Hopefully this year i can get my license, and a job with it, but up until now... I usually do odd jobs, save up change, do a ton of mooching, save up the small amount ($10-15 a week i scratch together) i make that i usually spend on manga during the periods im making/buying/sewing up a particular article throughout the year...
Not that i have a ton of experience, seeing as this is like, my first con, and i've only done two or so cosplays prior to this... XP