$100 may be fine if you just wanna grab a few of the PAX shirts and stuff... once you start adding games, collectable goodies, and hardware, figure at least $250... made this mistake once, and missed out on a quality joystick, and the scarves at PAX east
Is that 250 for the 3 days or for each day?
I do $250 for souviners (all three days total) and then $50 for food (Subway will be your BFF.) Sometimes more and very rarely less than that. There was a year I barely visited the Expo-Hall, so I think I only spent money on food more than anything else.
Oh! It's wise to have at LEAST your debit card (if you have one.) Maybe not at hand--to resist the temptation of buying more--but for emergency cases.
CaptainTapole on
The Girl Who Gave Everyone the Shortest Jenga Game Ever.
I do $250 for souviners (all three days total) and then $50 for food (Subway will be your BFF.) Sometimes more and very rarely less than that. There was a year I barely visited the Expo-Hall, so I think I only spent money on food more than anything else.
Oh! It's wise to have at LEAST your debit card (if you have one.) Maybe not at hand--to resist the temptation of buying more--but for emergency cases.
If you don't have any need for bills, gas, etc. payments (namely the parent moochers like myself), then I suggest bringing a bit more. Like me, if your attention gets caught every five seconds by something shiny and vibrant, then you'll need a bit more spending cash/wiggle room on your debit card.
I expect to spend anywhere from $350 to $500 on merchandise, collectables, etc. and a good $60 bucks on food (cheap lunches and snacks, good sized dinners).
Be sure to bring a backpack or something with you. You'll want a way to carry free stuff and it's great to keep some water with you. Drink lots of water so you aren't getting thirsty while doing lots of walking.
Last year there was an interesting debate of which was better backpacks or messenger type bags. Not sure who won, but I used a backpack last year and am planning on trying a messenger bag this year (more places to put buttons. You will most certainly need a bag of some sort. I'd also suggest a tube to put posters in.
savagehart on
Doofenshmirtz: Wow, if I had a nickel for every time I was doomed by a puppet, I'd have two nickels, which isn't a lot, but it's weird that it happened twice, right?
Be sure to bring a backpack or something with you. You'll want a way to carry free stuff and it's great to keep some water with you. Drink lots of water so you aren't getting thirsty while doing lots of walking.
Last year there was an interesting debate of which was better backpacks or messenger type bags. Not sure who won, but I used a backpack last year and am planning on trying a messenger bag this year (more places to put buttons. You will most certainly need a bag of some sort. I'd also suggest a tube to put posters in.
I don't think there was a clear "winner".
Backpacks are great because they distribute the weight evenly between your shoulders, so you can more easily carry them for a long time.
Messenger bags tend to be more secure because the opening is under your arm. Also, the tend to be easier to get into when standing in line (you don't have to take it off to access it yourself).
It really comes down to what's more important to you. Comfort, security, and ease of access.
The forums are your friends!!! There is a ton of stuff you can do for PAX starting now and get to know some people in the forums. You can even meet up with them at PAX if you feel comfortable with em!
Many many more forums and groups are out there and are going to come as we get closer to PAX
Also as far as money saving tips here is what my boyfriend and I have done
We get in on Thursday and then find a groceery store. We bought snacks like granola bars for in the con (substantial snacks, not just candy) we also bought a loaf of bread, a jar of peanut butter, and a jar of jelly and made sandwiches for in the con and only allowed ourselves to eat out at a restaurant once a day. And we didn't go out to the bars. Food and alcohol are expensive and if you can cut down on those costs then you cut down on your whole trip.
If you do go eat out then ask about PAX discounts and always have your badge. Last year Hardrock Cafe and a few other places had awesome deals (30% off entire meal, free drinks, free appetizer etc.) You just had to ask and show them your pass. Worse case scenario they tell you there are no discounts for PAX goers and you get on with your meal
Make sure you have a very good backpack!! This was a big point for me last year. I had a one strap halo bag, very awesome nerdy bag that I even got the guys at Bungie to sign for me but it turned into something miserable when I was carrying all the weight of my swag and cookies for cookie brigade on one shoulder. Make sure that it is comfortable and has space for free stuff from booths!
