If you’re not there for the dealer’s hall or cosplayers, you’re probably at a convention for the panels or autograph sessions. These events tend to be the pillars around which a convention day is planned since this is where you’ll meet cool guests, hear breaking news, watch experts discuss the goings on of the industry, or possibly even get a quick lesson in art, writing, or something else creative. As anyone who’s been to even a single convention can tell you, there are often more events than you can go to in a single day, and random little things tend to prevent you from keeping to a strict schedule. So, what’s the best way to create a decent schedule that lets you see everything you want to but includes a decent amount of breathing room? Find out below!

You’ve seen them, you’ve gawked at them, and you might have been one yourself. They are an ever-present element at conventions, and their tradition spans back decades. What is this omnipresent force of rubber-necking fury? Why, cosplayers of course. Even if the convention you’re attending takes place in a dull white room with nothing interesting to look at, you’re still probably going to want to take a picture of at least one cosplayer. Sometimes it’s as simple as asking them for a picture, but if you want to be courteous while you snap away, follow these general rules.

The showroom floor is the most chaotic place in any convention. Even though the panels are spread out, most people are concentrated in or immediately around the dealers hall and artists alley since they account for the bulk of the conventions’ floor space. Not only will you have just enough room to shuffle around, you’ll have to maneuver your bag so it doesn’t catch on or hit anybody while scoping out vendor booths and artist tables in quick, jerky glances so you don’t end up running into someone. Navigating the space, deals, and people of the showroom floor can be a hectic experience, but a little preparation and common courtesy will go a long way.

Deciding what to eat might seem as easy as stuffing your bag with your favorite snacks and bringing cash for a few restaurants, but you’d be surprised at how hard it is to keep food costs down and energy levels up. While wandering the halls of a convention is nowhere near as hard as running a twenty-six mile marathon, keeping hydrated and energized are important nonetheless. There will be a lot of shuffling, standing, and walking, so if you don’t do a little bit of planning with food, your experience can turn very sour very fast. The right food will not only save you money, but boost your longevity and keep you active right till bedtime.