Tips for going to hobby convention

[Uprising]

Thinking of making the trip to Adepticon this year for my first hobby convention.  Does anyone have any tips for people going to a convention for the first time? 

[Ahzek451]

I've been to other events in the past, but it will be my first time going to Adepticon this year. Just keep an eye on the facebook page and anouncements, I know registration opens jan 12th and its a good idea to take a look that day if you are interested in anything in particular before they fill up. There is also a preview schedule to get familiar with the events.
https://cvent.me/LY2edE

Note do not use the normal website for registration, there is a link on the facebook page for that. 

[Cenobite Terminator]

You will absolutely love the experience. Main advice is figure out what events you want to attend and learn how to register for them. You will have a real blast.

[Uprising]

So I asked my friend if they wanted to go to Adepticon, on Friday (1/3/2025) for our first convention.  They said maybe.  Today (1/4/2025), they infrom me the hotel and rental car is paid for.  I am going now.  Time to figure out events and get painting. 

[Iron Father Ferrum]

I went to my first (a smaller one, the Richmond Open, in 2024) and as for "game stuff" I recommend the following:

 

1. Get a cart.  Several different companies make folding, multi-shelf wheeled utility carts and these are fantastic for transporting your army, books, and other game accoutrements needed from table to table.  I also use the bottom shelf for holding drinks and snacks (I had a whole case of Monsters on there, but since I've cut out caffeine, that'll be Liquid Death next time) because convention food is usually overpriced.

 

2. Have everything you need for a game with you, on your cart.  And I do mean everything, even things you'd expect a TO to provide.  Objective zones, for example.  A good TO will have those for every table, but sometimes :cuss: happens.  It's better to be prepared, just in case.

 

3. Wear comfortable shoes.  You'll be standing a LOT.

 

4. Mentally brace yourself for the scent.  By mid-afternoon of the first day of a GT, that many sweating bodies in one place will overpower whatever soap and deodorant everyone (hopefully) wore.  It's no one's fault, but there will develop a musty smell by virtue of the crowd.