Spread the Social Love:
So, it’s your first time going to Warped Tour. You’ve got your ticket ready, and psyched to see all your favorite bands. And if you’re like most first time Warped Tour goers, you have a little bit of anxiety and don’t know what to expect.
Warped Tour has become the summer camp for punk rock kids, and definitely a bucket list moment for music fans. It’s all about the experience, surrounded by thousands of fans, close and personal with your idols, and everyone is, well, sweaty.
As a Warped Tour veteran, I’m here to bring you the essential for an enjoyable and safe Warped Tour experience. And for the readers who’ve already been to Warped Tour, hopefully you can find some new tips to try out this year.
WHAT TO DO BEFORE:
HYDRATE:
It is summer and it’s going to be hot! After hours in the sun and standing in the crowd, you will become dehydrated if you don’t take proper care of yourself. This is no joke; Warped Tour has seen fatalities due to dehydration. Now, don’t let that turn you away from an amazing time. Just be careful. The day and night before should be spent drinking lots of water! I recommend a few water bottles worth, approximately 64 oz. If your body is properly hydrated the day before Warped Tour it will be easier to remain that way once you’re at the festival.
TAN:
I know some of you rock kids love that pale look; however, you don’t want your first time spent in the sun this summer to be at Warped Tour. You will burn! If you don’t want your pictures with your favorite bands to include you looking like a lobster you should definitely let yourself get that first burn or base tan before heading out to the tour!
CHECK THE FORECAST:
Warped Tour is rain or shine, so make sure you come prepared! If the forecast called for rain, you might want to make sure you have a light jacket or a poncho. A bathing suit is another good option if you know your going to be rained on (or sweat a lot in that case).
CHECK THE LINEUP :
Now, I’m sure this is an obvious one and you probably already checked the line up before purchasing your ticket. When you get to Warped Tour, a big inflatable schedule will denote the times each band will play and one which stage. Many of the sets will overlap. So compile a list of band you definitely want to see beforehand (in order of importance) so you know exactly what to look for. This schedule can be confusing. Also, make sure you’re aware that the set times will not be posted online beforehand like some other festivals.
CHARGE YOUR ELECTRONICS:
Ensure that your cell phone and camera have full batteries before you leave the house so that do not die in the middle of the day. There most likely won’t be a place for you to charge them if this happens.
DOWNLOAD THE TWITTER APP:
Twitter is the best way to get the up to date information about what’s going on at Warped Tour. Having the twitter app or tweets sent to your phone you will be caught up to date on information about your show, including signing times and special performances. Other than your favorite bands you should follow:
Make sure everything you need for the next day is laid out the night before. This will prevent you from running around in the morning looking for that silver sharpie. I also recommend this is when you pick out what you will wear and lay that out as well.
GET PLENTY OF REST:
Warped Tour starts bright and early. The first sets usually start at 11 in the morning. Go to bed early to guarantee that you get the proper amount of rest. You want to have energy to last the whole day long. Also, take into account how early you have to get up to travel to the venue. The night before Warped Tour is not the time to stay up until 2AM on Tumblr.
SHOWER:
By the end of the day, you are going to be absolutely disgusting. So make sure you start off with a clean slate, literally. And what fans wants to be stuck next to the smelly guy that didn’t shower before he came. Not me! Also make sure you lather up that deodorant while you at it. Your fellow Warped goers will appreciate this favor.
APPLY SUNBLOCK:
Make sure you coat yourself up in sunblock beforehand. Even if it’s a cloudy day you can still get burned. If you know you don’t burn easily once before might be enough and you can leave the bottle of sunscreen at home. But for those fair-skinned fans, that bottle should be packed with you before you head out the door! Also layer those lips with some chapstick with SPF.
EAT BREAKFAST:
Now, I’m not a big fan of breakfast. If you’re like me, please make sure you eat before heading out the door. Just like you need to be properly hydrated to guarantee your safety, you need proper nutrition as well. Eat healthy because junk foods will cause you to feel sick after a long time in the heat and crowd. Carbs are my recommendations because they give you energy. I would stray away from dairy products because they might not sit well on your stomach at the concert.
WHAT TO BRING:
TICKET(S):
Well, duh! But you’d be surprised how easy it is to forget the most important thing in the rush and excitement. Before you pull out of the driveway just double check you have your ticket.
