My tips: -Bring two water bottles, your ID, a phone charger, your phone, and earbuds to the actual con. -DO NOT USE A DRAWSTRING BACKPACK!!! You will have to carry it all day and the strings will rub against your skin and cut you. It's also really uncomfortable and inconvenient. Just bring a normal backpack. -Use your cosplay to your advantage. A lot of the time if you want to get into a panel the line will be so long that you can't even get in. Walk around the line and see if anyone stops you for a picture! Then ask if you can hop in line with them! It's worked for me a lot. -Wear well broken in sneakers. One time I wore sneakers that were too tight and I got blisters all over my feet. You'll be doing a lot of walking so be prepared. -Con food is over priced and usually gross. You are better off eating outside the con. Make sure you check out the line to get back in before leaving to get food. Sometimes later in the day the line will be much shorter. -Keep yourself busy in lines. Watch UA-cam or anime on your phone. The time passes much quicker. -Bring your DS. Pretty much everyone will have their DS' with them and you'll get a lot of street passes. -Be friendly! This will get you far!! A lot of the time people will do really cool things because you were nice to them. One time I was at a dealer's table and the guy gave me a free plushy! -Bring your own lanyard! You will probably end up needing a lanyard and con lanyards can be cheap. If you want to get the lanyard made for the con you can just put your lanyard in your back until you get inside. -Don't be afraid to ask for help! There are almost always accommodations for disabled people. -Try to pick comfortable cosplay. It will get really hot in there. If you have wings or other accessories that stick out they might get broken. -Keep an eye out for the cosplay repair guys! At a lot of cons you will find them walking around. -If you get overwhelmed try to find the parent room. There is almost always a room for parents who were dragged to the convention by their kids. It's really quiet in there. -Research any cool side things! Such as @cookie_brigade! They go to conventions and hand out cookies to people in line in exchange for donations. You tweet them your location and they will come to you. -You can order pizza! Pizza delivery guys will deliver straight to the convention. No kidding. You have to wait for them outside though. -Research the exhibitors so you are familiar with what they do ahead of time. It really helps out so you don't feel like you're in the dark about everything.
@@dominolover85 1,000 euros is about 1,700 nzd and i think that is way more than you'll actually need. i'd probably drop that by half. although i'm not that experienced with euros so that's all i can really say
someone linked me and my friend this last night at like 2 am cause they saw us at 3:52 and knowing that i am forever immortalized on film in a sans cosplay dancing to caramelldansen immediately cancelled my melatonin and i was awake with the weight of my sins
The first time I cosplay was at Matsuricon 2015 and I was not expecting for people to take pictures of my cosplay because I thought it wasn't very good, so I didn't practice poses. When I was at Matsuricon a good hand full of people ask for pictures, so I just stood there and smile awkwardly as they take the picture. So in conclusion, no matter how bad you think your cosplay is someone will always want a picture.
+_Chibi _ thats exactly how i felt wen i went to tampa bay comic con...i was a jawa from star wars and i had so many people come up to me and ask for pics and said my costume was so good people thought i was in the 501st
+_Chibi _ true. I cosplayed as L at Tora-Con 2016 (which is a VERY simple cosplay) and some people asked for pictures. I wasn't expecting that so I did what you did.
At my first con, I had a really crappy (Haruhi, Ouran High School Host Club) cosplay. It was the blazer and tie from Amazon, a white tank top, black pants, and a haircut that was, if you squint, somewhat similar to the character's hair. Despite this, a lot of people wanted a picture and all I was prepared for was an awkward standing pose--the type you do at a family get together when a random family member wants a picture. Morale of the story: prepare a pose and expect AT LEAST one picture
Yeah even if you cosplay a character from an anime you think NO ONE KNOWS you'll still have people asking for photos. I went to a con as Inga from UN-GO and several people still asked for a photo.
+EmPtY MeLoDiEs True story! People do appreciate well-made costumes even if they don 't know who you are. Quality is still respected no matter what. (I cosplayed as Valindra from Neverwinter - nobody knew who I was and the judges said they can't evaluate me because they don't know the character. like what?)
I think the funniest thing that ever happened to me at a con was I was walking through the hall with a friend and making bets and I bet that we wouldn't see Vic before the panel and right after that he walked right by us and waved to us.... that was the best day ever
I have gone to Sakura Con in Seattle for 2 years now. This would be my third year going (still need to work out if Im going). Last year, I saw that it had close to 30,000 attendants, so it would be a large con. Heres a few things I have learned. - DRINK WATER! its so important to stay hydrated. - Some snacks are smart too so that you can stay full or your friends might need something to eat. - Staying at the hotel would be nice but honestly, I wouldnt go through the trouble of a hotel room might carry. I only live 30 mins away from Sakura Con so really, sleeping at home is the best option. - Always ask for pictures before taking it. Its just common sense to show that respect. - Make a budget! I already have the $60 for the badge but I still need to save $350 for merchandise and my cosplay. Not to mention food and parking. - I got allergies last time I was at Sakura Con, so do bring medical supplies, like band aids, ibuprofen, allergy relief, etc. - For gods sake, wear comfortable shoes. Youre gonna be walking around all day and I made that mistake before, took me a whole week for my feet to recover from blisters.
