There is less than two months until MegaCon Orlando 2023, which means it's past time to get started planning your experience. Unlike any other convention in Florida, MegaCon Orlando needs some advance planning and thinking to maximize your fun (and avoid unnecessary inconveniences).
Florida Comic Cons and Florida Cosplay Digital Magazine teamed up to interview 7 cosplayers of various ages and levels of cosplay experience to chime in on the best way to prepare for the massive entertainment event in Orlando on March 30-April 2. Part 1 of the interviews are in the Florida Comic Cons blog '5 Tips to Prepare for MegaCon Orlando 2023.' And here is Part 2 that includes 5 more preparation tips.
tip #6: test your weapons and props
For those attending with weapons and props, the cosplayers we interviewed recommended testing at home before getting to the con. "Part of my prep is always to make sure all my weapons and props are not broken in any way and are functioning properly," said Tampa cosplayer @kdiddy3300, who has attended the event more than one dozen times.
In addition, if you've never attended a convention before, there is a weapons and prop check at the door where staff inspect your gear and mark it as safe. And note, it can take extra time to enter so plan accordingly.
tip #7: Choose your cosplay based on MegaCon celebrity guests
Celebrity guests are an enormous part of MegaCon Orlando, which offers both a large number and a wide range of stars for fans (here is the list for this year's MegaCon guests, The list of celebrities includes actors, voice actors, comic creators, cosplayers, tattoo artists, and authors. Tampa cosplayer @RickLegendary1, who has attended MegaCon Orlando five times, reviews the guest list to determine his cosplay. "I check the guest list for characters of my regular cosplays, which can include a character teammate or adversary," he said. And once he decides on the character and cosplay, he starts his research to make sure every detail is accurate. "I make changes and touch up anything needed to get it perfect," he added.
megacon 2022 coverage
Never been to MegaCon Orlando? Or perhaps you've been, but didn't make it last year. Florida Comic Cons has you covered! Check out blogs from from the news site about MegaCon Orlando 2022.
megacon 2021 coverage
That's right, Florida Comic Cons has MegaCon Orlando coverage from 2021, too. Check out the blogs!
tip #8: bring extra cash
Internet connectivity is always an issue at conventions (or any large gathering at a convention center). There are so many people trying to connect -- from vendors with credit card transactions to attendees with social media posts -- that online transactions can be slow or interrupted. In addition, ATM lines can be long. But @AmazonCosplayer is here with a solution. "I always bring extra cash because I know I will need it," she said.
tip #9: bring extra cosplay repair supplies
It's an unfortunate situation when a talented cosplayer with a great costume is walking the aisles of a convention only to find out there is a small tear or smear or other imperfection in need of repair. "I always bring extra cosplay repair supplies and tools," said @AmazonCosplayer.
Also, many conventions have a cosplay repair station that has the basics like a glue gun, foam, and tape. And often these stations are staffed by experienced cosplayers who are willing to help!
Need help finding the best conventions in Florida?
Florida Comic Cons has the Con Calendar, a curated calendar of the best comic, anime, horror, and other pop-culture conventions to keep you, the fandom, informed and apprised (you’re welcome).
tip #10: have your social media qr code handy
Many cosplayers view conventions as a way to meet more of their kind. And a common challenge is being able to easily connect with others while navigating the crowds in what may be a clunky costume. New Port Richey cosplayer @CaptainSebSparrow shares his solution. "I make sure I have my social media QR code card, which allows me to tap on someone’s phone and connect within seconds, very handy," he said
bonus tip: stay hydrated and eat
Nearly all of the cosplayers mentioned this bonus tip: Drink water or otherwise stay hydrated, and eat -- which means don't skip breakfast and don't forget to eat lunch. "Remember is to stay hydrated and get food to eat to give you the energy to travel through the seas of cosplayers," said @CaptainSebSparrow. And as an editor's note, MegaCon Orlando is so fun it's easy to lose track of when you had your last meal or bottle of water.
Florida Cosplay Digital Magazine is published by Florida Comic Cons, a news site that covers comic, anime, horror, sci-fi, and pop culture conventions in The Sunshine State. Follow Florida Comic Cons on Instagram and Facebook.