How to survive an outdoor concert in Singapore

Anyone who has been to an outdoor concert in Singapore knows the potential hazards. You have to rub shoulders with deodorant-averse crowds, cough up way too much money for a limp hotdog, answer nature’s call in cramped cubicles masquerading as portable loos … all while battling the energy-sapping heat and humidity.

But with just a little bit of preparation, you can have a fabulous time at that gig. Here are some tips for outdoor concert-goers. Ignore them at your own risk.

Tip 1: Dress appropriately.

We know you think you look like Adam Levine in that leather jacket … but it’s Singapore and it’s hot enough to make Tarzan weep. That suede jacket will bake you alive in the sweltering heat. Save it for the office/lecture theatre/Genting Highlands.

Now, please don’t shed everything else along with the jacket. A bikini top and hot pants are not quite appropriate, unless you’re there to work on your tan. First of all, you might appreciate a layer of protection if you get squashed against other sweaty bodies. More importantly, you don’t want anything to come accidentally undone in the midst of jostling with a boisterous crowd.

Contrary to popular belief, jeans, the choice de rigueur of fashion-forward Singaporeans, might not be your best bet either. Most denim fabrics tend to be thick and don’t wick moisture away from the skin.

Instead, choose lightweight and light-coloured apparel in breathable fabrics like cotton and linen. Add a hat and a pair of sunglasses to shield your face and eyes from UV damage.

Save yourself from muddy (and bruised) toes by opting for shoes that cover your entire feet. Sneakers are a reliable choice – they are comfortable, sturdy and can withstand a modest amount of treading without serious damage. Waterproof walking/hiking shoes are even better.

Tip 2: Get your bearings.

Suss out where the toilets, snack booths and medical tent are when you first arrive, before the crowds swarm. You don’t want to wander around searching for the loo when your bladder is screaming for relief.

Tip 3: Find the right spot.

Mummy says safety comes first, and we agree. Try to stand next to a security barrier or near security personnel. If the crowd becomes too much for you to bear, you can get help easily.

And unless you have ears of steel, don’t park yourself right next to those industrial-strength amplifiers. See Tip 4.

Tip 4: Protect your ears.

Concerts tend to be loud affairs. A head-banging rock concert can easily exceed 100 decibels. You don’t want your ears to ring for days after the event, or worse, damage your hearing permanently.

A good pair of moulded filter ear plugs will filter the sound, not block it. So you can still rock out to your favourite band while protecting your hearing.

Tip 5: Stay hydrated.

Drink copious amounts of water, even if it means visiting those cramped cubicles masquerading as portable loos.

Dehydration and heat stroke are very real threats in our punishing climate. Have a bottle of water or two with you and fill them up as and when needed. If you’re not permitted to bring your own beverages into the event venue, make sure you buy bottled water at the event grounds as soon as possible. Waiting till you’re overheated to join the queue at the refreshment booth is not a good idea.

It’s also important to be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Look out for symptoms such as fatigue, headache, dizziness, nausea and clammy skin. Get yourself pronto to the first-aid tent if you experience any of these symptoms.

Alcohol worsens dehydration and may dull your senses enough to make you miss the signs of heat exhaustion. So go easy on the beer.

Tip 6: Everybody’s free to wear sunscreen.

If the concert is held in the day, use sunscreen. You’ll be exposed to the harsh rays for at least a couple of hours and the last we checked, the sunburnt look is not in. You may even need to re-apply sunscreen if you’re on site the whole day – the sunscreen you slathered on hours ago isn’t sufficient to protect you all day long.

Tip 7: Charge your phone.

Smartphones these days may be able to do a zillion things but they tend to run out of juice quickly. Fully charge your phone before you head out. If you know your phone battery won’t last the duration of a gig, consider tucking a power bank into your back pocket and don’t forget to pack that cable too.

You need your phone in case of emergencies and of course, to post on Instagram those countless selfies you’ll undoubtedly be taking. A phone is also useful in case you get separated from your mates at the event. Nevertheless, always arrange a rendezvous point in case your mates didn’t read this fine article and forgot to charge their phones. Plus, you may find yourself in a no-signal zone.

Tip 8: When hunger pangs strike...

If you don’t want to pay for overpriced burgers and chips at the concert, bring along an apple or granola bar to graze on. If it’s one of those sit-down concerts that let you bring along a whole picnic basket, go ahead and go crazy. Just remember that food spoils quickly in our humid weather. Avoid anything with milk and cream, dishes that contain raw eggs like mayonnaise, and be vigilant about hygiene.

Tip 9: Pack these essentials.

Cash (some food booths may not accept cards), antibacterial gel or wet wipes (have you seen those loos?), mobile phone (see Tip 7)) and concert ticket (duh) – pack these in a crossbody sling bag so you can move and dance with ease.

Tip 10: Leave these at home.

Don’t bring anything clunky or valuable. Carrying an oversized backpack at a standing-only event is not only backbreaking to self but inconsiderate to others. Leave the DSLR camera and tablet at home. Crowds at concerts can be rowdy and you risk having your stuff damaged or worse, stolen.

Tip 11: Check the event website for rules.

Different event organisers and venues have different rules and regulations. Go to the event website to find out what they are. Certain items could be prohibited – food, video recorders, strollers, and your beloved pet dog Fido.

It’ll save you a lot of unnecessary grief if you know the dos and don’ts in advance.

Tip 12: Clean up after yourselves.

Please, you’re not a boor. Be civilised and don’t dump your garbage on the ground.

Produced by the TODAY Special Projects Team