Let’s talk planning!

If you’re a seasoned Comic-Con attendee veteran, you know the lay of the land, but if you’re a newbie—whether a local resident or coming in from somewhere around the country—or the world (we’re not called “International” for nothing!)—there are some basic things you should plan on bringing. Some of these are givens (um … shoes, anyone?), but we’ll mention them anyway, for the sake of completion (you know how us collectors are!). Here’s our list of the top 21 things to consider bringing along; your list may vary.

Top of the list and most important:

Bring Your Badge or Barcode Confirmation!

Most badges were mailed out in advance, however international attendees will have to pick up their badges onsite … make sure you have that confirmation email printed out and bring it along. Click here to see which days and times you can pick up your badge onsite!

Photo ID

(You’ll need your ID—driver’s license, passport, state-issued ID card—in case you’re asked to show it with your badge or to pick up Comic-Con Merch or badges that were not mailed in advance.)

Other Stuff

Autograph materials Get the things you’d like to get signed ready, plus special pens, etc.

Backpack or tote bag Remember: no rolling carts, luggage, dollies, etc., are allowed in the Exhibit Hall; and don’t forget to pick up your free WB Souvenir Bag, along with your free Comic-Con publications and badge lanyard in the Sails Pavilion when you arrive.

Batteries Extra batteries for cameras, etc. plus a rechargeable battery pack for your phone.

Business Cards/Resumes/Portfolio Samples If you’re hoping to do business at Comic-Con, remember those cards, resumes, and samples.

Camera You’ll want to capture that perfect moment, either on your phone or camera … but don’t bring a Selfie Stick! Selfie Sticks and any other device that extends your camera are NOT allowed at Comic-Con!

Cash/Credit Cards There are ATMs at the Convention Center, but sometimes the lines are long.

Comfortable shoes You’re going to be doing a LOT of walking.

Hotel info If you’re staying in a hotel, print out your reservation info and bring it with you.

Maps Bookmark a map on your phone or tablet that shows the area around the Center and/or your hotel. Our updated Official Comic-Con app—coming soon!—will include Convention Center maps, as does our onsite Quick Guide, which exists in both printed form and on this website, about a week before the event!

Refillable water bottle Stay hydrated!

Phone chargers Carry this with you onsite to power up if need be.

Poster tubes, sturdy folders, or art sleeves You can purchase these onsite, but be prepared for any purchases and freebie items you might score.

Shipping materials Boxes, tape, labels to ship stuff home if you’re traveling and you buy a lot! There’s a FedEx shipping center in the Convention Center, plus Post Offices on E Street and in Horton Plaza, between Second and Third Avenues.

Sketchbooks and pens Many artists who do sketches prefer to do them in a book.

Snacks There are plenty of food choices at the Convention Center, but bring snacks to power up: Fruit, nuts, granola bars, trail mix, or jerky to tide you over.

Sunscreen and sunglasses Remember, you’re in SUNNY San Diego!

Sweatshirt, hoodie, sweater, or jacket San Diego in July is sunny and warm, but cool nights and an even cooler Convention Center make this a must-have item.)

Travel info If you’re flying, taking a train, and/or renting a car—some of you may be doing all three!—print out all of your reservation info and put it one place with your hotel and Comic-Con badge info.

Want lists Update your want lists and put them on your smart phone for easy access.

Check back for another Toucan Tip tomorrow here on Toucan, the only OFFICIAL SDCC blog! Bookmark Toucan and the Comic-Con Front Page for the latest updates for Comic-Con International 2018!