SXSW is in full swing and I am in musical heaven! If you are like me, you are taking off work and spending the entire week practically living on the streets of downtown hopping from show to show with very little sleep because there is simply too much good music that you don’t want to miss. With that in mind, I thought I would share my “survival kit” for anyone diving in for their first time.

1. Music Wristband – If you have a badge then you are golden, but for less than $200 you can get almost all the same benefits. Everyone knows that there are tons of free shows and parties, but with hundreds and hundreds of bands here, I don’t have the time or patience for the lines. The official showcases are usually smaller venues which I like and with a wristband, you get priority entry. A must for anyone who hates lines and doesn’t like to cut in line or sneak into places.

2. Camera – There is a very high chance you will run into, meet or even hang out with a favorite artist. Not to mention all the cool people you will meet along the way who come from literally all over the world.

3. Your Cards – SXSW is a networking mecca. If you have something you are trying to sell or promote, this is the place to do it. If not, you will still want to talk to strangers. There are some really interesting people here for the week. I mean, last night I met a crew from England that work directly under the British Prime Minister.. wild.

4. Hand sanitizer – So with the above in mind, after shaking all those hands, you are gonna need this stuff. I’m just sayin.

5. Water – If you have been making your sxsw plans for weeks now, then you have rsvp’d and gotten a wristband to the places that will have open bar. Tips for surviving over a week of this could be a post all on it’s own. Just suffice it to say that you are going to have to re hydrate once in a while at least.

6. Your schedule – I pick out one or two events/ shows each day that I really want to see. I choose some of my favorite artists that are in town of course, but Ialso make a point to see some music I have never heard and music from all genres. After all, that’s what this whole thing was originally about. I spend the rest of my time just following where my ears lead me. You don’t wanna be a slave to your phone and schedule.. just wing it sometimes.

7. Solar charger – Even if you are low tech like me, you will need your phone and camera as mentioned. Problem is.. charging. There are some venues with charging stations which is nice. But if you love cool gadgets, this baby is only as big as your hand and comes with all the attachments to charge just about anything. I’ve got one that just clips to my backpack and soaks up the solar goodness.

8. Cash – I usually only take a credit card when I go out. But at SXSW, the bars are so busy and if you are moving from venue to venue, cash just works better. Plus you will likely need some for pedicab rides and delicious food truck fare.

9. Comfortable shoes – By the end of the week, it becomes almost impossible to drive into downtown. I hate sitting in traffic. Unfortunately I don’t live downtown, so I park far away and take the bus or walk. In fact, I think I walk more during SXSW than during the rest of the year! Ladies, you will not make it in those cute but uncomfortable shoes you just bought. Don’t even try it.

10. A Smile – We are so lucky to have this event here in Austin. Dive right in and enjoy the ride!