Finally don't be afraid to talk to anyone at PAX. Think about it, you will always have something in common with the people around you in PAX (besides being at PAX) we are all there for the video games, table tops, and more. I met some awesome people in line from all over, if you feel like talking to someone other than your own group, do it!! Everyone is really friendly and all out to have fun.
A good bag is a must. There will usually be carry bags like glorified oversized grocery bags available from vendors or the PAX intial SWAG giveaway but those in no way compare to a decent backpack type bag. I highly suggest you do not bring sling type bags or your shoulders will be bothering you after long.
I bought this 2 piece combo from mountainsmith specifically for PAX last year after doing ALOT of research and while it looks small it holds a ton of stuff and I use it all the time even after so it ended up being well worth the cost. I will be going with me again this year as well.
The strappettes go on to the pack a little funky so I actually bought some extra pieces to make the strappettes fully quick release. They work great either way though.
I know REI had both items for cheaper than listed above. I think I paid about $100 total.
I think i'm going to use my day pack for the majority of my carrying stuff (good sized, can fit in three normal jackets) and a messenger bag for my sammiches, snacks, water, etc. I'll probably only use the messenger if I buy or take too much...
I think i'm going to use my day pack for the majority of my carrying stuff (good sized, can fit in three normal jackets) and a messenger bag for my sammiches, snacks, water, etc. I'll probably only use the messenger if I buy or take too much...
...which knowing myself, will happen.
QFT, we got a huge Jansport with a bajillion zippers and pockets just for this purpose because the messenger bags hurt my shoulders too much.
Also, for those that want to have a credit card along for (no good for things like gasoline, hotel rooms, or renting an auto) purchase power- the local grocery stores (QFC/Safeway) have cheap Visa/Mastercard loadables. Some of them have good policies if you register the cards in case they get lost or stolen. A card is usually around $3 to load. I only suggest it because its more portable and protect-able than a wad of bills (and also keeps you from spending more than you intend to, or a card skimmer).
It really comes down to what's more important to you. Comfort, security, and ease of access.
The backpack I used was formerly owned by (I'm guessing) by the Marquis de Sade. The most uncomfortable thing I'd ever used. So this year a GOOD quality messenger bag to "compare and contrast".
savagehart on
Doofenshmirtz: Wow, if I had a nickel for every time I was doomed by a puppet, I'd have two nickels, which isn't a lot, but it's weird that it happened twice, right?
last PAX east i carried a backpack all day, ended up just putting my jacket and camera gear in it. all that swag got ridiculous to carry after awhile... hope it isnt that cold in seattle this time...
TeknoRed10 on
"Walking the path of Heaven, the man who will rule everything."
last PAX east i carried a backpack all day, ended up just putting my jacket and camera gear in it. all that swag got ridiculous to carry after awhile... hope it isnt that cold in seattle this time...
It's normally rare (yes, even with our shitty weather) to have cloudy, rainy, and/or cold days throughout July and August, at least from what i've witnessed. If you don't want to carry around a coat, and you want to remove style points, then I suggest wrapping a sweatshirt around your waist. Gets it somewhat out of the way and prepared.
Me however? I'm used to the cold and rain, a grizzly, gotta love living in the Pacific Northwest. 8-)
Regarding the weather, don't get your hopes up. We have yet to reach 60 degrees this year in Seattle.
mavrick88 on
I was driving some out-of-towner friends around, and I kept complaining about being blinded. They responded with "You see, where we come from, people tend to wear Sunglasses." I retorted with a simple "You people tend to have sun."
Regarding the weather, don't get your hopes up. We have yet to reach 60 degrees this year in Seattle.
No, I'm pretty sure it's hit 60 this year...y'know, once or twice. While it should be a lot warmer by the end of August, it's probably a good idea to pack a sweatshirt.
All the stuff about bags earlier made me think that, no matter what you use, you should test it out before getting to PAX, especially if you've never been to any kind of convention before. Put everything you might want to carry around PAX with you in the bag (plus some extra weight to account for swag), then wear it around all day. Spend most of the day on your feet, then look at how comfortable you are (or aren't). Make changes as needed.
Also: use shoe inserts (don't remember exactly what they're called...insoles? The foam things you put in your shoes). It's advice I took last year, and it kept my feet from hurting nearly as much as they would have otherwise.
i think i used the Conventionist app for everything info related for the convention. Gave you maps, schedules, and even would set up alerts to let you know something you wanted to do was about to start (which may mean its packed, and you aint getting in anyways lol)
TeknoRed10 on
"Walking the path of Heaven, the man who will rule everything."
