Backpacks at Celebration

Have any of you guys heard anything about security and letting us have backpacks in the building at Celebration 2? Cause I really would rather not have to carry all the stuff like autographs and other goodies around all day. Putting them in a bookbag would just be so much easier. But in these days of heightened security, I can understand their concern. So if they aren't going to let us bring bags in, are they going to supply us with something to carry our stuff in?
And for those of you planning on bringing a bag, are you just gonna bring a backpack, or are you going to create something that will go with your costume, if you are going in costume?

 

I'm going as a Jedi but I plan on bringing a bag of some kind. I seriously doubt they will confiscate bags. The need for security is no excuse to go crazy. All it takes are proper procedures and professional, knowledgable security people. Even after 9/11, people can travel with unloaded firearms if they follow proper procedures.

When I get back to TN I plan on e-mailing WotC. But I won't be back for another week, perhaps someone here can take the initiative and e-mail them for the real answer.

 

At Celebration I in Denver, everyone got a 'goodie pack' when they arrived. I remember there being a bunch of adverts and stuff, but one of the 'goodies' was a good sized nylon-ish back-pack-type drawstring sack (It was really handy, and I still use it to this day!). Maybe they'll have something similar for us again, this time 'round.

 

On friday I wont be bringing one , I dont feel like walking back to the hotel if they wont allow them. After that if they r letting people bring them in I will bring mine along so I can stash my souveniers (and munchies!)

 

At Celelbration 1 I carried around my Darth Maul back pack I found before the release date at Target. No one cared. At the most they will check the bags. IF they don't have a metal detector and they won't let us bring backpack then they are retarded. If they're serious about security they will have some kind of check point before you enter.
I don't think it will be a problem.
-Jason

 

I am hoping that it would not be so tough for fans to bring in stuff, I usually have a tote on wheels to keep my items safe from damage. I will have something similar at the show to keep my carded figures and goods safe.

 

According to the FAQ thread WotC has hired two professional security organizations. I don't think it will be the crazy over-the-top "security" that some of the smaller cheaper cons will have.

 

I believe that if you have a bag with you, then you are more likely to spend money, because you something to carry your new goodies in. I know I will buy MUCH LESS if I have to carry it in my arms all day.

 

I Emailed Wizards about the backpack thing and this is what was sent back to me:

You are more than welcome to bring your backpack with you. Just be prepared to allow someone to check it, or ask you to leave it behind if the situation arises.

Thank you,

Kristie
Customer Service and Registration Manager
Wizards of the Coast


Sounds good to me. I'm going to bring my pack for sure and hopefully it won't be too much of a hassle..

 

'or ask you to leave it behind if the situation arises'


What kind of situation could happen where you would be asked to leave it behind?

 

You got me??? Maybe if they find some shrunken heads in your pack or something... hehe...

 

If the Borango Backpack Virus breaks out and backpacks start mutating into giant five legged angler fish looking relatives of George Lucas and begin flossing peoples teeth at random, then I think they would be justified in asking you to leave you backpack behind.

But that's just me.

Scott

 

You're more than welcome to bring it, just be prepared to leave it behind.

Good one.

 

What they more then likely mean by that is a backpack will probably be okay on the floor and in the dealers room. But, in exhibit areas, backpacks wouldn't be allowed so that nobody can potentially sneak a piece of art into their pack and walk out. This is a typical con policy.

 

so that nobody can potentially sneak a piece of art into their pack and walk out.

Exactly, they do this at GenCon if you go into the Art room. They don't want things falling into your backpack while you're in there :-D

-Dex