Are you planning on attending a convention and want to make sure you have everything you need? No matter what type of visitor you are or where you’re staying, our gaming event packing list has you covered! Check out our list below or download it here to print it out.
Table of Contents
This article is part of our blog series on gaming conventions. For even more content, be sure to head over here and check out the other blogs!
Normal Visitor (Gamer)
Essentials:
- Convention ticket/badge
- ID and wallet + cash
- Phone and charger/power bank
- Comfortable clothing and shoes
- Reusable water bottle
- Snacks
- Small backpack or bag
- Hand sanitizer, tissues
- Notepad and pen
- (Medicine)
Gaming Gear:
- Handheld gaming device/laptop
- Headphones/earbuds
- Extra batteries or portable charger
- Mouse
Gaming Event Packing List For Cosplayers
Essentials:
- Costume (complete outfit)
- Makeup and applicators
- Sewing or repair kit (glue, safety pins, tape, etc.)
- Comfortable shoes (an extra pair for walking)
- Props (if applicable)
- Wig and wig care supplies
- Extra clothes for changing
Cosplay Gear:
- Costume (complete outfit)
- Makeup and applicators
- Sewing or repair kit (glue, safety pins, tape, etc.)
- Comfortable shoes (an extra pair for walking)
- Props (if applicable)
- Wig and wig care supplies
- Extra clothes for changing
Trade Visitors
Essentials:
- Convention ticket/badge
- ID and wallet + cash
- Phone and charger/power bank
- Comfortable clothing and shoes
- Reusable water bottle
- Snacks
- Small backpack or bag
- Hand sanitizer, tissues
- Notepad and pen
- (Medicine)
Trade Visitor Gear:
- Press Credentials
- Business cards
- Laptop or tablet
- Camera and accessories (extra batteries, memory cards)
- Voice recorder (for interviews)
- Schedule of appointments/interviews
- External hard drive or USB stick
Aspiring developers
Essentials:
- Convention ticket/badge
- ID and wallet + cash
- Phone and charger/power bank
- Comfortable clothing and shoes
- Reusable water bottle
- Snacks
- Small backpack or bag
- Hand sanitizer, tissues
- Notepad and pen
- (Medicine)
Special Gear:
- (Business cards)
- Resume (printed and digital)
- Laptop or tablet (with portfolio)
- External hard drive or USB stick
- Schedule of panels and workshops
- (Books or reference materials on game development)
- Networking materials (LinkedIn profile ready, etc.)
💡 Tip: Check out our networking guide for tips and tricks on networking at gaming events!
Staying at a Hotel
- Hotel reservation confirmation
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, soap, etc.)
- Extra outfits and underwear
- Pajamas
- Chargers for all devices
- Personal medications
- Entertainment for downtime (books, tablet, etc.)
Camping
- Tent and sleeping bag
- Camping stove and fuel
- Cooking utensils and food
- Camping lantern or flashlight
- Extra batteries
- Portable chair
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)
- Personal medications
- Cooler with ice packs
💡 Tip: Our Convention Survival Guide covers everything you need to know about attending a gaming convention!
Additional Tips
General:
- Check the weather and pack accordingly.
- Plan and download the convention map and schedule.
- Wear comfortable shoes; you will walk a lot.
- Stay hydrated and take breaks.
- Check out our blog on the biggest gaming events and learn more about what to expect there.
For Cosplayers:
- Be mindful of the convention’s rules regarding props and costumes.
- Bring extra cash for emergency repairs.
For Journalists and Developers:
- Network actively and follow up with contacts.
- Attend relevant panels and workshops to gain insights and knowledge.