What to pack for San Diego Comic-Con

 22 JULY 2024

                                   

I realize you've already seen at least a dozen articles titled "What to Pack for San Diego Comic-Con." And also, you have common sense. So why am I posting this?

Because in your excitement, you might forget a few basics. Or you might still be new to our chaotic world and not quite realize what's required. So let's review: what should you pack?


#1. Something warm to wear. Currently we're headed into days in the high 70s/low 80s and nights in the 60s. If you're part lizard like I am and get cold easily, bring a sweater or jacket. If you're going to camp outside overnight, wear layers so you can bundle up and strip down accordingly.

#2. Sunscreen and umbrellas. If you're going to be outside in line - and this can happen when you don't expect it - that sun can get intense. People get sunburned at SDCC all the time, so prepare accordingly.

#3. Something comfortable to wear. You may be getting spiffed up for your very glamorous nightlife - but I promise the time will come when you just want to be lazy and comfortable. Yes, even if you're an image-conscious influencer or dedicated cosplayer. Speaking of...

#4. Cosplay repair. Wigs, weapons, armor, dresses, zombie makeup wounds, alternate costumes or repair tools and sewing kits - just be prepared.

#5. Extra batteries, headphones and portable chargers. Don't count on charging up when and where you need to. It's more reliable to just pop in a fresh power source or use your own charger.

#6. Promotional material and contact cards. Those digital cards like Popl are great but don't count on everyone having them - and you won't always have time to hand someone your phone to text themselves. Cards can help you connect to people you meet in line and at events. If you're marketing yourself in some capacity, obviously be prepared with your online portfolios, viewing rooms, socials, and other channels at the ready.

#7. A big tote, purse, or bagpack. Yes, SDCC provides you with massive bags but I find them way too unwieldy to carry around. Possibly this is a short person issue. At any rate, I prefer to bring in my own big but manageable bag where I can stuff in purchases while being able to quickly access my money and phone. I can also eyeball and secure it better - something that seems relevant this year with all the reports of stolen phones and pickpockets at Pride.


#8. Cash. I advocate bringing cash and card and app, not just one payment method - but cash will come in handy at some point.

#9. Snacks and water. This can mean getting into line earlier or being able to make a favorite panel instead of walking into the Gaslamp for lunch.

#10. A hard copy of your friends' contact info. Phones die, systems fail, connectivity goes out. I can't count the number of delayed texts I've had at SDCC. If you're meeting up with someone to trade offsite tickets or some other vital attendee transaction, but you've so far only chatted on Twitter or Reddit or Discord, get their contact information now.

#11. A list of everything you promised to pick up for your friends. It's just easier instead of running through texts from 17 people, trying to remember who wanted what and where you can find it.

#12. Portable chairs, collapsible stools, or air hammocks. Standing in line may not sound like a big deal, but after you're been walking miles every day, being able to sit down is the difference between heaven and hell.

#13. Earplugs and sleep mask. If you don't sleep well in hotels or are sensitive to city noise, earplugs and sleep masks can help you get restful sleep. Also consider a white noise app and some magnesium supplements at bedtime.

#14. A regular book. This may seem like bringing sand to the beach, but you might find yourself with more reading time than you think. Even if you buy a stack of fresh comics, do you really want to read them all in the Ballroom 20 line? Bringing a paperback will keep you from running down your phone, too.


#15. Swimsuit. Even if you don't visit the beach, getting in your hotel hot tub or sauna is a nice break from the Con.

#16. A refillable water bottle. Comic-Con is dehydrating, so get in the habit of carrying a bottle around that you can keep refilling.

#17. Your badge. There aren't enough panic attacks in the world for the moment you step off the plane and realize your badge is back home in Portland. Also bring a lanyard, even if you intend on buying a new one. 

What shouldn't you bring?

A bunch of different outfits and shoes. You can probably get by on your support shoes and one pair of going-out shoes.

An entire of suitcase of back issues and old action figures to sell. The vendors aren't interested unless you've got something super special.

A nest of devices. Do you really need your laptop, GoPro, tripod, phone, and iPad at SDCC? I'm going to say you can get by on 2 of those unless you're there in a media capacity. Don't weigh yourself down.

48 hours from now, Preview Night will be underway!