How to: pack the essentials

Hi all!

For my first *official* blog post, I figured I’d start with the basics and make you guys an essentials packing list! Some things will vary depending on your personal preferences, but after my fair share of packing with my whole group in mind, I have a couple of key recommendations.

FIRST AND FOREMOST – Water

Having water is the biggest priority for me. It might seem obvious, but if you’re traveling with a small bag you might miss packing any. Every festival has water refill stations now, so it’s definitely something to take advantage of. I personally have started using a hyrdopack at festivals. Hydropacks can hold a lot of water, as well as some other items depending on your bag size. I use the Lunchbox hydration backpack; they are specifically designed for festivals and have anti-theft zippers! (The only downfall is that the bag strap isn’t big enough for your phone, so be mindful). I have also gone to shows with just a fanny pack, and even then carrying a plastic water bottle that you can refill at water stations is important to hold on to. You never know when you’ll need it, and I know I’d hate to get stuck in a big crowd with no water access!

Depending on climate – Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses

This one is generally obvious, but includes things you’ll hate to forget! It might depend on the event, but spray sunscreen is often not allowed in the venues (so plan accordingly). While sunglasses are important while the sun is up, I also enjoy bringing some light-lensed sunnies to wear around at night too. Some of those stages can get really bright and it can be fun to add a little tint to whatever sights you’re taking in!

Rave fan

Regardless of climate, at least one person in your group should have a hand fan. Rave fans in particular are pretty large and serve you better than a smaller one. These are really easy to come by; a basic search on Google or Amazon will pull up hundreds of options. They are good to have while the sun is up and it’s hot outside, but especially good to have in a crowd. It can get really hot in those crowds, and your standing neighbors will be eternally grateful if you share the air with them.

Snacks & candies

Most venues won’t let you bring outside food in, but it can depend on the event and the size of your snacks. Sealed items also stand a better chance of making it through security. Even a protein bar is a good backup in case you find yourself in need. Aside from snacks, I am a HUGE proponent of bringing some candies too! My personal favorites to keep on me are Jolly Ranchers, Hi-Chew, Starbursts, and even caramel candies. The common theme there is picking either hard candies you can suck on or chewy candies. Along those lines…

Gum

Yes, I am making gum its own list item. I typically have one of those jumbo-packs of gum to share with my group, and they get blown through every time! Only one time recently did I show up to a concert without any, and it was a huge mistake. I literally had to find someone with gum that would be willing to share. Never forgetting again!! Don’t underestimate your desire for something to chew on when you’re out all night.

Wipes, sanitizer and tissues

Ladies especially, you should ALWAYS have tissues on hand! Sure you might need to blow your nose, but more importantly, you might need to go to the bathroom and you should NEVER count on those portapotties having tp for you. I had to learn that lesson more than once… very unfortunate. Wet wipes are also nice to have; you might want to wipe yourself off sometimes (think: dusty venues, dirty hands, unknown stickies on your arm, etc).

Chapstick and essential oils

It can get dry out there sometimes, so I always have chapstick on me. Even a small hand lotion if that’s important to you. My personal favorite is the original Burts Bees chapstick; there’s something about it that just feels superior. Essential oils can be nice too, especially if you have a bandana or something to add some to. They also make essential oil/Vicks inhaler sticks to relieve congestion and wake you up a bit toward the end of the night.

Extra, less essential but definitely fun items

Once the sun goes down, it’s fun to light it up. I’m talking glow sticks people! Those are always fun to share amongst your group and can even help you spot your friends if someone gets lost. For those more talented than I, there are also a bunch of other light-up goodies like hula-hoops, finger light gloves, glow wands and poi balls, and more. If you ask nicely, other festival-goers with these items will give you a personal show!

Final thoughts

Depending on the event and your personal preferences, there could be a couple of other things on this list, but this is absolutely my baseline for must-haves. You don’t want to pack too heavy either, so only ever take what you will need. It’s also always a good idea to check the “allowed items” list for any event before going, just in case!

A couple of last things to consider: don’t forget your keys or wallet (sometimes I just pull my ID and a credit card), be mindful of your shoe choices, and if you take any medications in the later half of the day, make sure you pack those too!

Leave a comment if you have any other must-have packing items to share!