Outfits and exits: Practical checklist for PH concertgoers
MANILA, Philippines — Concert culture is a staple part of the Filipino music scene, an environment firmly finding its footing again in the post-pandemic era.
Whether it is international artists taking over the Philippine Arena or the Mall of Asia Arena or a local act headlining a show at the Big Dome, these happenings feel like bigger events because of the passion and support that goes into filling venues.
Concert preparations as early as setting aside the budget for ticket buying and actually purchasing them, with a little luck, but a bulk of the readiness should be observed in the day and hours leading up to the show.
As such, here is a practical checklist for concertgoers in the Philippines.
Comfy yet creative
It is always fun figuring out what to wear to a concert, often inspired by the artist's colors or fashion style.
Photos will cement the memories of the show but feeling comfortable on the day itself should also be a concern. It is important then to note the 3 Cs of concert styling: creativity, comfort, and compliance.
Aside from donning a fashionable outfit, remember to wear footwear that will keep the feet from hurting and bring a just small enough bag that can carry all of one's essentials.
All these must be in line with a concert's guidelines to ensure a smooth and comfortabl experience.
Battery and storage
One of the worst things that could happen is one's phone dying in the middle of capturing a performance, or just as bad is a sudden reminder that one doesn't have storage left.
It is ideal to charge any gadgets one intends to bring to shows ahead of time, and if possible bring a power bank.
Check the available storage on one's phones to know if it is still worth bringing them. Having a spare unit like a proper camera is not a bad idea either.
Concerts may take a while simply because of the waiting time so try not using gadgets before the show in order to not drain their batteries.
Load up
Not with alcohol but actual food and drinks (because everyone knows how expensive concert food and beverages can be).
Leaving the house early or planned outfits may prevent one from eating before a concert, but doing so can lead to fainting in the middle of the show.
It is best to attend concerts on a full or filled enough stomach and buying water at the venue provide enough sustenance.
Meet-up points
Concerts unite people. Friends and strangers within the same fandom come together for around two hours to share in the enjoyment of an artist's music.
Crowds can make it difficult to meet friends you know will be at the same show as you, so best plan ahead.
Set up a meeting point at or near the venue, take note of each other's emergency contacts, and if possible share live locations.
Exit strategy
Before even going to the show, know how you will be leaving it. The post-concert rush is often always the most stressful part of these events.
Beyond getting to the venue, plan if you will be fetched after the show or hitching a ride with friends. This way, more time is spent enjoying the concert rather than worrying about logistics.
A pro-tip for arrival is booking a couple of hours beforehand to avoid surges. The same goes for after the show, given that there will be at least some traffic around the concert area.
Selecting a pickup point, ideally a short walk away from the venue, is also helpful. This makes it easier for the driver to pick up in the quickest way possible.
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