BE PREPARED

We’re spending a lot of money to go to shows these days (thanks a lot, Ticketmaster). So it’s really important to do everything you can to make a night at a concert one of the best nights ever.

We’ve got two recommended packing lists, based on how far you are traveling for your show. If you’re really a planner, like myself, you can even print out one of the downloadable checklist versions to keep track as you prepare.

If you’re looking for some recommendations on what products to get, check out the shop pages. We’ve linked our favorites there.

A festival version will be coming soon, we are putting it together as we prepare for our first multi-day festival this summer.

Crowd at a vibrant music concert with colorful lights and stage visuals

LOCAL VENUE

  • Don’t forget the tickets!

    If there is a digital option, use it. You won't forget your phone at home. If the tickets must be physical, pack them in your concert bag or wallet as soon as you get them. Set a reminder to double check that you have them before you leave home, especially if you are traveling far for the show.

  • Earplugs

    Your ears will thank you. Hearing loss is irreversible, make sure you are able to enjoy concerts long into the future.

  • Small bag or outfit with good pockets

    Sometimes it’s nice to not have to carry a bag, especially when you’re going to a hometown show. If you decide to go without make sure you have good pockets for holding all the essentials.

  • Phone charger

  • Painkillers

    A headache or backache can quickly ruin a concert experience. Bring along your preferred pain reliever and take them at the first sign of trouble.

  • Lip balm

    Concert environments can be really drying for a multitude of reasons, and dry lips can get really annoying really quickly. Even if you don’t typically use a lip balm, get one to take to the show.

AWAY VENUE

  • All items from local list

  • Multiple outfits

    You might realize that after a day of travel you just don’t feel up to wearing those skin-tight leather pants. Bring a few options with you so that you can feel great about your fit no matter your mood.

  • Deodorant

    Bring this to the show. Maybe you won’t need it, but you’ll be really glad you have it if you do.

  • Makeup and/or haircare supplies

    Even if you’re planning on going straight to the show and not hitting the hotel until after, you might want to freshen up your look when you arrive. We’ve even done the whole thing in the car in the parking lot to avoid having to travel with a full face on.

  • Drinks and snacks

    Keep your energy and hydration up pre-show. Travel is notoriously dehydrating, don’t start your night already at a disadvantage.

  • Slippers

    Especially if you are wearing combat boots for the show. Trust me, you don’t want those to be your only option for trudging down to the continental breakfast at the hotel the morning after.

  • First aid items

    Little cuts, blisters, etc. These all seem to pop up after a show. Having some bandaids and blister packs is a good idea so that you can make the trip home comfortable.

Concert preparation checklist with musical notes and swirling lines in the background. Includes sections for show date and times, list of items to bring such as tickets, earplugs, small bag, cash, card, ID, phone charger, painkillers, and lip balm. Additional tips for a comfortable experience, like bringing extra water bottles, glasses, snacks, and comfy clothes/shoes.
Concert prep checklist for an away venue, featuring items like tickets, earplugs, small bag, cash, phone charger, painkillers, lip balm, multiple outfits, deodorant, makeup, drinks, slippers, and first aid. Includes areas to fill in show date and times, with additional travel tips.