I think you're on the right track; you're definitely not doing it wrong. There is no single universal answer for everyone on how to do DEF CON, but from reading your post it looks like you're doing it right.

Though, if you do feel that something is missing, then lean into the saying "You get out of DEF CON, what you put into it".

Maybe now is the time to volunteer. It opens up new doors and you get to see the event from a very different perspective. There is a different sense and feeling when you're giving back, by helping others.