Plan before going *Specialized Transportation for anime conventions are minimal to negative At Anime North I Could not find any Shuttle Buses from the Con to the transportation hub (Weston Station)
i heard this tip elsewhere.if i could remember i would credit them. if you are adamant on wearing cool shoes in pics put the cool ones in a bag and comfy ones on your feet or make the cool ones a half size up and add thick gel insoles
MiyuChan, hello! I’m surprised to find another Seattle dweller here! I’m (maybe) going to Sakura Con for my first convention this year. Would you really say it’s a big con? I’ve been thinking of it as a small con as I’ve heard it’s not very popular. Do you have any updated tips? (These really helped) And I know you haven’t been an active poster for a few years but I hope you can get back to me!
And if you visit a foreign convention: Inform yourself even more than you would for a local convention. For example: In my country almost no convention is hosted in a hotel and that makes things different.
I've been going to cons for 3 years now, and I can say that everybody who plans to go to a con (experienced or not) needs to watch this video. Thanks for doing this.
I kinda recommend a smaller con for newbies myself. Because if you go to a large size con first, that con might end up spoiling you. Anime Expo was my first con. I've been going since 2011, and I end up comparing it to Anime California (a smaller con). The good thing about AC is the time it took to get my badge and get into panels.
DA MAN WITH A PLAN It is, but I do have a job and I work a lot, also bring lost of friends as it makes the hotel much cheaper. I am in no way even anywhere close to rich lol, trust me its doable if you know how to save.
Despite having attended many conventions with almost three years of going to them, I still find this to be a really helpful video! It's always good to hear tips that other have to say!
Wait I made a new version of this??? Yep! I have learned a ton over the last few years and this really needed to be made! I hope this can help a ton of people out!
My first con each year is local to me in Boston, MA. If anyone has a con local to them (and you're not taking a hotel room) and your city has public transit, be sure to catch the last bus/train home so you won't have to spend a small fortune on a taxi or Uber. That's what I can add.
Yeah! I'm going to ACen In may of next year! So less than 6 months away! I'm 12 now, but my birthday would be like 2 or 3 days befoee the con so I'll be 13 by then
If you see a group of people sitting and hanging out, and they seem to have the same interests as you, is it OK to ask to sit with them? if it is, how should I ask?
Ive never done that, but I assume it would be good to ask like; "Hey, I dont got anyone with me today and I noticed you like the same things as me so I was wondering if you wouldnt mind that I joined your group?"
I think so? I’m relatively bad at conversation but when I’m at my con I seem to turn a lot more outgoing. Perhaps it’s because you already feel a bit closer to everyone because you know for a fact that you have something in common with them. I’d definitely say yes to anyone wanting to hang out, but you should expect some awkward moments. Possibly just kind of approach and say “hi! I really love your cosplay(s), I love __ too! Do you mind if I join you?” Of some sort
It's absolutely okay! In fact, in my city, there's an otaku community that just loves card games like Yu-Gi-Oh and Pokemon. I just walk up to their spot, take a look at their cards and watch them play for a bit (I'm introverted and can't start a conversation with people I don't know), and they kindly ask me if I want to join them. They'll even teach people how to play the card games.
I know this was years ago but absolutely. I really recommend that you do that. Obviously be polite, ask nicely to join them. Introduce yourself, then try to open a conversation about your shared interest. Most people will be exactly like you and will totally light up when you talk about something they like to them. If you can plainly see that they like it, then they'll obviously think highly of it.
+Molly.dk Well the cons themselves usually never fully take place in a hotel. They just will have some small things going on there that are part of the con that they maybe didn't have room for in the convention center.
+Asriel Dreemur we have 4 conventions in Denmark: J-popcon (Copenhagen, anime), Genki (cosplay in particular, Farum), Koyocon (anime, Randers) and ComicCon (Copenhagen, comics)
when i went to con last year the people in the game room were nasty! they rarely ever gave you a turn and when i played smash bros with a group apparently they put us on a team and didnt say anything and this little 12 year old yelled at me saying "Why you hitting me i'm on your team" like i didnt know uggh they were rude in there
I'm considering going to anime fest in Dallas this summer, and this was really helpful. I'm more sure about it now. Still pretty anxious, but I have a much better idea.
a tip for if you live close to the con you're going to: you don't have to get a hotel room. I'm a half hour drive away from both of the cons I've gone to so far, so we just drive up in the mornings and head back home for the nights. saves a lot of money
thanks as an "old timer" this helped me prepare for my first con in my life. Thanks for the helpful tips and words of wisdom. I cant believe people dont shower "das nasty" as my daughter says
You forgot to mention NOT BAGGING ON SOMEONE BRCAUSE THEIR COSPLAY IS "NOT PRRFECT" OR "THE WRONG SKIN COLOR" OR EVEN "TOO FAT" IT'S RUDE!!! Seriously! We come there to have fun and be free of judgment. Some of us work really hard on our cosplay and judging us won't make you look any good so just don't
life goals right there! That con is massive! xD we have small cons where I live. I'm going to my first con next weekend, and possibly an anime con here during the summer.
Here are a two things. 1# Look up the signs of heat exhaust and heat stroke because cons will have a outside area for pictures or videos, write it down and takes it with you. If you notice someone having three or more sighs let them know and help, if it's heat exhaust getting them out of the sun and some water will always help. 2# If you notice someone's cosplay is falling apart somewhere( especially if it's a big cosplay ) let them know nicely and offer help.
