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Like the warm night air, the reappearance of flip flops and abundant Mister Softee trucks, the numerous outdoor concerts and music festivals in NYC are just one more sign that summer is finally here.
The opportunity to see several big-time artists at one show seems almost too good to be true—and it can turn disastrous quickly for festival noobs. The combination of unpredictable weather, unfamiliar grounds, enormous crowds and plenty of booze has proven lethal for many an iPhone, wallet and expensive pair of shoes.
If you want to avoid the most common pitfalls, you’ve got to come prepared. Whether you’re headed to Panorama Music Festival, Electric Zoo 2017 or a SummerStage show, these 11 tips and tricks will keep you (and your phone) safe, sane and happy.
Come prepared for every possible weather situation
We’re not saying you have to bring a massive pack—many concerts don’t allow them, for one thing—but consider a small, stylish backpack. Check the weather forecast and bring a foldable poncho, a bandana to keep dust out of your face and travel-sized sunblock.
Pick a meeting spot ahead of time
Find somewhere easily recognizable—any kind of tall flag, a particular vendor’s booth or some other landmark all work well—and plan to meet your whole group there at the end of the show. You never know when someone’s phone will die or whether or not you’ll have good cell service.
Think about wearing something bright
If you do get lost, a neon hat, shirt or backpack might just help your friends pick you out of a crowd.
Hydrate preemptively
Focus on drinking as much water as possible in the days leading up to the festival or concert to get your body nice and hydrated beforehand. Most concerts won’t let you bring in any water (or other liquids, for that matter), but you can still bring a massive bottle to fill up there.
Find out if you can bring snacks
Not every concert or festival allows outside food, but you’ll save a bundle if you can bring your own snacks. Peanut butter–banana bites, trail mix and other nutritious snacks will keep your energy high. Just make sure they don’t need to be refrigerated!
Invest in an extra power bank for your phone
Just do it. You’re going to be pissed when your phone dies and you can’t find your friends.
Protect your cash
Festivals and concerts are the ideal hunting ground for thieves: Huge crowds of people distracted by the music, dancing, alcohol and other mind-altering substances. Bring only your ID, MetroCard, one credit card and as much cash as you’ll need. That way, if you do get pickpocketed, the thief won’t totally wipe you out. As a preventative measure, you can keep everything in a money belt under your clothes—but we understand if that doesn’t exactly jive with your ideal festival attire. If you need something smaller, just keep a thin card case in your front pocket.
Wear your oldest, most comfortable shoes—and bring band-aids anyway
You’re going to be walking, dancing and jumping around all day—plus, you’re practically guaranteed to get stepped on at least a few times. It’s not the opportunity to bust out those stylish new sneaks or cute sandals. Just stick to a pair of shoes you know won’t let you down, and keep a few band-aids in your pocket just in case.
Earplugs are your friends
Go to enough concerts, and your hearing is going to suffer. Protect your eardrums from extreme decibel levels with some soft foam plugs. And yes, you’ll still be able to hear Frank Ocean through them.
Don’t bring just any old blanket
Planning on staking out a spot on the lawn? Choose something sturdy enough to get trampled, spilled on and dragged around all day, like this Matador picnic blanket that folds into a tiny square.
Accept the fact that the bathrooms are going to be disgusting
The later in the day, the worse the port-a-potties will be. Just bring some wipes and a travel pack of toilet paper and try not to breathe through your nose.
Hey, even if the worst does happen, at least you’re not at Fyre Festival!