It’s officially the new year, which rings in new experiences and opportunities for you, your friends and your family. If you’re an avid concertgoer like me, some of these events may include a lineup of shows to see your favorite musical artists live for the first or hundredth time.
Some of my all-time favorite memories from past years have been at concerts; however, these concerts require preparation and mindfulness to have the best possible time. Luckily, here are a few tips that I’ve acquired throughout my several years of going to arena shows, outside venue concerts and festivals for you to follow at your next concert.
DO: Eat properly before arriving at the venue
Whether you’re showing up hours before doors open or arriving halfway through the second act, take time to eat a proper meal before going to your show. It may seem like an inconvenience, especially if you’re already “late,” but it will do a load of good for your body and stamina.
It may not seem like a big deal at first, but when you’re jumping around and screaming your favorite songs at the top of your lungs, you might start to feel sick halfway through the show. If this does happen, make sure to alert your friend or nearby venue worker so they can help you out and get you wherever you need to be to be safe. Safety is your main priority, and eating will keep you from getting into that position.
DON'T: Wear clothes that are impractical, unsafe or against venue policy
As much as you feel the urge to wear those super cute sandals or hang chains to accessorize your favorite outfit, make sure that you’re wearing clothes and shoes that will allow you to have a safe and comfortable time. Of course, you should look your most fabulous and express yourself with your outfits, but it would be a bummer if you had to throw something away or have to step out of line to run it back to your car.
The most important thing here is your shoes, especially if you plan on standing, jumping or dancing the whole time. Wear a pair that are comfortable, cannot easily fall off and won’t hurt people if you’re moshing or crowd surfing. The choice will not only stop blisters from forming on your feet, but it will protect others in case an accident happens. Believe me when I say that accidents happen ... a lot.
DO: Check the banned items list of your venue before bringing anything to your show
As you’re piling items in your bag or pockets for things that you may or may not need for your show, it is always smart to check the venue’s banned items list before you attend. Normally, this can be found on its website or at its box office. Wondering if you need to bring an umbrella? Check the list (and the weather). Should you bring a portable charger — which is always a smart thing to bring — to the show? Check the list. What kind of bags do they let through the venue and will they be checked? Always check the list. Similar to your accessories, it would be extremely unfortunate if you were to bring something that’s not allowed and be forced to throw it away.
DON'T: Attend a show without a friend, family member or concert buddy
This tip is quite controversial, as many people like to attend concerts by themselves or they simply don’t have anyone to go with. However, it is always safe to try to have someone to go with you whether you’re at a small house show or a massive, all-day festival. Not only is it safer, but it’s a lot more fun, too!
Make sure you and your concert buddy have a way to communicate throughout the show, especially if you are separated from one another. Look out for one another, and if you see someone who is alone at a show, invite them to hang out! Like I said, a concert is way more exciting when other people to join in the fun.
DO: Drink A LOT of water!
Before the show, during the show and after the show, constantly keep yourself hydrated! If you’re worried about going to the bathroom and/or possibly missing a part of the show, do not fret! It’s better to keep yourself healthy than to torture yourself by holding it in.
A lack of water could cause you to pass out or overheat, which is not a fun experience for you or the people around you. Therefore, you need to keep a bottle of water on you at all times (in accordance with venue rules). Will it suck to spend $10 on a small bottle of water? Maybe, but your body will thank you for it in the long run. Trust me.
DON'T: Be a jerk (pretty please!)
This is a given for any sort of social event you’re at, but mindfulness is incredibly important at concerts. In the last couple of years, I’ve noticed a lack of basic concert etiquette at shows where people have cut in line, been rude to venue workers and lacked respect for their fellow concertgoers. It ruins the vibe immediately, so simply be mindful of your surroundings. Of course, have fun and live your best life, but other people are trying to enjoy themselves as well.
This tip is most beneficial during the concert when things can get a little rowdy and people get lost in jamming out to the music. If you’re moshing, dancing or waving your hands in the air like you just don’t care, again, simply be aware of what you’re doing, so you don’t accidentally hurt yourself or other people. You might not mean to be a jerk, but you could look like one, easily.
DO: Have fun and immerse yourself in the experience
Don’t just stand there — do something! Of course, if you’re the type of person to stand there and just feel the music, you are completely valid! However, don’t be afraid to let loose a little and have fun. This can also be applied to those who love to film everything on their phones.
As someone who is a chronic video taper, it’s okay to record your favorite songs or capture special stage moments; however, it’s also okay to put the phone away and live a little. If you miss something, there is sure to be a video or photo of it somewhere on the internet. Plus, it will save your phone battery and camera storage. Nevertheless, do what you need to do to have the best experience, because those memories will last a lifetime.
DON'T: Keep your ears unprotected
Finally, wear ear protection when you’re going to a concert. You may say, “I won’t be able to hear the music!” Yes, you will, trust me. If you’re an avid concertgoer like me, ear protection will be your best friend to safeguard you from hearing loss or tinnitus.
At some venues, they will supply you with ear protection upon request, but it’s always smart to bring a pair of your own just in case. You can find cheap reusable earplugs on Amazon, or you can invest in a reusable pair from Eargasm. Either way, they will do you good in the long run, so you can keep listening to music and attending concerts.
