It’s a big show, and if you want to see as much as possible, it takes some planning. Here are my *top 10 tips for getting the most out of Hamvention*.
In fact, most of them apply to just about any large Hamfest.
- *Make a list* of companies and forums you want to visit. My good friends at PC Board have a complete listing of both indoor and outdoor vendors *here* <https://qsradio.us10.list-manage.com/track/click?u=a5a6e8e950aa932d51c345073&id=2600247120&e=a1f5d2f2e5>.
Note that booth numbers correspond to buildings or flea market areas. For example, we’ll be in booths 3503, etc. in Building #3, also called the Marconi Building. *Split your list* in three categories — (a) must see, (b) really want to see, and (c) would like to see. Knock off the must see first, then tackle the others.
- If a booth is just too crowded, *don’t spend a lot of time waiting* to talk to someone. Move on to your next stop. Booth traffic starts to drop off after about 2-3PM and you’ll have an easier time then. Of course, remember it’s *ALWAYS* worth waiting at the *Quicksilver Radio Booth* 😉
- Noon ’til 1:30 or so is peak time for lunch. *Eat a bit earlier, or
later,* and you’re likely to encounter much shorter lines at the food trucks. Don’t forget to *pack water and snacks,* or be prepared to pay typical concession stand prices for them. If you need medication during the day, have that with you. No sense hiking back to your car to get it.
And pack a bottle of your favorite *pain reliever*, too. A headache or sore feet can really kill your enjoyment of the show. There are just a very few real restrooms on site, but last time there were plenty of Porta-Potties that seemed to be well maintained throughout the show. A small pack of baby wipes or similar might be handy to have.
- *Be prepared for the weather*. It might pour rain. It might be blazing hot and sunny. It might be damp and chilly. It might even hail. And all of them might occur over just a few hours! A hat, sunscreen, umbrella, and light jacket should be in your pack.
- You’re going to be on your feet — a lot. Unless you’re used to standing for long periods, your “dogs will be barking”. One of the best tips I’ve ever heard is to *bring a second pair of shoes and socks*, and switch them halfway through the day. Believe me, it will almost feel like you have a new pair of feet.
- *Bring plenty of cash.* While the larger commercial dealers probably accept credit cards, many in the flea market will not. Try to get used bills. If you have to get crisp new ones out of the ATM, take a minute to give each one a “crumple”. That makes them much less likely to stick together. Especially early in the day, it may not be easy for a dealer to make change for a small purchase with a large bill. And most (like me) always appreciate small bills to make change for others.
- If you do plan to use a credit or debit card, *let your bank know in advance.* Banks have ever more stringent anti-fraud practices in place, protecting both you and them. You may typically use your card for a tank of gas and a trip to the grocery store once a week at home. If you suddenly make a flurry of purchases in a short period of time, far from home, your bank may well flag and suspend the card. There should be a customer service number on the back of your card. *Make sure you can read it! *Even so, cell phone service at the Fairgrounds was less than ideal last year and I’m unaware of any change in that regard.
- *Take advantage of the opportunity to learn*. There are forums galore, covering just about every aspect of our great hobby. They’ll be presented by experts in the field, and you’ll get the chance to meet fellow enthusiasts as well. The same is true for shack accessories — in many cases, you can speak directly with the folks who designed and manufacture it.
- Take a minute to *thank the hundreds of volunteers* who make the Hamvention possible. I can’t imagine how many hours of their time it takes to put on a show like this. At the very least, they deserve a big round of thanks. Similarly, most vendors put a huge effort into their Dayton booths. Without them, there’s no show. Let them know you’re glad to see them. And (I know it sounds a bit self-serving) keep them in mind year-round as you plan your purchases. *I don’t see either Amazon or E-Bay on the vendor list!*
- Whether you go expecting to have a great time, or you expect to find a lot of shortcomings, you’re probably right! So *ignore that very small minority of Negative Ninnies*. Yep, there will be a few glitches. If you let that ruin your Hamvention, shame on you. With Ringling Brothers’ Circus now closed, this is the *Greatest Show on Earth*. Enjoy all it has to offer, and take home some wonderful memories along with some new toys.
Some tips from Quicksilver Radio. I personally found these to be spot on.
Dale K8TS