Music Festival Checklist

Music festivals present the perfect opportunity to let loose, and get funky. I’ve (that’s ZW – Ed) been to Phish festivals in Maine and Florida, Bonnaroo in Tennessee, countless Camp Biscos, Ultra, Electric Zoo, Jam Cruise and everything in between. Here’s a music festival checklist for having fun while staying safe. Check the weather forecast, expect the unexpected, and pack a hat, sunglasses, lip balm and sunscreen for sunny days, a hoodie and pants for chilly nights, and rain gear for stormy weather.

• If you’ll be camping out, pack a sleeping bag, tent, bug repellent, duct tape (it comes in handy) and toiletries (toothbrush, toilet paper, etc). Some festivals provide food and water, but you may want to bring your own, too.
• If you’re looking to upgrade your camping experience, rent an RV with some friends or book a hotel room near the festival grounds. Be sure to do this several months in advance (especially for the larger festivals that usually sell out).
• Leave your valuables at home.
• Protect your hearing by bringing and wearing earplugs.
• Wear festive attire (some festivals have themes and most anything goes), but keep it comfy as you’ll be dancing and walking a bunch between your campsite and the stages.
• Familiarize yourself with the festival grounds (note where the first aid area is located).
• Look out for your friends, and strangers in need. If you suspect that someone is sick or in danger, seek immediate medical attention or find a festival staffer to help.
• Dance.
• Drink responsibly.
• Take this opportunity to see musicians you’ve never seen before.
• Practice moderation, avoid heatstroke, and be aware of what your body needs by taking breaks from dancing, replenish your electrolytes, stay hydrated (drink a bottle of water an hour), and eat salty snacks.
• Emit good vibes.
• Meet new people, make new friends.
• Avoid illegal drugs and sketchy situations.
• Lose yourself in the music.
• Don’t drive if you have been drinking alcohol or are too tired as your driving ability will be impaired. It’s always a good idea to take a bus, cab or carpool with a sober designated driver.