First thing you may be wondering is what exactly is an anime convention. Most of you are probably familiar with science fiction, such as DragonCon, as well as comic conventions. There are also standard business conventions, such as the National Convention of Librarians.
Anime conventions run along the same idea, only with an emphasis on anime and manga. A lot of them also feature games, culture lessons and much more. And one thing they have in common with their science fiction and comic brethren: costumes! At anime conventions, this is called “cosplay” or “costume play.” Briefly, cosplay is the hobby or art of dressing up as characters from manga, anime, video games and more.
So, with these definitions in mind, you’re gearing up for your first anime convention!
Choosing your first anime convention can be a simple or hard task. Sometimes it’s as easy as a convention being close by in your state or one that your friends are attending. Other times you may have to consider dates, times of the year and travel when choosing an anime convention.
All of the same tips of planning trips also apply to anime conventions as well! That’s not that surprising, given that anime conventions really are trips after all. But there are a few extra tips that apply to anime conventions in particular!
* If you are cosplaying, make a list of all your costumes! Then break down each costume piece by piece. Make sure to pack each and every piece on the list, then recheck this list before you leave home and before you leave the hotel as well. I also recommend that you pack each costume in a separate bag, making it easier to check!
* Bring an emergency sewing kit! You never know when a seam might come loose or something won’t hold quite like it’s supposed to. Bring different colors of thread and needles, safety pins, hot glue and scissors.
* Bring or buy snacks and drinks. It’s a given that vending machines will be expensive, so help cut the costs of your trip by bringing your own drinks and snacks! Don’t rely on this to get you through the entire convention though – have a food budget too.
* Don’t forget your badge! Most conventions have badges that you wear to be allowed onto convention grounds and into panels, the vendors hall and other activities too! I also suggest purchasing an ID holder with a pocket/wallet on the back on it, similar to what nurses or police might use to hold their own IDs. This way, costumes without pockets will no longer mean you have to carry around bag of some sort.
*With today’s smaller digital cameras, lugging around a camera at an anime convention isn’t so much of a chore anymore. However, if you don’t have a costume with pockets or you’re not carrying a bag, carting around that camera can quickly become an inconvenience. Instead, consider taking an hour or two during the day to roam around the convention hall with your camera to snap those shots! You may miss some costumes but you may notice more if you go around with the sole intention of taking pictures!
* Take a break now and then. It’s tempting to go to each and every panel available or to try and go to all the photo shoots being hosted at an anime convention, but remember that downtime is important as well. Find a seat and people watch for a little or go to your room and unwind for a bit. This is also a good chance to get something to drink. Remember, heat stroke and dehydration are no fun either.
* Be mindful of your cosplay wigs, long trailing bits of costume and props in crowded spots. Particularly large costumes and props can hurt if you’re the one getting hit or jabbed with them. Also, keep on the lookout yourself for other costumer’s long trailing bits of costumes, such as a gown with a train and such. Nothing is worse than someone stepping on your costume.
* Also be mindful while in your hotel that not all of the guests are there for the anime convention! Having fun is what a convention is all about, but being excessively loud just ruins the good time for everyone else.
* The final day of the anime convention is the day to find the best deal in the vendor’s hall. Many vendors will mark things down just to have less stock to have to pack back up. Hold off on those purchases until then if you can.
And above all when at an anime convention, remember to have fun! There will be lots of people and while it may be noisy and crowded, take your time and enjoy your trip!
