There is food in the convention center, but can have large lines or is not near your panel. It is best to bring food with you so that you have options, and for when you may not want to leave a panel.
See below for food tips outside the convention center
Cash
Most vendors take cards, but sometimes you can get a cheaper price if you pay with cash, the signal may not be working for their machine, and to avoid the ATM fees.
Phone Charger
Your phone battery dies quickly while at the Con. It is best to bring one, or two, external chargers.
Wall outlets are limited
Bag Size
If you can, try to use a smaller bag than the one provided by the convention. The exhibit floor can be very crowded, and trying to maneuver can get difficult with a large bag.
Escaping the crowd
If you are tired, and just looking to get away, many of the nearby hotels have nice lobbies where you can relax and recoup, away from the crowds.
Something Warm
Although it may be hot outside, the convention center can get quite cold, especially in the panel rooms. Bring a jacket or sweater.
Panel Schedule
Panels can reach capacity. Have a second and third choice prepared, so that you can quickly find your next panel.
Professional Badges
Utilize the professional room to work and relax
Free coffee, tea, lemonade, and water
Swag & Off-Site Events
The Gaslamp area by the Hard Rock Hotel is a great place to get cool swag
There are many activities outside the convention center. Main locations are in the Gaslamp, the Hilton Bayfront lawn, and the parking area next to Petco Park.
Many parking lots sell out before the convention. If you do not already have parking, the trolley may be a quicker and stress-free way to get to Comic-Con.
Exploring Downtown
Food
Food Trucks
Located near Petco Park
Look for Super Q and Hello Kitty Cafe
Sweet Things Frozen Yogurt
Bottom of the Hilton Bayfront, next to the convention center
Hilton Bayfront, next to the convention center
BBQ outside the main entrance, next to the festivities at the park
Carts inside near the panel ballroom
Burger is great
Kansas City BBQ
The "Top Gun" Bar
Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina
Grab-and-go food at the pool
Drinks
Specialty Comic Con Cocktails
Numerous bars in the area have specialty cocktails for Comic-Con
Float
Bar at the Hard Rock, is a great place to get a drink, and to people watch from up above the main street to the convention center
San Diego Famous Craft Beers
On tap at any downtown bar
Visit downtown locations:
Half Door
Karl Strauss
Mission
Stone
Downtown Sites & Things to Do
Old Town Trolley Tour
Great way to travel around the main sites of San Diego
Hop on-and-off at numerous stops
USS Midway Museum
Historic aircraft carrier with exhibits
Voted #1 Museum in San Diego on Trip Advisor
Cruises on the Harbor Hornblower
Great Tours
Brunch Cruise, Dinner Cruise
Flagship Cruises and Events
Awesome ride! - Patriot Jet Boat Thrill Ride
Tours, Brunch Cruise, Dinner Cruise
Transportation between Coronado and Downtown, Locations: Broadway Pier and the Convention Center