The Convention Survival Guide

With Comic-Con only days away, I've begun packing my "Convention Backpack". I'm a bit OCD when it comes to preparation and packing, so I usually have my backpack packed weeks in advance. Comic-Con snuck up on me and I've been scrambling since. In the midst of my stress, it dawned on me. I should share my list of what to pack to conventions so that fellow nerds will never be in the mess that I'm in. (It might also double duty as a checklist before I leave).

For any geeky convention be sure to pack:

- A Backpack
Make sure it's big enough to hold merch and your lunch, but small enough that it won't be too heavy. Remember you'll be wearing this bag 24/7. Also, be sure to have zippers and an interior pocket to keep your phone, wallet, and camera safe.

- Smart Phone
You can't get anywhere without one now a days. You can find schedules, updates, and maps all online at the Convention's site.

- Camera
You're going to want to take pictures.

- Lunch and Snacks
Food at conventions are pricey. I always pack my own lunch to save some money and time (Cause who has time to eat when there are games to play!). I'd recommend PB&J sandwiches, pop tarts, granola bars, and cookies. Might not be the healthiest, but it definitely carries well, no kitchen required, and tastes great.

- Water Bottle
Stay hydrated! You're going to be hot and exhausted, you don't want to be thirsty as well. There are always tons of water fountains to fill up at, and you save more money for merch!

- Wallet
Bring some cash. Not every merch booth takes cards, so make sure you take out some cash beforehand. I always bring a backup card as well, just in case of an emergency. I'd recommend having a piece of ID on you as well.

- Badges
You won't be able to get in without them!

- Small Notepad
I always bring a small notepad without ruled lines for getting autographs. It's way more portable than bringing a game or book, and you'll still have the autograph somewhere safe. Remember to make note of who signed right away. By the time you get home, you may not know whose handwriting it is.

- Sharpies
Bring a few different coloured ones for autographs.

- Hand Sanitizer
With so many people so close, you don't want to get sick. Keep washing your hands and sanitize after touching something multiple people have touched.

- Business Cards
I'd recommend making 50 or so to give out to anyone cool you meet. Put your contact information and gamertag on it, then you can keep in touch. I've met plenty of people at conventions and have stayed in touch because of this!

- Handheld Gaming Console
You're going to be in line a LONG time, might as well get some gaming experience.

- Hotel Address and Taxi Phone Number
You probably don't know the city your in very well. This will help. Another tip, when in a new city, monitor your taxi route via google maps if you have it on your phone. Sometimes Taxi drivers like to trick newbies by taking the longer route. Just speak up (and pretend to be from the area) and you won't be taken advantage of. Also check if the Hotel has a shuttle program to and from the convention.

- Costume or Nerdy Attire
Dress up! Whether you're in full costume or wear your favorite nerdy t-shirt, this is the place to do it. Nerdy outfits are a great icebreaker and it helps pinpoint who has the same interests as you.

Well, I've got my backpack all packed now. I hope this list can help a few of you out with what to bring to a convention! See you in New York.

As Always,
LadySnip3r

How to Wear Geeky Clothing (& Other Nonsense)

Someone please shoot me if I see another nerd (male or female) rocking the dingy, too large, black nerd tee with ripped jeans.
 I love nerdy attire/accessories, but I've always struggled with how and when to wear them. Here's a breakdown of some tips and tricks to looking fly and staying true to your hobbies:

Graphic Tee's
I understand the majority of graphic shirts are black, but try to stay away from ones with a single line of text on it (it just looks silly). To be honest, try to avoid text at all - it usually results in a look that appears to be trying way too hard. I'd recommend getting one with a more artsy feeling, rather than game or nerd related. It's way more versatile and looks great on pretty much everyone. I would also recommend staying away from over the top gory shirts, you just can't wear them out too much.

I'm the perfect example of what NOT to do...WAY too much nerd

Now that you've picked out your super cool graphic tee, when, where, and how should you wear it?! You can pretty much wear a graphic tee to any casual event (class, hanging out, movies, etc.), just make sure you mix it up every now and then (that means don't wear the same shirt all the time!).

See if you can spot the nerdy shirts hidden on w0lfspirittt and LadySnip3r, one's a wolf and one is a Team Rocket.

 For girls, I think graphic tees look great with a pair of skinny jeans and sneakers. It's classic, comfortable, and just the right amount of geek. For those wanting to make more of a fashion statement, I usually mix my graphic tees into odd outfits; try it with a cardigan and bootcut jeans for something laid back but mature looking, or wear tucked into a cute boxy skirt.

DarkSnip3r looking super classy in his N7 shirt.

For all you boys, tees look great with a nice pair of jeans. Now nice means no rips, tears, or dirt. I think a darker wash is very flattering, especially when worn with a dark shirt. However, be careful not to match your jean wash and shirt color. I would not really recommend wearing tees with cargos (I'm a little biased against them). I think it looks a little too laid back. If you want to mix it up a bit, add a cardigan or unbuttoned button up. You don't have to be a hipster to rock a man-cardigan, they add a bit of class to any outfit.

Accessories
So you just bought some real life cog tags, now when on earth can you wear them?! If you're going to do a super geeky accessory (like a replica from a video game), try to have that be you're only geeky apparel item. I would also recommend using accessories on the smaller side, so that only true geeks can really point out what you're wearing.

As much as I love huge belt buckles, they are very difficult to wear and have it look good. If you really need a metal icon of your favorite game or anime, get a simple key chain. 

I think one of the best places to rock your nerdy love is through technology. Put your phone and computer backgrounds as scenes from your favorite games, add sweet geeky decals to your laptop, or protect your phone or tablet with a nerdy case.


And there you have, just some tips on looking good and staying geeky. Thought of some fashion tips I forgot? Leave them in a comment and save the world from fashion disasters.

As always,
LadySnip3r