Whether you’re a South by Southwest veteran or new to the Austin music scene, there are certain things every SXSW goer needs to know. To make the most of your SXSW adventure, check out our survival guide. It gives you seven tips for getting all you can out of the craziest week in Austin.
Note: this article was written in conjunction with my co-editor, Holly Aker, to see the original piece, as well as more SXSW content, visit the Hilltop Views.
1. Get a bus pass
Driving and parking downtown is a hassle during a normal day, so imagine how crazy it will be during the week of SXSW. An easy solution? Buy a seven-day Metro Pass. You can buy one for $8 at H-E-B and ride the bus as many times as you like. It’ll pay for itself in one day by helping you avoid those pricey parking lots and garages downtown that can charge up to $10 a day. It’s also in tune with the festival’s new green philosophy. If you live especially far from downtown, a good option is parking on campus and taking the Metro straight down South Congress Avenue.
2. Rest up
Showcases can start as early as noon and end as late as 2 a.m., so take advantage of any opportunity for sleep. You’ll be going strong for the first few days, but by the end of the week you’ll crash if you try to party like a rock star. Use the week before SXSW to load up on sleep, and strategically plan to sleep in on days when day parties don’t catch your interest. Coffee always helps too.
3. Keep your fashion functional
Yes, those boots are very cute, but are you still going to enjoy those three-inch heels after hours of trotting up and down Sixth Street? Probably not. Stick with functional footwear (Vans or TOMS are always acceptable.) Also, dress in layers. While film venues will probably be cooler than outside temperatures, the music venues will be warmer than outside due to body heat. Backpacks and satchels are much handier than little clutches because you’ll be getting a ton of free swag. You’ll also need them to carry all your supplies for a full day’s activities.
4. Do your research
Even though there’s always a chance you might stumble upon your new favorite band, doing your research is always recommended if you want to get the most out of your SXSW experience. The SXSW Web site recently published “The Grid,” an easy-to-use guide that lists every band and every venue. This year the folks at SXSW also released a new iPhone app, my.SXSW. The app lets you manage your schedule and provides you with a map to help you find those obscure venues. Whether you’re going badge-less or buying a wristband or badge, know what you have access to and what is free for everyone. That way you’ll know all your options and won’t have to suffer the embarrassment of being rejected at the venue door.
5. Brown bag it
Unless you have the money to buy breakfast, lunch and dinner downtown for a week, think ahead and stash some food. Plan a makeshift picnic, and find a green patch to eat your sammies downtown. If you live on campus and have a meal plan, you can buy ready-made sandwiches or tacos from Meadows and stow them in your bag for lunch. Leave the plastic water bottles at home, and bring your reusable bottles to SXSW. It’s eco-friendly, and you won’t have to buy half a dozen plastic bottles a day to keep yourself hydrated. SXSW will provide water coolers in many of the venues for your hydrating convenience. When you’re in the mood to splurge for dinner, but you still don’t want to break the bank, check reliable street vendors and quick bites like Torchy’s Tacos, Which Wich, Kebabalicious and the numerous pizza joints scattered on Sixth Street.
6. Don’t get your hopes up
Even if you’re flying badge-less, many shows still let in paid ticket holders. But if you don’t get into the show of your dreams, don’t let it ruin your week. Keep a cool head and avoid getting into skirmishes over who has a better beard or place in line. Whether you get in or not, plan on some backup shows, keep an open mind and be willing to step outside of your comfort zone. Remember, SXSW also hosts hundreds of films and interactive events. Auditorium Shores will always make a great backup. The shows are outside, free and open to the public with no capacity limit. The main thing is to have fun and enjoy your week. Even if you don’t get into any shows, people-watching and shows at various stores around Austin can make your Spring Break unforgettable.
7. Carry cash
If you are going to pay for any shows or films, it’s cash only, so make sure you have some on you to avoid pricey ATM service fees downtown. Cash will also come in handy if you plan on purchasing food, beverages and merch, or if you decide you need a late night cab.
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