So you’ve scored some tickets to see one (or some) of your favorite artists in concert. Live music events are some of the best occasions to be a part of. They’re energetic, intimate and a social funhouse.

Yet sometimes they can get a bit rowdy and the crowds can be overwhelming for certain people. No need to fret─ whether you’re a first-timer or this is your twentieth time around the ringer, there’s a way for you to enjoy the night.

Check out these 9 concert tips and tricks to make your night more fun.

1. Have Reliable Transportation

Having reliable transportation arranged for your fun-filled event is going to really set the tone for the night. The last thing you want to worry about is how you’re getting there and back home. Although you might be living it up while inside, once the let out happens, you’ll be standing around confused.

Instead, plan ahead. If you drive then check out the parking situation. It may be best to have one of your family members or friends drop you off and pick you back up.

Also, consider taking public transportation if the venue is in a convenient location. There’s also an option for scheduling your rideshare so you won’t have to worry about it when you’re already worn out.

2. Dress Appropriately

Honestly, this is one of the concert tips and tricks that is very relative. It’s not about avoiding tight clothes or athletic wear. It’s about what makes the most sense for the artist, vibe, venue, etc.

If this is your first time, do some research on what types of outfits people typically wear to see the particular artist(s). This way you’ll at least be comfortable and won’t stick out like a sore thumb (unless that’s your plan).

3. Drink Responsibly

Fans often like to get in a very good mood when they’re seeing they’re favorite artists─ especially if most of the music catalog is high energy. This often involved drinking. If it’s part of your plan, make sure you do so responsibly.

Follow all the drinking rules of thumb about how much to consume in a specific timeframe and not driving. Remember, your safety is most important and putting this first will lead to a much more fun night.

4. Arrive On-Time

Before you decide to arrive fashionably late, check the venue’s details about what time doors open and close. If you come too late, some places have the right to deny you access. This would be absolutely devastating if you’ve already bought your ticket.

You especially want to be aware of this if you’re picking up will call tickets at the location. And if you are one to get tickets last minute, you may want to check out some promo codes so prices won’t go up at the door. You can view the codes here.

5. Bring Extra Cash

Just because you’ve already purchased your tickets doesn’t mean that you don’t need a concert budget. Be sure to bring enough cash (or cards) out of the house with you. Most of the venues will sell food, drinks, and even souvenirs.

You also want to make sure you have some extra funds on you in case of any emergencies.

6. Stay Hydrated

Jumping around all night to the music of your favorite musicians with hundreds of other fans sounds great in theory. However, when you’re actually in the moment, it’s easy to get carried away and apparently dehydrated.

Make sure you remain hydrated throughout the night. The last thing you want to do is work up a sweat, faint on the third song and miss the entire show. Bring a water bottle if you’re permitted or find the closest vendors inside to keep up on your refills.

7. Be Familiar With Venue and Crowd Atmosphere

Depending on how large on small the venue is, as well as the actual layout, you may be packed in pretty tight. One of the key concert tips and tricks is to know the venue.

Is there a lot of standing room on the floor? How far away will you be from the stage?

There’s are things to take into account for the best concert experience. If you’re a flat surface, for instance, anyone tall that’s in from of you can make seeing the stage a living nightmare. However, this view will change with that same height person on a downward slope.

Besides that, you’ll want to know the type of atmosphere you’re entering into. Going to something like a System of a Down concert (rock, heavy metal, etc.) versus a Justin Beiber concert (pop, mainstream, etc.) will guarantee two different crowds. Understand which one you’ll be amongst so you can prepare yourself accordingly.

8. Know the Lyrics

This is one of the optional concert tips and tricks but it shouldn’t be. If you’re going to be watching an artist for two hours, at least know a good amount of their music. It might suck to be the only one in the crowd that can’t actually sing along with the songs.

At least learn the most popular songs before you attend. It’ll actually make your night more fun to be able to participate when the artist calls out for the crowd’s participation.

9. Stand out

If you’re a big fan and got some good seats (this could also work with crappy ones) then you might want to finally get noticed. You’ll probably want to take some extra time before the concert to make some cool, clever, unique and very bright posters to hold up.

Imagine Beyonce pointing to your sign in the crowd and giving you a shoutout. For some real razzle-dazzle, include glitter and glow in the dark paint (don’t be generous with the amount).

Try These Concert Tips and Tricks

Attending any musical event is bound to having you excited and a little anxious. You can make your night more safe, fun and magical by taking note of some of these concert tips and tricks.

Remember to enjoy yourself and connect with the moment. For more tips and advice, check out our website.