The Ultimate Music Festival Checklist
Half the fun of going to a music festival is the preparation! Planning your outfits, accessories and what artists you want to see brings excitement before the day is even here. If this is your first music festival, or you’re looking for a refresher, kick off the process with this list of packing essentials to make your festival experience epic.
- Festival ticket – How else will you get in?
- Wallet – You’ll need money for snacks and your ID for any drinks (and for safety purposes).
- Hydration pack – Festivals often have free water filling stations throughout the venue — but be sure to check ahead of time. If so, a hydration pack is the best option to stay hydrated without the hassle of having to carry a water bottle. Arrive with your pack empty and you’ll be good to fill it once you’re in!
- Comfortable shoes – You’ll be on your feet all day, and likely jumping around in the crowd at your favorite artist’s show. Wear shoes that are good for walking and won’t cause you any trouble.
- Sunglasses – Bring along your everyday shades, or buy a fun new pair to match your outfit!
- Bandana – Whether your festival is in the desert or not, the summer ground is dry and dusty. Wearing a bandana to cover your mouth can help, and even add to your cool fit.
- Sunscreen – Long days in the sun can be dangerous; make sure to reapply often.
- Bug spray – With a woodsy venue or late-night concert, the bugs are always a pest.
- Lip balm – Nobody likes having chapped lips.
- Fanny pack – Throw what won’t fit in your hydration pack into a fanny pack you can wear across your chest or around your hips. This way your hands will be free to wave in the air like you just don’t care.
- Poncho – A compact poncho can come in handy in case of rain – most are small enough to fit in your fanny pack.
- Hand sanitizer – The handwashing stations at festivals can get busy and run out of soap or hand sanitizer. Bring your own if you want to stay clean.
- Portable charger – How are you going to take pictures and videos all day if your phone is dead?
- Tiny fan – If it’s going to be scorcher, a tiny fan can save your day. Some even mist water to really cool you down!
- Snacks (if allowed) – Packing your own food, if you’re allowed to, can help cut back on costs and ensure you have something you’ll like. Try to bring power-packed snacks that will keep you full throughout the day.
Now that you’re all packed and ready to go, there’s just one last thing to do — go enjoy the music and have fun!