What would life be without music?

Well, personally and for lack of a better phrase, I think it would absolutely suck. For a good chunk of my life, music has been my solace; it's an amazing coping mechanism for depression, it can calm anxiety and it gives you relatability in social gatherings. After all, who doesn't like to share their favorite bands and introduce other people to the lyrics that have made their marks on your heart?

For me, the music that has made such a long lasting impression on me would be a selection from the genre consistent with the acts at Warped Tour: rock and metal. I was beyond stoked when I found out that one of the stops on their tour would be much closer to my hometown, and thus allowed me the opportunity to experience the culture myself.

That's what Warped Tour is; it's a culture of its own, totally unique to the environment. It's a haven for the tattooed, the pierced, the dyed, the rebellious -- it's a place of acceptance and self-expression.

No matter how successful my experience was, there were definitely some things that I wish I had had in mind prior to packing up and heading to the venue. So, I've compiled my own list of reminders.

1. Once you hand over your ticket, you also hand over your right to personal space.

For the rest of the day, you have no personal bubble. It may be necessary to mentally prepare yourself for this, because you're going to be shoulder to shoulder with a thousand of your closest friends practically the entire time.

2. You're also going to sweat -- a lot.

It's summer, in the hot sun. Hot sun means bring a ton of sun screen and waterproof sunscreen is preferable. Be prepared to apply it multiple times throughout the day; I applied it three separate times and I still got burnt, so be cautious.

3. Speaking of sun screen and things you should pack, make sure you bring a water bottle, either an empty one or a sealed one.

Stay hydrated and fill up your bottle at the water stations around the venue. You're not going to want to keep buying beverages -- they're super expensive. Also, I would recommend bringing a snack, as just like beverages, food is pricey. And don't forget your sharpie for autographs! However, even if it chances rain, don't bring your umbrella. You're not allowed to take it in the venue. Finally, this doesn't involve "bringing" anything, however make sure you dress appropriately. You probably don't want to wear pants or a long sleeved shirt, though I would recommend sneakers or boots since toes get stepped on frequently.

4. Since everything does cost an arm and a leg, make sure you bring plenty of extra cash.

Not every place takes cards, so it's better to be safe than sorry. Besides, you're definitely going to want to buy some merchandise.

5. Unless your goal is to mosh or you enjoy the thrill of being around that, don't position yourself toward the center of the crowd.

It's definitely an experience to watch, however, it can become stressful and induce anxiety. Besides, if you're short like me, then you probably can't see the stage when you're surrounded on all sides with average sized people.

6. Disregard the fact that the signs say, "No crowd surfing," because it's going to happen, and it's going to happen a lot.

If someone's in the air, then help them out, no matter how weak you are; they're having a hell of a time, so help a brother out.

All in all, be safe, be smart and enjoy yourself! It'll be an experience worth remembering, without a doubt.