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BekerChild's Play Program DirectorSeattleRegistered User, Penny Arcade Staffregular
edited April 2011
Regarding coats. PAX Prime has NOT had a coat check in recent years, unlike PAX East. Dress\Pack accordingly.
Also, for anyone feeling lost, confused, sad, happy, in need of motivation or direction, come visit us at the Info Desk. We should be able to help you, or at least point you in a good direction.
The title says it all. This will be my first PAX and flying from Arkansas to Seattle will be the first time I've ever flown. So if anyone has any suggestions they would be much appreciated.
The title says it all. This will be my first PAX and flying from Arkansas to Seattle will be the first time I've ever flown. So if anyone has any suggestions they would be much appreciated.
Wes
general flying advice:
get to the airport early
wear easy to remove shoes
bring a snack.
drink lots of water (airplane air is dehydrating)
figure out how you are getting from your airport to the hotel ahead of time.
Don't lose your badge. I don't know how it is at Prime, but this year's East was my first PAX and I managed to misplace my badge on Saturday (due to general PAX craziness). It was a total clusterfuck trying to get a replacement -- I got put on a waiting list and didn't get a call until an hour after the convention started on Sunday. They can't just check your name in a database and send you on your way. It is an arduous ordeal.
So: Don't. Lose. Your. Badge.
Don't take it off. If you absolutely have to take it off, put it straight in your pocket. I saw a few people whose lanyards had broke, so make sure your badge is absolutely secured (it seemed to work better just threading the cord through the hole in the badge as opposed to clipping it)
The title says it all. This will be my first PAX and flying from Arkansas to Seattle will be the first time I've ever flown. So if anyone has any suggestions they would be much appreciated.
Wes
I'll try to add a few more things from personal experience:
-My number one rule, don't forget your license, wallet, plane tickets and PAX Badge! Almost everything else is easily replaceable, but you will not be able to board your flight, get into your hotel or PAX without these items.
-Make sure you read the TSA rules on what is allowed through security and on board the plane so you don't end up having to throw away or take more time to check an extra bag.
-If you are flying through a busy airport, make sure you arrive at least 2 hours ahead of time. My arrival standard time for my local airport (BWI) is 1 hour. However, on a busy August morning last year, I literally had to run to my gate so I didn't miss my flight. It couldn't hurt to look at your local airport's website to look at the terminal maps ahead of time either.
-Depending on your flight time and stop overs (if any), bring plenty of things to do. The first and last 15ish minutes are the only times you can't use electronics. I usually bring an Xbox/PS3/Nintendo magazine or graphic novel for the no electronics part of the flight. For the rest of the trip, Kindle, laptop, DS, etc. are perfect.
-Check bag fees ahead of time if you're on a budget so there are no surprises when you go to check your bags. I always fly Southwest domestically, but you'll run into bag fees with most other airlines.
-Speaking of bags, pack an extra bag inside of your suitcase. You will end up bringing more stuff then you left home with.
-Even if you don't plan to sleep on the plane, I like to bring ear plugs (which are good for hotels anyway once you get where you're going) and an eye mask just in case. You never know what the noise level will be (kids, loud people in general) and also I hear engine roar can sometimes bother nervous fliers.
Sorry for the long winded response, but I hope some of it helps!
-Check bag fees ahead of time if you're on a budget so there are no surprises when you go to check your bags. I always fly Southwest domestically, but you'll run into bag fees with most other airlines.
Also strongly consider whether you need to check bags at all. A full-sized airline carryon (for most US carriers, that's 22" x 14" x 9" and 40 pounds max) is really quite a bit of space if you pack efficiently -- plenty of room for three days' worth of clothing, toiletries, your DS, and whatever other little things you pick up at PAX. You can also bring a second small carryon bag (like a medium messenger bag) on top of that. Even if you just have a backpack, do a test run and see how tightly your clothing compresses down. Don't go overboard with what you bring!
If you go look at the schedule ahead of time and make a plan for all 3 days don't be surprised when it's been 2 hours since the doors opened on Friday and you aren't doing anything on your plan.
