The 46th National Sports Collectors Convention is coming to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL from July 29 – August 2, 2026 — and if you walk in without a plan, you WILL get overwhelmed. In this video I'm breaking down everything I've learned from years of attending The National: how to set your goals before you go, insider parking tips, why the real deals happen in hotel lobbies (not the show floor), how to handle trade night, grading on-site, budgeting like a pro, and the etiquette that'll make you a welcome face at every table.

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Timecodes:
0:00 - Opening
0:36 – Why are you going?
1:14 – Do you have a plan
2:06 – The quiet stuff out loud
3:09 – Know your pricing
3:55 – Trade Night
4:35 – Freebies, Promos, and Case Break Pavillion
5:04 - Grading
5:33 – How to pay
6:00 – Navigating the floor
6:27 – Influencer Tables
6:56 – What to bring
7:14 – Build Relationships
7:42 – Don’t be that person
8:13 – Wrap

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