FANNY PACK/SMALL BACKPACK:
Don’t laugh at me because I said fanny pack! I brought one last year and it was my Holy Grail. After several hours, carrying a backpack gets annoying. If you start to get sunburned those straps will be kill you as well. Clipping your fanny pack through your belt loops will ensure it’s security and you will have your hands free all day! But if you wouldn’t be caught dead with a fanny pack, use a small drawstring backpack. Backpacks with zippers allow access thieves to open them and steal items while your standing in the crowd.
DIRECTIONS TO THE VENUE:
If you don’t know where the venue is make sure you MapQuest or Google Map it and print out the directions to and from to allow for a smooth ride.
CASH:
Make sure you have enough cash on you for all the purchases. Each booths prices will vary but expect that a t-shirt will run you about $20, CD will be around $10, and rubber bracelets approximately $5. Food at the venue will be outrageous, expect pizza, hamburgers, or chicken fingers to run you $7 or more and water at least $4 a bottle.
WATER:
You will be allowed to bring your own water in. If you’re bringing a disposable plastic water bottle in make sure it’s sealed. Last year, reusable hard plastic bottles were also allowed. Investing in a 24 or 32 oz Nalgene or Camelbak water bottle is a great idea. This will allow you to carry more water or you won’t have to carry 2 disposable bottles around. In some cases, the venue security will remove the caps from water bottles, stash away a few extra caps in case this happens.
SMALL SNACKS:
Small ziplock bags filled will snacks will prevent you from having to lay out money on the expensive venue food. Granola bars, fruit snacks, cereal, or a small sandwich are all great ideas! Don’t forget to eat either.
COMPACT DIGITAL CAMERA:
Unless you score a photo pass, you won’t be allowed to bring any camera with a removable lens into the festival. A small compact camera will work perfectly so you can take picture with bands. Make sure you keep a wrist strap on it in case you get bumped. Disposable are another option if your hesitant to bring an expensive electronic to the show.
SHARPIE AND SMALL NOTEPAD:
Warped Tour allows you close interaction with the bands. Often bands will have specified signing times. To make sure you don’t miss out on your chance to get that band member’s autograph make sure you have a sharpie and notepad handy If you know you’ll want a dark picture or CD liner sign, bring a silver sharpie so the signatures will be visible.
CELL PHONE:
Oh, no! You lost your best friend in the crowd? Have your fully charged cell phone handy just in case you need to make a call. Also, so you can check your tweets and find out where your favorite band is and when they’re signing, doing a special acoustic set, or making an appearance in another bands set.
HAND SANITIZER:
You don’t know what you’re going to touch at Warped Tour. Whether it is a gross, sweaty dude or those port-a-potties that have been sitting in the sun for 5 hours. Bath and Body Works sells sanitizer straps that you can fix to your keys.
CHANGE OF CLOTHES:
Keep this in the car for after the show. Trust me, when you’re tired and you’re not sure if the sweat on your body is entirely yours, you will thank me.
CARABINER
This is my secret tip! Hook your keys, sanitizer, mini sharpies, and Camelbak water bottle to a carabiner (preferably one with a lock) to your belt loop. This allows for easy access to your sharpie, water and sanitizer throughout the day. Also, it makes more space in your fanny pack or backpack for the other essentials.
WHAT NOT TO BRING:
ALCOHOL/DRUGS :
Security will not let you bring alcohol or illegal substances into the venue. In most cases, if you are 21 or older you can buy alcohol at the venue. Do this at your own risk because it will dehydrate you.
PROFESSIONAL CAMERAS:
If you have a camera with a removable lens you will not be allowed in without the appropriate accreditation. The same thing goes for other recording devices.
CREDIT CARDS/WALLET:
The booths won’t accept credit and you don’t want to run the risk of losing these items. Keep them locked in your car.
WEAPONS:
Another obvious one, but I know a lot of people that always carry a pocketknife. Make sure you take all this out of your pockets and bags and leave them in the car.
MP3 PLAYER :
You don’t need your iPod; you’re at a concert! Aside from the fact that you probably won’t be able to hear your music over the show, you also don’t want to lose or break it.
WHAT TO WEAR:
LOOSE TOP :
A tank top or light t-shirt will keep you comfortable. Stray away from black, as it absorbs heat. Ladies, I would suggest wearing a bikini top or sports bra under your top for your comfort.
