How to Prepare for a Music Festival Weekend

Filed in Travel — July 6, 2019

Sweaters

 

What’s up, what’s up!! Since just getting back from two music festivals I am super inspired to write up a blog post sharing some important things you need to know/how to prepare if you’re planning a trip yourself.

The past 3 years I attended both Firefly (Dover, DE) and Bonnaro (Manchester, TN) with my friend’s company, Boho Faux. Her company travels around to different festivals and does boho braiding + face glitter services in the VIP areas, so I usually have the opportunity to join which is super dope.

Over the last few years I’ve learned a lot about camping because yes I had to camp (eye roll) and music festivals in general so I feel compelled to share. Hopefully this little bit of insight helps someone out there!

Comfortable shoes are key!

My #1 tip is to invest in an extremely comfortable pair of shoes. I know you guys wanna look cute because SAME but I’m telling you it’s not worth it. I wore my white heeled boots one day and was miserable because it was so hot and my feet killed. I ended up purchasing a pair of Tevas at the festival and they’ve become my new favorite shoes for concerts, trips to the lake, etc. They’re cute and if you choose the platform ones, you’ll feel like you’re walking on a cloud. I’ll link my favorites below.

 

Body wipes are always needed

ALWAYS! Especially if you’re camping because you don’t know when the next time you shower will be. Also – if you are camping you most likely won’t have quick access to the bathroom and the last thing you’re going to want to do after a long day on your feet is walk to the bathroom to wash your face. Makeup wipes come in handy!

VIP is worth it!

If you don’t want to have to worry about showering for sure invest in a VIP ticket. Each VIP ticket comes with different amenities depending on the festival but 9 times out of 10 VIP is worth it. Most VIP tickets come with special viewing areas, free water (this is huge because they usually charge out the ass for water), shorter bar lines, AIR CONDITIONED BATHROOMS, sometimes free food and other complimentary perks like yoga, hair styling, massages, etc.

The best part about VIP tickets are for sure the bathrooms. The ones provided are pretty cool they’re like air conditioned bathroom trailers with real toilets that flush, a huge mirror, sinks and sometimes even other stuff like hair ties, deodorant, tampons, etc. They for sure beat disgusting porta potties with crazy lines.

If you’re ballin’ you even have the option to get a ticket called ‘Super VIP.’ This honestly is the way to do a music festival. Open bar, really nice showers and bathrooms, shorter lines to everything, top notch viewing areas, etc.

Choose your bag wisely

Festivals are getting super strict with bags so make sure you read the bag policy online before you show up to the gate with your Gucci purse. Usually you’re safe with any clear bag or fanny pack. I brought both because I’m extra.

Be more than prepared for the weather

Hot or cold, be prepared! This past Bonnaro the first few nights were FREEZING and we were not prepared. I can sleep through anything and I can confidently say that was the worst night of sleep in my life. Also our air mattress popped so Dannie and I we’re left freezing on the hard ground in the tent, it was fabulous.

However, most of the time festival weather is very warm so just make sure to check the forecast and prepare accordingly. I always suggest wearing light weight dresses because that is what keeps me the coolest.

Portable chargers are your BFF

Maybe it’s just me being on my phone 24/7 but you’ll most likely need a back-up so portable chargers really come in handy. Even if you’re not camping, it’s super hard to find a free outlet at the festival to charge and since festivals are usually in the middle of no where, your battery isn’t going to last as long due to your service roaming.

Don’t expect to eat healthy

Unless you get the Super VIP ticket and your food is catered, It’s nearly impossible to eat good from food trucks.

Keep your money safe.. DUH

Okay so I had to throw this in here because last year I got my wallet stolen right our of my purse. I had on a cross body bag on and it was behind me. In a crowd full of people listening to Dillon Francis someone jacked my stuff! All of my cash, my 2 credit cards, ID and passport. It’s not unusual to have things stolen at festivals (sadly) so just be cautious.

DO YOU!!!

My favorite part about music festivals is that no one cares! Literally you can wear what you want, dance how you want, say what you want and no one will judge you. Everyone usually spreads good vibes, which is the best.

That’s all I can think of for now but I’ll update this if something else come up. Be safe, listen to my tips, don’t do too many drugs and HAVE FUN!!