Tomorrow I embark on my yearly retreat to New York Comic Con. Some people look forward to Summer and a much needed vacation. Some, look forward to Christmas and other holidays. For me, it’s New York Comic Con. So, it got me to thinking. This is year five for me and each year I learn something different. Something that makes the experience better each year. So here is my survival guide to the Con.
ARRIVAL TIME
I usually like arriving 2+ hours before the doors open. There are some however who will sleep outside the ensure that they will be the first ones in. May I suggest, if you can afford to do so, get yourself a VIP ticket. They do cost a considerable amount more but the benefits can pay for itself. Not only will you be allowed on showroom floor first before the general public, you’ll have your own VIP lounge that is fully equipped with a coat check, an ATM and some refreshments. Not to mention, a place to sit down and rest.
Regardless though, arriving early will keep you ahead of the pace and gives you a better chance to get to your panels and screenings to wish to see.
CASH IS KING
While it has become the norm to carry minimal cash in favor of debit/credit cards, cash will always be king. This is especially so when it comes to bartering. I could recall one year that there was something I wanted but was hesitant to spend $70 on. On the final day of the convention I noticed that it was still there and still $70. I told the merchant that I would give him $40 in cash for the item. He countered with $60. We finally settled on $50 bucks. This is something you can’t do with just a debit/credit card.
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| Cash or Credit |
So how much should you bring? It truly depends on your finances. But if that’s not an issue, a good rule of thumb would be to take $100-$150 in cash per convention day that you plan on attending. Keep in mind most autographs and photo opportunities with celebrities is a cash only purchase. And I didn’t even mention the cost of food.
Speaking of which…
FOOD
Personally, I like planning my food excursions prior to going to the Con. I like to know where to go to get a good meal near the convention center. A city like New York
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| NYC is known for their street vendors |
To curb your appetite, do what I do. I bring some trail mix or energy bars that I can partake in. Also, since the convention center has many water fountains I recommend bringing a reusable water bottle. Preferably one that keeps your drink nice and cold. You can refill throughout the day and quench your thirst when needed.
COSPLAY? YAY OR NAY
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| Cosplayers at New York Comic Con |
Comic Conventions are the perfect place to let yourself be whomever you wish to be. It’s fun to let your creative side loose. But if you don’t have the means to pull off your favorite character, don’t despair. You can either rent a costume or do what I do and geek out with some fun t-shirts. I have a blast wearing my Batman or Darth Vader inspired shirts. While you’re there, you’ll see tons of shirts to buy along the way. I say have fun and be yourself. By all means, wear something that screams DORK! Remember, you won’t alone and you won’t be judged.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Social media outlets like Twitter and Facebook is a great way to keep up with up to the minute news that happens at the Con. Whether you’re following a particular artist or celebrity or your favorite show, social media is the way to go. Stay connected.
PHOTO OPS AND AUTOGRAPHS
One of my favorite highlights of any convention I attend is the ability to meet and greet my favorite celebrities. It is one of the more costlier things you’ll do while at the convention. But at the same time, it’s one of the more cooler things you’ll ever do.
Word of caution: Always be polite. I can’t stress that enough. I know that may sound like a no brainer but you’ll be surprised. There’s an old saying, ‘you get more bees with honey than you do with vinegar’. So be nice and be respectful. They’re human beings first before becoming celebrities.
ARTIST ALLEY
This is a great place to see and talk freely with some of your favorite comic artists. Most if not all are extremely inviting. But like I said about meeting celebrities, be nice and respectful. Because you are very familiar with their work, doesn’t make you their personal friend.
If you want to commission some artwork, something I recommend because it gives a personal touch to your comic con experience, do so as early as possible. Especially if you’re only there for the one day because slots fill up quick. Also, like most things, cash is king.
I hope everyone enjoyed these tips. These are not to discourage or intimidate you but to prepare you. Knowledge is power. If any of my readers have additional recommendations, please email me or comment on this post. Your thoughts are always welcomed. Now go out there and enjoy it. I hope to see some of you at New York Comic Con.
May the Dork be with you,
JPB
The Dork Knight