I've been to about 4 large cons now and this video has been very helpful! All of this is sooo true. Planning is definitely key to going to a con. This video includes the little details too! Worth taking the time to watch/study. See you guys at MoMo and Dragon con this year!
My first con was a very, VERY small local con. I’d say there was somewhere from 50- 200 people there. It was extremely fun since I was so young, and I 100% recommended local cons for the first one.
I live in Alabama and the only fair sized con in the state is Kami-con in January, and while I wasn't able to attend this year, I'm planning to go next year possibly as an older, more adult Link clad in armor, but still with the signature hat, sword, and shield. And I'll have to purchase elf ears.
I’m hyped!! I’m going to NYCC this year and Christopher Sabat will be at the con!!!!!!!!!!!!! ( Performing ) Idk what day though and this is my first con and OFC it’s one of the biggest cons
I totally second the instruction to bring a few water bottles with you. I went to NYCC2015, first day, it was crowded, and by mid-day I got so dehydrated that apparently it looked obvious that I was irritated when a few people asked to take my pictures. One of the few people asked, "Hey are you okay? You look upset." Right before taking my picture. And I was so surprised because sure I was on borderline hunger and terribly parched, but i my mood was pretty fine! Talk about embarrassing :/
10:35 - there are other exceptions to this as well. Some events require purchasing a separate ticket to enter, such as Lolita tea parties and formal dances (although some dances are not ticketed).
I'm going to a Anime and Gaming convention in 4 days with my bsf and I'm really excited! Even though I am kinda experienced with conventions and have been to quite a few, I decided to look up tips for them to make sure I don't accidentally do something that might ruin my / others time at them! Thank you for making this video!! :D
I'm going to my first con in september. Thanks for the very helpful video. While the hotel and travel info doesn't apply, (I live in the city that houses the con) the other info is very helpful.
thank you for this video and to the people in the comments dropping advice. I'm writing down a metric load of notes and stuff so i make sure I'm prepared and organized. thanks everyone
going through my 7th con prep and this video just pumps me up. it never hurts to look up some old tips. great video and all these things are soooo true! you don't know how many times i have done some of the no-nos of con going QAQ
Something I learned with hotels is that you gotta pay attention to hotel policies when it comes to checking in. Many hotels prefer that you use a credit card over a debit card when its time to pay. Hotels charge "incidental" fees which is usually like room service or to cover any damage you make in the room. Depending on the hotel, it could be like $50 a night. Its refundable assuming you dont destroy your room or get room service, BUT! If you're using a debit card, the incidental fees will be withdrawn from your account and be considered a "HOLD". The money wont be released back into your account for like a week or longer. With a credit card however, it will just be hold on your credit card. Call the hotel beforehand if they take cash if you don't want to use your debit card and dont have a credit card. If you want to use your debit card, make sure you have enough funds to pay for your entire stay. Inquire about any fees the hotel charges at check in. And be aware that the hotel will withdraw about one night's stay a few days before you come in, so make sure there is enough money in your account to cover it!
Completely agree with every single thing! Will share this to my cosplay page :) Here in Latvia cons are quite different ( like, hotels and parking aren't a big deal because most people live in the city of the con and only a few travel within the country (Latvia is super small) or from the outside). The food is MUST. I made this mistake - didn 't eat or drink all day because I had a huge costume and going to the bathroom was a problem. Regret not eating or drinking - had a headache for a week after the con from dehydration. So please, eat and drink. And the part about place to put your stuff - very true. Was wearing a costume with no pockets so had no place to put anything. That's why I 'm now making a costume with 2 bags that are a part of the actual costume. Life will be awesome at the con!
What's great about anime con is how you can be things from games, comics, etc. and others are very chill with it. It's not like a test, where if you cosplay something that isn't anime you'll be forever shunned. It's for the fun!
Wow!! This video is very helpful!! I am going to comic con Columbus tomorrow and I am SUPER EXCITED!!! This will be my first con ever! Thank you 4 making this!
Do make sure to drink enough because most of the time the air inside the building is altered or sterilised in some way to minimalize diseases and the air gets dryer. I went to comic con and didnt drink for at least 6 hours and when i got home i actually almost passed out and had to keep drinking. Felt like crap aftee
I've only been to one small con so far and am looking to my first larger convention at some point when time and budget allows it. Thanks for all the tips! =D
I've just been bingewatching videos like this because I haven't even been to a con before. In October, I'm going to my 1st con ever (Edmonton Expo) because it's the only one in Edmonton that wasn't cancelled. Ya see, I would travel but my parents wouldn't even go to Calgary so I'm stuck in Edmonton. I'm gonna go as Frisk and be waaaaaaay to in - character! I'm suuuuper excited!
My first con was a small one in London called LAGC it was quite packed but it was really good. My second con was a BIG one in London, MCM London comic con, there was over 100,000 attendees. When writing this I'm going to MCM London comic con again for the second time in about 5 hours.
I'm going to Phoenix Comic con this year, and I'm going as 3 different things. On the first day, I'm doing a partner cosplay of Eliza and Alexander Hamilton. Second day I'm going as Damara Megido. Third day as Yuno Gasai.
I'm planning on going to AniFest in Varna, Bulgaria in August (it lasts for 2 days and i'd say it's a small sized con) It's in the neighboring city so i don't have to worry about some of the things you mentioned.
Thanks, this helped a lot. My third con ever is today, but this is my first anime con opposed to a comic con so I wanted to know what to expect. It's also my first con with a friend. It's only small but it should be really fun and this video helped so much!
