We are all ready to get back out there and hit up some summer music festivals again after a long break.
With the season in full swing, there are a number of festivals across Canada this summer. While many of us are festival veterans and know how to survive a weekend in the hot summer sun, fuelled by beer and the occasional Gatorade, we’re getting back into festival season shape together.
The best advice we’ve gotten over the years of festival going is … “it’s a marathon, not a sprint.” Make sure you keep that in mind as you pack your travel funnel, beer pong table, and slip ‘n slide.
That’s not all you need to pack though!
Other than an upbeat attitude and a rowdy mindset, here’s a list of things you can’t forget to bring this festival season.
RELATED: Have a look at this year’s Boots & Hearts Music Festival Lineup …
7 Must-Haves For Your Best Festival Experience
1. Fanny Pack
Having a small place to store ALL of the essential items while you’re dancing the night away is a game changer. Pack your ID, money, phone, lipstick/lip balm, keys, sunscreen, Advil, and any other small items your heart desires. AND … you won’t be trying to keep track of your bag, because it’s conveniently attached to you.
RELATED: Get your festival fanny pack/shoulder bag here …
2. Portable Charger
If you’re camping at the festival, bring a fully charged portable charger to keep your phone lasting all weekend long! You never know what stars you’ll find in the crowd for a selfie op. You also don’t want to miss out on that classic festival Insta photo!
Opt for a portable charger that can also hold a charge using solar. Take advantage of being outside and use the power of the sun to keep your devices charged.
RELATED: Get a solar powered cell phone charger to avoid paying for charging stations …
3. Cheap Sunglasses
Now of course you’re going to want a pair of sunglasses for that sunny festival weather, but the reason I say “cheap sunglasses” specifically, is important.
It is SO easy to lose your favourite sunglasses at a festival, so make sure to bring a cheap pair, and leave your fancy ones at home.
You don’t need your favourite Ray-Bans getting crunched by a cowboy boot.
RELATED: Get Insta-worthy pics with these heart-shaped sunglasses …
4. Portable Speaker
Get the pre-party started with some bumpin’ tunes before the show! In addition to a speaker, why not create a bomb Spotify playlist beforehand too. Then you’ll be all ready to go for #6 on the list!
RELATED: Have a listen to all of Canada’s top country music on this playlist …
5. Sunscreen
Your summer music festival will most likely be hot and sunny.
The last thing you want is to be hurtin’ all weekend from a bad sunburn you just can’t escape. Don’t forget your SPF 30+ this festival season! We’re talking SPF for your body and your lips.
Don’t forget to reapply!
BONUS
It’s also a good idea to bring a couple of those single use rain ponchos … for those times when the weather changes unexpectedly.
6. Beer Pong
This is a camping festival classic, and it’s important to remember ALL aspects of the game.
This includes red solo cups, ping pong balls, and the perfect table. Once you’ve got your music blasting and beer pong flowing, invite your campsite neighbours over for some friendly competition.
7. Favourite Festival Merch
If you’re anything like me, you’ve picked up a few too many band t-shirts over the years, but where’s a better place to show em’ off other than a live concert!?
Bring them all and buy some more, and why not throw a hat in there too? Everyone loves festival merch!
Festival season is in our sights. Stay safe and have fun everyone!
Taylor Jean
Hey, I’m Taylor Jean! Lover of all thing’s country from my cowboy boots to my down-home roots. When I’m not out seeking an adventure or jammin’ to some country tunes by a fire, I’m working at JR Country radio station in Vancouver. A few of my favourite country artists are Dallas Smith, Tim McGraw, and Jon Pardi.
