Tips For Finding Roommates and Rideshares

Finding a roommate or rideshare for a convention can save money and help you make new friends. However, it requires planning, clear communication, and taking proper precautions. Attendees may use this guide to help as an aid to help stay safe and comfortable, and to ensure their convention weekend is memorable for the right reasons.

General Considerations

Key Safety Tips

• Trust your gut: If something feels off, don't hesitate to walk away from the arrangement. There are always other options.
• Verify identity: Check for mutual connections. It is unwise to ride/room with someone who is unknown to you and your friends.
• Get to know them first: If you are unfamiliar with the person, meet together with friends in person, or video chat before the convention.
• Ask for proof of reservation with your name listed on it in the case of a room share.
• Practice payment safety: avoid paying large amounts upfront.
• Use methods that can be disputed if payment is required upfront (i.e.: PayPal Goods and Services, not Friends and Family).
• Get agreements in writing and keep a copy of them.
• You must be listed on the reservation — this is required both by the Hyatt Regency Seattle and Anthro Northwest.

Comfort and Personal Needs Self-Check (for you)

• How much alone time do I need each day?
• What sensory inputs (light, noise, smells) affect my comfort?
• What boundaries are non-negotiable?
• How do I usually handle small annoyances or conflicts?
• Do I feel prepared to communicate my needs clearly?
• Do I have a plan if the arrangement becomes uncomfortable or stressful?

Red Flags / Green Flags

Red Flags:

• Slow or inconsistent communication
• Refusal to verify identity
• Pressure for upfront payment
• Suspiciously good offers — if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is
• Changing stories

Green Flags:

• Mutual connections
• Willingness to video chat
• Proof of reservation
• Clear communication
• Respects boundaries

Room Share

Questions to Ask Yourself:

• What sleep schedule works best for me?
• How much social interaction do I want in the room?
• How tidy does the room need to be for my comfort?
• Level of dress when relaxing: fully dressed/pajamas only, or minimal clothing okay? (Keep in mind: suiting may require quick gear removal to cool down.)
• How will I manage sensory needs (lights, sounds, scents)?
• What are my personal limits regarding guests or shared activities?
• Do I feel comfortable asserting boundaries if needed?

Questions to Ask Your Roommate(s):

• What is your sleep schedule and preferred quiet times?
• How do you like the room to be kept (tidy, flexible, etc.)?
• Guests: allowed or not?
• Suiting or storage needs: space for bins, drying racks, etc.?
• Level of dress when relaxing: fully dressed/pajamas only, or minimal clothing okay?
• Any allergies, sensory sensitivities, or strong preferences we should know?
• How should shared costs and payments be handled?
• Who should be contacted in case of an emergency?
• How do you prefer to address disagreements or conflicts?

Rideshare

Questions to Ask Yourself:

• How comfortable am I with being in close quarters for extended periods?
• What are my personal boundaries for conversation, music, and personal space?
• How do I handle sensory needs during travel (lights, sound, temperature)?
• Do I have backup funds or transportation if the ride falls through?
• Am I comfortable adjusting my schedule to accommodate others?

Questions to Ask Your Road Trip Partner(s):

• Is the vehicle insured and in good working condition for a long trip?
• How do you prefer to pace the trip (stops for food, bathroom, rest)?
• What are your expectations for music, conversation, and overall "vibe"?
• Any sensory concerns or preferences during the ride?
• How should costs for gas, tolls, or other expenses be split?
• What is our plan if someone cannot continue the trip or changes plans last minute?
• Who should be contacted in case of an emergency?

Third-Party Disclaimer

You are fully responsible for your arrangements with room shares or rides. Anthro Northwest does not guarantee, manage, or take responsibility for any private arrangements you make. Anthro Northwest cannot mediate or negotiate disputes arising from room or rideshare arrangements. If you are the victim of a scam, please contact Safety Services in Room 503 or by calling 1-747-777-9687.

Common Scam Example:
Someone has made a reservation and has asked for payment upfront. When you get to the hotel, the reservation has been cancelled and your payment is lost. There are many variations of this scam where payment is made especially via a non-disputable method upfront.

Final Reminder

You are responsible for your own arrangements. Take time to verify, communicate, and plan ahead. The best room or ride share is one where you feel safe, comfortable, have a backup plan and are able to fully enjoy your weekend.