National advice

[tulsaboy]

I took a backpack loaded with empty 660 ct boxes, one touch holders, 2 or 3 bottles of water, and several granola bars and other snacks. Then I was pretty good to go until dinner, since I don't mind refilling water bottles. I didn't spend a penny on concessions, nor did I have to stand in a line to do so. More time and money for cards!
kevin

[Jewish-collector]

Since Covid, the National has gotten ridiculously more crowded each year, where it's now long lines for admission, food, restrooms, etc,... and it becomes very uncomfortable trying to maneuver within the isles with so many people. I would suggest Wednesday and Sunday would be the least crowded. Everyone goes for different reasons. The responses on here are from predominantly vintage baseball card collectors, so you'll get a different perspective on other card forums, message boards, YouTube, etc,...

Definitely, do the evening activities (Net54 dinner, etc,...) to meet other fellow collectors & dealers.

[Rich Klein]

If you see your "white whale" and it's priced reasonably do not shop around, just pay the $$$$

I can't tell you how many stories I've heard of well I noted it and went back an hour later to see it was gone.

Now, if your white whale is a PSA 8 1977 Topps Bruce Sutter RC well centered -- yeah that you can figure out how to wait and shop around as 1214 have been graded PSA 8

If your white whale is a... PSA 7 1971 O-Pee-Chee Al Weis, well I would grab that card if priced right because only 5 cards have been graded PSA7 or higher.

[Exhibitman]

+1 on snacks. I pack a bunch of nuts, meats, etc. and just munch on that stuff all day long, basically skip lunch. I also load up on a big breakfast each day. BYO water bottle too.