10 things you need to survive the May 8 elections.

IEC board sign leading voters to voting station at Wits University Old Mutual Sports Hall. Photo: Lineo Leteba
- DON’T FORGET YOUR ID
Put green ID book or your smartcard in a place where you will remember it in the morning because you don’t want to have to turn back or miss out on the opportunity to vote in the elections.
- USE SUNBLOCK
The weather forecast for May 8 is a cool but sunny 22 degrees in Johannesburg. You don’t want to get braai’ed in the sun as you wait in line to make your X.
- DRESS IN LAYERS
However, the weather might change and you have to be ready for some heat or the cold. Come prepared for the worst case scenario.
- BRING AN UMBRELLA
The sun will be out and you need to protect yourself from the harsh autumn rays and just in case it rains.
- WEAR COMFORTABLE SHOES
No stilettos, ladies or gents! You will be in the queue for some time so put on some sneakers or running shoes.
- STAY HYDRATED
The sun will be out and you need to stay hydrated as you wait in line so carry plenty of water. Keep it going, keep it flowing like the water!
- CARRY LIP-BALM
You will be waiting in the queue for a while and you have to make sure your lips don’t crack just in case you meet your crush at the voting station.
- PACK SNACKS
Eat something before you leave the house and carry some snacks to nibble on as you wait in line – you might be there for a while.
- CARRY A SMALL BAG WITH YOU
Put everything you will be carrying in a bag because you don’t want to drop anything in the queue.
- DON’T FORGET THE HEADSETS
Listening to some music might calm you down and prepare you as you wait. If you are feeling social, carry a deck of cards and make new friends.
FEATURED IMAGE: Students walking past the entrance at the Wits University Old Mutual Sports Hall voting station. Photo: Lineo Leteba