things I learned at Toronto FANEXPO 2024

yesterday (sunday aug 25) was my first time going to any expo/con, and I loved it! but I made certain pitfalls I wouldn't wish on anyone. my advice:

1. do NOT wear a binder for a full day in the middle of summer. FUCK (do anything you can to avoid this)
2. bring a backpack. I did this but I didn't think it was 100% necessary. now I do. I do think it is 100% necessary to bring a backpack.
3. wear a mask whenever you can. the sheer amount of snifflers, sneezers, and coughers at cons is much more than I would've originally thought and I'm really lucky I didn't catch anything.
4. BUDGET. HARDCORE. there are so many wonderful Things to buy and you will want to buy all of them. please don't
5. eat food outside of the event (inside food is expensive and kinda crap)
6. plan your time!! I didn't do this and couldn't do everything I wanted to. granted, I only went for one day but everyone benefits from a schedule.
7. familiarize yourself with the venue + travel options. I'm glad I had a friend I would've gotten so lost without them.
8. water. lots of water. if you see a fountain you will fill up your bottle even if you have water left. you understand.