OGAN Labs' Gen Con 2025 Survival Kit

Whether you're a first-time attendee or a convention veteran, Gen Con can be overwhelming—in the best possible way. With wall-to-wall games, panels, cosplay, and networking, it’s a four-day whirlwind. If you're heading to Indianapolis this summer, consider this your go-to survival kit for making the most of every moment.

1. Pack Smart, Pack Light(ish)

Your bag should work with you, not against you. Look for:

• A lightweight daypack with room for snacks, water, and your Gen Con haul
• A reusable water bottle (hydration is non-negotiable)
• Portable battery pack (yes, your phone will die)
• Hand sanitizer and breath mints (trust us)

Bonus: Pack a backup shirt and deodorant. It's August in Indiana. You’ll thank us.

2. Badge? Event Tickets? Screenshots Everything.

The Gen Con app is helpful, but unreliable Wi-Fi can turn your phone into a paperweight. Take screenshots of:

• Your badge QR code
• Event tickets
• Exhibit hall map
• Hotel reservations

Hard and digital copies of key items = peace of mind.

3. Shoes Matter More Than You Think

You’ll walk miles every day. This is not the time for cosplay footwear or new shoes. Go with something broken-in, breathable, and supportive. If you only take one piece of advice from this post, let it be this.

4. Fuel for Body and Brain

Don’t rely on convention center snacks unless you want to spend half your per diem on $9 pretzels. Keep these on hand:

• Trail mix or protein bars
• Gum or mints
• A refillable water bottle
• Electrolyte packets

Plan at least one offsite meal per day. It’s a good excuse to reset and escape the crowd noise for a bit.

5. Leave Room for Loot

Whether you’re a dice goblin, zine collector, or board game binger, you’re going to leave with more than you arrived with. Bring:

• An extra tote bag folded in your backpack
• A small poster tube for maps or art
• Bubble wrap if you plan to ship anything home

Remember: Most vendors don’t do bulk discounts, but some will toss in freebies for friendly, respectful fans.

6. Protect Your Energy

Gen Con is a marathon. Plan breaks. Find a quiet hallway. Say no to one more late-night game. Your future self (and your immune system) will be grateful.

If you’re traveling with others, set expectations: not everyone needs to attend everything together. Some of the best moments come when you wander solo and stumble into something unexpected.

Final Thought

Gen Con is what you make it, and a little planning goes a long way. With this survival kit, you’ll not only make it through the convention, you’ll thrive. Come find OGAN Labs on the floor. We'll be the ones with comfortable shoes, protein bars, and a bag full of zines.