This weekend, Seattle will host PAX Prime, one of the biggest video game fan conventions in the U.S.. The Penny Arcade Expo has been running for more than ten years, expanding into an empire of panels, demos and cosplay for four days of insane, nerdy fun. To help get you prepared, we’ve reworked our Summer Convention Survival Guide from earlier in the summer to bring you the ultimate prep guide for this year’s convention. Stay tuned for more updates straight from the show floor.
Poster Tube – The utility belt of the convention fan. Not only is it the only satisfactory way to keep that signed Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. poster in mint condition, but it also doubles as a great swag carrying case AND a sash for all your dope pins. Recommended – Alvin Ice Tube – $15 on Amazon
External Battery – You never quite realize how short-lived your phone battery is until it’s flashing red after just a short afternoon of selfies and excited tweeting. Recommended – Anker Astro 2nd Gen – $22 on Amazon
Snacks – Convention centers are some of the most price-gouged locations on Earth, second only to theme parks and movie theaters. Beat the system. Load that poster tube up with as many granola bars as you can stuff.
Nintendo 3DS – Nintendo’s handheld gaming console is more than just a great distraction for long lines and plane rides. The built-in StreetPass feature allows you to trade Miis with fellow 3DS systems and unlock cool hats and accessories. Conventions become a hive of StreetPass activity, allowing you to amass Miis from across the globe. It’s simple, but incredibly addictive.
Sharpie – PAX Prime attracts all manner of gaming celebrities, so you’re bound to bump into at least one of your favorite YouTube stars. A commemorative selfie is always great, but if you want something a bit more tangible, make sure you’re always packing. Grab a black Sharpie and start collecting signatures. Either find an autograph book or just have your favorite sign your daily admittance badge.
Tips & Tricks:

• Keep Comfortable – Standing around playing video games doesn’t sound like a trying activity, but PAX can get to be a strain. Make sure you’re staying hydrated, wear comfortable shoes, and try to keep cool in the stuffy main halls.
• Prioritize Your Time – You’ve only got so many hours to explore the majesty of PAX, and there are nearly countless games to see. So is it worth it to sit in a line for three hours, just to play a game that will be out in a few weeks anyways? Plan ahead, determine what’s a must-see (or must-skip) and ask around if the demo with the biggest crowd is actually worth it.
• Get Outside – While the show floor is an amazing sight, don’t get trapped in its web. Remember: you’re in Seattle. One of the most stunning metropolises of the west coast, with more amazing food and drink than you can shake a stick at. Make some time to embrace your vacation outside the convention center,
• Embrace Twitter – No social network is better for getting news ASAP than Twitter. Need to know how much seats are left for the Gearbox panel? Follow @pax_lines. Looking for something to do after the show floor closes? @paxparties has the scoop on every after-hours meetup. Of course, make sure you’re also paying keen attention to @Official_PAX for any major updates.

Follow Chris Berg on Twitter, @Mushroomer25