Out of state cons are a lot of fun, but they take a lot of prep work. Between figuring out how to get there, what cosplays you can actually pack, and what's in the area, there is a lot to figure out. Even though it might seem overwhelming to plan an out of state convention, I would highly recommend going to one. You get to meet new and inspire others. Plan way in advance: Not only is it cheaper, but having a game plan early on helps. Buy your convention ticket as early as possible. They are usually cheaper, and help motivate you to actually plan. Stay at the hotel the con is at: This is easier because there is a lot less moving around. If you're not familiar with the area, it might be harder to find something close by. If you do decide to stay somewhere else, factor in how much it's going to cost to get to the hotel each day. I had some friends who had to uber to Katsucon, which made it more expensive to leave and come back throughout the day. If you can find another hotel in walking distance, that would be ideal. Also remember to check in early if possible to save you time. I was able to check in at the airport with an app, so when I got there, I didn't have to wait in the long line to get my hotel keys. How are you going to get there: There are a couple of factors to consider whether you want to fly or drive: how close is it, and what cosplays you plan on bringing. Some bigger cosplays and props might be harder or more expensive to ship out to the convention. If this is a concern of yours, figure out how much it would cost to drive there as opposed to flying. If it will take more than one day to drive, factor that in to your costs as well. If a convention is far away, it might be best to fly just to save yourself some time. Getting to the hotel: Sometimes your hotel does not provide shuttle service to the airport. There are a few options such as renting a car, taking a shuttle, or using a ride share app. If you only plan on going to the hotel and not driving around much, I would avoid using a rental car. If you do get a rental car, be sure to budget for parking if the hotel charges! To decide between a shuttle or ride share, figure out how many people and how much luggage everyone has. Sometimes it is impossible to fit everything in an uber or lyft, so you will have to take a shuttle. Be sure to look in to group rates. Sometimes the group rate is cheaper than a rideshare, plus you'll have a lot more room. Be sure to get lots of pictures! You worked hard on your cosplays and getting to this convention, revel in the moment!
Ask people who have been before: I talked to some local cosplayers who went to Katsucon while planning my trip. They can let you know what is in the area, and give you tips about the best time to go to places around. I got one recommendation to go to CVS day 1 because things sell out super quickly. Arrive a day early, leave a day late: You don't want to miss out on your con experience because you're flying in the day of! Schedule your flight to arrive the day before and leave the day after it's done (or late that night). This will allow for you to get more out of your experience, plus you won't feel rushed to get places. Picking cosplays: The main thing to consider is how breakable is the piece. If it is easily breakable and cannot fit in your carry on, I would recommend bringing something else. We all have seen airline employees throw our bags around. You don't want something broken because of a careless employee. Another factor is size. Anything too big can be mailed, but it can be pricey. Be sure to check with the hotel if you plan on mailing anything to make sure they can receive it for you. I hope these tips help you out this con season! If there are any tips I forgot, be sure to tell me yours in the comments! Originally posted on Nerd Fest's blog
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