Everyone’s counting down the days to Singapore’s most anticipated event in January – St. Jerome’s Laneway Festival on 30 January (commonly referred to as Laneway).
This iconic indie music festival came to Singapore from Australia in 2012, and this year’s festival, held at the picturesque Gardens By The Bay, is the biggest yet.
For the first-timers or those who not-so-pleasant experience last year, here are x crucial tips to help you survive Laneway 2016!
1. Collect your tickets in advance
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This first tip is probably the most essential of all – collecting your tickets in advance! A complimentary H&M voucher will come in handy for your last minute outfit shopping needs as well.
2. Dress appropriately
(Image credits: http://www.bwincessnana.com/)
At Laneway festivals, everyone dresses to impress. However, you’re probably not going to have a good time if you’re all decked out in leather or sky high heels, no matter how instaworthy you look!
Opt for light and breathable clothing (such as a beautiful sun dress or sheer mesh top pictured above) that you will be comfortable in the entire day. And since you’ll be sitting around quite a fair bit, make sure your bottoms are appropriate for sitting. You don’t want to be suffering in a pair of overly-stiff shorts or constantly pulling down your mini skirt!
(Image credits: www.jakeena.com)
As for shoes, it really depends on you. Covered shoes like a stylish pair of Dr. Martens are recommended if you’re planning to be jumping around in the crowd so as to avoid ugly injuries, but sandals are perfect for those looking to chill on their mats for most of the day.
3. Plan your event wisely
(Image credits: Laneway Singapore website)
With close to 30 fantastic bands performing at 4 different stages spread over the festival area, you and your pals should get together beforehand and figure out who you want to catch. There will definitely be clashes, so some compromises will have to be made!
If you are not familiar with any of the acts (it’s alright, they are pretty obscure) and hence cannot create a plan, simply rotate between the stages or between acts from different countries to get a taste of everything and make your money’s worth. (Note: The 1975, Chvrches and Flume are pretty big acts, whereas Cashew Chemists and Riot !n Magenta hail from Singapore)
4. Portable chargers and phone cases
(Image credits: www.computerworld.com)
A portable charger and cable is a must-bring – ’nuff said. Be it for contacting your friends, posting stuff on social media or googling the upcoming band, you will need your phone and your phone’s battery itself will not suffice. Try to choose one that can fit in your pocket or hand comfortably!
Also, for those who like their phones ‘naked’ (i.e. coverless), you might want to consider putting on a cover (preferably with a bumper) during the event. Just in case a careless festival-goer knocks it out of your hand whilst dancing to the fresh tunes, y’know.
5. Sensible hair options
(Image credits: Tumblr)
As much as we’d all like to look as hippie-chic as her, the unforgiving humidity will not be kind to your free flowing, carefully styled hair. On top of that, no one likes a sticky and sweaty neck! Perhaps start your day with a messy bun or creative braid, and then let down your freshly curled locks for that glamorous sunset look!
(P.S. Bring extra hair ties and pins – chances are you’ll lose some along the way, or your friend will need one)
6. Be prepared for rain or shine
The weather isn’t looking too great on Saturday, so please be wet-weather ready! A poncho will be given to every person upon entry (while stocks last) but we recommend bringing one more just in case.
Also, for the ladies, remember to use waterproof makeup so that you can look good all day long and avoid the hassle of dealing with smudged eyeliner! (But hey, even if that does happen, the gothic look can work too.)
Do note that umbrellas are NOT allowed as they block other people’s views.
On the other hand, there’s bound to be some killer sun too. Remember to slather on ample amounts of sunscreen and SPF lip balm. Check out our article, 8 Beauty Products To Protect Yourself From Singapore’s Hot Weather, for more Laneway essentials!
7. Choose the right picnic mat
(Image credits: www.coolmompicks.com)
Everyone knows that picnic mats are a must for festivals, but they should still be carefully chosen. How many people can your mat fit? (Also, how many people in your group are bringing a mat?) Is your mat waterproof? Is it too thin or too heavy? Is it recognisable from a distance? Do you intend to keep it after Laneway and if so, can it be washed? These are some questions you may like to consider.
8. Stay hygienic
(Image credits: www.redmart.com)
Even though Gardens By The Bay is relatively clean, you don’t want to be eating your burgers and finger food with hands that touched grass, sweaty bodies or possibly mud. Bring along some hand sanitiser that will fit into the smallest of bags, and possibly some wet wipes too for accidental spills or messes.
(Image credits: www.portabletoiletco.com)
..And remember, keep some tissues handy for when you need to use the loo. There might not be any toilet paper left (or at all?) in the portable toilets after everyone starts going to empty their beer-filled bladders!
9. Finally, do not bring these things!
(Image credits: Laneway Singapore)
Leave the selfie sticks and foldable chairs at home, folks. As much as you’d like to bring them, spare a thought for the unfortunate people who will be sitting behind you and will have their view blocked!
(Featured image credits: Today)
