Since room sales aren't an official part of convention, they're open to anyone. Even this year in Louisville with the restricted elevators, there were so many people shopping (who had room key cards which made the elevators actually run) that it wasn't an issue.

I don't think the Austin hotel has that kind of restriction so you can just come in and wander the room sales. Which, if you haven't done it, is an experience like no other I've ever had in the Barbie world.

Generally room sales start small on Saturday night, expand on Sunday and by Sunday night are mostly in full swing. Any remaining rooms usually open on Monday.

Rooms are decorated, there's pink everywhere and just about every room that's open has something in the hallway to attract your eye. From lighting effects to bubble machines to garlands to large Barbie cutouts, I've seen just about everything.

Since the sales room opens on Thursday afternoon, Wednesday night is the last night for room sales and it's an all out party.

We walk the halls with our beverages (adult or otherwise), hopping from floor to floor, going back for "things we saw earlier and needed to think about" and making deals because a lot of sellers just don't want to take things home if they're not doing the official sales room. It's Barbie bargain hunting at its finest.

This year, I came home with things purchased on Wednesday night that, while not in the best condition, will make lovely display pieces once I'm done customizing. Not to mention that one seller didn't want to take the pink '57 Chevy back to New Jersey with her and explain to her husband why it didn't sell. So for $20, it came home with me!

For me, half the fun is getting there early and seeing old friends or meeting people for the first time that I've only ever interacted with online. Yes, I shop but I talk to my friends just as much. Scoop up an early deal if I find one or pick up something that I've already pre-bought and just need to pick up. There's just nothing else like it.

All of that is a long way of saying that yes, the room sales are open to anyone. As is the sales room on Saturday of convention week when it's the official "Public Day."