WPPI is almost here. Well, for the early birds it kicked off today, I think. And for the rest of us, it starts this weekend. Here are some final tips for how to survive WPPI. Literally.

1. WPPI SARS. Last year, after WPPI, a WHOLE lot of people got sick with flu-like symptoms and many called it WPPI SARS. I was able to dodge the bullet (not sure how!) and I’d like to again this year. I say load up on the Emergen-C and Zicam if you can and make sure to wash your hands and not share drinks with people with the sniffles.

2. Pay in CASH (or credit). If you can. Last year, there was a security breach/hack and a lot of people’s credit card numbers were stolen and fraudulent charges made. I was one of the lucky ones, but I heard from many others who weren’t so lucky. So, bring a wad of cash with you. I made the mistake my first time at WPPI, and tried to use the ATM to pull some cash and the machines have $200 minimum. I guess they want you to spend it! Or, pay with a credit card instead of a debit card. It will be way easier to rectify should anything go wrong.

3. Budget for food and entertainment. Food is expensive in Vegas, and the less expensive options in Vegas are McDonald’s and the pizza place. Also, drinks are way expensive, and if you’re thrifty like me, you’ll want to be that person that orders a cup of water at the bar. Yes, I’m totally boring. But I also didn’t drink $60 worth in 3 drinks. Cirque du Soleil is awesome and if you can catch a show, I highly recommend it. I really want to go see O one day.

4. Turn your phone to EDGE. With 15,000 photographers in one spot, with many of them on iPhones, the 3G network gets all clogged up. And your battery will drain. FAST. So, to ensure that you can still make a call in case you need to, switch your phone to the EDGE network. And if you’re on Twitter, I recommend setting up mobile alerts for your favorite people, or people you want to stay in touch with so that it goes to your phone in text message form. Because checking Twitter and Facebook might take a while.

5. Make the most of your time. This year, I finally feel like I’m going to Las Vegas with a plan. I decided I’m not going to go to any of the big parties, and if I can get into some of the free ones, awesome. I’m going to go learn, meet up with people I’ve only known online, reunite with old friends, and have a great time. Oh yeah, and get my sleep at night. I know, I’m so not Vegas.

If you’re going to WPPI, and see me in the hallways, say hello, I’ll be there Sunday through Wednesday.