SHORTS :
Keep your legs cool. Even if you wear Tripp pants everyday, you will not only look dumb but also feel terrible in them at Warped Tour. Loose shorts or capris will feel the best in the heat.
SUNGLASSES :
You’ll be in the sun all day, so protect your eyes! And you don’t want to be squinting trying to watch a band in the bright light. Wear a pair that you don’t care if you break! Trust me, I wore expensive sunglasses last year and they broke in a wall of death during D.R.U.G.S. If you wear prescription sunglasses like me, attach them to croakies so if they are secure around your head or neck. I even suggest this for cheap sunglasses too.
LIGHT CLOSED-TOE SHOES:
If you have a pair of Toms, rock those babies. Vans or Converse will do just fine as well. You will be walking all day and you want to be comfortable. Make sure the toes are closed because you don’t know what you might accidently step in.
HAIR ACCESSORY:
A hat or visor is good to keep the sun off your face. Bring bandanas and hair ties if you have longer hair and want to get it out of your face.
WHAT NOT TO WEAR:
FLIP-FLOPS/HEELS:
Every year I see a girl walking around with one flip-flop on because the other got lost in the crowd or broke. You’re going to be walking for 8 hours…don’t wear heels. It won’t make you cool.
BLACK :
Black absorbs heat. Even if you’re a dedicated scene kid, you will regret wearing black when you’re drenched in sweat.
LOTS OF MAKEUP :
Nothing is worse than having peach sweat dripping off your face from your foundation. Ladies, some eyeliner and waterproof mascara should be enough. Makeup setting spray will help keep your makeup on all day if you plan on wearing some.
EXCESSIVE JEWELRY :
Crazy amounts of jewelry will get caught on things, and get in your way when you bounce and jump. Wear stud earrings and other body jewelry with secure backs. Leave your necklaces and bracelets at home.
WHAT TO DO:
Warped Tour has become the summer camp for punk rock kids, and definitely a bucket list moment for music fans. It’s all about the experience, surrounded by thousands of fans, close and personal with your idols, and everyone is, well, sweaty.
As a Warped Tour veteran, I’m here to bring you the essential for an enjoyable and safe Warped Tour experience. And for the readers who’ve already been to Warped Tour, hopefully you can find some new tips to try out this year.
WHAT TO DO BEFORE:
HYDRATE:
It is summer and it’s going to be hot! After hours in the sun and standing in the crowd, you will become dehydrated if you don’t take proper care of yourself. This is no joke; Warped Tour has seen fatalities due to dehydration. Now, don’t let that turn you away from an amazing time. Just be careful. The day and night before should be spent drinking lots of water! I recommend a few water bottles worth, approximately 64 oz. If your body is properly hydrated the day before Warped Tour it will be easier to remain that way once you’re at the festival.
TAN:
I know some of you rock kids love that pale look; however, you don’t want your first time spent in the sun this summer to be at Warped Tour. You will burn! If you don’t want your pictures with your favorite bands to include you looking like a lobster you should definitely let yourself get that first burn or base tan before heading out to the tour!
CHECK THE FORECAST:
Warped Tour is rain or shine, so make sure you come prepared! If the forecast called for rain, you might want to make sure you have a light jacket or a poncho. A bathing suit is another good option if you know your going to be rained on (or sweat a lot in that case).
CHECK THE LINEUP :
Now, I’m sure this is an obvious one and you probably already checked the line up before purchasing your ticket. When you get to Warped Tour, a big inflatable schedule will denote the times each band will play and one which stage. Many of the sets will overlap. So compile a list of band you definitely want to see beforehand (in order of importance) so you know exactly what to look for. This schedule can be confusing. Also, make sure you’re aware that the set times will not be posted online beforehand like some other festivals.
CHARGE YOUR ELECTRONICS:
Ensure that your cell phone and camera have full batteries before you leave the house so that do not die in the middle of the day. There most likely won’t be a place for you to charge them if this happens.
DOWNLOAD THE TWITTER APP:
Twitter is the best way to get the up to date information about what’s going on at Warped Tour. Having the twitter app or tweets sent to your phone you will be caught up to date on information about your show, including signing times and special performances. Other than your favorite bands you should follow:
- @VansWarpedTour
- @KevinLyman
- @AltPress
- @EpitaphRecs
- @glamourkills
- @vansgirls
Make sure everything you need for the next day is laid out the night before. This will prevent you from running around in the morning looking for that silver sharpie. I also recommend this is when you pick out what you will wear and lay that out as well.