I've wanted to go to an anime convention for a few years, now, but I'm not sure when it will happen. However, they sound really cool and I can't wait to go to one! ^.^
Great video! These are all great tips. Just a few things I would add. DON'T go to a con for one guest/event as things can and do get cancelled. It sucks but it happens all the time. Don't take it out on the con as they're probably just as upset as you.
My first con is coming up. It’s Saboten Con 2019 in PHX, AZ. It’s gonna have an estimated 15,000 people attending. I’m getting a full access badge, and I’m going to be cosplaying the entire time I’m there. I’m going with my best friend Ashlyn, and we have both never been to a con and are both cosplayers. If there are any people who frequently go to cons who can help us out a bit, please tell us any tips. We’ve been watching a lot of con tip videos, but we want to be really sure that we’re gonna know what we’re doing.
A tip for staying hydrated: It's one thing to have water with you and it's another thing to actually drink said water, I almost learned this the hard way at my first con. I was so distracted by everything that was happening around me that I completely forgot to drink water (and keep in mind it was summer time in California) so when I was outside hanging out with my friends at a cosplay meetup I suddenly got pretty lightheaded (I was also wearing a full AOT cosplay which in the summer is REALLY hot) and I almost panicked because I thought I was getting heat stroke (Yeah, I'm also kinda a hypochondriac) But it was then that I realized I wasn't drinking enough water and I made sure I was staying hydrated from then on. So just try not to learn things the hard way.
my first con will be minuscule and my second would fit into the large con category. my first apparently has like 20 stalls all local businesses and 2 panels over the two days.mcm and showmasters used to both do comicon in the same venue but the bigger one mcm moved away.
I'm going to my first Con in April. Sakura-Con is a big one, but I'm gonna go with people who've gone before, so I think it'll be alright. Thanks for the video!
My first con: 100,000 people. Good pick, I know.
Jaizii Animations what con?
Same
Convention Reviews me too! My first was Megacon and there was roughly 100,000 people. I was young (like 7?) and I went with my dad. I LOVED it.
jesus, im going to a con that has less than 700 people going and i thought that would be medium-
Lol I’m planning to go to anime expo for my first con- I want to go all out on the first :3
My tips:
-Bring two water bottles, your ID, a phone charger, your phone, and earbuds to the actual con.
-DO NOT USE A DRAWSTRING BACKPACK!!! You will have to carry it all day and the strings will rub against your skin and cut you. It's also really uncomfortable and inconvenient. Just bring a normal backpack.
-Use your cosplay to your advantage. A lot of the time if you want to get into a panel the line will be so long that you can't even get in. Walk around the line and see if anyone stops you for a picture! Then ask if you can hop in line with them! It's worked for me a lot.
-Wear well broken in sneakers. One time I wore sneakers that were too tight and I got blisters all over my feet. You'll be doing a lot of walking so be prepared.
-Con food is over priced and usually gross. You are better off eating outside the con. Make sure you check out the line to get back in before leaving to get food. Sometimes later in the day the line will be much shorter.
-Keep yourself busy in lines. Watch UA-cam or anime on your phone. The time passes much quicker.
-Bring your DS. Pretty much everyone will have their DS' with them and you'll get a lot of street passes.
-Be friendly! This will get you far!! A lot of the time people will do really cool things because you were nice to them. One time I was at a dealer's table and the guy gave me a free plushy!
-Bring your own lanyard! You will probably end up needing a lanyard and con lanyards can be cheap. If you want to get the lanyard made for the con you can just put your lanyard in your back until you get inside.
-Don't be afraid to ask for help! There are almost always accommodations for disabled people.
-Try to pick comfortable cosplay. It will get really hot in there. If you have wings or other accessories that stick out they might get broken.
-Keep an eye out for the cosplay repair guys! At a lot of cons you will find them walking around.
-If you get overwhelmed try to find the parent room. There is almost always a room for parents who were dragged to the convention by their kids. It's really quiet in there.
-Research any cool side things! Such as @cookie_brigade! They go to conventions and hand out cookies to people in line in exchange for donations. You tweet them your location and they will come to you.
-You can order pizza! Pizza delivery guys will deliver straight to the convention. No kidding. You have to wait for them outside though.
-Research the exhibitors so you are familiar with what they do ahead of time. It really helps out so you don't feel like you're in the dark about everything.
Kailey Ross, wow thank you! I’ve been planning to go to my first con soon and this is super helpful!
Kailey Ross I know this comments two years old but thanks anyway!
I'm planning to go to a con soon and idk how much money I should bring and I'm thinking to get £1000 is that enough???
@@dominolover85 1,000 euros is about 1,700 nzd and i think that is way more than you'll actually need. i'd probably drop that by half. although i'm not that experienced with euros so that's all i can really say
Kailey Ross woah that was SUPER helpful
someone linked me and my friend this last night at like 2 am cause they saw us at 3:52 and knowing that i am forever immortalized on film in a sans cosplay dancing to caramelldansen immediately cancelled my melatonin and i was awake with the weight of my sins
This might be the best youtube comment I've ever seen
It also says “don’t be this person” xD
The first time I cosplay was at Matsuricon 2015 and I was not expecting for people to take pictures of my cosplay because I thought it wasn't very good, so I didn't practice poses. When I was at Matsuricon a good hand full of people ask for pictures, so I just stood there and smile awkwardly as they take the picture. So in conclusion, no matter how bad you think your cosplay is someone will always want a picture.
