As summer approaches, so do the festivals which means it’s time to plan a trip – and, of course, your outfits, hair, and makeup. However, with all the planning needed to be done, we sometimes overlook the smaller essentials which are likely to come in handy. So, without further ado, here are some summer music festival essentials that you should pack before you hit the road.
Hydration Pack
This is key to surviving the long, hot days on festival grounds. Lines are long and water is $5 a bottle while hydration stations are free and the lines move quickly. Plus, you’re prepared to take on the concert crowds, and you won’t have to fight the masses to get to your original spot if you already have it strapped to your back. Note: I cannot stress how important it is to stay hydrated. During Lollapalooza 2022, I can’t even count the number of paramedics rushing through the crowds to get to those who collapsed from dehydration.
Amazon: Vibrelli 2L Hydration Pack
Sunscreen
This is pretty basic, but easily looked over. If you’re going to a multiple day festival, make sure you’re not a burnt lobster after the first day. Taking care of your skin is essential to maintaining your youthfulness and keeping away skin cancer. There are plenty of travel sized sunscreens that don’t leave an oily residue and are easy to apply.
I usually use the Supergoop Glow Screen when doing my base makeup, but for reapplication this would be perfect.
Amazon: Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen
Portable Charger
You’re obviously going to want to take videos of your favorite artists, as well as be able to find your friends if you get separated, so make sure you’re able to have a fully charged phone. Festival days are long, so make sure you’re fully prepared.
Amazon: Anker Portable Charger or stop by your nearest Five Below to grab one that is less expensive.
Eye Drops/Extra Contacts
If you wear contacts or even just have irritable eyes, make sure to pack a small bottle of your favorite solution. The fog machines and smoke can really mess with your eyes and/or contacts.
Amazon: Clear Eyes Triple Relief
Wet Wipes
Can be used to freshen up, clean off mud and dirt, any spilled drinks, etc. Any mess that occurs, you’ll be able to fix up in a jiffy.
Amazon: Stall Mates Wipes come individually wrapped and are unscented with vitamin-E and aloe.
Hat and Sunglasses
The sun is not your friend. Protect your face and your eyes with a hat and sunglasses. You don’t have to wear both, but having one will lessen the effects of the hot, burning star trying to burn you to a crisp.
Chapstick
No one likes dry lips. Keep your lips as fresh as your fit with your preferred lip moisturizer. Even better, use one with sunscreen in it to keep away sunburn (are you seeing a pattern here?).
Amazon: Aquaphor Lip Repair Balm with SPF 30
Deodorant
A must have. Just like wet wipes, deodorant will help keep you fresh. It also serves to help those with thick thighs. Apply it where your legs rub together, and it’ll help keep the chafe away (specifically solid, do not use gels, aerosol, etc.).
Amazon: Megababe Daily Deodorant or they have their Thigh Rescue Anti-Chafe Stick that is specifically for preventing thigh chafing.
Extra Hair Ties
Sometimes your hair tie snaps and you need an extra. Sometimes you want to head bang without your hair getting in the way. And sometimes it’s just too damn hot to wear your hair down. Either way, it doesn’t hurt to bring extras and they won’t take up much space in your bag.
Amazon: Basic Black Hair Ties
Granola/Protein/Energy Bars
Depending on festival rules, this is highly recommended. It’s nice to have a readily accessible snack so you can stay at the venue longer, or if you’re hungry/not feeling well, it’ll hold you over until you can get to a food tent.
Amazon: RXBAR Protein Bar, 10 Flavors Variety Pack
Gum
Definitely worth bringing. Just like freshening up your body, you’re going to want to do the same thing with your breath. The amount of people who asked us for gum at Lollapalooza last year was insane. We even had someone try to steal a pack out of our bag.
Amazon: EXTRA Polar Ice, Pack of 10
Rain Ponchos
The weather is unpredictable, so make sure you are prepared for unexpected showers. They’re cheap, small, and can be found in almost any camping section.
Amazon: Hagon PRO Disposable Rain Ponchos for Adults, 5 Pack
Ear Plugs
Festivals are LOUD, so protect your ears with some ear plugs. They are inexpensive and often come in a pack, so even if you lose your first pair, just grab another.
Amazon: Loop Reusable Ear Plugs or 3M Disposable Earplugs, 4 Pairs
Essentials To Have For Any Summer Music Festival
While this list may not include everything you need, or want, to bring to your festival of choice, they are easily looked over items that you may regret not packing in your bag. Speaking of bags, it is worth noting that you should check each festival’s safety policy for allowed and prohibited items.
Whatever festival you go to during this 2023 summer season, make sure to stay safe and hydrated! And, of course, have fun!
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