The Ultimate C2E2 Survival Guide

Calling all pop culture enthusiasts, comic fans, binge-watchers, and cosplay enthusiasts! C2E2 (Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo) is back, bigger, bolder, and bursting with fandoms of all flavors! Whether you're here to geek over the latest Marvel movie, swoon over teen drama royalty with the Breakfast Club Reunion, or hunt for rare collectibles of all kinds, this is the event where all kinds of fans unite.

But let's be real, navigating the world of conventions can be tricky, but C2E2 is a whole other level with its packed panels at Chicago's massive McCormick Place, which can feel like stepping into the final level of a game when it's your first time playing it. Without a strategy, you might end up lost in a sea of cosplayers, hangry from not finding the food stands, or worse, missing out on that once-in-a-lifetime meet and greet with your idol.

Fear not, because this survival guide is your golden ticket to mastering C2E2. We’re breaking down everything from must-pack essentials and schedule hacks to sneaky tips for beating lines and budgeting like a boss. Ready to level up your con experience? Let’s dive into your inner fandom hero, who deserves nothing less. (Pro tip: Charge your phone, stretch your comfiest shoes, and keep reading—you’re about to become a C2E2 legend.)

Conquer Downtown Chicago: Your Parking & Transportation Survival Kit

First rule of C2E2? Don’t let downtown Chicago traffic crush your con spirit! Nestled in the city's heart at McCormick Place, C2E2 is a breeze to reach if you strategize. Public transit (hello, CTA trains and buses!) is your wallet’s best friend, rideshares like Uber/Lyft drop you steps from the action, and driving yourself is an option… but brace yourself for parking prices that’ll make your wallet weep.

Lot A & Lot C

Daily Rate: 27$ for up to 16 hours
Prepaid Online: $40/day (guaranteed spot even if lots fill up!).
In-and-Out Privileges? Only if you prepay online—no exceptions!
Lost Ticket? You’ll pay the max $40 overnight fee. Guard that stub like it’s the One Ring.

Lot B

Flat Rate: $18/day (cheapest option, but no re-entry!).
Perfect For: Early birds who plan to stay planted at the con all day.

Survival Strategies:

Prepay for Peace of Mind: Guarantee your spot and skip the stress of sold-out lots.
Compare & Conquer: Lot B’s $18 flat rate is a steal if you don’t need to leave!(ideal for all day long con venturing)
Carpool Like a Hero: Split costs with friends and turn parking fees into pocket change.

Public Transit Wins: Save cash (and the planet!) by hopping on the CTA’s Green Line (exit at Cermak-McCormick Place) or Metra trains. Pro tip: Download the Ventra app for seamless fare payments!

Bottom line: Whether rolling up in a DeLorean or taking the Batmobile, plan ahead, and your future self will thank you when you’re sipping a latte inside the con instead of rage-crying in a parking garage.

Next up in our Survival Guide: What to pack in your C2E2 prep kit! 👀

Bag Prep 101: Pack Like a Pro (Without the Backache)

You’re heading into C2E2, but it's not just a leisurely stroll! Your con bag is your lifeline, the difference between "Best. Day. Ever." and "Why did I think one snack was enough?!" Nail your packing game with these battle-tested tips to stay ready for anything C2E2 throws at you.

Non-Negotiable Essentials

Portable Charger (or two!): Your phone will die faster than a redshirt in Star Trek. Aim for 10,000mAh+ to keep your camera, socials, and GPS alive.
Refillable Water Bottle: Con Air is drier than a Marvel joke. Hydrate or literally die (of thirst).
Snacks: Protein bars, trail mix, or candy—pack calorie-dense fuel. Con food lines are longer than the One Piece anime. (If you want, bring an entire sandwich, I won't tell anyone)
Cash & Card: Some indie artists/vendors are cash-only. Also, ATMs at cons charge fees that’ll make Thanos blush.
Hand Sanitizer/Wipes: Con crud is real. Stay germ-free between high-fives and autographs.
My friends(Left and right) and I (middle) posing in front of The Power Buff Girls

Next tips is for those rocking Cosplays

Repair Kit: Safety pins, duct tape (cosplay’s MVP), glue, and spare buttons. Your
costume will rebel.
Comfy Shoes (in your bag): Swap heels or boots for sneakers between photos. Your feet will thank you during the 10-mile con walk.

Pro Tips for Bag Choice

Backpack >>> Tote Bag: Distribute weight evenly. Bonus: Free up your hands for merch selfies.
Check Bag Policy: McCormick Place allows backpacks, but check size restrictions (no one wants to trek back to their car).
Anti-Theft Features: Pick a bag with zippered pockets. Cons are safe, but crowded spaces attract pickpockets like zombies to brains.

What to Leave Behind:

Bulky Items: You’re not packing for the Silent Mary. Save space for loot!
Anything Irreplaceable: Lost merch hurts; losing your grandma’s necklace hurts worse.
Glass Containers: Most cons ban them. Stick to plastic or metal.

Got your bag packed and ready to go? Great, now you're ready to navigate the maze of a con floor.

Next up: How to navigate C2E2’s labyrinth of a setup

How to Navigate C2E2’s Epic Layout Without Losing Your Mind

C2E2’s convention floor is a glorious chaos of artists, vendors, and fans exploring, but without a game plan, you’ll wander aimlessly like Frodo in Mordor. Do you wing it and risk missing your must-see booths? Or do you strategize and conquer the con like a boss? (Spoiler: Strategy wins. Every. Time.)