+_Chibi _ thats exactly how i felt wen i went to tampa bay comic con...i was a jawa from star wars and i had so many people come up to me and ask for pics and said my costume was so good people thought i was in the 501st
+_Chibi _ true. I cosplayed as L at Tora-Con 2016 (which is a VERY simple cosplay) and some people asked for pictures. I wasn't expecting that so I did what you did.
Really?!!!! Send me a link to it
At my first con, I had a really crappy (Haruhi, Ouran High School Host Club) cosplay. It was the blazer and tie from Amazon, a white tank top, black pants, and a haircut that was, if you squint, somewhat similar to the character's hair. Despite this, a lot of people wanted a picture and all I was prepared for was an awkward standing pose--the type you do at a family get together when a random family member wants a picture. Morale of the story: prepare a pose and expect AT LEAST one picture
Yeah even if you cosplay a character from an anime you think NO ONE KNOWS you'll still have people asking for photos. I went to a con as Inga from UN-GO and several people still asked for a photo.
+EmPtY MeLoDiEs True story! People do appreciate well-made costumes even if they don 't know who you are. Quality is still respected no matter what. (I cosplayed as Valindra from Neverwinter - nobody knew who I was and the judges said they can't evaluate me because they don't know the character. like what?)
I think the funniest thing that ever happened to me at a con was I was walking through the hall with a friend and making bets and I bet that we wouldn't see Vic before the panel and right after that he walked right by us and waved to us.... that was the best day ever
I have gone to Sakura Con in Seattle for 2 years now. This would be my third year going (still need to work out if Im going). Last year, I saw that it had close to 30,000 attendants, so it would be a large con. Heres a few things I have learned.
- DRINK WATER! its so important to stay hydrated.
- Some snacks are smart too so that you can stay full or your friends might need something to eat.
- Staying at the hotel would be nice but honestly, I wouldnt go through the trouble of a hotel room might carry. I only live 30 mins away from Sakura Con so really, sleeping at home is the best option.
- Always ask for pictures before taking it. Its just common sense to show that respect.
- Make a budget! I already have the $60 for the badge but I still need to save $350 for merchandise and my cosplay. Not to mention food and parking.
- I got allergies last time I was at Sakura Con, so do bring medical supplies, like band aids, ibuprofen, allergy relief, etc.
- For gods sake, wear comfortable shoes. Youre gonna be walking around all day and I made that mistake before, took me a whole week for my feet to recover from blisters.
Plan before going
*Specialized Transportation for anime conventions are minimal to negative
At Anime North I Could not find any Shuttle Buses from the Con to the transportation hub (Weston Station)
i heard this tip elsewhere.if i could remember i would credit them. if you are adamant on wearing cool shoes in pics put the cool ones in a bag and comfy ones on your feet or make the cool ones a half size up and add thick gel insoles
MiyuChan, hello! I’m surprised to find another Seattle dweller here! I’m (maybe) going to Sakura Con for my first convention this year. Would you really say it’s a big con? I’ve been thinking of it as a small con as I’ve heard it’s not very popular. Do you have any updated tips? (These really helped) And I know you haven’t been an active poster for a few years but I hope you can get back to me!
:0 I was just thinking of going there once COVID was over!!!
"Go to a small con if you're a first timer"
Me: *is going to my first con*
Me: ANIME BOSTON! (Its the only one I live near)
Day mine was Leakycon for Harry Potter. Lol
Yea for mine I’m going to Anime Matsuri, and it’s my first time
@@theoriginal_vanilla same
My first con was the big comic con, I was 8 :)
Mine is a Fan Expo-
so i say we’re pretty similar in this boat-
And if you visit a foreign convention: Inform yourself even more than you would for a local convention. For example: In my country almost no convention is hosted in a hotel and that makes things different.
You should make a video on how to make friends at a con. Im going to evillecon this year and i dont have any friends.
+Bird Jesus I don't have friends either x'D i'm probably going to have to take my brother >3> and he's socially awkward and VERY stubborn
Bird Jesus
wow, how old are you now, if you don't mind me asking?
Bird Jesus
I'm 14 and my birthday's in june u3u I don't know anyone who lives where I do and cosplays ;u; where's the con taking place? u3u
Jake Sherman I know how that feels, bro.
Go and talk to someone
I've been going to cons for 3 years now, and I can say that everybody who plans to go to a con (experienced or not) needs to watch this video. Thanks for doing this.
+TheGreatGatZby I'm glad you enjoyed it!
+TheGreatGatZby Even though I am experienced in conventions somewhat watching these videos right before going to a con is always a nice refresher.
I kinda recommend a smaller con for newbies myself. Because if you go to a large size con first, that con might end up spoiling you. Anime Expo was my first con. I've been going since 2011, and I end up comparing it to Anime California (a smaller con). The good thing about AC is the time it took to get my badge and get into panels.
How the hell can you go to thirty freakin' cons in such a short amount of time isn't that super freakon expensive?
DA MAN WITH A PLAN It is, but I do have a job and I work a lot, also bring lost of friends as it makes the hotel much cheaper. I am in no way even anywhere close to rich lol, trust me its doable if you know how to save.
Convention Reviews
Nice. I unfortunately don't know how to save.
