Carolina Coin & Stamp Show Raleigh, NC

What Mr. Gordon said.

Also, bring your wantlists. Chances are you'll find something on your list, but remember, bourse dealers can't bring everything they have to sell. Collect business cards (or addresses and phones and emails) so you can contact them later on when they get back home.

If you know who the bourse dealers will be, contact them ahead of time and tell them what you'd like to see; they may bring stuff especially for you.

I found it advantageous to visit stamp shops in the area (if any still exist) during show times because all the local collectors will be at the show and the dealers who don't set up because they have to tend their shops will be happy to see you.

Regarding exhibits, walk slowly through them and take the time to read the pages and use a glass to view the stamps. Here's your chance to see stuff you might never ever see again.

Happy stamping and enjoy the show!