What to Expect When You're Hamming: A Hive13 Guide to Hamvention

Hamvention is fast approaching! Ham radio fans converge upon Dayton to brave the sun, rain, and nerds to broadcast their radio knowledge. A decent portion of our members have ham radio licenses and are annual visitors to Hamvention. We're ready to ham it up, here are some of our members' best tips for optimizing your trip to Greene County Fair and Expo Center!

Come with a list of what you're looking for and be at peace with the fact you will not see all of the outdoor flea market. - Brian

Hamvention has indoor vendors as well as an outdoor flea market. While you can play out your indoor route pretty easily, the flea market has way more vendors and can be overwhelming. Come with a plan AND cash!

Bring a backpack and lots of water. - Ryan A.

Walking the grounds can be exhausting in the May sun and extra storage may be required if you find a great score (which you will). Staying hydrated and unburdened is a huge part of having an enjoyable time.

It's going to rain, bring appropriate footwear and a rain jacket. - Drew K.

Rain at Hamvention is just a given due to it occurring in Ohio in May. The fairgrounds can handle some mud but can you? Make sure to bring stuff you don't mind getting muddy and wet.

Wear tan cargo shorts, a t-shirt with a radio manufacture's logo on it & a baseball cap and you will blend in seamlessly. - Ryan A.

Every subculture has a uniform and ham radio is no exception. Cargo shorts do double duty as part of the uniform and holding your flea market scores. What's in your pocket? A Meshtastic node? Some vintage tech? A kitschy ham sticker?

Our members will be out and about at Hamvention! Will we see you there?