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What to pack for your first cosplay event

What to Pack for Your First Convention | Essential Tips Shared by Fandom Community

By

Tommy Chen

Jun 28, 2025, 05:46 PM

Edited By

Liam O'Connor

2 minutes (approx.)

A person in colorful cosplay costume stands with a book bag at a convention, surrounded by fellow attendees in various costumes.

As the convention season heats up, newcomers are seeking advice on what to bring to their first anime and cosplay events. People are turning to forums and user boards for practical packing tips to ensure a smooth experience.

Popular Items to Pack

First-time attendees often wonder what essentials to bring. Based on community feedback, here's a roundup of must-have items:

  • Portable chargers โ€“ Staying charged is crucial for capturing memories and navigating the event.

  • Cash โ€“ Many vendors may struggle with card transactions due to weak Wi-Fi, making cash a safer option.

  • Snacks โ€“ Energy bars or sandwiches keep hunger at bay during busy days.

Interestingly, many recommend packing a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated, especially since refilling stations are available throughout convention halls.

"I bring lots of frozen water bottles, I want cold water in the heat," shared one attendee.

Cosplay Considerations

For those in costume, makeup for touch-ups and extra clothes are important, especially if you plan to walk around town. A collapsible stool is also becoming popular, as it offers comfort during breaks. Community members emphasize the importance of practicality with cosplay, so consider how much you want to carry.

Safety and Convenience Tips

Some comments highlighted the risk of pickpockets, advising attendees to keep cash secured while traveling. Others suggested bringing flushable wipes and hand sanitizer for added hygiene.

"Mind where you keep your money when taking the train to the con," one person warned.

Additionally, it's smart to have extra bags ready for any merchandise.

Key Points to Remember

  • โœ… Portable charger is a must-have.

  • ๐Ÿ’ต Cash is recommended for vendor purchases.

  • ๐Ÿ“ฆ Bring extra bags for merch.

With these tips, first-time attendees can gear up for an unforgettable experience. Donโ€™t forget to engage with the community for last-minute advice and shared experiences!

The Road Ahead for Cosplay Events

As anime and cosplay events continue to gain popularity, there's a strong chance that attendance will increase significantly in the coming years. Experts estimate around 20% more first-time attendees will show up at major conventions in 2026. Factors like the rise of online streaming platforms and the continuous growth of fandom culture are likely fueling this trend. Additionally, with more people sharing their cosplay experiences on social media, the push for vibrant costumes and creative participation will spur new artists to showcase their skills. As more enthusiasts prepare to attend these events, it becomes crucial for both attendees and organizers to adjust and accommodate this growing crowd, fostering a more inclusive and engaging environment.

A Nod to the Rise of Fandom

Looking back at the explosion of comic book films in the early 2000s, we find an interesting parallel. Just as those movies brought together diverse groups of people passionate about the characters and stories, cosplay events are now creating a similar melting pot of creativity and camaraderie. Much like comic book conventions evolved to cater to an increasing number of fans, todayโ€™s cosplay events will likely adapt to provide better amenities and opportunities for connection. This ongoing evolution shows that when communities come together around shared passions, they enhance the experience for everyone involved, leading to a richer cultural landscape.