Despite having attended many conventions with almost three years of going to them, I still find this to be a really helpful video! It's always good to hear tips that other have to say!
Wait I made a new version of this??? Yep! I have learned a ton over the last few years and this really needed to be made! I hope this can help a ton of people out!
+Convention Reviews Thank you!!! ~Charlie :3
im happy you touched on the subject on not having to wear only anime cosplay, i was very nervous.... sense im going to my first anime con :)
+Conventions Reviews Do you have to pay to get in a Convention without staying in a hotel?
you forgot to mention to stay away from the people wearing "free hugs'' signs.
Cikei -Y why?
My first con was Alamo city comic con
and next I'm going to San Japan
.... I'm so screwed... 40,000+ people...
Neens Kay I always go to San Japan
con drama well you could say con-flict. god I'm awful
my first con was tekko and man it was so overwhelming like there was a parade of raptor Jesus's, tho i'm going again this weekend so 10/10
My first con each year is local to me in Boston, MA. If anyone has a con local to them (and you're not taking a hotel room) and your city has public transit, be sure to catch the last bus/train home so you won't have to spend a small fortune on a taxi or Uber. That's what I can add.
ShiggitayMedia you going to AnimeBoston 2018?
im going to my firat con next year xD i cant wait♡♡ im 13 and always wanted to go to one ♡♡
lindsay seesequasis I hope you have/had fun! I don't know if you've gone yet.
รυgα cσffєєღ what one are you going to? if I can ask and I'm just super curious XD
I’m in the exact same boat buddy! I’m going to my first con in a few months!
Yeah! I'm going to ACen In may of next year! So less than 6 months away! I'm 12 now, but my birthday would be like 2 or 3 days befoee the con so I'll be 13 by then
I'm exited for my first this year!! I'm going in my second cosplay as well
That moment when you see your favorite character so you're just smiling for a few seconds
If you see a group of people sitting and hanging out, and they seem to have the same interests as you, is it OK to ask to sit with them? if it is, how should I ask?
Ive never done that, but I assume it would be good to ask like; "Hey, I dont got anyone with me today and I noticed you like the same things as me so I was wondering if you wouldnt mind that I joined your group?"
I think so? I’m relatively bad at conversation but when I’m at my con I seem to turn a lot more outgoing. Perhaps it’s because you already feel a bit closer to everyone because you know for a fact that you have something in common with them. I’d definitely say yes to anyone wanting to hang out, but you should expect some awkward moments.
Possibly just kind of approach and say “hi! I really love your cosplay(s), I love __ too! Do you mind if I join you?” Of some sort
It's absolutely okay! In fact, in my city, there's an otaku community that just loves card games like Yu-Gi-Oh and Pokemon. I just walk up to their spot, take a look at their cards and watch them play for a bit (I'm introverted and can't start a conversation with people I don't know), and they kindly ask me if I want to join them. They'll even teach people how to play the card games.
I know this was years ago but absolutely. I really recommend that you do that. Obviously be polite, ask nicely to join them. Introduce yourself, then try to open a conversation about your shared interest. Most people will be exactly like you and will totally light up when you talk about something they like to them. If you can plainly see that they like it, then they'll obviously think highly of it.
No anime cons in my country takes place at a hotel...
+Molly.dk Well the cons themselves usually never fully take place in a hotel. They just will have some small things going on there that are part of the con that they maybe didn't have room for in the convention center.
+KT kiteii yes...
+KT kiteii i live in Denmark xD im maybe going to a com next year if my parentes allow me to. Do you have any recommendations to Danish anime cons?
+Asriel Dreemur we have 4 conventions in Denmark: J-popcon (Copenhagen, anime), Genki (cosplay in particular, Farum), Koyocon (anime, Randers) and ComicCon (Copenhagen, comics)
my first con was London Comic Con. It was a record-breaking size this year. So my first con was a large con lol
I recommend you staff/volunteer a few cons; gives a new perspective, and is a different way to enjoy a con. Then you can make a video on that too
I might be going to my first con in October, it’s the madfest in Perth and I’m rlly exited
when i went to con last year the people in the game room were nasty! they rarely ever gave you a turn and when i played smash bros with a group apparently they put us on a team and didnt say anything and this little 12 year old yelled at me saying "Why you hitting me i'm on your team" like i didnt know uggh they were rude in there
I'm considering going to anime fest in Dallas this summer, and this was really helpful. I'm more sure about it now. Still pretty anxious, but I have a much better idea.
I'm going to Animefest too! :)
a tip for if you live close to the con you're going to: you don't have to get a hotel room. I'm a half hour drive away from both of the cons I've gone to so far, so we just drive up in the mornings and head back home for the nights. saves a lot of money
so. many. HOMESTUCKS.
Kumo Yōkai It’s..... it’s... BEAUTIFUL
YASSSS. X3
thanks as an "old timer" this helped me prepare for my first con in my life. Thanks for the helpful tips and words of wisdom. I cant believe people dont shower "das nasty" as my daughter says
you forgot to say ''make sure you bring pepper spray''
You forgot to mention NOT BAGGING ON SOMEONE BRCAUSE THEIR COSPLAY IS "NOT PRRFECT" OR "THE WRONG SKIN COLOR" OR EVEN "TOO FAT" IT'S RUDE!!! Seriously! We come there to have fun and be free of judgment. Some of us work really hard on our cosplay and judging us won't make you look any good so just don't
gabby gomez Agreed
Yeah I agree as well
Amke is good for insulting people
I’m still gonna do it tho
Also, do run up on cosplayers along with taking unwanted pictures! That makes the cosplayer uncomfortable!
life goals right there! That con is massive! xD we have small cons where I live. I'm going to my first con next weekend, and possibly an anime con here during the summer.
