Apr 26 2009
5 Ways to Beat the Heat at Summer Conventions
Let’s be honest: cosplay and summer heat do not mix very well. And yet, some of the most popular fandom conventions are scheduled for the summer months. Attending a summer con (especially if you’re in the Southern United States) can be brutal, especially if you’re in costume. If you’re not careful, it can also take a real toll on your health. I’ve put together a quick and easy list of ways to beat the summer heat at conventions. Below that, you’ll also find a list of symptoms for heat stroke and dehydration, which I’m sure are two conditions you’ll want to avoid.
Top 5 Ways to Beat the Heat at a Summer Convention
1. Drink plenty of water!
One of the aspects of Dragon*con (which occurs over Labor Day) that I have always appreciated is that water is always available and complimentary. The hotels have tables set up in the conference rooms and in the hallways with containers of water and plastic cups. It isn’t always convenient to be carrying around a water bottle if you’re in costume, so having freely accessible water throughout the con is a major plus. If the con you’re attending does not offer this, consider requesting it from the con organizers. Remind them how important it us for con goers to stay hydrated. I’m sure they don’t want anyone needing a hospital trip on their watch. If the con doesn’t offer free water, I highly recommend bringing your own, because those selling it will be price gouging.
2. Bring along a pocked sized fan.
They sell those little battery operated fans at all the theme parks for a reason, and attending a con can be similar to attending a theme park sometimes. They can both be crowded, hot, and involve some long lines. Bring along a little pocket sized fan! They make them small enough to easily fit in a pocket (or even down a corset). You can use it for times when you have to be outside, or if a room inside gets too warm (which can happen with all those people generating body heat).
3. If you have the funds, get a personal cooling device.
If you’re in a costume that covers a good portion of your body (like a full animal suit or something), consider a personal cooling device. This might sound extreme, but if you know you’re going to be wearing a chicken suit all day in the heat, you will want something like this to keep you cool.
4. Be smart about your attire/costumes/fabric choices.
I don’t recommend a full body costume for the summer cons unless you plan to be inside the entire time, and not moving very much. Consider breathable light weight fabrics for your costumes (or even your regular clothes) instead. If you’re determined to wear a hot costume, at least consider wearing it for short periods vs the whole day, or saving it for evening wear when the sun has gone down and it is cooler.
5. Avoid caffeine and alcohol!
I know, I know! It is pretty much sacrilege to say this to the convention crowd, but caffeine and alcohol do promote dehydration. Water really is the best way to stay cool and hydrated. If you are going to drink soda, coffee, or alcohol, keep the water drinking going as well. Not only will this help avoid dehydration, but it’ll help prevent a hang over as well.
What are the Symptoms of Heat Stroke?
- nausea
- vomiting
- fatigue
- weakness
- headache
- muscle cramps and aches
- dizziness
What are the Symptoms of Dehydration?
- thirst
- less-frequent urination
- dry skin
- fatigue
- light-headedness
- dizziness
- confusion
- dry mouth and mucous membranes
- increased heart rate and breathing
“Heat stroke can occur suddenly, without any symptoms of heat exhaustion. If a person is experiencing symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, OBTAIN MEDICAL CARE IMMEDIATELY. Any delay could be fatal.”
Whether you’re going to a summer convention in costume or not, remember to stay cool and drink plenty of water. Nothing ruins a convention like a trip to the hospital. Be smart and stay safe this summer! If you have any other suggestions for beating the heat at conventions, be sure to leave a comment!
