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Book Convention Essentials
15
items My expert opinion after attending 1 book convention. Are they required? No. Did they make my experience better? 100%
Sections
2
Absolute Essentials
Not so essential essentials
Absolute Essentials
These are things I would absolutely recommend bringing to make for a more pleasant experience.
Great for your back. Horrible for your wallet because it fits too many books.
Foldable Utility Cart with Magnetic Lid, 360° Wheels, 176LBS Capacity
Book plates! They take up less room than books and are easier to travel with.
Clear Labels for Book Plates
Book sleeves are great for protecting your books. Charlie Fox and Co are my favorites. Bubble wrap sleeves also work. Gallon ziplock bags can too. Use what you got. Events are expensive.
Book sleeves
You’ll want these to mark books as well as notate who signed what bookplates. Some signatures are hard to read, so marking your book plates can be helpful.
Sticky Notes
Great for art prints, book marks, trades, etc. Keeps things safe and organized
JOBVERT 2Pcs Clear Hard Shell Zipper Case
People generate a lot of heat. You’ll thank me later when you’re able to cool off.
Stroller Fan
Any organizer you can put on your cart is good. This is just the one I bought because of the pockets.
Momcozy Universal Stroller Organizer w/ Cup Holder
The days are long and sometimes the lines are longer.
Anker 621 MagGo 5000mAh Wireless Charger
Any water bottle will work to help you stay hydrated. I’ve seen more and more conventions have water stations, and a water bottle is nice since it can be closed. I personally use an owala.
Water Bottle
Water can taste weird, so flavor packets keep me wanting to drink it. I love drip drop. Liquid IV is also popular.
Drip Drop
People are gross and so is con crud. Hand sanitizer is a must.
Hand Sanitizer
Snacks are another must (for me). Keeping the hanger at bay while surrounded by other people will make the experience better for you and those around you. I highly recommend protein bars, but again whatever you have is fine. I just recommend somethin...
Snacks
Not so essential essentials
Things you could probably get away with not bringing.
I’m not sure if I classify this an essential just yet, but after eating a decently greasy pizza, it was very nice to “brush” my teeth after. Gum might give the same effect, but I felt this was better than gum.
Colgate Max Fresh Wisp Disposable Mini Adult Manual Travel Toothbrushes, Peppermint, 24 Count
Absolutely necessary for everyone? No. Necessary for someone like me who always likes to be snacking on something? Yes. Helps keep my mind occupied as well.
Orbit Gum Sweet Mint Sugar Free Chewing Gum, Single Pack - 14 Pieces
Are these necessary? Probably not. If you have a specific color you want an author to use, I would recommend bringing your own.
Sharpie