So this is my first pax east and I get the feeling I should bring a backpack my only concern is I have not had a backpack since school. I was looking at this, but do not know if it is to big. Any input?

That looks perfect! Backpack is a must and they do have a coat check that you can leave your bag at all day and just go to drop things off if you like for around $5 a bag I believe.

my advice is go to a tj maxx or marshalls store if they are even remotely close to you. they always have sick backpacks and messenger bags for really cheap. thinking of possibly bringing my mirrors edge bag, we'll see

Honestly, if you're carrying around so much stuff that you can't fit it in the swag bag, you probably goofed. Though, I guess if you're planning on buying some tabletop games or other bulky things it wouldn't be a bad idea. And since it's your first PAX, check out Marino's PAX guide if you haven't already.

That one looks fine. Here, take a look at the backpack I'm bringing. It is on the smaller side (so less room for free stuff or whatever) but it is designed to keep all the stuff from collecting at the bottom of the backpack, and it's really great for keeping stuff organized.

Those SwissGear backpacks are great, so that should be a fine option. I'll probably be using mine, but I actually have a slightly smaller backpack that I might opt for instead since I'll probably be carrying it around so much.

Backpack is essential for PAX.

Apparently the BCEC has since implemented a backpack security check at the entrance of the convention center. To remind everyone, the Boston marathon bomb attack was a random backpack left unattended which is why they're targeting backpacks specifically. As with any cases like this, there are good arguments on both sides but personally wouldn't worry about it. Do the token search (assuming it's not completely BS at which point the organizers will do something about that), and enjoy the show.

@bacongames: Okay, glad to know it's just doing bag-searches. I was getting a bit worried that they'd be outright banned from the premises.

So this is what my schedule looks like calender