Article:
A Recommended Convention Packing List

Not every fandom convention requires attendees to pack a suitcase, much less create a list to pack a suitcase. For a local convention, you basically just hop in your car and go. But what about the convention that requires a hotel stay, and either a long car ride or a flight? What if you're cosplaying too? In that case, I really recommend making the list. You don't want to get to the con and realize you forgot an essential costume piece or the memory card for your camera.

Of course, this list is not exhaustive. Your cosplay and/or personal needs may require specific items on your packing list. However, I've tried to make this list as generally applicable as possible. I've even included a special section for those traveling to a convention by car, as there are some extra "recommended" items that would probably have to be left off if traveling by plane.

The Obvious Stuff People Still Forget to Pack Sometimes:

- Cash (but not kept in all one place), and maybe even a credit card for emergencies

- Photo identification and a list of emergency contacts (give this list to your roomies if you have some)

- Clothes for each day of the convention and for each day of travel, plus an extra of everything - especially socks

- Costumes pieces, included the smaller accessories like hats, weapons, wings, shoes, jewelry, etc.

- Costume repair kit (safety pins, fabric tape, fabric glue, small hot glue gun, scissors, needles, thread, extra buttons)

- Comfortable walking shoes. You will want these on day three.

- Safe storage for autographs (otherwise you risk their being damaged on the way home) and other memorabilia purchases

- Camera and all the accessories that go with it (batteries, memory cards, lenses, camera bag, etc.)

- First aid kit (bandaids, basic pain meds, hydrocortisone ointment) and any essential prescription medications

- Protein bars, nuts, and other snacks

- Lanyard (for your badge)