Geek Thrift

Later this month at GMX (Geek Media Expo) I'll be hosting 5 panels, including "GMX on a Budget", so I made a little video specifically for GMX, and thought I'd do an accompanying blog posts with some tips on saving money at fan cons (short for conventions) in general.

1.) Register Early

Registering early when possible will allow you to take advantage of discounts for con admission and room block deals, which are common with most large and mid size cons.

2.) Share Rides and Rooms

Carpooling and splitting a hotel room is a great way to keep costs down. It's best to start with people you know and trust, but you may be able to find roommates and carpools through online groups and forums. Follow some common sense safety steps if you take this route, get to know the person(s) you're considering splitting a room with as well as possible before hand. Get references if possible, be specific about who's handling the money and how, and listen to your gut. I've shared a room with girls/women I had not met offline before, but we were all part of a long running club/mailing list of people who were regular con goers...and the group added a layer of accountability.

3.) Scout the local area online before you go

At most cons, there's really not much need to leave the main hotel or convention area during the con, but being familiar with the area can help you know what your cheapest food options will be and where to go in emergency. In some cases, it may be more practical to mail certain purchases home rather than try to pass them through airport security.

4.) Avoid Restaurants but remember to eat

Con schedules can be very full, and there's a temptation to skip meals so you won't miss anything. It's okay to skip meals as long as you snack smart. Pack things like meal bars and trail mix that will supply the protein, vitamins, and calories you need while fitting neatly in your bag. Reusable water bottles are a good idea (some even come with filters now), or at the very least locate available water fountains and dispensers. It's more important to stay hydrated than fed. If you drive, pack a cooler. If you're staying at a hotel call ahead to see if you'll have a microwave, mini-fridge, or coffee pot available.

To illustrate, the average restaurant meal will cost $10 - $20, while packing meals will probably average $1-$3 per meal. Over 3 days, that could make a difference of $63 to $171.

There's no rule that says you can't mix it up. Pre-pack two meals and enjoy a restaurant in the evening, but I figure you can eat out any time...I'd rather save money for con activities and swag.

5.) Avoid the Dealer Room

If you're on a really tight budget, I'd advise avoiding the dealer room all together. You can still enjoy the con without it.

6.) or at least plan for it....

Most other expenses at the con admission/hotel/travel will be fairly fixed by the time you get there. Where most people go overboard is on all the really cool stuff you can find from dealers. You can help control your spending by creating a pre-set limit, and/or limiting what you'll consider buying. For example, this year only things I'll consider is an umbrella or a very well priced wig for a specific costume. Make use of our 5 Questions to avoid buyers regret.

7.) Volunteer

Most cons are staffed mainly by volunteers.  While specifics vary by con, most of them give you free admission for X number of hours worked.  Volunteers may enjoy other perks like behind the scenes moments, closer access to celebs, and additions to their resume.

8.) Over Budget for the unexpected

If I think a con is going to cost me $200, I try to budget $400 for the trip.  This doesn't mean I will spend $400.  But I like having some extra built in to deal with the unexpected.  For instance, one of your roommates bails last minute, or you get a flat tire.  It may be a pleasant surprise, rather than a negative one.  That collectors doll you've been seeking for the past ten years is available at one of the dealer tables, or you get invited to lunch with your favorite writer.  I've taken $200 in spending money with me, only to spend $10 and come home quite happy.

9.) Consider Special Events

Most events at most cons are included with admission, but there may be a special banquet, show, class, or contest that cost extra.  If you'd like to participate don't forget to included that cost in your budget.  You may need to buy tickets seperately or in advance for these.

(Still relearning video production, but I think this is an improvement.)