Convention Survival Guide: Packing

Now that you have your travel plans hashed out, it's time to pack!

Packing can be overwhelming, and disorganized, but with a little planning and careful thought you'll be able to take everything you need without forgetting something or dragging too much stuff with you. :)

A Basic Packing List

This is in no way set in stone, it's just a reference list for you to get started. Add or remove things from this list as needed. :)  If you are flying, remember that liquids need to be in containers that are 3 ounces or smaller or you will either have to check your luggage or toss the liquid. 

Costumes(Depending on how ornate your costume is, you may want to put together a separate checklist for each one). 

Props

Wigs

Makeup

Sewing Kit for Repairs: Needle, matching or neutral colored thread, E6000, Fray-Check, Scissors

First Aid Kit: Band Aids, Scissors, Rubbing Alcohol, Aloe, Advil, Tylenol, Neosporin, Gauze, Medical Tape, Thermometer, Directions and phone number to nearest emergency room

Toiletries: Shampoo, Conditioner, Makeup Remover, Soap, Shaving Razors

Street clothes if you don't feel like cosplaying or if you need to make an emergency trip

Wallet with Money/Debit Card

Cell Phone and Charger

Proper Legal Identification(State ID or Driver's license)

Boarding Pass if you are flying

Camera

Batteries or charger for camera

Extra Camera lenses

Laptop and Adapter

Memory cards for camera

Food, ice chest with ice, and drinks if you are driving
If you are driving: Jumper Cables, oil, coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid, transmission fluid, Tire Jack, tire iron

Packing Your Props:

If you are flying you may have to disassemble your prop to pack it into a suitcase. Pack it carefully. Cushion it with clothes or other padding so it won't get damaged. Baggage handlers rarely pay attention to bags marked as fragile and a broken prop means an unhappy cosplayer.

Pack as lightly as you can. The less stuff you have to haul aroud an airport or to a hotel, the better. Depeding on the airline you're flying or how much space you have in your car you may be able to take an extra suitcase for Artist Alley and dealer room purchases. 

Comment below if you have any pointers to add, and I will be back tomorrow with...food! Eating is important! Eating is delish! 

*crickets*

Ahem...stay fabulous. xD 

-Vik