I've seen more homestuck cosplayers in the background of this video than I saw in three whole years of cosplaying at a large-ish convention 🤣
Here are a two things.
1# Look up the signs of heat exhaust and heat stroke because cons will have a outside area for pictures or videos, write it down and takes it with you. If you notice someone having three or more sighs let them know and help, if it's heat exhaust getting them out of the sun and some water will always help.
2# If you notice someone's cosplay is falling apart somewhere( especially if it's a big cosplay ) let them know nicely and offer help.
I've been to about 4 large cons now and this video has been very helpful! All of this is sooo true. Planning is definitely key to going to a con. This video includes the little details too! Worth taking the time to watch/study. See you guys at MoMo and Dragon con this year!
Its 2021 and these conventions are a relic of the past
I loved that there was an amtgard section in the video! I'm realizing it is a lot more common at cons than I have realized!
My first con was a very, VERY small local con. I’d say there was somewhere from 50- 200 people there. It was extremely fun since I was so young, and I 100% recommended local cons for the first one.
I've been going to cons for 8 years but I watch these whenever I'm making a cosplay bc it hypes me up :D
I live in Alabama and the only fair sized con in the state is Kami-con in January, and while I wasn't able to attend this year, I'm planning to go next year possibly as an older, more adult Link clad in armor, but still with the signature hat, sword, and shield. And I'll have to purchase elf ears.
Thanks! I’m going to be going to comic con in NY in my Ibuki cosplay and I needed this video!
I’m hyped!! I’m going to NYCC this year and Christopher Sabat will be at the con!!!!!!!!!!!!!
( Performing )
Idk what day though and this is my first con and OFC it’s one of the biggest cons
I totally second the instruction to bring a few water bottles with you. I went to NYCC2015, first day, it was crowded, and by mid-day I got so dehydrated that apparently it looked obvious that I was irritated when a few people asked to take my pictures. One of the few people asked, "Hey are you okay? You look upset." Right before taking my picture. And I was so surprised because sure I was on borderline hunger and terribly parched, but i my mood was pretty fine! Talk about embarrassing :/
I am going to my first anime con in 3 weeks, I am so excited this helped a lot thank you so much!
Im going to a comic con as my first con oh lord
Im going to my first con with 2 of my friends this Friday so this was really helpful 😄
10:35 - there are other exceptions to this as well. Some events require purchasing a separate ticket to enter, such as Lolita tea parties and formal dances (although some dances are not ticketed).
I watched your video right before my first con when it first came out. Now I've been to 5 cons. It helped out a lot thank you
I'm going to a Anime and Gaming convention in 4 days with my bsf and I'm really excited! Even though I am kinda experienced with conventions and have been to quite a few, I decided to look up tips for them to make sure I don't accidentally do something that might ruin my / others time at them! Thank you for making this video!! :D
Thank you so much for this! It's not a recent video but I'm going to my first con in 2 months and I needed some more experienced advice
Brilliant advice.
This is good not only for first-timers but as a review for con veterans.
I'm going to my first con in september. Thanks for the very helpful video. While the hotel and travel info doesn't apply, (I live in the city that houses the con) the other info is very helpful.
Thank you so much! This really helped.
thank you for this video and to the people in the comments dropping advice. I'm writing down a metric load of notes and stuff so i make sure I'm prepared and organized. thanks everyone
going through my 7th con prep and this video just pumps me up. it never hurts to look up some old tips. great video and all these things are soooo true! you don't know how many times i have done some of the no-nos of con going QAQ
Something I learned with hotels is that you gotta pay attention to hotel policies when it comes to checking in. Many hotels prefer that you use a credit card over a debit card when its time to pay. Hotels charge "incidental" fees which is usually like room service or to cover any damage you make in the room. Depending on the hotel, it could be like $50 a night. Its refundable assuming you dont destroy your room or get room service, BUT! If you're using a debit card, the incidental fees will be withdrawn from your account and be considered a "HOLD". The money wont be released back into your account for like a week or longer. With a credit card however, it will just be hold on your credit card.
Call the hotel beforehand if they take cash if you don't want to use your debit card and dont have a credit card. If you want to use your debit card, make sure you have enough funds to pay for your entire stay. Inquire about any fees the hotel charges at check in. And be aware that the hotel will withdraw about one night's stay a few days before you come in, so make sure there is enough money in your account to cover it!
Completely agree with every single thing! Will share this to my cosplay page :)
Here in Latvia cons are quite different ( like, hotels and parking aren't a big deal because most people live in the city of the con and only a few travel within the country (Latvia is super small) or from the outside).
The food is MUST. I made this mistake - didn 't eat or drink all day because I had a huge costume and going to the bathroom was a problem. Regret not eating or drinking - had a headache for a week after the con from dehydration. So please, eat and drink.
And the part about place to put your stuff - very true. Was wearing a costume with no pockets so had no place to put anything. That's why I 'm now making a costume with 2 bags that are a part of the actual costume. Life will be awesome at the con!
