What Can I Expect?

Hiya. So, I've read through several other topics, about etiquette at cons and things to be aware of. I'm a shy guy, and just this side of paranoid when I'm in a new situation, so I think I have that covered. However, I've never been to an anime con. I've been to a couple other cons, and I love public events/festivals/etc (I go to a cultural gathering every year), but these kinds of cons are unique. For one, a con I want to go to next year is freakin' huge (Sakura con), and I know next to nothing about the only other con in my area (Akicon). So, my question is... What can I expect? What happens at cons? How big is Sakuracon? What should I bring with me, and what kinds of things should I keep my eye out for? I know next to nothing about cons, beyond some minor anecdotes from people on the 'net. Speaking of which, I'd love to hear more stories lol. Finally, what's a good rule of thumb for money? I know enough for food, to always have water on me, and to bring enough for products, but do other things cost money? Events within the con? Thanks much ^_^

Now, I've never been to Sakuracon, but a good general rule of thumb is to have enough money for food, transportation, room share (if you're staying at the con hotel), badge, the dealer's room/artists' alley, and some extra just in case you have an emergency/need cosplay repair stuff/ etc. A good idea would be to also keep your State ID, insurance cards, and cell phone on you at all times, just in case you get hurt and/or need to call your ride. Volunteering can cut some of the cost, but you're also trading con time for that. A lot of what the conduct stuff is is common sense. For example, if you see people escalator surfing and know that it's dangerous, then don't do it yourself and call security. I've seen at least one con-goer here in Houston hurt themself by doing that. If you plan on cosplaying a character that wields a weapon, make sure to check the con's site for their weapons policy. Most don't like live steel, even if peace-bonded. As for what to bring with you, if you plan to stay at the hotel, of course the basics (clothes, toiletries, etc), as well as anything special you'll need for coplays. Also, shower at least once during the con, more if you've been running around a lot. Also, though it is tough b/c you'll be very excited, do try to have a regular in room-by time and go to sleep then! That way you won't be so run down by the 3rd day. If you plan on commuting to the con (I reccomend this if the con is within a 90 min drive), leave the con at least 30 mins in advance of your drive time+ the bedtime you set (I usually had an 1 hr drive to my place from KKC, so I'd leave around 1:30am to get home, get changed and chores done, then sleep).