So It’s Your First Time at Comic-Con: 11 Tips for Beginners

Many Comic-Con-goers tend to be die-hards, making the annual pilgrimage to San Diego year after year. But if you’re attending for the first time this year (it runs July 21-24), showing up unprepared might be overwhelming. Here are some tips to make the most of your first Comic-Con:

1. Don’t be afraid to dress up. Even if you just throw on a hat, cosplay is a main part of the event.

2. Cosplayers aren’t objects. If you want a photo with someone, ask nicely and keep your hands to yourself.

3. Stalk Twitter for breaking sales, events, and signings.

Related: Yahoo TV’s Complete Comic-Con Coverage

4. Forget Hall H. The biggest and buzziest hall might be home to Star Wars and Batman v Superman panels, but waiting in line will probably cost you a full day, time you could have spent visiting lower-profile halls or perusing the massive exhibit hall.

5. Be brief. If you get to ask a question at a panel, don’t tell your life story and don’t completely fangirl out.

6. Don’t record exclusive footage. It’s piracy — and it looks like s***.

7. Plan ahead. Budget for long lines, meals, and bathroom breaks.

8. Bring comfortable shoes. Even if your outfit calls for sky-high heels, bring a second, more casual pair. Your feet will thank you.

9. Hydrate. You’re going to be walking and standing a lot.

10. Safety first. Projectile weapons must be inoperable. You can check Comic-Con’s guidelines beforehand to see if your weapon is allowed.

11. Deodorize. There are 130,000 people. Let someone else be the smelly one.

WATCH: We break down this year’s Comic-Con by the numbers: