A bit of background: I love concerts. I only wish I went to more of them. Starting with The Monkees in 1996, I've seen a fair cross-section of live shows. Rolling Stones, Smashing Pumpkins, Goo Goo Dolls, Marilyn Manson. Countless local and independent bands. My most recent concert was Poison. I'm currently counting down the hours until Meat Loaf tickets go on sale.
So when I came across an unanswered question about concert essentials on WikiAnswers, I was quick to reply. But my response turned into this massive list. Instead of making mountains out of molehills, I'm just posting it here.
What to bring with you:
What to bring with you:
- Tickets - You can't get in without a ticket! If you have tickets at will call, bring a photo ID and credit card to pick them up. If there is a cover charge instead of tickets, you'll need...
- Cash - Usually less than $100 for big events. Maybe $40 for shows at a club or bar. The venue may have an ATM machine (which usually charge fees for use), but you may have to pay for parking upfront. Some merchandise stands won't take credit cards, either.
- Cell phone - Most useful when you come with several people. Even couples can become easily separated. It gets worse for bigger groups. Warning: some venues get picky about phones with cameras, but this isn't normally an issue.
- Car keys - If coming in a group, try to carpool to the concert. That way only one person needs to hold the keys. Carpooling with a designated driver is also great for safety reasons. Even better: get a friend for drop-off and pick-up. No need to worry about parking, carrying keys, or having a drink.
- Driving/walking/biking/public transport directions - Getting lost on the way to a show is only the beginning of a bad night. Don't risk taking a wrong turn and missing the opening act. Arriving late will also ensure terrible seats for general admission. Know your exit. And don't forget directions back home!
- Comfortable shoes - General admission will require standing. Outdoor festivals will require walking. Wear something that you can stand in for more than ten minutes at a time. Just waiting in line for the bathroom can take longer than that.
- Bag (optional) - Only take one if necessary. The best bags have a
zipper (less likely to come undone) and strap across your front
(messenger bag style). Easier for you to access. Harder for someone
else to without your noticing. Stay on the small side, and try not to overload.
What to leave at home:
- Drugs and alcohol - You will be searched, however poorly it may be. When you enter a concert, you forfeit the right against unreasonable search. This means that security guards do not need to have any probable cause to detain you. While it's possible to sneak stuff in, I don't recommend trying. If you must, take care of business before entering the venue. At least you won't be busted for possession.
- Valuable items (jewelry, electronics) - Even on your person,
these can become easily lost. Don't ruin the experience of seeing your
favorite band by losing your heirloom pearls or iPhone G3. Earrings are the most likely to get dropped and difficult to spot on the dark floor. Safety note: earrings and necklaces tend to get caught on stuff (hair, clothes, other people) in active crowds.
- Spiked collars and chains - Banned at most venues. These are considered weapons and may not be returned if confiscated. Somehow people never expect this and at least heave a heavy sigh when made to surrender them.
- Heavy jackets - Sometimes even light jackets! Leave them in the car. You won't realize how bulky it is until you are packed into the general admission area. Parking lot to front door in the cold is preferable to wearing your winter coat in a mosh pit.
- Lighters - Fire hazard. May be confiscated in non-smoking venues; usually allowed in bars and outdoor shows. But in my experience, I've never had mine taken away.
- Coolers/food/drink - While they may be recommended to store your drinks, I find coolers too cumbersome for most concerts. Anyway, some venues will not allow you to bring bottled water because people throw the tops onstage. Drinks may have to be purchased inside (and opened at the concessions counter).
Special items:
- Blanket - For lawn seats. Chairs are sometimes available for rent, but a blanket or flat sheet is free, as long as you don't mind carrying it in and out. I like thicker comforters, full or queen size. Small throws are great for evening concerts in the fall, when it tends to get chilly after dark.
- Sunscreen - Protect yourself from the sun with some sort of lotion. Although SPF 15 will protect you, I usually go with at least SPF 30. Reapply often. Reapply more often than you think you need to. Insect repellant with sun protection is the perfect choice for day-to-night events.
- Poncho - Umbrellas can be considered a weapon, so choose a plastic rain poncho instead. They keep your hands free, and usually fold up smaller when not in use.
- Binoculars - Great for getting a closer look onstage, whether you have far-off lawn seats or high up stadium nose-bleeds. Sometimes stadium shows have large screens with close-ups of the action onstage, but binoculars allow you to choose your focus.
But I know I have a losing hand.
