Festival Survival Guide

With the Soundwave festival coming up on sunday I thought it would make sense to make a little guide to help festival noobs out.

*Bring your mates
This is important because 1) If your mates are already down front they can save you a spot 2) It's a lot more fun having them by your side.

*Drink plenty of water
If it's a hot day, even if it isn't. You're going to sweat in that moshpit and you need to replace your bodies liquids.

*Remember to eat
When you starve yourself your metabolism slows down and your body starts to store fat. You also have an empty feeling in your stomach, so buy a few meals. Take a break from the mosh once and awhile.

*Wear appropiate clothing
Summer clothing: a shirt, shorts, comfortable shoes.
What not to wear: layers of clothing like a jacker over a hoodie. Unless you want to be dripping with sweat.

*Plan ahead
Plan what bands you're going to go see. Pick up a timetable and a map so you know where everything is. Some bands may clash, so you've got to decide who you would rather see. Or what band will tour later in the year and what one won't.

*Obey the rules
Don't start a fight with security or the festival staff. Don't sneak in any items that are not allowed. Don't fight another punter, unless they deserve it, i.e if they bottle or harass the bands - go for it.

*Respect in the mosh
If someone falls pick them up. Learn how to dance without injuring too many people.

*Alcohol
Drink responsibly (this is the part where my friends start to throw stuff at me). It's ok to have a few drinks but don't get too disruptive. Security will come faster than a Great White sensing blood and you'll be kicked out or arrested.

*Don't harass the photographers
You should have seen this one coming. Many of the photographers are just doing their job. They've worked hard to get to shoot a festival. Their editor has trusted them with this responsibility. If they screw this up they might not have the opportunity again. Don't purposely block their lens or harass them. Don't throw bottles or shoes at them. Talking to them is ok. It gets quite boring in that photo pit. And if you really don't want to irritate them turn that bleeding flash off your point and shoot digital camera!

See you guys at Soundwave Festival on Sunday.