Music pumping, vibrant crowds, and unforgettable memories await. But before you head off to dance the weekend away, there’s one crucial step: packing. Don’t let a forgotten essential turn your epic adventure into a logistical nightmare. This guide dives deep into the must-have items for any festival, ensuring you’re prepared for anything the weekend throws your way!
What essentials should I bring to a music festival?
When planning your time at a festival (or any concert, for that matter), some things are absolutely essential and need to be in your bag whenever you’re getting ready to go.
- Ticket: Make sure you have it with you as soon as you hit the gates (be it physical tickets, QR codes, bracelets, or any other form they may take).
- ID: Even if you’re confident you won’t be carded, it’s generally better to be safe than sorry and bring your ID along. Most festivals will have information about acceptable forms of ID on their platforms and social media.
- Cash and cards: Bringing both payment methods gives you the flexibility to handle any situation, such as malfunctioning card readers or vendors that don’t accept cash.
- Comfortable shoes: Festivals involve a lot of walking from stage to stage, exploring, and waiting in lines for food and drinks. Uncomfortable shoes can leave you sore and exhausted, which will likely ruin your fun.
- Sunscreen: Festivals often take place outdoors, and even with shaded areas, you’ll likely spend time in direct sunlight. Sunburn can put a real damper on your festival fun, so protecting your skin is important.
- Sunglasses: Squinting all day in the bright sun is tiring and gives you a headache. But that’s not all! Sunglasses with UV protection shield you from the sun’s harmful rays, which can cause sunburn on your eyes (yes, that’s a thing!) and contribute to long-term eye problems.
- Hat: Besides being stylish, hats are important for the same reason as sunscreen and sunglasses. They provide shade for your face, neck, and ears, keeping you cooler and healthier throughout the event.
- Portable phone charger: While some festivals may have charging stations, they can be crowded and expensive. A portable charger is a reliable and more affordable way to keep your phone juiced throughout the day – that way you can contact friends, take photos, and record videos all you want!
What should I pack for a one-day music festival?
Other than the absolute essentials, there is also a variety of items that will improve your experience by a thousand when you’re attending a one-day festival, or concert!
- Reusable water bottle: Ditch expensive bottled water and grab a reusable bottle. Most festivals offer refill stations, so you can stay hydrated throughout the day without breaking the bank!
- Wet wipes: Pack wet wipes for a quick clean-up after a long day outdoors. They’ll keep you feeling refreshed, especially when access to bathrooms is limited.
- Hand sanitizer: Hand sanitizer provides a convenient way to clean your hands on the go! You’ll likely touch surfaces like railings, tables, and even money throughout the day. Hand sanitizer lets you clean your hands in between washings, especially before eating.
- Bug spray: Festivals often mean bug bites. Pack insect repellent to fend off those pesky mosquitoes, flies, and gnats!
- Earplugs: Even if you’re a music lover, earplugs are a good idea. They prevent ear fatigue, headaches, and help you chat with friends. Consider specialized earplugs that let you hear music clearly while protecting your hearing.
- First-aid kit: Minor cuts, scrapes, and blisters are common at festivals. A first-aid kit ensures you have the supplies to treat these issues and prevent further problems.
- Lip balm: Minor cuts, scrapes, and blisters are common at festivals. A first-aid kit ensures you have the supplies to treat these issues and prevent further problems.
- Blanket: A blanket offers a comfy spot to sit, relax, and enjoy the show. It can also insulate you from the cold ground, shield you from the sun, or serve as a makeshift raincoat in a surprise shower.
- Layers: Make sure you’re comfortable no matter what Mother Nature throws your way! Because festivals often transition from sunny days to cool nights, layers allow you to adjust your outfit according to changing temperatures. Think t-shirt for the day, a light jacket or sweater for the dip in temperature, and maybe even a raincoat for unexpected downpours.
What should I pack for a multi-day music festival?
Wondering how your packing changes for a multi-day festival? Here’s what you’ll need beyond the one-day basics:
- Camping gear: Consider camping for affordability! However, be prepared for a rustic experience with potential crowds, noise, and limited amenities. Check festival rules for allowed camping gear.
- Folding chair: Folding chairs are your friend for resting your weary legs in between sets. But check the festival’s policy first!
- Toiletries: Pack a toothbrush, toothpaste, and deodorant for basic hygiene and overall comfort throughout the festival.
- Snacks: Festival food can get pricey. Bringing snacks saves money and ensures you have dietary-friendly or preferred options on hand!
- Flashlight: A small flashlight is a must for navigating the festival grounds, especially at night.
- A change of clothes: Pack a change of clothes (or two!) Festivals can get messy, and starting a new day feeling clean will keep your energy levels high.
- Trash bags: Respect the environment by bringing trash bags and disposing of your waste properly.
Other essential tips to make the most of your experience
Want to make your festival experience legendary? Here are some essential things to consider beyond your packing list!
- Pay attention to the list of “don’ts”: Check the festival’s “banned items” list before you pack. Knowing what you can’t bring will save you time and hassle at the entrance.
- Book a car: Consider booking a car for ultimate flexibility. Arrive on your own schedule, leave whenever you want, and explore the area if you have downtime. Plus, splitting gas with friends is often cheaper than multiple public transport tickets or ride-sharing trips!
- Plan a loose schedule: If there are specific bands or events you can’t miss, plan their timings into a loose schedule. This helps you navigate efficiently and avoid backtracking across the festival grounds. Remember, the beauty of festivals is the unexpected discoveries, so be open to spontaneous detours!
- Relax and enjoy: Festivals are a concentrated burst of fun, music, and good vibes. Let yourself be swept up in the atmosphere and experience everything they have to offer. Be prepared for minor last-minute changes and crowds, but focus on having an amazing time!
Don’t miss a beat: download your festival essentials checklist!
