by PMS Harlequin [Alicia Cabase]

The countdown is winding down and I’m really excited for the day I arrive in Seattle! I can’t believe it’s already August! I’ve seen so many forum posts and “twitters” talking about all things PAX, which convince me that I will definitely be “Sleepless in Seattle.”

I already have great PAX tips from Frag Monger, compiled a list of things to do in the city, and purchased my ticket to Ooopy and Kiki’s party, so the only thing left to do now is my packing checklist. I figured I’d give you guys and gals a hand and prepare a list for you too.

Guys:

• 2 pairs of Jeans
• 2 t-shirts (you’ll probably receive A LOT of free shirts as swag, probably all XL)
• 1 pair slacks or khaki’s (in case you get invited to an event or party)
• 1 nice shirt (see above)
• Essential toiletries (the usual and yes, DEODORANT please!)

Gals:

• 2 pairs of Jeans
• 4 t-shirts (you too will probably receive A LOT of free shirts as swag, unfortunately they will probably all be XL)
• 2 cute dresses (in case you get invited to an event or party)
• 1 pair heels (to complement the cute dress)
• Hairdryer, flattening iron, hair products
• Essential toiletries and make-up

Guys and Gals:

• Comfy shoes/sneakers (Lord knows you’re going to be walking/standing a helluva long time and long distances)
• Cell phone
• Gaming console of choice (I heard some people have LAN parties in their hotel rooms, not to mention some people REALLY can’t live without their games)
• Controller/Keyboard & Mouse (in case you’re going to compete in a tournament or play but don’t want to haul everything with you)
• Portable gaming device (for those long flights to Seattle and down time)
• MP3 player of choice
• Digital Camera/Video Camera (because what happens in Seattle definitely doesn’t stay in Seattle because it’s on YouTube)
• Chargers (because the batteries only last so long and it’s never long enough)
• Cash/Credit/Debit cards (because you can’t eat or drink for free)
• Headache medicine (for the hangover)
• Alka-Seltzer (to prevent the hangover)
• Condoms (I’m just saying)

My mommy instinct is kicking in and I feel compelled to remind you to print 2 copies of your flight itinerary and hotel info: one copy for you and the other copy to leave with someone not traveling with you (i.e. parents, spouse, close relative, etc). Check with your friends to confirm who is definitely going and who is bailing (I’ve heard it happens). Does your hotel have airport pick up service or do you have to make arrangements to get to your destination on your own? Coordinate a rendezvous point and time for day one with your friends (hotel closest to venue, PAX booth, event, etc). The last thing I can recommend is to bring an empty bag with you to take home all the free goodies you’ll receive at PAX. Check with your respective airlines regarding their fees for luggage and carry-ons so you’re not caught off guard when you get to the airport.

I am looking forward to meeting the faces behind the gamer tags. Even with all the stories and tips I’ve gotten about the Expo, I can sincerely tell you that I’m not sure what to expect and am anxious to get there already. Look for me and my fellow Blue Skittle colleagues while there. I’ll be the one wearing the t-shirt saying “Hi! I’m a PAX Virgin”. One thing is certain, this is going to be a very memorable trip.

See you in Seattle!