We are just 2 days away from the start of The National, aka The National Sports Card Convention, in Cleveland, Ohio. Cardhound Matt does not get to go this year (first missed National in a few years), but we do hope to have some eyes and ears on the ground and provide some updates throughout the week.
The NSCC web site has all of the pertinent details, so we won’t rehash those here. But if this is your first time attending, you might want to know more about what to expect, and how to structure your time to get the most out of the experience. We’re here to help! Check out Cardhound’s Top 10 Tips for Surviving (and Thriving!) at The National.
OK, First tip: the show is called The National. It is not “Nationals” or “The Nationals“–it’s not a sports championship. So please just avoid this faux pax and call it The National. You’re welcome!
Assuming you have tackled the necessary logistics regarding travel and lodging, you might be wondering about realistic goals or how to approach the show. A lot of this depends on whether you are attending for one day, multiple days, or the entire show. But let’s say you’re just planning one long action-packed day. How do you make the most of your time? Here are some suggestions!
Goal Setting for The National
The National is a great place to chase those pesky high numbers.
After talking to collector pal Mark Schlosberg and watching his video about show goals, I reflected on some of my “best practices” as well. (His list and mine are similar). Personally, I try to plan my trip around things that I can’t do online, or at a smaller show. You can buy mid-grade Topps anywhere, any time, so why waste time on that stuff here?
I try to focus on making the most of this unique experience. If you’re shopping for that specific grail and price is no object, go for it! But for the rest of us on a budget, here are some ideas for an enjoyable experience:
- Meet up with some social media card pals IRL! I met several long-time Facebook acquaintances last year, and now boast many actual friendships as a result. Plan a meetup.
- Get an autograph. The list of guests is always impressive, and while there’s not always “value added” in a signed item above and beyond the cost of the ticket, it’s an experience to meet one of your old idols, even if just for a second.
- Transact ahead of time and do the deal in person. It’s a great chance to avoid shipping and transaction fees, and another opportunity to make a new connection.
- Fill some sets. I tend to not spend big money at the National–it’s not exactly a liquidation sale. But there’s vintage and binders everywhere–so the show is a good chance to save shipping fees on $2 set cards, and it gives you something productive to do on a budget.
- Take in the sights. The big auction houses will be showing off some of the best cards in the hobby. Vendors will be handing out freebies. There’s a lot more to do and see that’s not just “shopping.”
Survival Tips
With your goals in place, there are some other ultra-necessary tips for making your trip a memorable one (in a good way):
- Bring cash. Sure, all dealers accept various forms of payment these days–but cash is king.
- Ignore sticker prices and just make offers. Don’t be shy–(most of) the dealers are there to sell, now show. And speaking of prices–run your comps ahead of time. Don’t count on reliable internet or cell service. Do your homework and trust your gut.
- Dress appropriately. You might expect that these places are equipped with modern conveniences like “air conditioning,” but the space will be packed, and on a super hot day the body heat will overwhelm the venue. If the forecast calls for heat, be prepared.
- Wear comfortable shoes. I kept track one day last year and I had walked 7 miles by the end of the day!
- Take snacks and hydration. The food lines tend to be long, and the food itself will be both bad and overpriced. Plan some nice meals away from the show, but bring your own healthy snacks. It’s not exactly a marathon, but it’s not a terrible analogy!
Check back all week for National news, updates, and features!
