By Maryjane Perez | 4 August 2023
Though I am far from earning the title of 5 Seconds of Summer veteran, I’ve learned a few tricks of the trade. Last year I had the pleasure of seeing them not only once but twice in concert during their Take My Hand tour. The venue was general admission only, so I had no idea what to expect or how early to show up. I ended up arriving about 3 hours before doors opened, but I couldn’t tell you where that landed me in the pit. It all felt like an endless sea of fans surrounding me.
There were times during the show where I had a decent view and times where my view was not as great, partially due to my height and partially due to the swarm of cell phones – keep reading for my take on phone usage during shows. Despite my occasionally obstructed view, I can confidently say that 5SOS are some of the best performers I’ve ever seen live. They sound amazing and the atmosphere is charged with electricity.
It’s safe to say that I could attend their show a hundred times and never grow tired of it, so obviously I had to get tickets for their upcoming tour The 5 Seconds of Summer Show. With some better understanding of their fanbase and environment of their shows, I want to share some tricks and trips to help you prepare for your upcoming 5SOS show.
Of course, there are different nuances depending on the venue, seating, and so on, so you’ll have to adjust accordingly, but whether you have general admission or assigned seats, these tips will help you make the best of your experience.
1. Research venue rules and regulations.
This will make getting into the show a breeze. On the venue’s website you’ll be able to find information on parking, prohibited items, bag requirements, and more. Knowing the venue will also give you insight on seating, available bathrooms, food options, etc. Fan signs are a great way for 5SOS to interact with the crowd, so make sure your poster meets the requirements so we can get more gems like this.
2. Bring a portable charger!
This one is super important if you plan to queue hours before the show. You’ll want to spend time taking photos and videos with friends and of the show. It’s also important for safety reasons, especially if you plan on attending a show alone. If you’re apprehensive about running out of power, I would recommend bringing multiple portable chargers, just in case.
3. Plan transportation.
My personal preference is carpooling with friends. This reduces parking costs and adds an extra level of safety. However, if you’re going solo, there are plenty of great options to consider. If the venue is relatively close to where you live, take an Uber or research cheap or free parking near the venue. Safety is the most important, so if the best parking option is at the venue, be prepared to pay the cost.
4. Plan your outfit.
Getting ready for a show is one of the most fun aspects about the experience. I love to coordinate the colors I wear with the themes of the album or tour aesthetics, but wear whatever makes you feel comfortable and good. Layering is also a good idea if you’re attending a show during the colder months. I’m sure you’ll look so perfect standing there in your colorful dress, baggy jeans, or 5SOS tees; the possibilities are endless.
5. Wear earplugs!
Concerts are extremely loud, regardless if it’s an crowd of 1,000 fans, 10,000 fans, or
100,000 fans. I started using earplugs this year and I would say it has definitely enhanced my experience. Earplugs eliminate the ringing in your ears after a show and boost the sound quality of the music. You can hear the artist clearly while dulling out the harsh screams from the crowd (love the enthusiasm from fans, but protecting your hearing is essential). 5SOS—being the comedic legends that they are—will undoubtedly make some jokes and show some skits that you wouldn’t want to miss out on, so I recommend grabbing these High Fidelity earplugs from Amazon.
6. Arrive early.
Getting to the venue early allows you enough time to take pictures, buy merchandise, use the restroom, and get some drinks or food before the show starts. How early depends on you. If you have general admission tickets, it depends how close you want to be to the stage. 5SOS fans in particular are dedicated and passionate about the band—if you want to be towards the front, be prepared to queue all day.
7. Socialize with other fans.
Making friends or connecting with fans is another aspect that makes live music a great experience. I have met such sweet people at concerts. It’s also a good way to get involved in any fan projects that might be going on during the show or an opportunity to snag one of those cute bracelets that get handed out. Personally, I hope I get a bracelet for “Best Friends”—or maybe I’ll take initiative and make matching ones for me and my friends.
8. Stay hydrated!
I cannot emphasize this enough: live shows take a lot out of you. You’re singing, dancing, jumping around, and shouting for a couple of hours – which is all fun but takes a lot of energy. Remember to drink water and eat something before and during the show to help your body replenish.
9. Practice concert etiquette.
Yes, you paid for this experience, but so did all of the other fans around you. Be considerate. Trying to cut in front of someone or push into their space is rude and annoying. Do not be that person. It’s also inconsiderate to speak loudly and excessively during the concert. People are there to hear the music, not your latest gossip. Even if you’re not a fan of the opener, it does not mean you should disrespect their time and talent. Openers are a great way to get introduced to new music; Little Luna’s cover of “You’re So Vain” was a fun experience when they opened for 5SOS.
Here is an article that goes into more length about concert etiquette.
10. Be present!
Getting pictures and videos of the show is a fun way to capture and remember the experience, but be sure to take some time to really soak in the moment. Live music sounds and looks best through firsthand experience, not through the camera screen. It’s also good to be mindful of fans around you. Not every second of a show needs to be documented and doing so may obstruct the view of those around you. I know we’re all excited to scream-sing “You Don’t Go to Parties” along with Calum, but I think we can all agree we’d rather be able to see the guys on stage than through someone else’s camera lens. Record a few seconds of your favorite songs and enjoy the rest of the show off your phone.
Overall, let yourself enjoy the moment and immerse yourself fully in the experience. If it’s your first time seeing 5SOS, get ready because it will be an unforgettable experience. They are by far one of my favorite acts to see live. If it’s your billionth time seeing them, you know this to be true.