GET PLENTY OF REST:
Warped Tour starts bright and early. The first sets usually start at 11 in the morning. Go to bed early to guarantee that you get the proper amount of rest. You want to have energy to last the whole day long. Also, take into account how early you have to get up to travel to the venue. The night before Warped Tour is not the time to stay up until 2AM on Tumblr.
SHOWER:
By the end of the day, you are going to be absolutely disgusting. So make sure you start off with a clean slate, literally. And what fans wants to be stuck next to the smelly guy that didn’t shower before he came. Not me! Also make sure you lather up that deodorant while you at it. Your fellow Warped goers will appreciate this favor.
APPLY SUNBLOCK:
Make sure you coat yourself up in sunblock beforehand. Even if it’s a cloudy day you can still get burned. If you know you don’t burn easily once before might be enough and you can leave the bottle of sunscreen at home. But for those fair-skinned fans, that bottle should be packed with you before you head out the door! Also layer those lips with some chapstick with SPF.
EAT BREAKFAST:
Now, I’m not a big fan of breakfast. If you’re like me, please make sure you eat before heading out the door. Just like you need to be properly hydrated to guarantee your safety, you need proper nutrition as well. Eat healthy because junk foods will cause you to feel sick after a long time in the heat and crowd. Carbs are my recommendations because they give you energy. I would stray away from dairy products because they might not sit well on your stomach at the concert.
WHAT TO BRING:
TICKET(S):
Well, duh! But you’d be surprised how easy it is to forget the most important thing in the rush and excitement. Before you pull out of the driveway just double check you have your ticket.
FANNY PACK/SMALL BACKPACK:
Don’t laugh at me because I said fanny pack! I brought one last year and it was my Holy Grail. After several hours, carrying a backpack gets annoying. If you start to get sunburned those straps will be kill you as well. Clipping your fanny pack through your belt loops will ensure it’s security and you will have your hands free all day! But if you wouldn’t be caught dead with a fanny pack, use a small drawstring backpack. Backpacks with zippers allow access thieves to open them and steal items while your standing in the crowd.
DIRECTIONS TO THE VENUE:
If you don’t know where the venue is make sure you MapQuest or Google Map it and print out the directions to and from to allow for a smooth ride.
CASH:
Make sure you have enough cash on you for all the purchases. Each booths prices will vary but expect that a t-shirt will run you about $20, CD will be around $10, and rubber bracelets approximately $5. Food at the venue will be outrageous, expect pizza, hamburgers, or chicken fingers to run you $7 or more and water at least $4 a bottle.
WATER:
You will be allowed to bring your own water in. If you’re bringing a disposable plastic water bottle in make sure it’s sealed. Last year, reusable hard plastic bottles were also allowed. Investing in a 24 or 32 oz Nalgene or Camelbak water bottle is a great idea. This will allow you to carry more water or you won’t have to carry 2 disposable bottles around. In some cases, the venue security will remove the caps from water bottles, stash away a few extra caps in case this happens.
SMALL SNACKS:
Small ziplock bags filled will snacks will prevent you from having to lay out money on the expensive venue food. Granola bars, fruit snacks, cereal, or a small sandwich are all great ideas! Don’t forget to eat either.
COMPACT DIGITAL CAMERA:
Unless you score a photo pass, you won’t be allowed to bring any camera with a removable lens into the festival. A small compact camera will work perfectly so you can take picture with bands. Make sure you keep a wrist strap on it in case you get bumped. Disposable are another option if your hesitant to bring an expensive electronic to the show.
SHARPIE AND SMALL NOTEPAD:
Warped Tour allows you close interaction with the bands. Often bands will have specified signing times. To make sure you don’t miss out on your chance to get that band member’s autograph make sure you have a sharpie and notepad handy If you know you’ll want a dark picture or CD liner sign, bring a silver sharpie so the signatures will be visible.
CELL PHONE:
Oh, no! You lost your best friend in the crowd? Have your fully charged cell phone handy just in case you need to make a call. Also, so you can check your tweets and find out where your favorite band is and when they’re signing, doing a special acoustic set, or making an appearance in another bands set.
