Hello all, I am new to the reptile world. I got my first BP earlier this year as a gift from a breeder who I did some hvac work for in their snake room. He’s a beautiful chocolate banana puzzle and currently awaiting shipment of a second snake that I purchased here on an auction. My spouse and kids went from skeptical to loving them and we are attending the San Diego Mega Reptile Expo next weekend. As a first timer, What are some things that are must do’s or things to avoid/look out for? Any tips are welcomed. Hoping to find deals on equipment like thermostats and decor.
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This part is a bit of a gamble but if you go on the last day of the expo you might be able to get enclosures, equipment and cage decor at a huge discount. The downside is a lot of the stuff might already be sold…
I’ve gotten a few things, even a large pvc enclosure for my BCI, with the prices halved or even more because a lot of vendors are not looking to have to haul that stuff again. Not all do that but there will be some.
A few other tips I can offer:
•Keep your hands clean, do not handle any animals unless you’re planning on purchasing them. Reptile Expos are really dangerous about spreading disease, and you really don’t want to inadvertently bring home something like cryptosporidium to your new snakes. I’d even go an extra mile, shower and immediately change into fresh clothes when you get home just to be safe.
•Stay safe. This is more on the human aspect… there are going to be a LOT of people there, and you just never know with some people especially since you’re bringing the kiddos. Keep purses, bags, etc. close, don’t bring any valuable items and stay aware of your surroundings. Crime happens at Expos, a lot of it is theft, if you see something concerning report it to the Expo hosts or security right away. Be aware of your Exit Routes and the fact that a huge crowd of people that are panicking can become very dangerous very quickly.
•Don’t be afraid to ask questions. As a vendor to some shows I’ve had numerous people apologize for asking a lot of questions, we really do not mind at all, in fact we are happy to answer them. It tells us you’re genuinely interested and want to learn. If a vendor seems to get irritated or brush off your questions they are not worth your time.
•Take your time. Its going to feel like a huge rush once you’re at the Expo, the huge crowd of people always moving and all of the different things to see can feel overwhelming so take your time and don’t rush around. You might find a lot of interesting things you’d otherwise miss.
That’s just a few things off the top of my head, I’m sure others here will have good input as well 
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Awesome input and advice. I did not consider the possibility of inadvertently bringing bugs and infections home to my animals. Thanks!
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cmsreprtiles gave you lots of good info. But I am sorry to tell you are in for a lot of trouble. Now that the whole family likes reptiles the addiction will be very bad at the show. I bet you will bring home more pets. 
Snakes are very addictive you just can’t have 1 or 2. You will find reasons to justify for owning a dozen or more. 
I own 37 boas right now permanently. I just recently had a clutch of fifteen boas, and I will probably keep five of those babies. Here are some pictures to tease you with. 
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This is the truth, I started with two in June 2025, got two more in October 2025, and now have eight total. Good luck, and I hope you have more strength than I do. 
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@tommccarthy Has given you fair warning. Now the rest of us are probably going to start a “betting pool” to see who gets the closest bet to the number of replies you are gonna end up with!
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I’ve already got the itch. I just priced out a couple of sheets of 3/4 PVC to build a rack system. We own a construction company so my wife hasn’t questioned the purchase yet. Wish me luck..
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Oh no! Look out here we come, reptile frenzy time! You will be breeding something before you know it! 
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Well, I think it’s safe to say welcome to our little community. I have a feeling we’ll be seeing a lot more of you in the future.
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Such a shame that I never really had the experience of suddenly becoming addicted, I’ve been around reptiles in the house practically my whole life 
Due to my older sister and mom’s love for animals- even those that are not commonly liked by some.
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This is not for a rack system but you might like it anyway.
Here is a link to my EZ - cage prints that are on my website. These prints are for 3 foot, 4 foot, 6 foot and 8 foot cages. I also have cut sheet and a hardware list for each cage. I also tell you how to seal your wood cage and there is a print to show you how to layout the track for the sliding doors. This info is for a basic cage not my custom furniture grade cages. I do seal both cages the same way.
Here is the link to the basic cage prints.
http://www.mccarthyboas.com/EZ_Prints.html
Take care
Tom
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Nice! I am considering a small pvc 3 shelf tub rack system but I am definitely saving this because I am also planning on building a whole wall cabinet and intergrating at least 3 glass front enclosures. This list and cut sheet will save me tons of time. I wish I had discovered this community sooner.
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This is a great place to be for sure! There are lots of great knowledgeable people with years and years and years of experience! They will help you in any way they can!
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