A stadium rock show isn’t just a concert, it’s a full-body, soul and spirit experience that can rattle your ribs, steal your voice, and leave you euphoric (and slightly sunburnt). Whether it’s your first time seeing AC/DC at Sydney’s Accor Stadium or Foo Fighters shaking the foundations of Wembley, here are 11 survival tips for getting the most out of your first stadium gig.
1. Plan your entry (and exit) strategy
The average stadium can hold anywhere from 50,000 to 100,000 fans. For example, Wembley Stadium in London has a capacity of 90,000, while MetLife Stadium in New Jersey fits 82,500. Arrive early to avoid the gridlock and get your bearings. Exit routes can be confusing, so take note of your gate and parking area..
2. Know the set times
Don’t rely on guesswork. Most stadium gigs publish official set times on social media or the venue website. Support acts often start earlier than you’d expect and if you’re seeing a show at Melbourne Cricket Ground (capacity: 100,024), finding your seat can take longer than the opening song.
3. Hydrate
Screaming lyrics, standing for hours, and being packed shoulder-to-shoulder in the heat? You’ll be sweating before the first chord. Drink water throughout the day, and don’t forget to go for a piss before the encore. Oh and yes, beer counts – kind of, but not really.
4. Pack smart (but light)
You’re not going camping. Bring only essentials: phone, ID, portable charger, and maybe a jacket. Most stadiums — like Estadio do Maracanã in Brazil (capacity: 78,838) — enforce strict bag policies and security checks. Maybe consider one of those small crossbody bags.
5. Wear the right footwear
Skip the Birkenstocks, you’re going to be standing, dancing, jumping, moshing and possibly dodging spilled drinks. Sturdy, comfortable footwear is the way forward.
6. Dress for the elements
Stadiums are often partially exposed to the elements. Rain at Soldier Field in Chicago or a scorching afternoon at Dubai’s Sevens Stadium can make or break your experience. Think layers, and bring a poncho or light rain jacket but not an umbrella (they’re usually banned).
7. Learn the lay of the land
Study the venue map in advance. Where are the toilets? Where’s your gate? Where’s the closest bar that isn’t going to be five-deep? Most stadium apps or websites offer interactive maps. Screenshot them.
8. Charge everything
You’ll want photos, videos, GPS, digital tickets, and other apps and all of that drains your battery fast. Bring a fully charged power bank. Signal at stadiums can often patchy, so keep your brightness low and turn off Bluetooth to conserve juice.
9. Respect the pit
If you’re in the general admission pit at a venue like Germany’s Olympiastadion (capacity: 74,000), know your limits. It’s not a place for standing still, and you will get bumped. If you’re short, or new to this, consider seating. Your ribs and eardrums will thank you.
10. Don’t watch it all through your phone
You’re not a documentary maker. Take a few clips as momentos but don’t spend the whole night watching the world’s loudest band through a tiny screen. Film your favourite song and a crowd moment, then stick your phone in your pocket and live the gig.
11. Stick around after the final song
The lights go up, but don’t bolt for the exit. Let the crowd thin out. You’ll avoid the crush and soak up the last moments.
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