If you go look at the schedule ahead of time and make a plan for all 3 days don't be surprised when it's been 2 hours since the doors opened on Friday and you aren't doing anything on your plan.
so we should just wing it or pick a few things and wing the rest?
thegh0sts on
Next PAX: PAX AUS 2017
Previous PAXs: PAX Prime 2011, PAX AUS 2013
I would pick a few things (panels, tourney's, whatever you see as a "must") and then just chill the rest of the time. I totally over planned for the first PAX East. This year, we chose a few panels and then just rolled with anything else that caught our eye.
Our other big change this year is we didn't spend almost any time waiting in lines this year in the expo hall. We stood and waited for LA Noire, but that was the only line of any significance. We felt like we spent way too much waiting in lines the previous year.
Now of course this will vary for a lot of people and I'm not knocking whatever decisions people make. My feeling was, did I want to see Portal 2 before it came out? Yeah, but to me, it wasn't worth waiting 2 hours to do so when I would be playing it a month later.
PAX is a once or twice a year thing, I wanted to spend time doing things I couldn't do anywhere else. Seeing panels, talking to my favorite game devs, etc. Playing games that were almost out or getting free swag (that I could otherwise buy) wasn't worth it most of the time to me.
Plan to an extent, but accept that you won't see or do everything.
IF YOU HAVE A SMART PHONE USE THE MOBILE APP, it is super useful, the team and I keep it updated.
Which app? I got the Conventionist app (so, so handy. I just looked over last year's PAX Prime's stuff to get a better idea of what sorts of panels there were).
The Conventionist only supports Android (meh) and iOS (bleh) at the moment. They're working on a Blackberry (meh) version and HTML5 (bleh). The WinMo version (awesome) is supposedly going to be almost identical to the HTML5 version (bleh). Why you do this, ProximaLabs? WinMo is the easiest platform to code for. ;_;
MarkJW on
PAX Prime 2013 Checklist ➤ ✔ Enforcer Badge ✔ Hotel ✔ Flight
I'm coming out all the way from belgium, first time I'm going someplace alone and my first time in America - I'm sure I'll have a good time and all of these are good tips!
Sheraton hotel is settled, 3day pass has been confirmed, now just a flight!
I'm coming out all the way from belgium, first time I'm going someplace alone and my first time in America - I'm sure I'll have a good time and all of these are good tips!
Sheraton hotel is settled, 3day pass has been confirmed, now just a flight!
We'll be over in your area just before PAX visiting my in-laws!
As I told some friends that are going for the first time this year, wear comfortable shoes, pack light, drink lots of coffee, have fun, don't panic, and just go with the flow!
GeekyPrincess on
Cookie Brigade Prime 2011 and 2012!
Shipping cookies for Prime 2013
Posts
I do $250 for souviners (all three days total) and then $50 for food (Subway will be your BFF.) Sometimes more and very rarely less than that. There was a year I barely visited the Expo-Hall, so I think I only spent money on food more than anything else.
Oh! It's wise to have at LEAST your debit card (if you have one.) Maybe not at hand--to resist the temptation of buying more--but for emergency cases.
If you don't have any need for bills, gas, etc. payments (namely the parent moochers like myself), then I suggest bringing a bit more. Like me, if your attention gets caught every five seconds by something shiny and vibrant, then you'll need a bit more spending cash/wiggle room on your debit card.
I expect to spend anywhere from $350 to $500 on merchandise, collectables, etc. and a good $60 bucks on food (cheap lunches and snacks, good sized dinners).
Previous PAXs: PAX Prime 2011, PAX AUS 2013
http://twitter.com/h_e_e_l_s
www.reedpop.com
that... that's.... a GOOD idea
Party on, dudes!
Leave it to heels to sum up everything you need to know in one, 5 word phrase from one of the best movies of all time.
<insert air guitar>
I bring a girlfriend and have her carry my stuff. :winky:
<rimshot>
The forums are your friends!!! There is a ton of stuff you can do for PAX starting now and get to know some people in the forums. You can even meet up with them at PAX if you feel comfortable with em!
