Remember That:
You can take food inside the convention center. If you know you’re going to be camped out in a room all day be sure to bring something with you. The food inside isn’t the best and it’s expensive. If you’re staying somewhere with a fridge, take advantage of it. Even if you aren’t, a few simple PB&J sandwiches will help get you through the day. Think about grabbing a few snack/protein bars as well. This goes for water too! If you bring your own bottle you’ll be able to refill it throughout the day. Think of all the money you’ll save!
Remember That:
They don’t clear rooms in between panels! If there’s a panel you really want to see you better be committed to waiting. Obviously some panels are more popular than others. If you do find yourself sitting through a panel for something you don’t watch or care about, please don’t be a dick. Don’t talk throughout the panel. Don’t be rude. Just don’t. I’ve sat through a few panels for things I didn’t watch but I still had a good time and learned a thing or two.
Remember That:
We’re all there for the same thing. We’re all there to have a good time and get our nerd on. Let’s all try and remember to be nice to one another. There’s no need to be rude to someone who asks what’s the line for (trust me, you’ll be asked this questions 100 times). There’s no need for an attitude if someone asks you where a certain room is. You might have checked your baggage at the airport but you didn’t check your manners.
Remember That:
There’s tons to do outside the convention center! If you didn’t score a badge for the entire Con, don’t fret! There’s NerdHQ, there’s parties, there’s plenty of off-site events. Mario and Melinda have both written articles talking about all the fun to be had in the Gaslamp area. As we get closer to the convention more off-site events will be announced. Be sure to keep an eye on WNA and Twitter!
Remember That:
Panels can change. The final schedule won’t be released until about two weeks before the show but keep in mind even then, things can change. I remember one year the “Bones” panel was canceled altogether. You’ll find that sometimes an actor or actress has to drop out for whatever reason. Just try to stay positive about it! If a panel you wanted to check out is canned, that just means you have more time to check something else out.
Remember That:
Some artists take orders before the Con! If you plan on picking up some art but you don’t want to carry around all that extra cash, check to see if your artist is taking orders. I’ve done this before and it’s easy. In some cases you pay 100% up front, in others it’s just 50%. Either way, it’s cutting down on the cash in your pockets. Plus some artists might be too busy to actually do any sketching during the show. This gives them the chance to give you what you want without making them kill themselves schedule wise.
Remember That:
Not everyone takes credit cards! It’s always a good idea to have some smaller bills on hand. Plus with the way wi-fi can be hit or miss, even if they accept credit card payments there might be connection issues.
Remember That:
If you’re camping out overnight for Hall H, it can get a little chilly. You might want to have a blanket or throw a hoodie on. Also, those drawstring bags that you get for free from sporting events and what not could make a great pillow in a pinch. Just fill it with clothes or towels and there you go! Yes, you aren’t camping in the woods but you still want to be prepared.
Remember That:
Sadly, bad things can still happen on vacation. Do your part by keeping an eye on all your belongings, looking both ways before crossing a street, and using the buddy system if you go out late. I’ve never had a problem but crap happens.
Remember That:
Celebrities are people too. If you see someone while at dinner or maybe spot a celeb while making a phone call, don’t be rude! Personally I hate being interrupted when I’m eating and I’m a normal person! Just be patient and wait for the right now. Also, don’t ask them any embarrassing or out of line questions. I mean, come on now son.
Alright, I think that’s it for this time around! I don’t want this post getting too long!