Here’s how to hack the labyrinth:

The Battle Plan: Left-to-Right Sweep

Step 1: Grab the map as you enter. McCormick Place’s layout is massive, but the map is your GPS to glory. (There are online versions of the map you can access too, just make sure to download it because the WiFi can be a little spotty)

Step 2: Prioritize your must-visit booths. Vendors and artists are labeled with booth numbers—write these down (or screenshot the online map).

Step 3: Start all the way to the LEFT and work column by column. Why? Most crowds funnel to the right (toward flashy main stages), so you’ll dodge early chaos and hit indie gems first, AND the numbers start at the lowest on the left.

Pro Tip: Snap photos of booths you’re curious about but don’t need to revisit. Avoid impulse buys by muttering: “I’ll come back later” (spoiler: 80% of the time, you won’t).

Impulse-Buy Force Field

Repeat after me: “I do NOT need that $200 statue… yet.” Temptation lurks around every corner, so:

Take Photos, Not Merch: Snap a pic of the item and booth number. Revisit later if the obsession sticks.
Set a Budget (and Stick to It): Cash in envelopes or a dedicated “fun money” card keeps you honest.
The 30-Minute Rule: See something cool? Walk away for 30 mins. If you're still dreaming about it, only then should you buy it.

Remember: You’re not just surviving C2E2, you’re ruling it.

Next Up: Dining

Con Chow 101: How to Feast (Without Going Broke or Hangry)

So you ignored the "pack a sandwich" advice, huh? Bold move. C2E2’s food scene is a mix of "meh" prices and "OMG I NEED FRIES" desperation, but with a little strategy, you’ll survive (and maybe even enjoy it). Here’s the scoop on fueling up without losing your mind or your wallet.

Food Zones: Know Where to Chow

Pizza & Hotdogs: Camp out near the central café areas (follow the scent of grease and regret).
Burgers, Tacos, & Sandwiches: Head to the main food court—your best bet for variety.
Coffee: If you didn't see it already, when you were going into the security check, there was a Starbucks by the entrance, if you need some caffeine time to make the trek to the start of the convention
Snack Attacks: Scattered booths sell chips, candy, and other snacks. There's also a new convenience store by the walls on the right where you first enter. Pro tip: Pack your own trail mix to avoid paying $8 for a granola bar.

If the food lines break your spirit, remember: Downtown Chicago

Chicago is steps away. Sneak out for a quick bite at nearby spots like Revival Food Hall or Devil Dawgs (ask a local for hidden gems!).

Next Up: All you need to know about Autographs and Panels

Autographs & Panels: How to Meet Your Heroes (Without Losing Your Cool)

Autograph lines and panels are where C2E2 magic happens. Imagine chatting with your favorite Star Wars villain or laughing at a voice actor’s behind-the-scenes stories. But without a plan, you’ll miss out faster than a Game of Thrones fan during the final season. Here’s how to ace both like a seasoned con wizard!

Autograph Survival Guide

Step 1: Do Your Homework

Pre-Check the C2E2 Website: Guest lists, schedules, and pricing drop weeks in advance. Bookmark this page like it’s the Holy Grail.
Prioritize Your Must-Meets: Some A-listers sell out faster than Taylor Swift tickets. Buy autograph/photo op tickets online early to avoid tears.
Budget Wisely: Autographs range from $50–$200+ (per person!). Add $10–$20 extra if you want a selfie or personalized message.

Step 2: Day-of Game Plan

Arrive Early: Lines start forming 30+ minutes before signings. Bring a buddy to hold your spot while you grab snacks (or pee).
Bring Your Own Item: Save cash by having them sign your poster/Funko instead of buying pricey merch at the booth.
Cash is King: Some guests charge extra for quotes or refuse cards. Tuck emergency cash in your sock like a spy.

Pro Tip: If you’re shy, rehearse your 10-second interaction. Example: “Your work on _____ changed my life!” → Cue happy tears.

Panel Pro Tips

Location: Panels are on the 4th floor. Follow the signs (or the herd of Stormtroopers).

Step 1: Strategize Like a General

Download the C2E2 App: Sync the panel schedule and set alerts for your must-sees.
Rank Panels by Priority: Main Stage events require 1+ hour early arrival for seats. Smaller panels? 20 mins early works.
Beware the Overlap: Panels often clash. Sacrifice the “meh” ones for your #1 obsession.

Step 2: Survive the Crowds

Pack Light: Big bags = awkward seat shuffling. Store merch in a locker first!
Respect the Vibe: Don’t be that person who asks a 10-minute question. Keep it short, folks.

And… Scene! You’re Ready to Conquer C2E2

Let’s recap your superhero toolkit: You’ve mastered parking hacks, packed a bag that would make Mary Poppins jealous, got the convention floor mapped out like a cartographer, survived overpriced pizza, and even plotted your autograph heist. Slow clap.

But here’s the truth: No survival guide can prep you for everything. Will you get lost? Probably. Will you impulse-buy a $100 lightsaber? Maybe. Will you accidentally photobomb a Deadpool cosplayer? Absolutely. And that’s the magic of C2E2—it’s a glorious, chaotic, unforgettable adventure where the best memories are the unplanned ones.

So charge your phone, lace up your comfiest shoes, and embrace the beautiful madness. Ask questions, make friends in line, and let your inner fandom flag fly. Whether you’re here for the panels, the merch, or just the vibe, this is your moment.

Now get out there, hero and geek out, laugh loud, and make stories you’ll rant about for years. The con floor awaits.

See you in the Artist Alley… or the pizza line.

Picture of (me) a happy con-goer (because I followed my own guide)

P.S. Check out my vlog of C2E2 2024!

Vlog!!