Cookie Brigade
http://forums.penny-arcade.com/showthread.php?t=139210
Buttoneers
http://forums.penny-arcade.com/showthread.php?t=140149
Cosplayers
http://forums.penny-arcade.com/showthread.php?t=129084
Many many more forums and groups are out there and are going to come as we get closer to PAX
Also as far as money saving tips here is what my boyfriend and I have done
We get in on Thursday and then find a groceery store. We bought snacks like granola bars for in the con (substantial snacks, not just candy) we also bought a loaf of bread, a jar of peanut butter, and a jar of jelly and made sandwiches for in the con and only allowed ourselves to eat out at a restaurant once a day. And we didn't go out to the bars. Food and alcohol are expensive and if you can cut down on those costs then you cut down on your whole trip.
If you do go eat out then ask about PAX discounts and always have your badge. Last year Hardrock Cafe and a few other places had awesome deals (30% off entire meal, free drinks, free appetizer etc.) You just had to ask and show them your pass. Worse case scenario they tell you there are no discounts for PAX goers and you get on with your meal
Make sure you have a very good backpack!! This was a big point for me last year. I had a one strap halo bag, very awesome nerdy bag that I even got the guys at Bungie to sign for me but it turned into something miserable when I was carrying all the weight of my swag and cookies for cookie brigade on one shoulder. Make sure that it is comfortable and has space for free stuff from booths!
Finally don't be afraid to talk to anyone at PAX. Think about it, you will always have something in common with the people around you in PAX (besides being at PAX) we are all there for the video games, table tops, and more. I met some awesome people in line from all over, if you feel like talking to someone other than your own group, do it!! Everyone is really friendly and all out to have fun.
I bought this 2 piece combo from mountainsmith specifically for PAX last year after doing ALOT of research and while it looks small it holds a ton of stuff and I use it all the time even after so it ended up being well worth the cost. I will be going with me again this year as well.
Lumbar pack
http://www.mountainsmith.com/products.asp?productId=295&categoryId=42&subCategoryId=0&subCategory2Id=0
Strappettes (these are defiantly needed I debated them for awhile. The added shoulder support is awesome)
http://www.mountainsmith.com/products.asp?productId=146&categoryId=42&subCategoryId=0&subCategory2Id=0
The strappettes go on to the pack a little funky so I actually bought some extra pieces to make the strappettes fully quick release. They work great either way though.
I know REI had both items for cheaper than listed above. I think I paid about $100 total.
...which knowing myself, will happen.
QFT, we got a huge Jansport with a bajillion zippers and pockets just for this purpose because the messenger bags hurt my shoulders too much.
Also, for those that want to have a credit card along for (no good for things like gasoline, hotel rooms, or renting an auto) purchase power- the local grocery stores (QFC/Safeway) have cheap Visa/Mastercard loadables. Some of them have good policies if you register the cards in case they get lost or stolen. A card is usually around $3 to load. I only suggest it because its more portable and protect-able than a wad of bills (and also keeps you from spending more than you intend to, or a card skimmer).
The backpack I used was formerly owned by (I'm guessing) by the Marquis de Sade. The most uncomfortable thing I'd ever used. So this year a GOOD quality messenger bag to "compare and contrast".
It's normally rare (yes, even with our shitty weather) to have cloudy, rainy, and/or cold days throughout July and August, at least from what i've witnessed. If you don't want to carry around a coat, and you want to remove style points, then I suggest wrapping a sweatshirt around your waist. Gets it somewhat out of the way and prepared.
Me however? I'm used to the cold and rain, a grizzly, gotta love living in the Pacific Northwest. 8-)
IF YOU HAVE A SMART PHONE USE THE MOBILE APP, it is super useful, the team and I keep it updated.
http://twitter.com/h_e_e_l_s
www.reedpop.com
No, I'm pretty sure it's hit 60 this year...y'know, once or twice. While it should be a lot warmer by the end of August, it's probably a good idea to pack a sweatshirt.
All the stuff about bags earlier made me think that, no matter what you use, you should test it out before getting to PAX, especially if you've never been to any kind of convention before. Put everything you might want to carry around PAX with you in the bag (plus some extra weight to account for swag), then wear it around all day. Spend most of the day on your feet, then look at how comfortable you are (or aren't). Make changes as needed.
Also: use shoe inserts (don't remember exactly what they're called...insoles? The foam things you put in your shoes). It's advice I took last year, and it kept my feet from hurting nearly as much as they would have otherwise.
