San Diego Comic-Con can be an overwhelming experience. Not just for beginners, mind you; but also for seasoned convention veterans. From our experience, we’re not kidding when we say it takes a few repeat visits to really understand what to do, when to do it and how to do it like a pro.
If you read us daily, you’re likely up to date on the big panels, exclusives, and outdoor sites you’ll see in San Diego this year. But there’s so much more to learn, from where to get your badges to where to eat well (and cheaply) to getting all that exclusive and exclusive merchandise home and more.
But that’s why we’re here to help. We’ve covered all that and more essential information to get the most out of your visit to SDCC and to make it easier for you, we’ve started this page with tips, guides, recommendations and other great stuff that our team has gathered over the years. So sit back, grab your favorite drink and get ready to soak up the knowledge. You’ll thank us after SDCC is over, we assure you.
Where to Start
- San Diego Comic-Con FAQ – A great resource for those new to the scene
- One of the best ways to stay up to date during Comic-Con is to check Twitter for information, news and announcements as they happen. Not only should you keep an eye on us (@SD_Comic_Con) and #SDCC hashtag, but there are also some key accounts to follow. We’ve documented them below, along with a convenient list of each to follow with a single click.
- San Diego Comic-Con 2024 Open Registration Visual Guide – Before planning what to do at SDCC, you need to know how to get a badge. We walk you through the Open Registration process for 2019.
- SDCC FAQ – What is Group Buying? – We explain the most prominent “tool” in your arsenal in trying to score a badge.
- Where to line up… – You’ve made the decision to line up early at Comic-Con (and good choice!). But which line should you be on?
- San Diego Comic-Con Room Capacities – A guide to how many people each room can hold.
- How to get the most out of SDCC, solo style – Going to SDCC by yourself? Don’t worry, you’re really not alone and you’ll have a blast.
- Setting Your SDCC Budget – It’s never too late to start saving your pennies for Comic-Con. Read this, start preparing your budget and figure out where to spend your money for the weekend.
- San Diego Comic-Con Packing List – Packing for San Diego Comic-Con, or any convention, can seem like a daunting task. Here are our suggestions.
- What (and How) to Pack for San Diego Comic-Con – We look at not only what items to bring, but also how to make it fit, take it home, and maybe even have room.
- Do you have children in the dormitory? We have some tips.
- Thinking about cosplaying at SDCC this year? Get some tips from the pros.
- Want to take photos of your favorite stars like a pro? Here are some tips from our in-house pro, James Riley of GeekShot Photography (and SDConCast co-host).
- SDCC Prep: Schedules & Spreadsheets – How Do You Stay Organized During Comic-Con? Spreadsheets are your friend.
- Useful Apps During San Diego Comic-Con 2023 – Social media is incredibly important when conning, but these apps will also make your life easier.
- Need a map of the show floor? We have it!
Hotels and getting around
VOLUNTARISM
Volunteering at San Diego Comic-Con is a big deal. Not only do you get to play a role in making SDCC run smoothly for your fellow convention attendees, but you also get some great perks, like an exclusive free t-shirt available only to volunteers. Not to mention, a free badge for the day.
Many people ask us how to prepare for volunteering, and we have a great guest post from a few years ago that gives a first-hand account of volunteering. Check it out and thanks for your contribution to Comic-Con!
Grand Panel Chambers
The biggest panels are held in Hall H and Ballroom 20. If you’re new to SDCC or have never set foot in these famous rooms, here’s what you can expect in each:
VIDEOS
Are you more of a visual person? Then don’t worry because we have the best for that too. Check out some of our videos to help you prepare for Comic-Con:
