AirVenture Survival Guide
The top 10 tips for a more pleasant AirVenture experience

For those who love aviation, Oshkosh is the place to be. Like a pilgrimage, hundreds of thousands of enthusiasts will descend upon Wittman Field and the EAA AirVenture grounds to saturate themselves in their passion for flight. Take it from AirVenture veterans, though; you should adopt the Boy Scout motto and “Be Prepared” so you can maximize your enjoyment of this annual event. 

Here are some fast and easy tips that have proven their worth over the years for AirVenture attendees. We’ve condensed them into a top 10 list for a more pleasant AirVenture experience.

1. Apply sunscreen: One thing is for sure: Sunscreen works. Make sure you cover exposed areas of your body with at least an SPF 15. If you bring children, don’t forget to cover them as well.
2. Bring a pair of comfortable shoes. Take good care of your feet. Wear the most comfortable walking shoes you have. Just truckin’ around the grounds can add up to several miles over the course of one day.
3. Wear a hat. Temperatures can range anywhere from the 60s to the 90s, but AirVenture always seems to have a stretch of very hot, humid weather. On such days, a hat can provide some protection from overheating. If, for some reason, you forget to bring one, there will be plenty of official EAA AirVenture Oshkosh hats available. (If you’re watching the air show from the flight line, the back of your neck will likely be fully exposed to the afternoon sun. A bandana tucked under the back of your cap can provide an effective sun block.)
4. Use lip balm. Not many people think of this, but bring some Chapstick™, Blistex™ or other brand and apply often to prevent the sun from turning your lips into leather.
5. Wear sunglasses. A fairly obvious item on your checklist, one for which your eyes will thank you. A neck strap also comes in handy.
6. Check the forecast. If there’s a chance of rain during the day, be prepared with a light jacket or poncho, a small umbrella, and an extra pair of socks.
7. Drink lots of water/bring a water bottle. Dehydration can be a problem for even the heartiest AirVenture attendees, especially on those oppressively hot afternoons. Nothing prevents dehydration as well as water, and bottled water is available at the many concession areas. You can make plenty of use of the many water fountains located throughout the grounds. Don’t rely on soda pop to prevent dehydration.
8. Organize your visit. Take advantage of all the information available before you get here. Since you’re reading this, you’re at the right place - www.airventure.org. For example, if you plan to attend some of the hundreds of forums, check out our forums schedule page that allows you to view the forum schedule by date, interest, keyword or presenter. 
9. Bring a camera and lots of film. Be sure to check your battery, and it’s not a bad idea to have extras just to be safe. A good rule of thumb is to bring two more rolls of film than you plan to shoot. If you bring a video camera, make sure you have an extra tape and at least one fully charged spare battery.
10. A few don'ts:
     - When you’re near aircraft, the rule is: "Always ask before touching."
     - For safety’s sake, eating and smoking are not allowed in the flight line or near airplanes.

Although many have tried, it is literally impossible to see everything in one day, much less a week. Pace yourself, and focus on what really interests you.

Please remember that rules and regulations exist to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment. If you have any questions, just ask a volunteer, without whom AirVenture would not be possible

Finally, we hope you enjoy your visit to EAA AirVenture Oshkosh. By heeding these few bits of advice, you’ll be well on your way.