So you’ve decided to indulge your passion for Japanese pop culture and go overseas to attend a con — good for you! I’ve always thought that well-traveled people are more interesting and and easy to get along with, so overseas travel at least once is good for everyone.

If you plan to cosplay at your maiden international event and have no idea where to get started, here are a few tips to help you on your way to your overseas debut.

Pick an appropriate costume.

Pick a costume that not just looks good on you, but is appropriate for the weather and the venue at the convention you will be attending. Is it summer or winter in that country? Will the venue be indoors or out? Will the event be held in a convention center, a park, or a large tent? Will you be needing little help putting your costume on or do you need an army of assistants? Make sure you consider other factors in your selection process and not rely solely on aesthetics.

Consider your airline’s luggage allowance during costume construction.

Some airlines have a limited baggage allocation, so make sure your costume falls within the weight limit, otherwise you will have to pay extra for your excess luggage. Use lightweight materials during costume construction. Lessen the number of props and accessories — leave just enough for the costume to be accurate, even though it is not elaborate. If all else fails, try to look for a local place to source at least some of your materials, so that all you need to do is buy them there and attach them to your costume.

Weigh your options when picking accommodations.

Hotels are plentiful and can fall under a wide range of prices. Before you book a room, think about what is more important to you: time or money. If you want to save money, you can pick a cheaper hotel further away from the venue — but if you need to ride a cab to get there anyway your savings are lowered. On the other hand, if you want to save time, pick a hotel closer to the venue — but be prepared to pay a premium price for your room.

Read up on local cosplay etiquette and customs.

Try to read up on the etiquette and customs for anime conventions in the country you plan to visit beforehand to prevent any awkwardness. Some countries may frown upon costumes that show too much skin, while some countries may arrest you if you show up in police or military-style costumes. Some events may let you set up camp in one area of the convention center and let you entertain photographers, while others may consider that as loitering and shoo you away.

When in doubt, ask! Leave a comment in a local cosplay forum, blog, or Facebook group and ask politely about how one should act as a visiting cosplayer from abroad.

Watch out for your own safety.

Always be aware of your surroundings and watch out for your own safety. You should be doubly careful since you are not in your stomping grounds, and if something goes wrong it could be very difficult to ask for help.

Do not bring too much cash with you — if you must, store them in different hiding places. Refrain from bringing too many small electronic items like iPods and handheld game machines. Leave your passport at the hotel safe, but bring a photocopy with you in case you need it. And be careful when talking to strangers — your mum was right when she said that not all strangers have good intentions.