A Player’s Guide to a Smooth, Stress-Free Event
Whether this is your first event or your fiftieth, a little preparation before game-on can mean the difference between scrambling and thriving. This checklist is designed to help players coordinate ahead of time so you can show up grounded, confident, and ready to fully immerse.
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1. Character & Story Readiness
Before you pack a single bag, make sure you and your character are aligned.
☐ Character sheet updated and approved
☐ Spells, abilities, and skills reviewed
☐ Any recent plot hooks or ongoing arcs reread
☐ Goals set for this event (personal, unit, political, emotional)
☐ NPC or PC connections refreshed (names, titles, grudges 👀)
Pro tip: Write down 1–3 intentions for the event instead of rigid plans. Plot rarely behaves.
2. Garb, Armor & Props
Lay everything out at least a day before you leave.
☐ Primary garb checked for fit and weather
☐ Backup garb (mud, rain, combat damage happens)
☐ Armor inspected (straps, buckles, padding)
☐ Weapons checked and compliant
☐ Belts, pouches, holsters accounted for
☐ In-character jewelry, symbols, or tokens packed
Pro tip: Pack garb in outfit bundles so you’re not digging through bins at midnight.
3. Logistics & Travel
Future You will thank Present You for this step.
☐ Event address saved offline
☐ Arrival and check-in times confirmed
☐ Carpool or travel group coordinated
☐ Emergency contact shared with someone attending
☐ Parking rules reviewed
☐ Weather forecast checked (again, right before leaving)
4. Camp & Comfort Essentials
Immersion dies fast when basic needs aren’t met.
☐ Tent / lodging confirmed
☐ Bedding, blankets, pillow packed
☐ Weather-appropriate layers
☐ Refillable water bottle
☐ Snacks (high protein + quick sugar)
☐ Any required medications
☐ Personal hygiene items
Pro tip: A small “reset kit” (baby wipes, chapstick, pain reliever, electrolyte packets) is gold.
5. Communication & Safety
Strong communication keeps everyone safer and happier.
☐ Read event rules, policies, and safety mechanics
☐ Know who to contact for OOC concerns
☐ Review consent, tap-out, and boundary systems
☐ Let your unit know any accessibility or medical needs
☐ Phone charged + portable battery packed
6. Unit / Party Coordination (If Applicable)
If you roll with others, align ahead of time.
☐ Unit leadership checked in
☐ Group goals discussed
☐ Camp layout coordinated
☐ Shared props, banners, or supplies assigned
☐ In-character dynamics clarified (especially tension or conflict arcs)
7. Photo & Memory Prep (Optional but Recommended 😉)
If photos matter to you, prep like they do.
☐ Clean or polished key costume elements
☐ Backup accessories for photos
☐ Let photographers know if you want portraits
☐ Identify “peak look” moments (ceremony garb, armor day, etc.)
8. Mental & Emotional Check-In
This step is just as important as packing boots.
☐ Acknowledge your current energy level
☐ Set realistic expectations for yourself
☐ Plan breaks if needed
☐ Remember: it’s okay to step OOC when needed
☐ You don’t have to do everything to have a good event
Final Reminder
You are allowed to:
Be excited
Be nervous
Change plans
Rest
Miss a mod
Say no
Showing up prepared doesn’t mean showing up perfect it means giving yourself the best chance to fully live the story.
See you in the field.
