It’s 2023 – the year of post-lockdown non-stop concerts, music festivals and live bands!
For some of you, this’ll probably be your first concert experience ever. We all love concerts, but we also know that concerts may be intimidating due to the crowds, noise, and tight spaces. But if it’s your first time attending a major live music event, there’s no need to be baffled or alarmed. With the right planning, a first-time live music performance can be an amazing and memorable experience. No matter which concert you choose to go to this year, we’ve listed 7 basic things you gotta know before you head for the event venue.
Wear Comfy Clothes
The most crucial thing to remember before going to a concert is to wear comfortable clothing. You can be fancy and all, but the key here is to feel comfortable, because you’re gonna be out there for a long time. Ideally, you should dress for the environment. If the performance is indoors, dress in something slightly warmer, because the air conditioning makes indoor events chilly. Whereas, when going to an outdoor performance, wear sweat-absorbing attire like jeans or a t-shirt to prevent overheating. Avoid wearing high heels and go instead for more casual footwear, like sneakers or flats. Bare in mind that you’ll be waiting in long lines and some concerts don’t provide seats. You can wear accessories and makeup, but best keep it minimal.
Arrive Early
If the organizers state that the show starts at 8pm, you should be there by around 5pm. Why? Simply because you have to queue before getting in. Keep in mind that a sizable crowd will be present during concerts. Not to mention that most concerts don’t have any designated seat numbers or zones. So, you’ll have a better view if you arrive earlier.
Bring Your Tickets
We know how you get super excited with concerts, but don’t rush off in a frenzy without your tickets. Tickets are a must for entry to any concert. Concerts these days allow e-tickets, where you can show the QR code on your phone to check-in. If you prefer e-tickets, make sure you have the correct link to your ticket or screenshoot the ticket and QR code. But you’d be wise to keep a softcopy, just in case you have trouble accessing the tickets on your phone.
Fully Charge Your Phones
Here’s a funny thing: not all concert allow you to bring power banks. So the best resort is to fully charge your phones before heading to a concert. Typically, the entire concert experience—from waiting in line to seeing the performance—takes at least half a day. There might not be power outlets available while waiting in line to enter the location. And even if there are, we assure you it’s impossible to stand there and charge, because you wouldn’t want to miss your spot in the long queue. So make sure your phone is completely charged. If the organizers allow usage of power banks, you can bring yours along with you and make sure that that too is fully charged.
Be Sure To Eat
Concerts can be exciting, but boy, they are exhausting as well. And to keep up your pace till the very end of the show, you’ll need lots and lots of energy. Be sure to have a good meal before any concert. That way, you’ll have enough energy throughout the event. Also, trust us when we say this – you wouldn’t want to waste money buying food sold at concerts, because they are freaking expensive! Outside the concert area, you’ll find bottles of mineral water for RM3, but if you buy them inside, they’re RM5. Same goes for the food. The better option is to eat a good meal before attending a concert. That way, you won’t need to waste money on expensive fingerfood.
If you’re thinking of packing food from home and stuffing them in your bag, don’t even bother. There’ll be spot checks right before you go in, and they’ll probably snatch your food away. Plus, you’re going for a concert, not a movie!
Only Bring What You Need
Crowds are squished together when attending a live performance. If you bring too much, it will just restrict your movement and reduce the fun of the event. So carry only what you need and use a small bag to make moving around easier. We suggest bringing a transparent bag, because it’ll help during the checking session. Don’t bother bringing your pretty water bottles, because 1) they might not be allowed in and 2) you’ll have to carry them around. Use disposable water bottles instead. As for cash, bring just enough.
Keep Yourself Fit
The last thing you’d want is to be sick just days before the concert or on the concert day itself. It’s easy to maintain your health. Eat a diet rich in nutrients, and don’t forget to get adequate sleep at night. Exercise for around 30 minutes each day to stay active. It not only helps you get in shape, but guarantees your endurance after the concert. You can choose to consume vitamins as they aid in strengthening your immunity. Another important note: always do a Covid test. With Covid cases still pervasive, it’s best to take extra precautions before (and after) the special day. Be sure to bring your masks and sanitizer with you too.