Also, for anyone feeling lost, confused, sad, happy, in need of motivation or direction, come visit us at the Info Desk. We should be able to help you, or at least point you in a good direction.
Wes
get to the airport early
wear easy to remove shoes
bring a snack.
drink lots of water (airplane air is dehydrating)
figure out how you are getting from your airport to the hotel ahead of time.
So: Don't. Lose. Your. Badge.
Don't take it off. If you absolutely have to take it off, put it straight in your pocket. I saw a few people whose lanyards had broke, so make sure your badge is absolutely secured (it seemed to work better just threading the cord through the hole in the badge as opposed to clipping it)
I'll try to add a few more things from personal experience:
-My number one rule, don't forget your license, wallet, plane tickets and PAX Badge! Almost everything else is easily replaceable, but you will not be able to board your flight, get into your hotel or PAX without these items.
-Make sure you read the TSA rules on what is allowed through security and on board the plane so you don't end up having to throw away or take more time to check an extra bag.
-If you are flying through a busy airport, make sure you arrive at least 2 hours ahead of time. My arrival standard time for my local airport (BWI) is 1 hour. However, on a busy August morning last year, I literally had to run to my gate so I didn't miss my flight. It couldn't hurt to look at your local airport's website to look at the terminal maps ahead of time either.
-Depending on your flight time and stop overs (if any), bring plenty of things to do. The first and last 15ish minutes are the only times you can't use electronics. I usually bring an Xbox/PS3/Nintendo magazine or graphic novel for the no electronics part of the flight. For the rest of the trip, Kindle, laptop, DS, etc. are perfect.
-Check bag fees ahead of time if you're on a budget so there are no surprises when you go to check your bags. I always fly Southwest domestically, but you'll run into bag fees with most other airlines.
-Speaking of bags, pack an extra bag inside of your suitcase. You will end up bringing more stuff then you left home with.
-Even if you don't plan to sleep on the plane, I like to bring ear plugs (which are good for hotels anyway once you get where you're going) and an eye mask just in case. You never know what the noise level will be (kids, loud people in general) and also I hear engine roar can sometimes bother nervous fliers.
Sorry for the long winded response, but I hope some of it helps!
Also strongly consider whether you need to check bags at all. A full-sized airline carryon (for most US carriers, that's 22" x 14" x 9" and 40 pounds max) is really quite a bit of space if you pack efficiently -- plenty of room for three days' worth of clothing, toiletries, your DS, and whatever other little things you pick up at PAX. You can also bring a second small carryon bag (like a medium messenger bag) on top of that. Even if you just have a backpack, do a test run and see how tightly your clothing compresses down. Don't go overboard with what you bring!
Previous PAXs: PAX Prime 2011, PAX AUS 2013
so we should just wing it or pick a few things and wing the rest?
Previous PAXs: PAX Prime 2011, PAX AUS 2013
Our other big change this year is we didn't spend almost any time waiting in lines this year in the expo hall. We stood and waited for LA Noire, but that was the only line of any significance. We felt like we spent way too much waiting in lines the previous year.
Now of course this will vary for a lot of people and I'm not knocking whatever decisions people make. My feeling was, did I want to see Portal 2 before it came out? Yeah, but to me, it wasn't worth waiting 2 hours to do so when I would be playing it a month later.
PAX is a once or twice a year thing, I wanted to spend time doing things I couldn't do anywhere else. Seeing panels, talking to my favorite game devs, etc. Playing games that were almost out or getting free swag (that I could otherwise buy) wasn't worth it most of the time to me.
Plan to an extent, but accept that you won't see or do everything.
Previous PAXs: PAX Prime 2011, PAX AUS 2013
Which app? I got the Conventionist app (so, so handy. I just looked over last year's PAX Prime's stuff to get a better idea of what sorts of panels there were).
FTC: HONK.
PAX Prime 2014 Resistance Tournament Winner
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ArcheAge Forums
FTC: HONK.
PAX Prime 2014 Resistance Tournament Winner
Will post more as I remember them xD
Sheraton hotel is settled, 3day pass has been confirmed, now just a flight!
We'll be over in your area just before PAX visiting my in-laws!
As I told some friends that are going for the first time this year, wear comfortable shoes, pack light, drink lots of coffee, have fun, don't panic, and just go with the flow!
Shipping cookies for Prime 2013