School is almost out and for fans of live music the impending summer means an unlimited amount of concert tickets to purchase.
Before heading off to the next big concert or festival, here’s a few useful tips to ensure safe summer fun.
Do: Drink water.
Take advantage of available water at outdoor festivals. Some fests allow you to carry an unopened bottle of water into the venue. But if you’re not allowed to bring your own or carrying a water bottle is too much of a hassle, buy water from the venue.
Yes, a $4 bottle is ridiculously overpriced, but better to quench that thirst than to go without, become dehydrated and possibly miss the show from getting sick. If you don’t feel like dropping money, some venues hand out free cups of water at the bar.
Don’t: Wear flip-flops.
Yes, socks are hot in the summer heat, but that is not worth the pain of stepped-on toes. After the crowd clears at the end, expect to find at least a dozen flip-flops or sandals abandoned on the ground. Foot protection and comfort is key, particularly in the mosh pit. Boots and sneakers will get the job done.
Also, don’t be that girl who wears high heels to a show.
Do: Eat beforehand.
Waiting in line can take a while, so munch on something light. The price of food at concerts doesn’t usually digest well, so eat somewhere before you leave with friends or pack a few granola bars.
Do: Wear sunglasses.
This mainly pertains to outdoor concerts but is valid advice for people who will have to wait in line too. Everyone’s got their eyes on that perfect spot in the crowd, but that could mean standing directly in the path of the sun. “Eye” warned you: be prepared!
Don’t: Wear a bathing suit.
Wearing little to no clothing may seem like a good idea, but it is the quickest way to get a sunburn and bad tan lines. As much fun as the Slip ’n Slide at Warped Tour may be, walking around soaking wet afterwards is anything but, so save that new bikini for the beach. If there’s humidity and the sun is burning, opt for a light tank top and shorts.
Do: Check the hourly weather report.
Rain or shine, that concert won’t be cancelled. A surprise rainfall is the worst thing that can possibly happen, so if rain is in the forecast, pack an umbrella (and a poncho) just in case.
Keep in mind that umbrellas are also great way to block the sun and provide some shade when the clouds aren’t cooperating. (Seems lame, but sunny day umbrellas are making a comeback…)
Don’t: Wear the band’s T-shirt to the concert.
It was cute in middle school, but after ninth grade wearing a band’s shirt to their show is kind of embarrassing and socially unacceptable. Sure, the band appreciates it, but that gives off the impression of being a super fan, ending any hopes of having an extended conversation.
Unless it’s a classic band like The Beatles or The Ramones, avoid wearing a band shirt all together. This is the time to flaunt the trends. Dress to impress, because who knows what might happen!
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