You can register for your Member ID by filling out a short form online. [2] X Research source Having a Member ID does not guarantee you an event badge.

The exact dates of the event (as well as time window for badge sales) change every year. Check the Comic Con website for more info on when press badges and passes for other organizations open up for purchase.

Passes are sold in two phases: pre-registration and open registration. Pre-registration gives last year’s attendees an opportunity to buy their badges before anyone else, while the rest will have to wait for open registration. [5] X Research source For the sake of fairness, badges are usually handed out to registered users in random order. However, once they’re gone, they’re gone.

As of 2017, badges for each of the main days cost $63 for adults ($31 for children and seniors), with a reduced price of $45 for Sunday and preview night on Wednesday ($21 for children, $23 for seniors). [7] X Research source

During the three day event, some hotels only accept reservations via a lottery system in order to give attendees an equal shot. Unless you’re willing to take your chances, it may be a good idea to spread out your search. [9] X Research source

If you find a location that suits your needs and price range, put your name down without delay. You can always cancel later if you need to, but there will no way to guarantee that another spot will open up if you hesitate. Services like Travelocity, Priceline, and Hotels. com make it easy to compare rooms, amenities, and prices and book a hotel online. [11] X Research source

Chances are you won’t be the only one with this idea, so be sure to act fast before the best locations get snatched up.

To keep things simple, book the room under one person’s name. Everyone else can then pay them back individually. You may have to fight over who ends up sleeping on the couch, but you’ll probably be surprised how much money you can save by divvying things up.

Ask the person you’re staying with for a list of a few of the best places to eat, shop, and enjoy the nightlife in their neck of the woods.

If you’re planning on getting a loaner, you’ll need to be able to present a valid driver’s license, proof of insurance and enough spare cash for a security deposit. Use a city map or the GPS on your phone to familiarize yourself with the area where you’re staying.

An overnight parking garage may be another option. Before leaving your car, however, make sure you’re clear on the garage’s parking policies to avoid being fined or towed.

The biggest upside of public transportation is that it’s inexpensive, which means you’ll have more money to spend on souvenirs from the convention. No matter how you choose to commute, you’ll be crammed in with lots of other people, so be prepared to get up close and personal.

Keep in mind that driver rates might be higher due to increased demand. [19] X Research source To avoid going bankrupt, save services like Uber for emergencies and times when you’re in a rush.

Even if you have other transportation lined up, walking short distances whenever possible (like to and from restaurants, convenience stores, and area attractions) can save you a lot of time and frustration.

Use the “My Schedule” feature on the Comic Con website to see what the convention has in store and pick out the exhibits that you’re most excited about. Don’t be too bummed if you fail to scratch off one or two of the items on your list. There’s no way anyone can see it all. Besides, your attendance qualifies you for advance pre-registration to next year’s convention!

Comic Con badges usually come affixed to lanyards, so it’s a good idea to slip it around your neck or secure it to another part of your wardrobe to keep it in plain sight. Whatever you do, don’t lose your badge! If it’s misplaced or stolen, you won’t be allowed back into the convention.

Bring along a backpack stocked with anything you think you might need while you’re on the floor. [23] X Research source If you’re decked out in an elaborate costume, make sure it’s something that doesn’t interfere with your breathing or restrict your range of motion too much (and allows you to go to the bathroom!).

Any costumes you plan on wearing should be appropriate for all ages. They’ll need to be approved by event security before you’re allowed in. [25] X Research source If you’re going with friends, get everybody in on the fun by coordinating a group costume. For example, you could all go as different Batman villains or alien races from the Star Wars franchise.

Most of the major screenings are scheduled for Friday and Saturday, which are the busiest days of the convention. [27] X Research source Look over your event schedule and decide what you want to see in advance to avoid time conflicts.

Every year, Comic Con hosts hundreds of different exhibitors from every corner of the entertainment world, including movies, video games, toys, tech, and, of course, comic books. For a complete listing of presenters for the next year’s convention, head to the Exhibitor section of the Comic Con website, or download a printable brochure. [29] X Research source

Don’t forget to grab an autograph so you’ll have something to show your friends back home!