The Night Before
Lay out the full costume and check every element. Identify any issues and fix them tonight — not tomorrow morning. Pack the repair kit. Charge your phone and battery pack. Confirm your schedule items and how to get to them.
What To Pack
Costume essentials: your full costume checked and ready; spare civilian clothes; all accessories; comfortable footwear tested in advance; body tape; safety pins (always more than you think).
Repair kit: safety pins (multiple sizes), needle and thread, contact cement (small amount), body tape, spare wig pins if applicable.
Personal essentials: water bottle; high-energy snacks; pain relief; blister treatment; portable charger; cash for dealers.
Photography: phone charged; know your key poses; bring a business card if you want to network.