Tips When Going To A Toy Convention

Every year many toy collectors gather in a much awaited toy conventions which usually happen in the months of December, January, April, March and June. Toy conventions or toy fairs are a much better alternative when looking for rare and vintage items that you don't usually see in your regular toy stores. You can even get them at bargain prices or if you are lucky enough, they could come complete in packaging.

You can expect a lot of toy merchants there with in their own designated booths who sell complete and loosed toys. Another attraction in events like these is the presence of cosplayers and from time to time there are mini shows with celebrity guesting and raffles where you get to win awesome toys and treats. Of course it won't be complete without toy exhibits from various toy collectors in the country.

If you want to get updated of any upcoming toy conventions in the Philippines, here are a list of toy fair organizers. I know I may miss some toy event making bodies, please let me know by commenting below. So here they are:

1. Toycon PH
2. Tagcom
3. Toy Kingdom Expo
4. Komikon
5. Otaku PH

Tips When Going To A Toy Convention

 

1. Schedule Your Visit

 

Make sure you know very well your other itineraries on the same date of the toy convention. Usually toy conventions last for 3 consecutive days of the weekend. It would be better if you could dedicate a specific date and time so you can have more time to enjoy your toy hunting and the special programs prepared on that day.

If you would go there on a limited time, chances are you won't be able to visit the whole toy booth and probably miss the item you're looking for. Another important reason is when making tough decisions on buying a certain item when it comes to price, quality and usefulness. Having lots of time deciding to buy brings satisfaction, right?

2. Bring The Right Budget

This means allocating your available cash for your usual daily expenses and for the said toy event. It is very advisable to you separate your expenses budget from your wallet when going inside the venue because there will be lots of temptations in there if you will act on your buying impulse. Sometimes you won't notice you are already spending the money you shouldn't do so in the first place.

3. Go Light

Expect a lot of walking and passing through narrow lanes because of the crowd. Be sure the dress light and choose a comfortable shoulder bag that will carry your purchased toys. Avoid thick clothing so you can move freely and avoid sweat. Check out some toy collector getups here.

4. Be Patient

As I mentioned, large crowd are inevitable and you may find yourself having a hard time moving places. Remember they are the same as you trying to enjoy the event by understanding the dilemma. Also don't forget SAFETY at all the time by being aware of your surroundings. Check your bag zippers and place your wallets to the safest place.

5. Buy wisely

Don't just react on your impulse but always ask yourself several times if the item is worth buying. Consider the price, the quality of the long-term effect if it will surely make you happy.

Tip: Be sure to have checked other booths before you buy or haggle with the seller because sometimes other booths may offer a reasonable price and quality. Another reason is you might find other cool toys that may not be enough with your net budget if have already purchased the previous toy so soon.

6. Check the Program and Parade Schedules

Knowing what would happen during your stay can make your visit more worthwhile. Instead of regretting things you have missed during your stay, try looking first at daily schedules of the event. Do this by checking the organizer's website before heading there.

7. Be On Time

The early the better to assure you of being not ran out of cool toys and stuff. Going there early also means less crowd so you can increase your chance of spotting a good purchase.

This is also applicable when scheduling a meeting with a fellow toy collector for trading purposes. If you want to get a nice feedback, being punctual is your first step.

8. Choose Your Companion

For sure you'll be moving around like circles during your toy shopping and you should consider your companion if they can get along with your situation. They should be fast enough to follow you and be patient when you can't make up your mind.

If you are going with your family, make sure you stick together and do give them some time to shop for themselves so they can expect something out of going with you. Try getting some rest to recharge your batteries. You can do this by taking some pictures at toy exhibits and cosplayers.

9. Don't Forget Your Camera

As I mentioned you don't want to miss the great collections at the toy exhibits. This can be your training ground when you want to develop your toy photography techniques. After that you can share it with your friends so they can get a glimpse of the toy convention.

Don't forget to take pictures with your favorite cosplay characters with their colorful and awesome costumes. Just be polite and professional when asking.

10. Know your Limit

Toy conventions for some collectors is something you don't want to miss with a common concept of finding rare or hard to find toys. Sometimes when you know you're already out of budget, you want to push your limit by using your other budget just to satisfy your toy cravings.

From the start you should not expect to bring home toys beyond your budget so in that way you can skip the expensive items or the not-so-wanted ones and move along. Knowing your priorities beforehand can organize your toy shopping experience by picking up WHAT YOU EXACTLY WANT and WHAT YOU CAN AFFORD.

So until next time, happy toy hunting!