Reptile expo, tips for first timer?

Wow, will definitely keep that in mind, especially since I am only looking for the types of supplies that have to be purchased regularly that I can stock up on. I figure that is the kind of stuff that lots of different vendors will have, as opposed to snakes that are all fairly unique. We are also using it as an opportunity for the kids to see the different herps out there. They have been taught from an early age that animals should be respected and that there are very few that should be feared across the board. They are great about treating animals well, but I really want them to develop a passion and fascination with all different animals. Reptiles are probably the ones they have had the least direct experience with. We have had so many different kinds of pets but reptiles are new to them, so I think it will be great for them to get to really see the diversity and admire just how cool these guys are, so a lot of our time is going to be spent just seeing the different animals there.

Both of them want to get a reptile of their own, but I have explained to them that they would need to show me it isn't just a fleeting interest. They have agreed to see what is available, figure out what really interests them there and then start researching and learning about the care that animal would require. They are homeschooled so they should have plenty of time to do it. I figure if by the time the show comes around next year they are knowlegable enough and still that interested then we can make a decision by then. They are only 6 and 7 (both with birthdays next month) so they will be pretty young still by that time. I am going to wind up being the primary caretaker for any animals we get at this point, but I at least want to know they won't get bored in a week, because otherwise I would rather have something I have been dying to get lol. Should be a great experience for everyone though. :)

Walk around and look more than once.

Ask multiple people about their prices.

Haggle.

Don't bring more than you intend to spend.

Leave when you've bought what you need/want or when you've run out of money! It's hard not to want all of them. :D

This thread is great! I've been to reptile shows in the past, but the one in Denver this weekend is the first one we are going to where we plan to purchase our first snake (finally! Our first reptile show was over 3 years ago but our apartment did not allow reptiles. We bought our own house last year though and we feel it's time to get a snake now!). I'm very excited but a little nervous this time around! We aren't looking to spend much money since it's our first snake (though we do have leopard geckos, so we aren't totally new to keeping reptiles haha). I've heard reptile expos are great for finding a good deal on a nice snake. :)

It sounds like you and I OP are in the same boat - I'll be heading to the expo in Phoenix too, but I won't get there until Sunday. Hopefully there are still a few to choose from!