Re: what to bring
The coat check may or may not be willing to check bags, but to be honest you're likely going to get into the theater with very little time before the show starts-- do you really want to be worried about finding that coat check and possibly missing the beginning of the show? Plus I was so flustered after actually getting tickets that I kind of blindly walked forward where people were guiding me until I got to my seat. Here's my recommendations on what to bring that fits into a normal-sized backpack, which I was able to stow under the seat during the performance with little trouble (though people taller than me might want to find that coat check after all, to maximize leg room):
--lightweight sleeping bag: they make really tiny sleeping bags now that come with compression sacks. The one I bought took up maybe a quarter of the volume of my backpack. It's summer anyways-- you don't need a heavy-duty sleeping bag, but I would recommend one if you plan to try to sleep at all. It gives a sense of security (you can stow any valuables inside), separates you from the dirty sidewalk, gives warmth (obviously), and if you're short enough you can pull it up over your head to shield you from the bright lights and noise of the street.
--I didn't bring this, but was wishing I had: one or more of those foam stadium seat cushions. I would have liked this to cushion my butt while sleeping (I used my backpack as a pillow) and then to sit on during the day, since it doesn't count as a chair. I tried using a towel for this purpose, but it wasn't quite cushiony enough to be comfortable for sleeping on concrete.
--Portable phone chargers: they sell them at Target for $5. I brought 2 just in case.
--Granola bars/beef jerky/other snacks: in case of hunger in the middle of the night or right before the show when everyone starts getting... less companionable, to put it nicely.
--deodorant, breath mints, glasses/contacts if applicable, a change of shirt if space allows, kleenex: to feel more human. I also optimistically brought a toothbrush but wasn't ballsy enough to use it in a public restroom. YMMV.
--phone/headphones/tablet/kindle: for boredom
--a NON-DISCOVER credit card: this could've been disastrous if my boyfriend hadn't been there with me-- they do not take discover!!!
--something for cast members to sign: because different members come out each night, and you might have a chance while in line to get something signed
--cash: the pizza place across the street is really good and while I think they do take cards, I always feel dumb using a credit card for less than $5, and the pizza is pretty cheap. Also good in case someone else in line makes a drugstore/pizza run and you want to request something.
--To those bringing lots of water: meh, I wouldn't bother. Just buy it as you need it-- water is heavy and takes up a lot of space. The pizza place is literally across the street and sells water, and I think I saw vending machines near the bathrooms in the Marriott. Also definitely pee at 11:30 and then don't drink again until morning-- as others have said, the Marriott closes at midnight.
Okay, I think those are all of my tips. Happy waiting, all!
Updated On: 5/24/16 at 10:09 PM
good luck! many resources on this forum. I think I should create a community wiki after this is done.
