Silly question: is it always held in the same place? Would your parents understand if only one were to accompany you instead of both? Can you go if you don't receive an invitation (i.e. if you start saving now for next year's, and if hypothetically you aren't invited next year could you still go?) Would it be possible to travel an alternate way -- car, bus, train -- what would the impact be on the costs?

Are there alternate hotels/motels in the area that are cheaper? Sometimes I can't afford the hotel that some of my group's conventions are at, but can stay cheaper a block or two away and walk over. (Not ideal, but it beats not going.)

Note: If your parents are accompaning you to the convention, would they need full registration or perhaps a day pass only and entertain themselves on other days?

How long before this meeting happens? Is it possible to save some money between now and then?