Event Ticket Center’s Guide for Traveling for a Concert: 8 Smart Tips for an Epic Adventure

There’s really nothing quite like hitting the road or taking to the skies to see your favorite artist perform live. The buildup to the big day—the playlists, the packing, the journey itself—is all part of the thrill, but traveling to a concert comes with its own set of challenges, and a little preparation goes a long way toward keeping things stress-free.

At Event Tickets Center, we’re here to help you make the most of your trip, so we’ve put together eight tips to ensure smooth sailing from start to finish. With some smart planning, you’ll be ready to soak up every moment of the show and not worry about the little details that could disrupt your travel experience.

1. Book Your Hotel Accommodations Early

Some concert tours can cause hotels to fill up fast, so the sooner you book, the better. Securing your accommodations early not only gives you peace of mind but also often means better rates and more options. If possible, aim for a hotel close to the venue to save time and avoid transportation headaches. For instance, if you’re going to a Tyler The Creator show at Madison Square Garden , consider staying at a nearby accommodation like the Hilton Garden Inn New York/West 35th Street, which offers convenient access to the venue. Book direct with Hilton and take advantage of these great offers! Hilton offers a variety of options in almost every city, our advice is to book direct to get additional savings or points. Hotels like these let you reserve early with flexibility, so you can adjust plans if needed.

2. Reserve Your Rental Car in Advance

If your travel plans include driving, don’t wait until the last minute to rent a car. Just like with hotels, popular event dates often coincide with high demand for rentals, and you don’t want to be left scrambling for a ride. Think about your needs when booking. Are you driving a long distance and looking for great gas mileage? Are you bringing friends along and need extra room? These small considerations can make your trip smoother. Also, we recommend you double-check the pick-up and return locations to avoid unnecessary detours.

3.Check the Weather and Pack Accordingly

The weather can make or break parts of your concert experience, especially for outdoor venues. For instance, festivals like Bonnaroo in Manchester, TN are known for unpredictable weather, which can range from scorching heat to sudden downpours or even thunderstorms. A few days before your trip, check the forecast for your destination. Is rain in the forecast? A compact poncho can be a lifesaver. Is it going to be hot and sunny? Sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water are your best friends. Even if the event is indoors, consider the trip to the venue. A jacket for cool evenings or an umbrella for unexpected rainstorms (if the venue allows it) can save the day. Preparation is key to staying comfortable and tackling whatever Mother Nature has in store.

4. Familiarize Yourself with the Venue and its Rules

Knowing the lay of the land before you arrive can help everything go smoothly. It is key to look up the venue’s location, parking options (and whether you need to book it), and entry points ahead of time. Many event spaces have detailed maps online, so you can figure out where to park, where your seats are, and where the closest bathrooms are located. Venue policies are another important consideration. These days, many arenas and stadiums enforce strict rules about bag sizes (hello, clear bags!) or prohibited items. For example, Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado has specific guidelines on what you can bring inside. Don’t run yourself into any last-minute surprises, and make sure you check out the venue’s website for specific guidelines on the event you’re attending. And if you’re having heavy pre-concert jitters, you can always drive by the venue the day before the show to get a sense of the area, although it would probably be best if you go to a bar instead and have some fun.

5. Make Dinner Reservations Ahead of Time

No one wants to be starving before a big show, but waiting in line for a table can eat into precious time. We recommend you look for places close to the venue to minimize travel time and book a table in advance, especially when you’re going to a massive show, as probably all places in the vicinity will be full. Aim for a reservation at least two hours before the doors open. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy your meal and make it to the venue without feeling rushed. Some local spots even offer specials on concert nights, so do a little research for deals that match your vibe.

6. Plan Your Outfit with Comfort and Style in Mind

Your concert outfit is a key part of the experience for some people, but comfort is just as important as style. First, think about the type of event you’re going to and what to expect. For outdoor concerts, breathable fabrics and layers are a smart move. If the event is indoors, you might want to dress it up a bit, but keep practicality in mind—especially when it comes to shoes. And again, don’t forget about bags! A lot of venues require clear or small bags for security reasons, so leave that oversized tote or big backpack at the hotel and pick something that is approved by the venue.

7. Capture the Experience Without Overdoing It

Concerts are a great opportunity to make memories for a lifetime, and a few photos or videos can help you hold onto those moments. But you need to find the sweet spot between capturing the moment and actually living it. Snap a quick group selfie before the show starts, and take a short video of your favorite song. After that, let yourself go and enjoy the music with your friends as well as with the rest of the crowd. Your phone isn’t going anywhere—just remember, thousands of others will be snapping photos and videos too, and you’ll be able to see them on social media, so focus on the show and soak it all in.

8. Arrive Early and Take It All In

We know it can be hard not to, but the last thing you want on concert day is to feel rushed. Give yourself plenty of time to get to the venue, secure parking, and make your way inside. Getting there early not only reduces your stress but also lets you soak in the pre-show atmosphere (and hey, no lines at the bar!) For example, if you’re heading to the iconic Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, arriving early lets you enjoy the venue’s beautiful picnic areas and stunning views of the Hollywood Hills. Whereas in major venues like Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, getting there ahead of time helps you avoid traffic, secure a good parking spot, and have time to grab exclusive merch or enjoy a pre-show meal. Early entry also lets you enjoy amenities some venues offer, like local food vendors, unique art installations, or even pre-show entertainment. With plenty of time to relax, you'll be ready to immerse yourself in the music the moment the show begins.

A Smooth Journey Sets the Stage for an Amazing Show

Traveling for a concert is a chance to turn a single night or weekend into a full adventure. By planning ahead, you’ll avoid unnecessary stress and make more room for fun along the way. With these tips, we guarantee you’ll hit all the right notes on your trip. Now it’s time to get out there, turn up the volume, and enjoy the show of a lifetime! And if you need any tickets for that show you want to travel to, we’ve got them right here at Event Tickets Center.