What to Bring (and What Not to Bring) to a Rock Concert: The Complete Guide

Going to a rock or metal concert is an intense experience—one you’ll remember forever. But for everything to go smoothly, it’s essential to know what to take with you and, just as importantly, what to leave at home. Nobody wants to waste time at the security check, get turned away at the entrance, or carry unnecessary weight all night long.

Whether it’s your very first concert or your hundredth, this guide shares tips from someone who’s been going to shows since 1995. That’s three decades of great experiences—plus a few less-than-great ones—that taught me a lot about comfort, safety, and practicality.

First Rock Concert? 10 Things You Should Know Before You Go

What to Bring to a Rock Concert

1. Ticket (digital or printed)

It sounds obvious, but don’t underestimate this one: make sure you know exactly where your ticket is before you leave. I’ve seen friends forget their paper tickets in another city (!). Back then, there were no digital versions. Luckily, we scraped together enough money for a new ticket at the door—but don’t count on luck.

Pro tips:

• Download the app or the PDF version of your ticket to your phone.
• Turn up your screen brightness when scanning (low brightness sometimes causes errors).
• If allowed, print a copy as a backup—just in case your phone dies.

2. Photo ID

Always carry an ID card or passport (especially if you’re attending a show abroad). Many venues check names against tickets to prevent fraud.

Minors must also have valid ID. I remember waiting outside at age 13 while my mom signed a form at the juvenile court so I could see Bon Jovi in São Paulo. Different times, but bureaucracy hasn’t gone away.

3. Fully Charged Phone

Your phone is now your ticket, map, flashlight, camera, credit card, and connection to the outside world. Charge it to 100% before you leave.

Should you bring a power bank? Maybe—but be careful. Not all venues allow them. Always check the venue’s website first.

Personal tip: bring a small, lightweight power bank that fits in your pocket. The smaller it is, the less likely security will flag it.

Phone-Free Concerts: What Happens When Devices Are Banned?

4. Debit/Credit Card or Digital Payment

Many venues no longer accept cash, especially arenas and international festivals.

Set up Apple Pay, Google Pay, or your preferred mobile wallet—but always carry at least one physical card as a backup.

5. Comfortable Clothing

You’ll be standing for hours, moving around, and surrounded by people. Dress smart:

• Comfortable sneakers
• Lightweight T-shirt
• Light jacket, long-sleeve shirt, or windbreaker (tie it around your waist if it’s warm)
• Pants or shorts with zippered pockets
• Small backpack (A4 size max), crossbody bag, or fanny pack

For winter shows, I often bring a plastic bag or foldable tote inside my bag. That way, if I take off my jacket, I can store it without getting it dirty—or even set it on the ground if needed.

6. Rain Poncho, Yes! Umbrella, No!

Outdoor shows demand preparation—don’t just hope for the best. A lightweight rain poncho is a lifesaver. Umbrellas, on the other hand, are usually banned. They’re unsafe and block everyone’s view.

At a Rush show in Morumbi Stadium, São Paulo, umbrellas were still allowed, and from the stands I could barely see the screens. At a Green Day festival in Florence, Italy, fans used umbrellas for shade in the heat—but everyone folded them away when the band came on. Rules (and culture) can vary, but ponchos are always the safest bet.

7. Small Water Bottle

If the venue allows it, bring a small plastic water bottle (up to 500 ml). Some places require the cap to be removed. Always check the venue’s website first.

For hot days, freeze the bottle before leaving home—it will stay cool longer and save you from overpriced concession stands.

If bottles aren’t allowed, venues usually provide free drinking water (fountains, security staff handing out cups, or bathroom sinks with potable water).

8. Earplugs

Good-quality earplugs for concerts are easy to find these days. They’re especially important if you’re standing near the speakers or know the show will be loud.

Many people skip them, but sound levels at concerts can cause hearing damage. Concert-specific earplugs lower the volume without distorting the music—an investment worth making if you attend shows often or have sensitive hearing.

At a metal gig in Zurich, I stood right in front of the speakers. The view was perfect, but the first band’s mix was painfully loud. I toughed it out for the headliner—but it reminded me how crucial ear protection is.

At another show in Berlin (Judas Priest, Uriah Heep, and Saxon), they were even selling cheap earplugs at the entrance. In some places, it’s basically standard practice.

9. Tissues

It may sound trivial, but at stadium shows or festivals, bathrooms can be a nightmare. A simple pack of tissues can be a lifesaver.

10. Tote Bag or Poster Tube for Merchandise

Planning to buy merch? Bring an extra bag in the right size, or a tube for posters.

• T-shirts: you can always wear them on the spot.
• Posters (like Pearl Jam’s massive limited editions): bring a sturdy tube and expect to carry it for the rest of the night.
• Vinyl: avoid buying before the show unless you have a seat. Better to grab it near the end—and have a tote bag ready to carry it safely home.

How to buy tickets for high-demand concerts

What Not to Bring to a Rock Concert

1. Chains, spikes, or heavy metal accessories – Belts, necklaces, and bracelets with spikes or chains are often banned as potential safety hazards.
2. Umbrellas – As mentioned earlier, usually prohibited.
3. Large backpacks or bulky bags – Security worldwide is stricter than ever. Stick to compact bags (A4 size or smaller).
4. Laptops or valuables – If you’re heading straight from work, try to leave your laptop elsewhere. Lockers aren’t always available, and venues may not even allow entry with such items.
5. Sprays, glass, sharp objects – Aerosol deodorants, cans, glass bottles, knives, etc. are forbidden. Bring roll-on deodorant or wipes instead.
6. Outside food or drinks – Most venues don’t allow them, except for medical or dietary needs. Always check the event’s official rules.

Taking the time to pack smart is the best way to take care of yourself. After 30 years of concerts, trust me: comfort, safety, and mobility make the whole experience so much better.