I have been to many concerts. I consider myself an expert, a connoisseur if you will, on getting the most out of a concert experience. Tickets to some shows are not cheap, just ask my bank account. But I have tips that every concert goer should know.
- Research
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What time do doors open? How long is the show? Are there opening acts and how many? Is there parking and how much is it?
Every venue is different and every show is different. Make sure you know when the show starts so you don’t miss a thing. You don’t want to end up missing the show because you did not have enough cash for the cash only parking lot.
- Bags!!
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Don’t be the person who showed up with the backpack at the venue that only allows small bags that do not exceed 8”x5”x2.” Most venues have bag policies now so make sure you check. I have found that clear bags are the best to bring. Not only do most venues allow them, it also makes going through security easier and faster! Thankfully clear bags are on trend right now, so they aren’t that hard to find in stores. Amazon also has a large selection of all kinds and most are even already approved to use at concerts.
Concert tip: Bring a portable charger in your bag! You are never guaranteed an outlet and having a full battery is important.
- The merch line
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If you want to buy merch, make sure you choose the right time and the right line. If you arrive at the concert when doors open, I suggest you get your merch first. If you end up arriving to the concert later, go during one of the opening acts and the lines will be shorter. Do not go to the first line you see, everyone will go to that one. There is usually more, and the farther from the entrance, the smaller the line will be.
The MOST important thing to remember is to pick what you want before it is your turn. While you’re waiting in line, make your choices and have your money or card ready to go before your turn. This will keep the line moving. You do NOT want to be the person that holds up the line because you have not decided what you wanted.
Concert Tip: Check Twitter for pictures and prices of the merch! A lot of fans will post the merch so others can have the information.
- Shoes
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Do not wear the new shoes you have just bought and have not broken in yet. If you are like me, you will spend pretty much the entire show on your feet. The last thing you want is blisters from your shoes. Wear your most comfortable and broken-in shoes. Also wear shoes that you do not mind getting dirty. Outdoor shows can lead to grass stains and mud. Indoor shows can end up in stepping in someone’s discarded nachos or a puddle of beer.
Concert tip: Going to an outdoor show and it’s going to rain? Don’t worry. Just throw a raincoat on—that show will probably be filled with great memories.
- Live in the moment
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I know it’s hard to put down the phone—I am guilty as anyone—but you do not need to record the whole concert. I do not even look back at most of the videos I have taken at concerts. Snap a few pics for Instagram and enjoy the rest of the show. You will have a much better time dancing and screaming the lyrics to your favorite song without a phone in your hand.
Concert Tip: If you really want to record the show to remember it, record your favorite song so you can enjoy the rest of the show without worrying you won’t have anything to remember it by.