I prefer not to bring a big purse, but an expandable bag to put my purchases in. I went to this one last year and it was a good show. I'm going again on Friday. The less bulk you have to carry, once it gets crowded (and believe me, it will do that!!), the easier you can get around. There were several choices upstairs for food, but as was said in a previous post, it is expensive and long lines were quite common. Comfortable shoes are a must!