Before the convention:

1. Print out all your tickets and confirmations
This includes pre-registration tickets, hotel reservations, moonlight ball tickets etc..

2. Pack your chargers and memory cards
Make sure you have everything you need for your cell phone, iPod, camera, laptops, etc.. Bring your 3DS to rake up hundreds of street passes

3. Wear comfortable shoes
Title says it all. You’ll be doing A LOT of walking. If you’re cosplaying, bring an alternate pair of shoes that you can slip into once your feet start aching.

4. Money!
If possible, stop and get cash BEFORE coming to the convention. You’ll want to avoid ATM’s at the convention. The line-ups are huge D: (heads up: DVD’s and figurines can get pretty expensive so make sure you have enough for all your expenses at the con! This way you won’t have to starve because you couldn’t part without that Axel PVC figure!)

5. Take a comfortable/light bag with you
Have a bag with you to carry all your personal items and, later, your purchases.

6. PACK WATER
STAY HYDRATED! Always have a water bottle on you. You’ll be surrounded by 20K people in hot weather (usually in the high 20’s °C)

7. Pack snacks
Most of the food options near the convention will have long lines. You can spend more time at the con if you pack some of your own snacks.

8. Research your food options before heading to the con
Look up their locations, menu, etc.. Plan where you wish to eat for breakfast, lunch, and dinner!

9. Have a look at the convention’s website in advance
Take note of the events/people you don’t want to miss.

10. Once you get it, DON’T FORGET YOUR BADGE.
You’ll need to have this on you at all times. You won’t be allowed into panels, events/activities, or the dealer’s room without it!

11. Plan to show up early for registration

Friday – starts at 1pm
Saturday – starts at 9am
Sunday – starts at 9:30am
If you’ve pre-registered you can also pick up your pass on Thursday between 5pm-9pm

At the convention:

1. DRINK WATER! KEEP HYDRATED!
You should have a water bottle on you. You'll also find water stations set up everywhere around and inside the convention. YOU HAVE NO EXCUSE!

2. Read the Con guide
You’ll receive an information booklet with your badge at registration. It’ll contain the con rules and a detailed schedule of events. With a pen or highlighter, mark anything that catches your interest: games, panels, workshops, contests, band performances, dances, autograph sessions, and anime screenings.

3. Be mindful of your (and other’s) cosplay wigs, long trailing bits, and props in crowded spots
Try not to jab or hurt anyone with your cosplay and keep a look out yourself. Avoid stepping on someone’s cosplay.

4. Keep checking your phone regularly
You will not hear your phone most of the time! Always check your messages in case someone is trying to get a hold of you!

5. Bus and Transport between Venues
A convention shuttle service will run between the Toronto Congress Center, Doubletree Hotel and the Sheraton Hotel (see pocket program for times). There will be a special shuttle Friday night only to the Marriott Hotel for use by attendees of the Moonlight Ball.

6. Don’t be afraid to split up.
Don’t feel pressured to spend every min with your group of friends. It’s fine to go off to explore on your own or in pairs if you’re part of a large group. No matter how much you and your friends have in common, you won’t all want to do the same thing all of the time!

7. Don't spend the entire time at con doing the same thing.
Don’t just stay in the dealers room shopping or watch anime all day.

8. Take short breaks to do nothing. Just sit back and relax for bit.

9. Don’t wear heavy/thick cosplays or masks at any of the dances.

10. Line up early for big-name events.
Band performances, cosplay/voice/ AMV contests, and awards ceremonies. Get there early to grab a seat!

11. TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF!
Remember to eat, sleep, DRINK WATER, shower, and brush your teeth!