The Ultimate SXSW Survival Guide: What to Bring, Where to Go and More

South by Southwest 2024 is almost here! In case you’re still feeling stressed about the upcoming festivities, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to help you prepare. Whether you’re a South By rookie or a returning veteran, check out some of our personal tips and tricks for getting through the event with ease. Here’s the rundown…

The Ultimate SXSW Survival Guide: What to Bring, Where to Go and More

How To Prep

On the SXSW website, they offer an Attendee Service Hub which offers a suite of resources. Here, you can find links to get your SXSW Badge, build your schedule, and so much more. In addition, don’t forget to do things like: 

• Link your credential and upload your photo
• Verify your Housing & Travel arrangements
• Select a day to pick up your badge
• Download the SXSW GO app!

Downloading the SXSW app is going to make your experience as easy as possible, as it lets you network with other attendees, get personalized recommendations, priority access to some sick events and so much more.

PRO TIP: The busiest registration day for SXSW is Friday, March 8; you may encounter delays if picking up on their peak day. You can beat the registration lines by taking advantage of early registration for South by Southwest 2024 from March 5-7.

What To Bring

Earplugs

Arguably the most important item to pack for any music event, earplugs are a vital tool to keep your hearing in check. Ensure you can enjoy the music all week long by keeping your ears safe!

A Phone Charger

There’s nothing worse than having a dead phone and not being able to take notes or grab someone’s contact information! Make sure your phone is completely charged before you head out every day and bring a back-up charger or additional battery pack.

Comfortable Shoes

Wear comfortables clothes and shoes! You’ll likely be walking from event to event all day long, so make sure to dress casually and stay cool. Keep your feet from getting tired by mid-day by investing in a pair of quality insoles.

Business Cards and/or Creative Merch

You’ll be sharing your contact information over and over again all week long, so make sure to brand yourself properly! Bring business cards, downloadable cards, merch items, stickers or any other item that has your contact information on it.

Healthy Snacks

With all of the fun you’ll be having all week, it may be tough to find time to eat a big meal. Make sure to bring healthy snacks like trail mix, protein bars or fresh fruit to stay energized and keep yourself from getting hangry. Of course, try to get your proper three meals in. However, it never hurts to have some snacks on hand. You may even make a friend by offering them one of your snacks.

Gum or Mints

You’ll be doing a lot of talking this week… Don’t be that person with the stank breath. Keep it minty fresh by keeping some gum or mints in your bag. Plus, you’ll feel good when someone inevitably asks if you have any.

Water Bottle

Don’t forget to stay hydrated! It can be very easy to get dehydrated walking around in the Texas sunshine, so make sure to keep a water bottle by your side and refill it multiple times a day. You have a long week ahead of you!

A Positive Attitude

Last but not least, bring a smile to South by Southwest 2024! This week is all about meeting new people, learning new things, experience ing great music, and having some fun! Enjoy it as much as you can. Events like this are one of the best parts of being in this industry.

What To Expect & Where To Go

A Lot of Networking

Network, network, network! Make sure to get the most out of your South by Southwest 2024 experience by setting up meetings on the SXSW Social website. Reach out to people in advance, set up quick meetings and make sure to exchange contact information and follow up once you get home.

A Seemingly Unlimited Number of Events

SXSW is full of more events than you’ll likely be able to keep track of, so make sure to stay organized by downloading the SXSW Go app. It even syncs with your Spotify account and makes recommendations on artists you might like. This app is crucial!

Trade Shows and Exhibitions

There will be a lot of different events for you to partake in this week, but don’t forget to hit up the SXSW trade show! It features about 500 companies, from local startups to established industry leaders and more, this event has it all. You’ll be exposed to the works of the world’s top gig poster artists. There’s no better way to spark some creativity! There’s also VR, tech, art expeditions and so much more.

Amazing Food & Drinks

Remember when I told you to eat at least three proper meals a day? Well, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to make that happen this week. Find incredible barbecue, tacos, cocktails and more within walking distance of SXSW this year. Check out some of the incredible restaurants to scope out over at Eater Austin.

Panels, Conferences & More

Don’t miss the opportunity to attend as many panels and conferences as possible. SXSW brings some of the industry’s leading minds in music, technology and film together in one place for some of the most thought-provoking events you’ll find all year. Explore everything going on here.

Undiscovered Artists

Go check out some artists you’ve never heard of this year! There are a ton of new artists performing every day, so go check out some names that sound interesting. And who knows… You might just stumble upon a new favorite. Plus, you can tell all of your friends back home about your brand new discoveries. 😉

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Did you know we’re hosting an event to celebrate the festivities and meet up with like-minded creatives like you? Join us at our Symphonic Shindig at this year’s SXSW! Check out the details below…

🔊 Click HERE to RSVP 🔊

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Need to schedule a meeting with someone from our team?

If you’re attending this year’s SXSW and interested in connecting, feel free to schedule a meeting with someone from our team by filling out this meeting request form.

See you there!