A good question.
A local answer.

Budget for meals and transport separately, then look at the programme to see how many performances you would realistically attend.

Compare the walking distance from legal parking with the view and crowd level, not just the straight-line distance on a map.

Prioritise a place with reliable late check-in, a straightforward route to ANU and secure luggage storage on move-in day.

Read recent reviews for service at the time you expect to visit, and book if the venue takes reservations.

First check the year's official celebration schedule and the hotel's voucher conditions, including any holiday surcharge.

Map shops and motoring organisations may carry broader ACT road maps; check the edition date before paying for an older copy.

Check the airport's current taxi rank and rideshare pickup instructions for your terminal and arrival time.

Check the event's current dates, venues and traffic notices for the year you travel; activity can extend beyond the main showground.

Compare live availability and quoted prices at the time; either option can vary by suburb and event demand.

Check current roadworks and public transport notices for your travel dates; an old forum account of construction may no longer apply.

Try direct hotel availability as well as booking platforms; inventory and minimum-stay rules can differ.

Check current bus or rideshare options for the event day and arrange a pickup point before the show.