My first experience to SXSW was fantastic but I wish would have known a few things before I arrived in Austin. Here are tips to improve your SXSW experience.

 1.Lodge in the downtown area.

Most people walk around SXSW so if you can try to stay around a mile or two away from the central Downtown Austin area, it will improve your chances of attending everything SXSW has to offer and not be overly tired because you’ve walk to much.

2. Use the bus app.

If your lodging is away from the city center, it’s a good idea to get to know the bus system. The bus is cheaper than a taxi and transfers last for or 10 hours. If you download the free CapMetro  app it will show you bus times, display current rout routes and give you the ability to buy tickets. Buying tickets on the app save you from carrying around the usual paper transfer.

3.Be sure to bring a portable battery source.

Chances are if you’re using a mobile phone, laptop or tablet around SXSW you’re going to run out of power. Carrying around a portable battery source saves you the trouble of finding popular power outlets and stalling you’re experience. I would suggest Mophine mobile phone cases and power stations.

4. Look around Austin.

It would be a shame to only see the parts of Austin included in SXSW. Austin has lot of cool shopping and dining areas like South Congress (SOCO), North Guadalupe Street, and others.  Keep in mind because of amount of travelers most business downtown are having some sort of special or promotion to get your attention, so search for the deals.

5. Plan your departure from Austin.

Taxi’s are in such high demand because of the high influx of travels that chances are you won’t get one in time for your departure. Instead trying reserving a shuttle or take the direct airport (#100) bus that departs from downtown every half an hour.