Pro Tip - #23

Continuing with the theme of organization, going to the convention, photo shoot, or event and having everything you need is equally important. After all - sharing and showing off your work is one of the best part of the whole costuming and cosplay process!

While I am far from the most organized or timely packer, there's quite a few things I've learned and improved upon in the past 10+ years of con-going. I'm rather famous within my family for packing far too last minute, but I've been fighting against that habit lately to improve not only my organization but to prevent the pitfalls of either leaving things before or over packing. First of all, keeping your costume pieces organized is one of the most important parts of packing - if you know where they are, you know you have everything with you. While starting packing early is usually best, since most cosplayers work on their new outfits until the last minute, managing one's time is usually most imperative. Beyond that, having some sort of system that works for you is best. Several cosplayers store their costume items in hanging bags - from there, you can either carry the hanging bags with you, so your packing is more grab-and-go or you can pack everything into your suitcase. If you do a lot of armor, lots of sturdy rolling bins is key. I know many members of the 501st and Rebel Legion swear by The Container Store to fill their armor storage needs. I know in many instances since I'm rooming with friends, I have to sort out my own arrangements for bedding, so factoring in pillows, blankets, sheets, stuffed animals and an air mattress is often important factored in as well. However, if I'm flying, that either needs to be mailed in advanced, or has to be factored into what I'm taking with me on the plane.

But, to sum all this up, having a good solid packing list and sticking to it is one of biggest things I've found to help with packing and keeping organized. I know there are several generators online, and creating your own is always an option in Excel, Word, or by hand with pin and paper. For something ready made, I have yet to find a better packing list than this one: crazy4comiccon.wordpress.com/2…

I used it for this past Anime Weekend Atlanta and I loved it. I hate I didn't start using it sooner. I think keeping to the advice on the packing list is another big key to making sure everything stays on track for your con - "Bring half of what you think you need, and twice as much money!"