10 Surprising Truths No One Tells You About Anime Conventions

Anime Convention Secrets: 10 Things Veterans Know and You Don't

So, you're thinking of going to your first anime convention. You’ve seen the TikToks, the cosplay reels, and maybe you’ve even fantasized about spotting your anime crush IRL. But what happens after you buy your badge and start planning your lineup?

Here’s the deal: anime cons are wild, weird, and wonderful—but they come with a few unexpected twists that no one really talks about. Until now.

These are 10 things NO ONE TELLS YOU about anime conventions (but definitely should).

1. You Can Cosplay Anything—or Nothing at All

You don’t have to be in a perfect Genshin Impact cosplay or rock some obscure anime from 1997 to fit in. Honestly? You don’t even have to cosplay.

You can show up as:

• A Marvel character
• A D&D OC
• A full-on Furby
• A casual hoodie-wearer just vibing

Anime conventions aren’t just about anime. They're nerd hubs for video games, Western comics, movies, memes, and everything in between. You do you, and no one will blink twice.

2. People Stink (and You Might Too)

Let’s just be real. Con funk is real.

Between packed panel rooms, tight vendor halls, heavy cosplay, and bodies constantly moving—there’s a lot of sweat. Some people are just... unaware of how bad they smell.

Our advice:

• Shower daily (yes, daily)
• Pack travel-size deodorant
• If you’re cosplaying, bring a backup shirt or Febreze spray
• No shame in a midday rinse

If you think you don’t stink, you might just be nose blind. Trust us on this one.

3. Artist Alley Is the REAL Treasure Hunt

Dealer’s rooms are fun the first few times—plushies, figures, wall scrolls galore. But they start to blend together, and you’ll often find the same stuff online for cheaper.

The real magic? Artist Alley. Here’s why:

• One-of-a-kind prints, stickers, zines, and keychains
• Fan art you won’t find anywhere else
• Original merch from indie creators
• Supporting small artists > buying mass-produced figures

Pro tip: bring cash and scope out the artist alley first before spending all your money at big vendor booths.

4. Those Expensive Figures? Probably Crane Game Prizes

Ever see a cool anime figure in the dealer’s room and think, “I need that”? Hold up.

Many vendors sell crane game prizes from Japan (legit ones, but still). These are:

• Lower in quality
• Designed to be won in arcades for cheap
• Marked up massively at cons

If you're not picky, that's fine! But know what you're buying—and maybe do a quick Amazon or eBay price check before dropping $40 on a prize you could've won in Tokyo for $8.

5. Staff Often Have No Idea What's Happening

We love con volunteers. They’re essential. But let’s not pretend like they always know what’s going on.

The truth is:

• Many are assigned very specific tasks (badge scanning, line management)
• Communication from upper con staff is often... lacking
• If you ask a random staffer for panel room changes or press details, they may actually have no idea

Be patient. Keep walking and asking around. Sometimes your best bet is checking the con’s official Discord or social media for updates.

6.  There Are Creeps—Especially Behind Cameras

Anime cons are full of good vibes—but they're not magically free of weirdos.

Yes, there are:

• Inappropriate comments
• People taking photos without consent
• Creepy photographers pretending to be “professional” for access

And sadly, a lot of these creeps hide behind cameras and press passes. Always trust your gut. If someone makes you uncomfortable, walk away or ask for help. Consent always matters—even if you’re in cosplay.

7. Size Really Matters (When It Comes to Cons)

Not all anime cons are created equal.

Large cons (20k+ people):

• More guests, panels, events
  – Long lines, higher costs, and way more overstimulation

Small cons (<5k):

• Chill vibes, easier to make friends, low stress
  – Fewer guests and events

Mid-size cons (5k–20k):
🔑 The sweet spot
Enough to be exciting, but not so big that you’re sweating through your cosplay just trying to get to Artist Alley.

8. Hidden Costs Add Up QUICK

You budgeted for your badge. Great. But here’s what no one tells you:

You’ll also be paying for:

• Hotel (and taxes + resort fees)
• Parking (especially in downtown areas)
• Food (con food is overpriced, btw)
• Ubers or public transit if you're offsite
• Afterparties, drinks, and of course—merch!

Bring extra cash. Seriously. Anime cons will eat your wallet alive if you're not prepared.

9. Nightlife Gets... Spicy

Anime cons don’t shut down at 6PM. They morph.

At night you’ll find:

• Raves and DJ sets
• 18+ panels (some funny, some 🔥spicy🔥)
• People drinking, partying, and sometimes cosplaying in much less clothing

It’s all in good fun, but just know: the vibe shifts hard at night. Be safe, stay hydrated, and make sure you’re with a group you trust.

10. There's Way More to Do Than You Think

Shopping and panels? Cool. But that’s not even half of what cons offer.

Ever tried:

• Foam weapon battles in the hallway?
• Maid cafés and host cafés?
• Video game free-play rooms?
• Karaoke contests or live music shows?
• Speed dating or tabletop RPGs?

Even if you’re not into cosplay or panels, you’ll find something you vibe with. Just be open and willing to explore!

Anime conventions are magical chaos wrapped in a cosplay-covered fever dream—and if you go in prepared, they can be some of the most memorable weekends of your life.

So cosplay or don’t. Shower (please). Look out for red flags. And most importantly—have fun and stay weird.

For more con tips, geeky goodness, and cosplay chaos, keep it locked right here at Land of Geek Magazine—your ultimate guide to nerd life, one con at a time.

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