(File photo) Pop culture fans attend the 2016 San Diego Comic-Con event at the San Diego Convention Center. Photo: Gina Yarbrough/San Diego County News

By Gina Yarbrough/San Diego County News

SAN DIEGO–You received tickets to San Diego Comic-Con International, and this will be your first trip to San Diego. Don’t panic! Help is on the way!

First thing, don’t worry about transportation to Comic-Con. Shuttles from select hotels will take you directly to the San Diego Convention Center, and back to your hotel. Or you can hop on the Trolley’s Green Line that stops right in front of the center. The Metropolitan Transit System will increase the number of trolleys during the week of Comic-Con.

Bring your water! It will be very warm outside, and if you are in costume, it’s vital that you hydrate yourself on a regular basis. Also wear a wide brimmed hat and skin protection lotion if you plan to participate in any outdoor activities.

Looking for a bite to eat between booth and panel visits? The convention center has several food courts that serve salads, sandwiches, drinks and more. Outside the convention center, you will find a variety of restaurants that serve Italian, American, Mexican, Irish, Asian food. Avoid the lunchtime crowd. Restaurants get real busy during those hours. A quick stop at a local deli will be your best bet. All these restaurants are within walking distance from the convention center. If you don’t want to walk, pedicabs are available for a fee.

If you plan to purchase a few merchandise at Comic-Con, but don’t have room to carry it all on the plane, you can ship it to your home. Some vendors will offer shipments to your location. Ask first prior to buying the merchandise. Also, there’s a FedEx office located in the lobby area at the convention center.

The night life! The city boast numerous clubs for those convention-goers over 21 and up. Meet your friends at the local bar or restaurant, and dance the night away. Or, just walk around the neighborhood to absorbed the sights and sounds of downtown San Diego.

And lastly, stay safe and have fun!