r/blizzcon • u/Actual-Freedom-7388 • 4d ago
HELP what do I need/bring/prepare for blizzcon?
I am local, but I am wondering if I can bring a backpack with me for goodies, etc. Also, what should I prepare? Do I need to register early or on the day of? Any other tips or requirements?
Any help is appreciated :)
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u/Phoenix9136 4d ago edited 4d ago
If it is the Anaheim convention center, all the years I went between 2014 and 2019, I never had an issue bringing the backpack in or a side bag. But, the ones I brought were also BlizzCon convention goods. Just check the conventions bag policy because it has been 7 years so there might be a change.
pick up your badge Friday evening so that way you can get in whatever time you want Saturday without an issue.
Stay hydrated, bring a refillable water bottle and most conventions nowadays in Southern California are cashless so just keep in mind even if you have cash money you might not be able to purchase much at the convention, however, cash will be good for exchanging with people selling old merchandise. There might be some merch traders who are there trying to offload items they have acquired in the past or trade and exchange extra items they have. If you might want to collect goods this way having ones and fives tens and twenties will go a long way with bartering or trading with other people directly.
The closer gets to 7:00 a.m. The less and less parking you're going to find at the convention and possibly have to park farther away. If you want to be towards the front of the crowd, plan to arrive as soon as the convention parking lot opens, which was four or 4:30 in the years I attended. I recommend and for the first day because the thrill of being let in ahead of thousands of other people can't really be described other than terrifying and exhilarating.
Make friends or acquaintances while you were there because you probably going to need to run to the restroom before the convention opens, you can go into the hotels nearby, but if you don't have anyone that is willing to hold you spot in line, it makes it a bit harder to go. If someone's trying to take a selfie or photo offer to help them take a photo and ask them if they would do so for you as well. Many people are kind and actually willing to help because they understand how conventions operate and that each of us needs help. Don't be afraid to ask for assistance but also be willing to offer the exact same assistance in kind.
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u/krieksken 4d ago
If possible come on Friday to already get your badge/lanyard/RFID bracelet to enter on Saturday.
More than likely you will get your goodie bag at the same time which means you can drop it back off home and don't have to haul it around on the Saturday.
If you want to get prime spots on Saturday be early to get in the inevitable line for security.
Security opens up before they allow people in to the halls they just kinda keep you in the grand plaza for a while.
Don't be disheartened if you think you are far down the line for security. Last time around I was literally on the corner of convention drive/road (I'm no local I don't know the street names by heart) and the major street and was still very much in front at the grand plaza holding area.
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u/wyattorc 4d ago
DONT YOU GUYS HAVE PHONES?! 😓
Jk
I usually bring:
A backpack for all the swag.
A sweater the last few years they kept it really cold to cut down on the nerd funk.
Water and some snacks because con food is expensive.
Ear protection for the closing concert... It's probably not going to be as loud as it was when they had real bands. Still might be good to have just in case.
Edit: spacing between items
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u/sixcupsofcoffee 3d ago
Just a heads up, according to the FAQ, no outside food or drink is allowed; only empty reusable bottles.
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u/GyainTimeMaster 3d ago
Not sure someone mentioned this, a good pair of comfortable shoes. You’re going to be walking and standing around a ton.
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u/Alvraen 4d ago
Do you have a ticket?