Planning Your Trip - The Convention Bag

 

So, you're off to Celebration! Like any convention, Star Wars Celebration is a melting pot of fans and creatives from all around the world. There's so much to see and do, and you'll likely be on the go for most of your time there, so a good convention bag with all your essentials is a must!

Like with your main packing list, everyone will be different so this guide is to just to help pick out the essentials that most people will need whilst exploring the convention center in Anaheim.

The Essentials

If you want to take the bare minimum, you won't need a bag at all, just these few essentials to get you through your day.

Celebration Badge & Lanyard

Your ticket to the galaxy. You'll be wearing this every moment you're at Celebration.

Wallet

Even if you don't plan on spending anything at Celebration, the chances are you will. Plus it never hurts to have ID on you (which you'll need if collecting badges at Will Call), money for any emergencies, or just grabbing a bite to eat.

Phone

Your phone is THE essential piece of your Celebration kit. With the introduction of the panel reservation system and Lightspeed Lane store access last Celebration, your phone is now your gateway to the galaxy via the Celebration app. On top of all the official app features, for most people your phone will be your main camera (and video camera), and the best way to stay connected at Celebration. Whether it's connecting with new friends or arranging meetings with old ones, checking your schedule or keeping an eye on social media for any unexpected surprises, your phone is your key to staying in the Celebration loop. Plus you can check out the latest panels on the live stream whilst you're waiting in line.

In terms of absolute essentials, that's it. With your badge round your neck, your wallet and phone in your pocket, or maybe a practical pouch on your cosplay, you have everything you need to enjoy a day of panels and taking in the show floor.

But let's be real. Most people are going to need to carry a little bit more with them. And here's all your Con essentials.

The Convention Bag

Convention Bag

Whether it's a backpack or a tote bag, a good bag is your friend at any major convention and Celebration is no exception. Which you choose is really down to personal preference. I took my Celebration Europe tote bag to Chicago and found it to be a great size for the free posters that are often given away at some of the major panels, but not ideal for some of the bulkier merch I bought so you can also switch it up depending on what you expect to be carrying each day. As long as it's a good size, comfortable, and secure you'll be good. If you're not planning on picking up any art/posters or buying lots of stuff in the store then you could always go with a smaller backpack as well.

Power Packs & Charge Cables

THE essential item of your convention bag. If you take only one extra item besides the essentials then this is it. Whether you take a couple of smaller chargers or a monster powerful enough to charge your phone, lightsaber, and Switch with juice to spare is up to you, but you should definitely take at least one good charger with you. The last thing you want is your phone dying when you're taking pictures or before you get a chance to scan your lottery winning barcode at the Funko booth. Take a charger and keep your phone topped up if it starts getting low. If you aren't recording or taking photos during a panel, use that time to recharge.

Drinks & Snacks

Convention center food is expensive and Celebration is packed with things to do. So that's already two great reasons to take your own snacks and eat on the go. Plus, it'll likely be a healthier option. You won't realise it at the time but you'll be clocking up a fair few miles as you check out all that Celebration has to offer, so you're going to build up an appetite. Eating well (eating at all!) will keep your energy up and make your Celebration more enjoyable. Same for drinks. Staying hydrated is important at any major convention and Celebration is no exception, take a refillable water bottle and top up whenever you get the chance.

Hand Sanitizers/Hand Wipes

Con crud is real and stinks more than bantha poodoo. And, as much as we might wish otherwise, Covid-19 is still here. Take some sanitizer or hand wipes, it's a simple thing that helps keep the germs at bay and keeps you healthy during and after Celebration.

Itinerary & Map

Like with Chicago I plan on putting together a full itinerary including everything from major panels to fan meet ups once they are announced that can be easily customised to to make your own schedule. And the free guide given away at Celebration should include a panel schedule and map as well. I just find that it never hurts to have easy access to a hard copy of your itinerary and the map. Yes, you can get them on your phone, but if reception is bad or your battery dies (you did pack that power pack, right?) you'll be grateful of having a paper copy in your bag. Plus, maybe it's just me, but there's something satisfying about highlighting the stuff I want to do and making notes all over the schedule.

Notepad & Pen/Sharpies

You probably won't use these much yourself, but you never know who you might run into on the show floor!

Deodorant

You should have room in your bag for a small can of deodorant. Sure, you put it on in the morning but there's going to be over 70,000 people on the show floor and you'll be walking all day. It never hurts to have the option to freshen up if you need it. 

On top of these every day essentials, there are things that will be essential depending on your plans for the day.

Day Specific Items

Poster Tube/Poster Sleeves

If you're attending a panel where they might give out a free poster, or if you're planning on picking up some of the amazing prints from the Art Show then you'll want one of these. It's a horrible feeling to get back to you room and find your beautiful new art has been messed up in your bag because it wasn't protected. The tubes are great for anything that can be rolled but I found the hard sleeve best for the thicker posters they gave out for The Mandalorian, The Clone Wars and Jedi: Fallen Order. If you can, plan to pick up all your art on the same day as it will save you carrying the tube/sleeves on other days.

Photo Sleeves

The same goes for any photo ops or autographs you're getting. Make sure you protect them as they're a once in a lifetime memory. And again, if you can get most of these on one day it saves you having to carry the sleeves all convention, though the smaller size of photo sleeves makes this less essential.

Cosplay Repair Kit

I'm sure most cosplayers don't need reminding of this one. There's nothing worse than a costume malfunction in the middle of a con. Whether it's a mini sewing kit, safety pins, or gorilla glue, a little repair kit can go a long way in a cosplay emergency.

So there it is, the essentials for your Celebration bag along with some day specific items that can really help make your Celebration easier.

And just in case that isn't comprehensive enough here's a few more (not quite as essential) items to keep in mind:

Tablet/Laptop/Camera/Video Camera - for when you phone isn't sufficient for your needs

Headphones - great for listening to music whilst in line

Mints - always good for keeping your breath fresh

May the Force be with you.