There are many things to keep in mind when con going.
1) know where your con badge is at all times
(if you are lucky to have a con badge that you can open up and stuck stuff in use is as a walet of sorts. I always keep my room key, money and ID so I know it is always around my neck when I need it. )
2) Plan on bathing every day at least once because the otaku funk can creap up on you with out knowing it.
3) Fed your self! bring a cooler and keep some drinks and food stuff and then remember to eat! Eatting at the con can be very very expencive sadly so always bring food for your self and snacks that are not pocky.
4) Know who your rooming with and creating a message board in the room helps.
5) Keep a loose scheduall because events and workshop will change but do make a schedual so you can participate in the fun things you want.
6)Keep your con book handy with a pen and when you find a friend have the write their name and email/ph#/roomnumber so when the con ends you can find them later.
7) volunteer just for a bit so you can get to know the people who put on the con so you can feel apart of the family.
For cosplaying always bring a sewing kit, making tape, and staper.
9) for taking pictures use disposable cameras and go crazy then up load them for all to see on the forums
10) Learn the proper way to glomp from the "pocky club"