Few of us have the luxury to live close to the con (even some of the staff!) and thus travel and commute becomes a necessity. But travel doesn't have to be bad. With a little pre-planning and initiative, a convention trip can go as smooth as the con itself.

Below are some tips to help make your entire convention experience a breeze!

• Pre-Register - Pre-registering for the convention will both save you money and time by offering you a cheaper rate and helping avoid long lines at the con.
• Plan Ahead - Plan ahead, consider travel and commute times. The longer you postpone tickets for air travel the higher the costs. If driving, especially carpooling, be sure and plan ahead for stops, food and other amenities.
• Crash Space - Stay in the con hotel and book your hotel in advance! Even if you're in the Newark vicinity communing to a convention can be dangerous (especially if out partying) and time consming, especially given the Newark traffic.
  
  Convention hotels tends to fill up fast, so be sure and book your room as soon as possible!
• Identification - Always bring proper ID when travelling (state ID, driver's license, passport, etc.). It can come in vital, and you never know when it will come in handy. Plus, it's a requirement for picking up your registration at the convention! Without proper ID we can't issue your conbadge and goodies!
• If Driving - Be sure and have your car's oil and tire pressure checked before making long trips. It can help cut down unforeseen incidents, and as an added bonus, may help boost gas mileage, offering savings over long commutes.
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  If Flying/Taking the Train - If travelling in groups, designate one person as a ticket holder and keep them in a safe place. Also, remember to keep your luggage close by at all times!
  
• Money - While we generally advise against carrying large amounts of money, it's a good idea to hit an ATM before reaching the con. It will not only save you time, but will ensure you've got money when you need it. ATMs tend to get slammed at cons, and may break down or, in rare instances, completely run out of money.
  
  Also, be sure and have small bills on hand. The Dealers will love you.
• Clothes - Be sure and pack accordingly. If you're going on a three day trip plan for four. You never know when something unforseen may come up (a spill, a tear, flight delays) and an extra shirt or pair of pants will come in handy.
• Toiletries - Be sure and bring propery personal affects such as soap, shampoo, soap, a toothbrush, soap, toothpaste, soap, deoderant, soap and other important cleaning items.

Have a convention tip you'd like to share? E-mail dragoneer@faunited.org and share your con tips today!