What's great about anime con is how you can be things from games, comics, etc. and others are very chill with it. It's not like a test, where if you cosplay something that isn't anime you'll be forever shunned. It's for the fun!
Wow!! This video is very helpful!! I am going to comic con Columbus tomorrow and I am SUPER EXCITED!!! This will be my first con ever! Thank you 4 making this!
Fantastic video, so helpful and many people need to watch this! :D
+Sasu123456789x1 Thank you very much!
I was so excited when I saw this on my notifications, love your videos cody!!
Conventions are the primary reason why I wish the Shadow Clone Jutsu was real.
Thank you so much! This will help so much for my first con this weekend 💕
Do make sure to drink enough because most of the time the air inside the building is altered or sterilised in some way to minimalize diseases and the air gets dryer. I went to comic con and didnt drink for at least 6 hours and when i got home i actually almost passed out and had to keep drinking. Felt like crap aftee
I've only been to one small con so far and am looking to my first larger convention at some point when time and budget allows it. Thanks for all the tips! =D
I've just been bingewatching videos like this because I haven't even been to a con before. In October, I'm going to my 1st con ever (Edmonton Expo) because it's the only one in Edmonton that wasn't cancelled. Ya see, I would travel but my parents wouldn't even go to Calgary so I'm stuck in Edmonton. I'm gonna go as Frisk and be waaaaaaay to in - character! I'm suuuuper excited!
I agree love this video for tips and tricks
I going to try to go to Saboten Con 2021 in September, hopefully.
My first con was a small one in London called LAGC it was quite packed but it was really good. My second con was a BIG one in London, MCM London comic con, there was over 100,000 attendees. When writing this I'm going to MCM London comic con again for the second time in about 5 hours.
I'm going to Sabakon! How much of you guys are going as well?
this video is very helpful, this year I'll be going to Rtx Austin. it's my first time going a convention.
Thank you so much for your tips.
I also watched your last version, thank you!! :D
luckily when i go to tampa comic con i can just drive there every day of the con since i live not even a half hour away which is a great thing!
Never been to any sort of convention, but sounds fun.
Omg thankyou for this video! I’m going to madman animefest this year and this is going to be really useful you are a legend bro!!!
I'm going to Phoenix Comic con this year, and I'm going as 3 different things. On the first day, I'm doing a partner cosplay of Eliza and Alexander Hamilton. Second day I'm going as Damara Megido. Third day as Yuno Gasai.
@3:53 is my best friend and i and it is just an ongoing joke between us
"don't be this person"
the timing is incredible.
The first con i'm going to is going to take place this year. It's going to have around 100 thousand people
great info going to my first con in a few months! :D
I'm planning on going to AniFest in Varna, Bulgaria in August (it lasts for 2 days and i'd say it's a small sized con) It's in the neighboring city so i don't have to worry about some of the things you mentioned.
"YOU WILL GET CAUGHT!" LoL, is he talking from experience?
I'm going to a con this November for the first time and I'm uber exited. Doing a ship cosplay (lawlight) with my cousin. Can't wait, J con!
14:25 Lady Ciel. We will never forget that episode.
Thanks, this helped a lot. My third con ever is today, but this is my first anime con opposed to a comic con so I wanted to know what to expect. It's also my first con with a friend. It's only small but it should be really fun and this video helped so much!
I've wanted to go to an anime convention for a few years, now, but I'm not sure when it will happen. However, they sound really cool and I can't wait to go to one! ^.^
Who here is watching this in 2020?
Great video! These are all great tips. Just a few things I would add. DON'T go to a con for one guest/event as things can and do get cancelled. It sucks but it happens all the time. Don't take it out on the con as they're probably just as upset as you.
Well done!!! Thanx
My first con is coming up. It’s Saboten Con 2019 in PHX, AZ. It’s gonna have an estimated 15,000 people attending. I’m getting a full access badge, and I’m going to be cosplaying the entire time I’m there. I’m going with my best friend Ashlyn, and we have both never been to a con and are both cosplayers. If there are any people who frequently go to cons who can help us out a bit, please tell us any tips. We’ve been watching a lot of con tip videos, but we want to be really sure that we’re gonna know what we’re doing.
This video is very hopeful for my first time going to a Con.
A tip for staying hydrated: It's one thing to have water with you and it's another thing to actually drink said water, I almost learned this the hard way at my first con. I was so distracted by everything that was happening around me that I completely forgot to drink water (and keep in mind it was summer time in California) so when I was outside hanging out with my friends at a cosplay meetup I suddenly got pretty lightheaded (I was also wearing a full AOT cosplay which in the summer is REALLY hot) and I almost panicked because I thought I was getting heat stroke (Yeah, I'm also kinda a hypochondriac) But it was then that I realized I wasn't drinking enough water and I made sure I was staying hydrated from then on. So just try not to learn things the hard way.
Thanks for the AnimeCons.com plug!
Thank you! Very helpful!!
my first con will be minuscule and my second would fit into the large con category. my first apparently has like 20 stalls all local businesses and 2 panels over the two days.mcm and showmasters used to both do comicon in the same venue but the bigger one mcm moved away.
hopefully, I'm going to my first anime convention so stuff like this is really going to help
so thanks for this awesome video :)
I'm going to my first Con in April. Sakura-Con is a big one, but I'm gonna go with people who've gone before, so I think it'll be alright. Thanks for the video!
I've never been to an anime con. I would love too!