Anime conventions are great places to celebrate your inner otaku! They allow Anime, Manga and video game fans to come together and share their love for this particular Japanese art form. The first Anime convention was held in Tokyo in 1975 with 700 people attending. Today more than 500 different Anime conventions are held worldwide, with overall attendance in hundreds of thousands.

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Ever since their inception, Anime conventions have evolved a great deal. Now it’s more than just a place for Anime fans to get together. These are the events where people can meet their favorite artists, voice actors and game developers. Many entertainment companies chose to do their big announcements at major Anime conventions. Last, but not the least, Anime cosplay is another huge part of these conventions.

With so many different options, it is natural to feel overwhelmed before going to an Anime convention. If it’s your first time attending one, you need to keep a few things in mind. That is why we have compiled a list of top 10 survival tips for your first Anime convention.

1. Feasible cosplay

Feasible cosplay

Cosplaying is an important part of Anime conventions. The costumes people wear can range from a simple dress to a cyborg suit with perfectly emulated weapons. These conventions are often a way for various cosplay artists to showcase their talent and outdo their peers. Some of these events also have cosplay competitions, which give people an extra impetus to go all out.

While it is great to want to do something grand and awe-inspiring, make sure that you do not compromise your own safety. Make sure that the size of your costume is stable and safe. Some conventions have cosplay rules that put limits on sizes for safety. If your costume is so elaborate that it can cause problems in maneuverability, it is a good idea to have a friend help you out at the convention.

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2. Check the weather

Look at the weather forecast for the day of the convention before deciding your cosplay costume. A costume that uses cardboard and foam can be impressive, but it would cost you dearly on a hot, humid day. Things could be equally as bad if it is pouring down. If your costume is elaborate, then you will most likely have to walk as you might not be able to fit into your car.

3. Respect boundaries

Respect boundaries

This is primarily directed towards the type of attendees who will not be cosplaying. It is natural to feel excited around so many people dressed like your favorite superheroes. However, you should always respect the boundaries of these cosplayers. Do not take pictures with them without their consent. Do not try to make them uncomfortable by encroaching on their personal space.

If you are a cosplayer and the actions of an attendee make you feel uncomfortable, do not hesitate to express your discomfort. If you have problems with confrontation, reach out to convention security. They should be able to help you out.

4. Pace yourself

These days Anime conventions have all sorts of different events. Artist booths, celebrity panels, cosplay competitions and what not. There is a lot to do. One thing you should realize before going into your first Anime convention is that you will not be able to do everything. Therefore, it is better to pick out a few of your top priority activities and just focus on enjoying them.

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5. Make a survival kit

Make a survival kit

Your bag needs to contain essentials that can help you out in case of emergencies. Be sure to pack some snacks and a charger or power bank. If you are cosplaying, be sure to pack spare accessories, shoes, and a makeup kit in case you need to touch up. This is even more important if you are going to the convention alone – since you won’t have anyone to help you fix your costume, you need to plan ahead well.

6. Drink water

We didn’t include one important thing you need to carry in the previous point. That is because it is so important that it deserves a point of its own. Conventions can be long and exhausting. Incidents of people fainting from dehydration happen more often than you would think. Conventions usually do have refreshment stalls, but they sell overpriced goods. Therefore, always keep a water bottle at hand. Buy a Kawaii or Anime-themed bottle so you can show it off to your friends.

7. Personal hygiene

Personal hygiene

Conventions can be stuffy and overcrowded. They are mostly held indoors in huge conference halls. Even with the best ventilation and air conditioning, the place can start to heat up. Therefore, our advice is that you come prepared and stay fresh. Take a shower before going to the convention and be sure to pack some deodorant for the trip.

8. Protect your health

This point cannot be stressed enough, especially given the current times. Like we said previously, Anime conventions can be super-crowded. There are high chances of getting sick. ‘Con flu’ is pretty much a phenomenon at this point.  Therefore, it is essential that you carry a hand sanitizer with you and even wear a face mask if possible.

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9. Stay vigilant constantly

We have already touched upon the topic of safety and how important your comfort is. It is also a great idea to stay vigilant. Anime fandom is a great community and people at conventions are genuinely passionate. However, they are still strangers and you should always be careful. For instance, if you are invited to a post-convention party, be sure to take a friend or two with you.

10. Stay within your budget

Stay within your budget

Anime conventions showcase a lot of temptations. Before you know it, you will end up with an empty wallet. Therefore, some control is essential. Set a budget for yourself. Know that no matter how much you think you don’t need anything, you will end up buying something. Therefore, just set some reasonable limits. If the convention is a multi-day event, then have a daily budget and stick to it.

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  • Icarus