take cash.
Conclusion
Whether you’re heading to your first fan convention as a family, solo adventurer, older attendee, or someone with disabilities, these 10 packing tips for a fan convention will help you stay comfortable, organized, and ready for all the excitement.
Again, remember each convention center is different so another packing tip for a fan convention is to check their website to make sure you know the rules!
Quick Recap:
- Comfortable backpack or bag.
- Reusable water bottles.
- Snacks for all ages and needs.
- Cosplay repair kit.
- Portable charger.
- Comfortable shoes and blister prevention.
- Autograph and photo items.
- Quick refresh kit.
- Printed schedule and map.
- ID, tickets, and emergency information.
Take Action Now:
- Download our 10 Essential Packing Tips for a Fan Convention PDF!
- Click to read our other ComicCon-ing 101 Tips and Tricks to get the most out of your con!
- Share your con experiences and packing tips in the comments below.
- Follow us on social media!
Note: This blog post is NOT part of any affiliate programs update.
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