1. Secure your badge

Badges go on sale typically around October/November for the following July. Keep in mind:

• • You must register for a Comic-Con Member ID in advance to participate.
  • Sales operate via a randomized lottery system.
  • You can purchase a badge for yourself and two others with Member IDs.
  • Badge types include Preview Night, single-day passes, and 4-day + Preview Night packages.
    • Junior, senior, and military badges are available at discounted prices.
    • Children 12 and under are free with a paying adult!

• Familiarize yourself with the sales page beforehand, as badges will sell out quickly!
• Consider purchasing multi-day passes vs individual day passes. The schedule will be announced 2-3 weeks before the convention, so having flexibility helps you catch your must-see events.

2. Book lodging asap

Comic-Con partners with OnPeak to run three official hotel sales offering reduced rates across downtown San Diego, Mission Valley, Hotel Circle, and more. This is your best bet at scoring a hotel room close to the action or a part of the complimentary Comic-Con Shuttle Route.

• Research hotels ahead of time so you can submit your preferences quickly. Some people prep by creating a ranked list with details like shuttle access, walkability, and rates.

Alternatives to “Hotelpocalypse” include Airbnb, VRBO, and local hostels, although prices tend to spike around SDCC. When booking, be cautious of cancellation policies and proximity to shuttle lines or transit!

3. Consider Transportation & Parking

• Parking passes for multiple lots near the convention center are sold through Ace Parking’s lottery. This lottery occurs in multiple stages across May and June. Do not put your trust in street parking!

• SDCC Shuttle: The free SDCC shuttles cover most major hotels and run on a frequent loop for all convention attendees. See the schedule and route map here.

• Public Transit: San Diego has a reliable Trolley system that can be accessed with a PRONTO pass.  See full information here.

• Rideshare: Uber and Lyft are reliable options, but expect price surges and traffic delays.

4. Draft Out Your Schedule

San Diego Comic-Con is massive. Panels, signings, screenings, off-sites, and pop-ups run simultaneously. To avoid FOMO:

• • Get the schedule ahead of time with the Official SDCC app, where you can plan and track events.

  • Prioritize your Top 3–5 can’t-miss events per day. Everything else is a bonus.

  • Build your schedule, complete with back-ups in case a panel fills up or gets canceled.

  • Refer to the floor map to ensure you have adequate time to travel between events!

  • If you’re into specific fandoms, make sure to look up any exclusive panels or sneak peeks they might have with our SDCC Search Feature.

• Don’t forget the off-sites! From immersive pop-ups to fan lounges, SDCC programming spills far beyond the convention center. Track announcements from major studios, brands, and networks via social media (and our handy Activations & Off-site Tracker).

5. Pack Smart

It’s not just what you bring, but how much you bring that matters. Here’s a tried-and-true packing list:

• • A sturdy backpack 
  • Refillable water bottle (hydration stations available)
  • High-protein snacks 
  • Portable charger or power bank 
  • Deodorant
  • Hand sanitizer 
  • Sunglasses & hat (for those dreaded outdoor lines)
  • Earplugs (for noise sensitivity)
  • Poster tube or elastic bands (if you plan to buy prints)
  • Light jacket or hoodie (the AC in panel rooms can be chilly)
  • Entertainment for waiting in line (book, headphones, journal, cards, crochet, etc.) 
  • Extra cash (some vendors will accept it at a discounted price)

1. Arrive Early for Panels (Like Actually)

If there’s a panel you must see, consider the popularity and demand, as all rooms have a capacity limit. 

Big panels (think Hall H and Ballroom 20) have long lines with fans waiting for hours — even overnight!

• • Hall H has introduced a wristband system, so research how it works if it’s on your agenda.

  • Ballroom 20 panels often require a 2 to 4-hour wait, depending on popularity. 

• Panel rooms do not clear out between sessions; it may be in your best interest to arrive in the morning to secure your spot for a popular panel later that day.

2. Comfort is Key

With all that SDCC has to offer, you’re going to be on your feet for hours. Pack comfortable shoes and clothing; this is not the time to break in new boots! Think about layers, too, because the convention center can get packed and hot, but the AC in the halls can sometimes make them feel like Hoth.

If you’re cosplaying, think about:

• Mobility and heat

• Where you’ll store accessories

• Bringing repair tape or safety pins

3. Hydrate & Snack Smart

Comic-Con can get pretty intense, and you can easily forget to drink water or eat, especially when you’re having a blast. Avoid “con crash” by:

• • Setting reminders to eat/drink

  • Carrying high-protein snacks (think trail mix, protein bars, jerky)

  • Eating breakfast before you head in

  • Finding nearby restaurants during off-hours (2–4 PM is usually calmer)

• • There are food vendors in the convention centre, but the lines can get long and prices can be high.

4. Explore the Exhibit Hall

The Exhibit Hall is SDCC’s beating heart; part marketplace, part museum, part maze. You’ll find:

• • Big-name booths (Marvel, Lucasfilm, Funko, Mattel)

  • Exclusive merch drops 

  • Freebies and swag bags

  • Hidden photo ops and mini pop-ups

Give yourself time to explore—it’s easy to spend half a day here without realizing it.

5. Cosplay Etiquette

SDCC has some of the best cosplay in the world. Whether you’re dressed up or snapping pics:

• • Always ask permission before taking a photo.

  • Respect personal space and time—some cosplayers are on their way to panels too!

  • Cosplay is not consent! Do not touch costumes or props unless invited.

6. Stay Connected

The Wi-Fi inside the Convention Center can get spotty! Make sure to download important info (badge confirmation, hotel address, shuttle map, off-site tickets) before arrival. This also includes downloading any helpful apps (SDCC Official App, Rideshare Services) ahead of time.

Make sure to follow fan meet-ups, Discord channels, or social hashtags (#SDCC, #HallHLine, etc.) for real-time updates and community fun. 

7. Take It All In

Lastly, try to step back at times and take it all in. There’s something magical about being surrounded by so many passionate fans, creators, and talent. It’s okay if you don’t see everything, it’s more about enjoying the experience!

Take breaks. People-watch. Chat with strangers in line. Enjoy the ride. Preview past experiences and fun with our Photo Gallery.

1. Unpack & Organize

Once you’re home, resist the urge to dump your bag and crash. Sort through:

• • Freebies and swag

  • Signed items or exclusives (protect them!)

  • Photos and videos

  • Business cards from artists or vendors you want to support

2. Relive the Magic

• Follow up with your favorite creators or cosplayers

• Post your photos, thank panellists or staff, and tag official accounts

• Join SDCC groups to share experiences and get updates on what you missed

3. Prep for Next Year

Believe it or not, it’s never too early to start planning for next time:

• • Stay subscribed to SDCC newsletters

  • Renew your Member ID and keep badge sale dates on your radar

  • Budget for next year while the details are fresh in your mind

  • Become a FanCon Member to access exclusive SDCC guides, tables and tips!