I have a tournament chess set and a clock (I don't know how to use it yet) and I will bring it just in case. I know algebraic notation, so I will be able to write down the notation.
Speaking of that, can I bring any kind of scorebook that I want? Or do I have to use a certain kind? Do I get to keep the notation or do I have to turn it in? Do I have to use pencil or is pen ok?
I will have to try and prepare for surprise openings. I am only comfortable with the Ruy Lopez and Sicilian as white and the Sicilian Najdorf and KID (thinking about switching to Grunfeld) as black.
This first tournament should be a good learning experience.
I just registered with the USCF and I am going to be participating in my first tournament in less than a month. What do I need to bring to the tournament? Do people play crazy, rare openings at tournaments?