Common Mistakes First-Time Attendees Make at Gaming Expos

13 March 2025

Attending your first gaming expo is like stepping into a magical wonderland for gamers—it’s bright, loud, exciting, and crammed with everything your inner gamer dreams of. But hey, let’s be real for a second. No matter how hyped up you are, these expos can also be a little overwhelming, especially if you don’t know what you’re doing. From mismanaging your time to forgetting the essentials, there’s a lot that can go sideways.

Don’t worry, though! This guide is here to save you from the rookie mistakes that first-time attendees often make. So grab your favorite snack, sit back, and let’s break it down, shall we?

1. Underestimating the Importance of Planning

So, you’ve got your ticket, and you’re ready to dive headfirst into the expo hall. But wait—what’s your plan? If your strategy is to “wing it,” let me tell you, that’s mistake number one.

Gaming expos are massive, with countless booths, panels, and activities happening simultaneously. Without a plan, you’ll either end up aimlessly wandering around or missing out on the coolest stuff.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

- Study the Schedule: Most expos release their schedules a few weeks in advance. Block off time for the things you’re most interested in, whether that’s a panel with your favorite game developer or a demo of a highly anticipated title.
- Mark Must-Visit Booths: Look up the exhibitor list and highlight vendors or games you absolutely have to check out.
- Prioritize, Prioritize, Prioritize: Chances are, you won’t have time to do everything. Decide what’s a “must-do” versus a “nice-to-have.”

2. Forgetting Comfortable Shoes

You might think this one’s a no-brainer, but trust me, it’s shocking how many people show up wearing stylish-yet-uncomfortable sneakers or even gasp high heels. Gaming expos are essentially marathons disguised as conventions. Between wandering the exhibit halls, standing in long lines, and rushing from one event to another, your feet are going to take a beating.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

- Wear Sneakers or Supportive Shoes: Save your cosplay boots for the photoshoots and pack some comfy footwear for the rest of the day.
- Consider Gel Inserts: If your shoes aren’t the cushiest, gel inserts can work wonders.
- Pack Band-Aids: Blisters are the mortal enemy of happy expo-goers. Be prepared.

3. Overpacking or Underpacking

Packing for a gaming expo is a delicate balance. Overpack, and you’ll feel like you’re lugging around a bag of bricks all day. Underpack, and you’ll end up scrambling for basic necessities.

What to Bring:

- Snacks and Water: Food options at expos are often overpriced and not always the tastiest. Bringing a water bottle and some snacks is a lifesaver.
- Portable Charger: Your phone will be working overtime—maps, schedules, social media, and photos all drain battery life. A portable charger is your best friend.
- Lightweight Backpack: A small, comfortable backpack is all you need. Keep it light, though—your back will thank you.

4. Ignoring the Lines

Let’s be real: gaming expos are practically powered by long lines. Whether it’s for a game demo, a signing event, or exclusive merchandise, you’re going to spend some time waiting in line. Ignoring this fact or underestimating the wait times can be a massive rookie mistake.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

- Arrive Early: If there’s a super popular game you HAVE to try, get there as soon as the doors open (or even line up before).
- Budget Your Time Wisely: Is it worth waiting two hours for a 10-minute demo? Only you can decide.
- Bring Entertainment: Whether it’s a portable gaming console, a good book, or just your phone, having something to do while waiting makes all the difference.

5. Skipping Breaks

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and power through the entire day without stopping. But newsflash: you’re human, not a robot. Skipping breaks will leave you feeling drained and cranky by the afternoon.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

- Take Short Breaks: Every couple of hours, find a quiet corner or a seating area to just chill for a bit.
- Hydrate and Eat: Dehydrated or hangry attendees are not fun to be around—don’t be that person.
- Pace Yourself: You don’t have to sprint through the expo. It’s perfectly okay to slow down and soak it all in.

6. Failing to Network

Gaming expos aren’t just about playing the latest games—they’re also about meeting people. Whether it’s fellow gamers, developers, or streamers, these events are a goldmine for networking opportunities.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

- Start Conversations: Don’t be shy! Compliment someone’s cosplay, ask about their favorite game, or chat while standing in line.
- Bring Business Cards (Optional): If you’re a content creator, streamer, or aspiring game designer, having business cards to hand out can come in handy.
- Join Social Media Groups: Many expos have dedicated hashtags or Facebook groups where you can connect with attendees before, during, and after the event.

7. Not Budgeting

Between tickets, travel, food, and merch, gaming expos can quickly turn into a money pit. Some first-timers go overboard, splurging on everything in sight, only to have buyer’s remorse later.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

- Set a Spending Limit: Decide ahead of time how much you’re willing to spend and stick to it.
- Be Selective with Merch: That limited-edition hoodie might be tempting, but will you really wear it?
- Pack Snacks and Drinks: We’ve said this before, but it bears repeating—expo food is expensive.

8. Overlooking Health and Hygiene

A gaming expo may feel like the dreamland of your favorite virtual worlds, but let’s not forget—this is the real world, and there are germs. Seriously, “con crud”—the catch-all term for the cold or flu you mysteriously get after a convention—is no joke.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

- Wash Your Hands Often: Handshakes, controllers, buttons—germy surfaces are everywhere.
- Bring Hand Sanitizer: A little bottle of sanitizer goes a long way.
- Don’t Skip Sleep: Late-night gaming sessions are tempting, but you’ll enjoy the expo way more if you’re well-rested.

9. Neglecting the Indie Scene

It’s easy to gravitate toward the big-name developers and AAA-game booths, but ignoring the indie section is a mistake you’ll regret. Indie developers are passionate, innovative, and often showcase some of the most creative games you’ll find at the event.

Why You Should Visit Indie Booths:

- Unique Games: You might discover your next favorite game before it becomes a hit.
- Personal Interactions: Indie devs are usually right there at the booth, eager to chat and share their stories.
- Shorter Lines: Less waiting, more playing—what’s not to love?

10. Forgetting to Have Fun

Last but definitely not least, some first-timers get so caught up in schedules, lines, and plans that they forget to actually enjoy the expo. Remember, this is supposed to be FUN!

How to Avoid This Mistake:

- Be Flexible: If something doesn’t go as planned (which it probably won’t), just roll with it.
- Soak in the Atmosphere: Take a moment to appreciate how cool it is to be surrounded by people who share your passion for gaming.
- Smile and Laugh: It sounds cheesy, but enjoying the little moments can make the day more memorable.

Wrapping It Up

Gaming expos are an incredible experience, but like anything, they come with their own set of challenges. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be able to navigate your first expo like a pro and focus on what really matters—having an amazing time!

Oh, and don’t forget to take plenty of photos. You’ll want to reminisce about your first expo someday, trust me. Who knows? That pic you take with your favorite game dev might just become the ultimate flex.