Figuring Out Where You're Going

Pros

• Good option for those more financially challenged as it greatly reduces travel costs

Reduce financial burden + can increase spending options and opportunities in other areas such as food & merch 

• Good option for those who are directionally challenged / like to be in a familiar area 

• More flexibility in (how much) what you pack if you don’t have to travel by plane/check bags / less distance to travel

Cons

Does reduce the amount of options you have of where you can go. This is also not the best option if there’s a specific convention you want to go to or fandom you want to attend a convention for.

Pros

• You get to explore a new area and have an increased chance of getting to meet new people / see friends / fans who live further away 

• Can increase chances you'll find a convention that celebrates your interests / fandom

Cons

Travel costs will be higher - need to take into account distance AND when you’ll be traveling (example when I went to Star Wars Celebration 2022 all prices were higher since it was by/through memorial day weekend). This option also means you’ll need to dedicate more time toward getting to know the area and planning out traveling / will need to pack more strategically / smaller.

Pros 

• Finding a convention will be more streamlined 

• Understanding of the fandom & your interests will make planning & goals for what you want to accomplish easier/clearer

• If you have social anxiety it’s a good option because it can increase chances of shared interests/connections with others there

• More opportunities to meet/see creators/actors/etc. tied to your fandom 

Cons

Bigger fandom may mean higher prices and/or tickets sell out faster so you have to act fast and be prepared for potential bumps in the road

Opportunities within the convention may be more competitive or more up to chance 

Some fandom conventions may be further away which can lead to the cons of the travel section.