HAND SANITIZER:
You don’t know what you’re going to touch at Warped Tour. Whether it is a gross, sweaty dude or those port-a-potties that have been sitting in the sun for 5 hours. Bath and Body Works sells sanitizer straps that you can fix to your keys.
CHANGE OF CLOTHES:
Keep this in the car for after the show. Trust me, when you’re tired and you’re not sure if the sweat on your body is entirely yours, you will thank me.
CARABINER
This is my secret tip! Hook your keys, sanitizer, mini sharpies, and Camelbak water bottle to a carabiner (preferably one with a lock) to your belt loop. This allows for easy access to your sharpie, water and sanitizer throughout the day. Also, it makes more space in your fanny pack or backpack for the other essentials.
WHAT NOT TO BRING:
ALCOHOL/DRUGS :
Security will not let you bring alcohol or illegal substances into the venue. In most cases, if you are 21 or older you can buy alcohol at the venue. Do this at your own risk because it will dehydrate you.
PROFESSIONAL CAMERAS:
If you have a camera with a removable lens you will not be allowed in without the appropriate accreditation. The same thing goes for other recording devices.
CREDIT CARDS/WALLET:
The booths won’t accept credit and you don’t want to run the risk of losing these items. Keep them locked in your car.
WEAPONS:
Another obvious one, but I know a lot of people that always carry a pocketknife. Make sure you take all this out of your pockets and bags and leave them in the car.
MP3 PLAYER :
You don’t need your iPod; you’re at a concert! Aside from the fact that you probably won’t be able to hear your music over the show, you also don’t want to lose or break it.
WHAT TO WEAR:
LOOSE TOP :
A tank top or light t-shirt will keep you comfortable. Stray away from black, as it absorbs heat. Ladies, I would suggest wearing a bikini top or sports bra under your top for your comfort.
SHORTS :
Keep your legs cool. Even if you wear Tripp pants everyday, you will not only look dumb but also feel terrible in them at Warped Tour. Loose shorts or capris will feel the best in the heat.
SUNGLASSES :
You’ll be in the sun all day, so protect your eyes! And you don’t want to be squinting trying to watch a band in the bright light. Wear a pair that you don’t care if you break! Trust me, I wore expensive sunglasses last year and they broke in a wall of death during D.R.U.G.S. If you wear prescription sunglasses like me, attach them to croakies so if they are secure around your head or neck. I even suggest this for cheap sunglasses too.
LIGHT CLOSED-TOE SHOES:
If you have a pair of Toms, rock those babies. Vans or Converse will do just fine as well. You will be walking all day and you want to be comfortable. Make sure the toes are closed because you don’t know what you might accidently step in.
HAIR ACCESSORY:
A hat or visor is good to keep the sun off your face. Bring bandanas and hair ties if you have longer hair and want to get it out of your face.
WHAT NOT TO WEAR:
FLIP-FLOPS/HEELS:
Every year I see a girl walking around with one flip-flop on because the other got lost in the crowd or broke. You’re going to be walking for 8 hours…don’t wear heels. It won’t make you cool.
BLACK :
Black absorbs heat. Even if you’re a dedicated scene kid, you will regret wearing black when you’re drenched in sweat.
LOTS OF MAKEUP :
Nothing is worse than having peach sweat dripping off your face from your foundation. Ladies, some eyeliner and waterproof mascara should be enough. Makeup setting spray will help keep your makeup on all day if you plan on wearing some.
EXCESSIVE JEWELRY :
Crazy amounts of jewelry will get caught on things, and get in your way when you bounce and jump. Wear stud earrings and other body jewelry with secure backs. Leave your necklaces and bracelets at home.
WHAT TO DO:
- Get to the venue early (aim for an hour and a half before doors)
- Check the inflatable schedule right away (write it down or take a photo)
- Compromise on sets (You might have to leave OM&M early to see NFG)
- Check out all the booths and note bands signing times
- Get to the stages early
- Watch the security guards (where they move is usually where a crowd surfer is)
- Keep drinking water all day
- Make sure you eat
- Take care of yourself and others in the pit
- See at least one band you’ve never heard of
- Ignore the signs of injury, dehydration, or fatigue (locate the medical tent)
- Use up all your energy early in the day
- Let people get injured in the pit or while crowd surfing
- Complain about or make fun or other Warped goers
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