And when you see other people buying reptiles, you want to buy a reptile too.īeing there as soon as the doors open (or springing for a VIP early-entry ticket) means that you have fewer people around to compete for what you want, and takes some pressure off purchasing.Ĭircle around once to get first dibs on the animal/supplies you came for. Furthermore, since humans are naturally social animals, we have an evolved desire to do what others are doing. People are more likely to make an impulse buy when they know the product - or in this case, reptile - may not still be there later (“FOMO,” anyone?). During the Reptile ExpoĬrowds are especially dangerous when you’re trying to avoid making an impulse buy for two reason: time limits and social pressure. All cards should stay at home! This practice is actually scientifically proven to reduce impulse buys ( The Role of Within-Trip Dynamics in Unplanned Versus Planned Purchase Behavior). If you plan on taking advantage of expo-only deals on supplies, bring a set amount of extra cash. Bring what you need in cash (nothing larger than a $20 bill, please), and you won’t have anything to spend on impulse buys. If you know what you want, then you have an idea of how much it sells for. Click the pic to visit her official site. ? It’s cruel to take home a new pet only to have it sit in a deli cup for days while you scramble to buy everything it needs.Ĥ. This is a process that often requires planning months in advance, but let’s be honest-you’ve been looking forward to the expo since the last one ended. Once you know which reptile you want to buy at the expo, have the enclosure set up and fully functional for that species. Many breeders are willing to hold animals for pickup at the expo for buyers that have put down a deposit or paid in full. Which vendors will be there? How many will be selling the reptile/supplies that you want? How much should that reptile/those supplies cost? This may require contacting the vendors themselves, but it’s worth it in the long run. What reptile/supplies are you looking for? Or, is your goal simply to enjoy the experience and not to spend money at all? In light of this experience, I’ve compiled a 9-step guide to not breaking the bank at reptile expos. We’re all guilty at some point or other - recently I had to sell an 18x18x24 Exo Terra and lighting kit not one month after the Spring Expo. And according to research, buying something new actually triggers a dopamine release in the brain that produces a kind of “high.” This leads to Repticon’s darker side: hobbyists crowding local classifieds with impulsively-purchased animals and supplies because rent and other bills failed to magically disappear. One of the main engines fueling the expansion of the reptile hobby is the Reptile Expo.Īt a reptile expo, you can connect with other reptile keepers, win cool prizes, get great deals on supplies and animals, interact with especially exotic species, and to the dismay of many, deplete your bank account.
And as with any addiction passion, it grows over time. More to be announced soon, but make your plans to attend this year-end reptile event now!īe sure to check out the Show at the Repticon Houston Facebook Event Page.Reptiles are not so much a hobby as an inevitable addiction: if you’re not addicted yet, you soon will be. Then attend hourly seminars where you can handle these creatures and learn all about them from world-class presenters. Craft the perfect herp habitat by purchasing what you need at the show from the ample selection and value. Journey into an adventure where you meet each animal live and in the flesh, discovering from experts who breed and handle them as pets which ones might make most welcome additions to your home.Įnjoy interacting with others in the hobby, both professionally and amateurs. It will be snakes, lizards, turtles, spiders, frogs, salamanders, and even other creatures you will never expect. Repticon Houston will be back for all ages to enjoy at the Pasadena Convention Center and Fairgrounds at 7902 Fairmont Parkway in Pasadena, TX 77507, on Saturday & Sunday, December 6 & 7, 2014. Experience the family-friendly haven of herpetological creatures of all shapes and sizes at next month's premiere reptile expo in the Houston area.