The tickets are verified, and the travel arrangements are in place. Packing up essential gear is next on the list. Music festivals are primarily outdoor events in most cases, so it’s best to be ready for any sort of surprise Mother Nature has planned, from scorching sun and high temperatures to relentless downpours and everything in-between. Knowing how to prepare for weather at music festivals can make the difference between a best-ever experience—or a disastrous one.
Bags and Backpacks
Being prepared for any situation that might arise at a festival is important, so having something lightweight and durable that is strong enough to carry all the necessary gear in is just as important.
- Backpacks that store gear and come with water reservoir sleeves are great for outdoor festivals, and allow you to bring in your own water stash instead of standing in long lines just for small, plastic bottles. Many backpacks also come in waterproof versions that will ensure your gear stays dry in case of rain.
- Shoulder bags are another option for carrying gear around through the crowds at a festival. Some offer a cross-body strap and are made from leather, which makes them sturdy and able to stand up to a variety of abuses. Other styles have drawstrings, complete with brightly colored and original art to express who you are, and make it easy for friends to spot you in a crowd!
Phone Necessities
No need to bring a laptop or tablet, as tempting as it might be. A phone is a necessary device, however. Not only does it provide a way to stay in contact with or find separated members of your group, it’s a way to record all those memories you’re creating and check for weather conditions.
- If a phone’s battery dies, it’s not much use. Cell phone power banks provide extra juice and are available for both Androids and iPhones, and are perfect for situations where access to wall or car chargers is questionable. Many of the power banks take from 3 to 6 hours to fully charge, but higher quality ones can hold a charge for up to 6 months. Solar powered versions are also available.
- Invest in a waterproof case for your Android or iPhone, and stay away from storing them in a zip-lock bag, according to experts. Bags can create condensation inside them that can damage the phone. It’s better to spend the extra bucks for a case that is waterproof in the event it rains or the venue decides to turn on its mist system to cool off concertgoers.
Clothing
Weather can change unexpectedly, so clothing should be versatile. Underneath, try moisture-wicking underwear that actually pulls moisture and perspiration away from the skin. Synthetic materials like nylon or rayon are great for rainy weather, high heat, and humidity due to their ability to dry quickly. However, after a couple of days of being worn, synthetics tend to build up an odor, which is never good in close-contact, crowded situations like music festivals. Cotton is known for its comfort in even the hottest temperatures. It dries quickly and it’s breathable.
- A poncho or a raincoat provides protection against rainy weather.
- Opt for worn-in, comfortable shoes instead of open-toed flip flops or sandals. Not only are they easier to walk in, they’ll protect the feet from broken bottles and other hazards.
- Pack a couple of extra shirts. You’ll need them, whether it’s a result of weather-related issues or festival occurrences, like drink or food messes.
- Pack a hat, which will protect the head and face from sun exposure.
- Bring along a light jacket or a cotton hoodie keep warm on cooler nights or during unexpected weather changes.
Other Must-Haves
- Reusable water bottles or a hydration pack will help you stay hydrated. Most festivals provide water-filling stations, so find their locations.
- Headbands keep hair out of the face. Bandannas also work well, and can also protect the scalp from sunlight exposure.
- Biodegradable baby wipes come in handy when there are few places to freshen up.
- Protect your lips and body from UV rays with a sunscreen-enhanced lip balm and sunscreen for your skin.
- Towels are useful in a variety of ways, from drying off after rain to throwing around the shoulders for warmth. We suggest something lightweight that not only dries quickly, but is soft and comfortable, like our printed beach towels.
- Sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection and large frames will prevent sunburned eyes. For nighttime hours, try a pair of our diffraction glasses to enhance those awesome light shows!
Be ready for whatever Mother Nature has in store, and know how to prepare for weather at music festivals.
