We are T-13 days away from San Diego Comic and I can't wait! This will be my fourth year going in a row. Over the years I have learned some things and thought I would share them. Whether you are going this year or not, many of these things can be used for other conventions & festivals.
My first San Diego Comic Con...
I, like many others, had gotten tickets to San Diego Comic Con (and BookCon) for 2020. It was going to be my first time attending SDCC (and second for BookCon). It was unfortunately cancelled. Since then, I have attended SDCC each year. The first ended up being a shorter (3 day) SDCC over Black Friday weekend. While it was fun and I enjoyed it, it was nothing like I was expecting nor what SDCC normally is. The following year it was still not back to normal. Then 2023 the writers and actors were on strike, causing SDCC to cancel many appearances and panels. That all being said, from the sounds and looks of it, this year's comic con should be mostly back to normal. Why mostly? There are still multiple vendors that have not returned such as Sideshow, Netflix, BBC, and a few others. However, everything else is looking extremely promising.
Where's the schedule?
The panel and signing schedule's do not typically get released until 1-2 weeks prior to the event. Typically, roughly two weeks prior, each day more will be announced until by one week out everything, or almost everything, will be posted. That being said, various companies do post their schedules earlier. Such as Tor books, they posted their schedule for panels & signings almost two weeks ago. Penguin Random House posted their panel, signing, and giveaway schedule a few days ago. But they are not the only ones. If you are looking for all the latest announcements, I highly recommend checking out the unofficial SDCC blog: https://sdccblog.com/
As of today, Thursday July 11, the Wednesday & Thursday schedules are live and available for viewing! Most likely tomorrow they will post Fridays, and Saturday - Saturdays schedule, Sunday - Sunday's schedule. You get the picture.
For many of the Author signings make sure you check out Mysterious Galaxy's Instagram/website (). They will likely be posting the schedule the beginning of next week. Likewise, make sure you check out all the different comic stores attending + companies for their in-booth signings. The best way to see all the most up to date schedules is the unofficial SDCC blog, linked above.
How to pack for Comic Con: Book Edition (Getting to SDCC)
Not everyone is as crazy as me, and that's a good thing! However, I map out all the authors attending and make sure to bring any books by them to get signed. My record was last year (2022) when I brought 101 books with me to SDCC. Did I get them signed? Yes, yes I did! I got all of them signed, and of course bought even more, and received multiple free books. I came home with over 150 books, it was madness. But that leads to the question of how on earth to you pack for this event?
Personally, I am very fortunate to live close enough to drive. So, for me, I pack all my books into boxes and take them with me. I unload them in my hotel room and organize them based on which day I will be taking them to get signed.
For those who don't drive and instead fly - If you have a friend local to the area ship your books ahead of time via Media Mail. Media Mail is a less expensive (and slower) shipping method in the US designed specifically to ship educational material such as books. You can also use this method to get them home.
If you are unable to ship them, then suitcases it is. I recommend packing as many as you can in a backpack or two / carry on suitcases. That way you won't have to pay for checked bags as they would likely be overweight.
How to pack for Comic Con: Book Edition (Attending SDCC)
Typically, SDCC does not allow carts with wheels. At least that is what I have always been told. However, the past few years they are not strict on enforcing this rule. As long as it is not excessively large you should be okay to bring a small/medium cart. However, the best and safest option is to take a backpack and use tote bags. Alternatively, you can bring a suitcase or cart and check the bag in in the lobby. Then take the books with you to get signed and swap them out during the day.
When is the best time to shop?
First thing in the morning Thursday or Wednesday at preview night if you have a ticket. This is especially true if you are wanting an exclusive or limited-edition item. Otherwise, the next best time to shop is Sunday afternoon. Many vendors, in order to not take stock home, will start having massive deals/sales. You can score things for 50% off, buy 1 get 2 FREE, and sometimes it's all FREE at the very end of Sunday!
Want more tips, advise, and suggestions?
Let me know any specific questions you might have below, and I will be sure to answer them in next week's post!
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