Okay, the high school / undergraduate volunteer and community service work side of me is speaking...
Can't afford the badge? Volunteer! Friends can't afford the badge? Volunteer! It takes plenty of man power to run an event. $20 might seem like the difference between having lunch or not for a college student, but if you still like con-going and are on a student budget, there's always the volunteer / staff option. Besides, it's fun to volunteer with a group of friends too.
Trust me, you get a better appreciation for cons when you're behind the scenes.
/ two cents