For Upcoming Book Conventions : Must-Have Merch for Attendees

Hey bookish friends!

Are you as excited for the upcoming book conventions? There’s nothing quite like the energy of being surrounded by fellow book lovers, meeting your favorite authors, discovering new reads, and, of course, grabbing some amazing bookish swag! Whether this is your first time attending or you're a seasoned convention-goer, there’s always a thrill in preparing for the big event.

Today, we're here to share some tips on what to bring to make the most of your convention experience, along with a few must-have items that will make the day even more magical. So, grab your TBR list and let’s get ready for some fun!

1. The Essential Tote Bag for All Your Bookish Finds

Let’s start with the most important item of all: the tote bag. Trust me, you will need a sturdy, spacious tote to carry all the books and goodies you’re about to pick up. There’s nothing worse than juggling stacks of books and freebies without a trusty bag to hold everything.

Pro tip: Choose a tote that’s not only durable but also book-themed! That way, you can show off your fandom while browsing the booths. And don’t be afraid to bring more than one—you never know how many books will follow you home! There’s nothing quite like the joy of carrying a tote full of literary treasures.

2. Bookmarks to Keep Track of All Your New Reads

Now, we all know that there probably have a few bookmarks lying around (who doesn’t?), but trust us, you’ll want to pack some extra for the new reads you’re going to pick up at the convention. Nothing beats the feeling of cracking open a fresh book and sliding in a beautifully designed bookmark to mark your spot. Plus, they make great conversation starters with other bookish souls you meet!

Whether it’s a whimsical design inspired by your favorite series or a more minimalistic one, having a bookmark handy will keep you organized as your TBR pile grows throughout the day. I always have a few stashed in my bag—because let’s be real, we never leave a convention with just one book.

3. Comfy Apparel for Long Convention Days

Book conventions can be a whirlwind of excitement, but they’re also long—so comfort is key. You’ll be on your feet for most of the day, so why not stay comfy in something that also shows off your bookish style? Whether it’s a cozy hoodie, a book-inspired t-shirt, or even some comfy leggings, dressing in something that represents your favorite series is like wearing your fandom on your sleeve (literally!).

And hey, you never know—your outfit might catch the eye of a fellow fan or even an author, sparking an unexpected bookish convo!

4. Journals and Notebooks for Author Signings

Meeting your favorite author is one of the best parts of any convention, and what better way to remember that moment than with a personalized autograph? Having a special journal or notebook on hand is perfect for collecting signatures, personal notes, and maybe even a little message from the author. Plus, you can use it to jot down book recommendations you hear throughout the day or take notes during panel discussions.

Pro tip: Look for a literary-themed journal or notebook—it adds a little extra magic to the experience. There’s something special about collecting autographs in a notebook that feels like it’s straight out of a story itself.

5. Pins, Patches, and Accessories to Show Off Your Fandom

Sometimes, it’s the little things that make the biggest statement. If you’re a fan of pins, patches, or small accessories, now’s the time to show them off! Attach your favorite pins to your tote bag or lanyard, or rock a jacket with patches from your favorite series. It’s a fun, subtle way to let people know what fandoms you belong to without even saying a word.

Plus, swapping pins with fellow fans is always a fun convention tradition! You never know what kind of unique designs you’ll come across.

6. Water Bottles or Travel Mugs for On-the-Go Hydration

Staying hydrated is super important during long convention days (trust us, you don’t want to hit that afternoon slump while trying to carry all your new books). Bringing along a water bottle or travel mug is a must. If you’ve got a bookish-themed one, even better! That way, you can stay refreshed and keep the bookish vibes going all day long.

Bonus: many conventions have refill stations, so bringing your own bottle or mug is both practical and eco-friendly. And, of course, there’s something comforting about sipping from a travel mug that reminds you of your favorite fictional world.

7. Portable Book Lights for Nighttime Reading

After a long day at the convention, there’s a good chance you’ll want to dive right into one of your new books (or two... or three). A portable book light is a must-have for those late-night reading sessions in the hotel or during a quiet moment between events. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later when you’re able to sneak in just one more chapter without disturbing anyone.

If you don’t already have one, a cute, themed book light is a fun way to add a little flair to your nighttime reading ritual.

8. Exclusive Merch from the Convention

Now, this is where things get really exciting. Many conventions offer exclusive merchandise that you can only get during the event, so keep an eye out for those limited-edition items. Whether it’s a special tote, a unique pin, or even a collector’s edition book, these pieces are the perfect way to commemorate the experience.

This October, remember come to visit The Bean Workshop at the Romantasy BookCon 2024 in Orlando. Be sure to stop by our shop's booth for a chance to browse our latest officially licensed products and maybe even snag some exclusive deals.

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As bookworms, we all know there’s nothing quite like the magic of a book convention—the energy, the community, and of course, the books! With the right essentials, like a trusty tote bag, a cozy outfit, and some fandom-inspired accessories, you’ll be ready to tackle any bookish adventure that comes your way. Whether you're there to discover new reads, meet your favorite authors, or just soak in the literary vibes, these conventions are a dream come true for book lovers like us.

So, pack your bags (don’t forget those bookmarks!), grab a comfy pair of shoes, and let’s make the most of the upcoming convention season. And hey, if you’re on the lookout for a few extra goodies to bring along, be sure to check out our shop—you just might find the perfect item to make your convention experience even more magical. Can’t wait to see you there!