hopefully this makes easier for you...
DONT:
-bring backpack nor bring too much stuff. 1) too much hassle with crowd, its gonna be either you can lose it or easily pocketpicked. 2) you'll get pat down, get your bags checked for, for probably 4th times before getting there. (yes things changed after 9/11)
-eat or drink too much before you get there, trust me! if you want to be at the right spot, get there at least 6+ hours in advance. or else, you may not make it on time for nature call.
-bring certain things- i cant make list here, use your common sense- you'll get pat down many times before getting there. (this would be a little worse than at airport)
DO:
-Wear a big winter coat such as ski coat, layered sweaters, anything that keeps you warm in icy-cold night. ski gloves, scarfs, good hat etc. big coats & big pockets for your stuff a bonus.
-bring a "belt bag" i forget what its called specifically at this moment! again, dont bring-use your common sense- cops will check in it.
uh, thats all i can think of now. if you got there a little too late for a right spot, you cannot break through the crowd. it was amazingly crowded. btw, if you got to stand for hours; then you need to find a wall/pole to lead on it to bend your feet up with heel on ground a few times and let circulation moving right through it. my friend experienced that part and it wasnt a pleasure thing but it helped.
lastly..... GOOD LUCK AND HAVE AN AWESOME TIME!!!!!!
stay warm and HAVE FUN! 
