I love concerts. Seriously, I have been to way too many to count and I try to go to gigs as often as possible, especially if I want to meet the band/singer after the show. Some of my favorite memories involve going to  concerts, from outdoor festivals to small punk gigs I attended when I was 14-years-old. The excitement of seeing someone you love perform live and embracing that energy just can’t be put into words; I can only express it in keyboard smash.

With all that said, I’ve had my fair share of drama at concerts, and the most frustrating incidents are usually the most easily avoidable. After attending so many shows, and a lot of trial and error, I’ve figured out what is needed to have the most hassle-free concert experience ever. This advice is definitely valuable whether you’re a seasoned concert-goer or you’re attending your first gig sometime soon. So here’s what I wish I knew before my first concert.

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Have A Game Plan

Just deciding that you and your friends are going to go to a concert together isn't enough of a plan. Know ahead of time when you'll arrive, if you want to stand in the pit vs. the balcony, etc. If you and your friends differ, you have to come to a compromise unless you want to be grumpy throughout the show.

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Charge Everything

Please, charge your phone to full battery before you head off to the show. It is really inconvenient and stressful to have a dead battery at a show, especially if you need to make phone calls, texts, or take photos. Here's my advice if you're bringing your smartphone: Set your phone to airplane mode whenever you can. You'll save a lot of battery life. Also, if you're bringing a digital camera make sure that battery is check to make sure that you have enough space left on your SD card.

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Pack Light

Don't bring your everyday purse that is probably filled to the brim with your bulky wallet, scraps of paper and that old candy bar that you could have sworn you already ate. Take only what you need and put it in a smaller purse. My essentials include my phone, ID, money/credit card, lipstick and a camera.

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Forgo A Coat

Even if it is cold on the day of the show, only bring a lightweight jacket at the very most. Once you're inside the venue it is going to get really hot, especially if you're standing in the pit. The last thing you want is to have to carry around your big ol' coat while you're trying to rock out.

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Don't Wear Anything Uncomfortable

Look, I've been known to forgo practicality for the sake of style many times in my life. But listen to me: A concert isn't the place to do that, especially if you're standing for a majority of it. This is particularly important in the case of footwear. Don't wear high heels that you know pinch your feet after a couple of hours, and don't wear open toe shoes. Wear a pair of shoes that you love but don't mind if they're stepped on and won't kill your feet. I usually wear my Docs or a pair of flats.

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Arrive Early

If you want to get a great spot, arrive early. How early will depend on the particular act that you're seeing, but at least make sure you know what time the doors open. Depending on the act and venue, you should either arrive at least an hour early. The earliest I've arrived for a show was 8 hours. Do what you can, just know that unless you're at a gig with assigned seats, the good spots are taken early.

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Buy Your Merch First

That's yours truly in that pic. I almost always buy merch at a gig, especially shirts. I try to buy them as soon as I get inside the venue (well, after my spot in the very front of the stage is saved!). Why? Because sizes run out and it is far more crowded around the merch table when the show ends. Just get it out of the way as early as possible so you don't have to worry about it later.

Bring Your Own Pen

If you want anything signed, please bring your own pen. Don't assume that another fan will have one, and definitely don't assume that the members of the band have one. And make sure there is plenty of ink!

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Be Patient If You Want To Meet The Band/Group/Singer After The Show

If you want to meet the band/group/singer after the show, you have to have some patience. And you'll likely have to wait outside. Once, I stood in freezing cold rain for nearly two hours in the middle of December to meet my favorite band, Arctic Monkeys, after their show. It was totally worth it. Don't worry about being the only person standing around; there will likely be other people waiting for the band too. Make some friends, mingle, etc.

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Know What You're Getting Into

Concerts are fun, but not if you're taken by some unpleasant surprises. Just use a little common sense. If you're seeing a very high energy group and you're not into getting pushed around, don't stand in front of the stage. If you're wearing a dress or skirt, know that it can ride up if people are pressed against you. If you decided to bring your expensive handbag, know that somebody can spill beer on it. Somebody will probably step on your foot at some point; don't freak out. Know that nobody has an obligation to move just because you're short...just remember little things like that and the concert will go smoothly

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What’s your favorite concert experience? Are you seeing anyone in concert soon? Do you prefer large venues or small ones; seated or non-seated? Tell us in the comments!

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