Preparation Is Everything at a Convention

An anime convention is one of the most fun experiences in the hobby — and one of the most physically demanding. Long days on your feet, crowded halls, and wearing a costume that may or may not include giant foam wings all take a toll. The difference between a great con and a miserable one often comes down to how well you prepared.

Here's a comprehensive packing list, broken down by category.

Cosplay Essentials

  • Your costume(s) — packed carefully to avoid creasing or damage
  • Emergency repair kit: safety pins, needle and thread, fabric tape, hot glue gun (with sticks), spare wig clips
  • Body-safe adhesive for accessories that need to stick to skin
  • Wig + wig cap (packed flat or on a small travel head)
  • Makeup and setting spray — touch-ups are inevitable
  • Spare costume pieces if any part is fragile or likely to break

Comfort and Survival

  • Comfortable shoes or insoles — your feet will beg you for these by hour four
  • Painkillers and blister plasters
  • Deodorant and body wipes — convention halls get warm
  • Refillable water bottle — staying hydrated is non-negotiable
  • Snacks — con food is expensive and lines are long
  • Small portable battery/power bank for your phone
  • Earplugs for sensory breaks if you need them

Money and Admin

  • Convention badge/ticket confirmation — screenshot it offline in case of no signal
  • Cash — many artist alley vendors don't take card
  • A tote bag or backpack for purchases and merch hauls
  • Photo ID for age-restricted events or badge pickup

For Photographers and Content Creators

  • Ask before photographing anyone — convention etiquette 101
  • Bring extra memory cards and batteries
  • A small lens cloth for quick cleans in dusty halls

What to Leave at Home

Some items cause problems at conventions regardless of intent:

  • Real weapons of any kind — most cons have strict prop weapon policies; check in advance
  • Overly large props that obstruct walkways — consider making a compact version for the con floor
  • Anything you'd be devastated to lose — crowded halls mean pickpocket risks and accidental damage

The Night Before Checklist

  1. Lay out every costume piece and tick them off your list
  2. Charge your phone, camera, and power bank fully
  3. Pack your bag the night before — morning panic leads to forgotten items
  4. Plan your route and parking/transport in advance
  5. Get a full night's sleep — conventions are a marathon, not a sprint

A well-prepared convention day means more time enjoying panels, meeting other fans, and showing off your hard work on the con floor. Pack smart and have an incredible time.