Okay, so here's the deal. Every bit of advice I read about anime conventions said you should bring a group of friends for safety. The thing is, none of my friends like anime. I'm not really comfortable going to a con alone because 1) it would be awkward and 2) not very safe. What should I do?

Don't go.

I've been to four conventions, one of which was in Detroit, and the other three just outside. I guess it all depends on where it's taking place? Location, location, location. Obviously, Detroit isn't the "safest" place, but everything went pretty smoothly.

Most of the people there seem pretty harmless. But you can't trust everyone I suppose. I've never had any major problems with anime conventions. Out of personal experience, I would say not to worry too much about the people there, but to not just assume that everyone there is trustworthy. Be sensible and use common sense.

If you want to be adventurous, try to find a group of people that are going to the convention. You could always meet up a few months beforehand and get to know each other. Many people do this when they don't have a ride or room, and it usually works out fine.

Other than that, there isn't much you can do... Whatever the case, be very cautious. :)

[edit] By the way, anime conventions are crazy fun. If you do end up going, I hope you have a great time. :)

I went to the same con last year, but last year it was literally two blocks away from my house so if there were any problems I could just get home quickly. This year it's on the other side of town and I'll be travelling by bus, so that's not exactly quick...

I'm 13, and while I don't find myself particularly attractive there might be people who do. O_O in which case I would be muy freaked out. But I'm pretty sure that won't happen. our town is pretty small and has a low crime rate. I wouldn't go alone to a convention in, say, Detroit, but yeah..

I suppose if there are people who are bothering me I can just tell security. -shrugs-

Also my friend who is 22 might be going, and she would be a pretty good companion in my opinion. :b

Thanks for your advice!

[edit] TUCKING FYPOS! D:

Well, I guess that's a bit trouble... you don't necessarily need a group-- but at least one other person going with you would be highly recommended. //first con I went to was with one other friend, things turned out fine. For the most part, probably has already been said, but there's not much that you really have to watch out for since most of the people at cons are fine-- not all, but most. Play it safe. If and when you do go though, have fun. It's as fun as you make it out to be. So, have fun~

Thanks for the advice ^^ My friend, who's 22, said she'd go with me, so my problem is solved c:

I've been to quite a few conventions, so I have one piece of advice that I learned over the years. Every con has some version of IRT (Incident Response Team). They usually wear a vest or something of the sort that will identify them as IRT. If you ever find yourself in a sticky situation (lost your buddy, people bugging/stalking you, a fight, you get hurt, etc., etc.), look for them. They should be able to help you, or at least find someone who can.

I'm an a bit of an experienced con-goer and have been to quite a few, but the one con that was the most fun for me was the one where I went by myself. You just have to make friends there!

I do understand your concern though. I'm a little bit older than you, being 16, and its nerve-wracking going by yourself.

It is best to have someone with you, but not absolutely necessary.

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