Epic festivals such as Coachella, Outside Lands, Lollapalooza, Austin City Limits and more are announcing dates and lineups by the day.
Next up is Coachella, which returns to Indio’s famed Empire Polo Grounds this year for two weeks (April 10-12 and April 17-19) with headliners Justin Bieber, Sabrina Carpenter, Karol G and Anyma. Tickets are still available to buy on resale sites such as Stubhub, Vivid Seats, Seatgeek and Ticketmaster.
But as any festival-goer knows, these are events that you have to plan for. With high temperatures and swarming crowds, festivals are a lot more streamlined, and enjoyable, when you come packed with the right things. Coachella and Stagecoach, which both take place in the Palm Springs heat of Indio, California, for example, can reach upwards of 100 degrees, meaning that a portable way to stay hydrated throughout the weekend is a must. And every festival’s jam-packed itinerary requires days of non-stop activity, so comfortable shoes that don’t detract from your outfit is double important.
From stylish fanny packs to portable phone chargers and hands-free water bottles, here’s everything you’ll need for festival season this year.
(Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder SPF 35
A durable, long-lasting sunscreen that is makeup-friendly is an absolute must for any festival, especially if you’re heading to the desert. This one from Supergoop is a setting powder and SPF all in one, and is small enough to keep handy in any small belt bag or purse. Check out more Hollywood dermatologist-approved sunscreens here.
Baggu Crescent Fanny Pack
You’re bound to clock miles of walking at any festival you go to, and coupled with the heat, you won’t want anything weighing you down. Fanny packs are great because you don’t even have to think about holding them — everything you need is easily accessible and it stays close to your body so you don’t have to worry about pickpockets.
Mini Backpack
If fanny packs aren’t your thing, a mini backpack is the next best way to keep your hands free throughout the day. No one does it better than the Swedish brand Fjallraven, whose compact and adorable backpacks that come in dozens of vibrant hues have become a trend of its own in recent years.
Clear Bag
Some festivals, and most stadium events, require small, transparent bags to get through security so you’ll get plenty of use out of this clear fanny pack from Lululemon designed with just that in mind. Check out more of the best stadium-approved clear bags here.
Retro Oval Glasses
The sunglass silhouette trend of the year are these oval glasses, and they add an edge to any festival fit.
Hydration Backpack
Staying hydrated is of utmost importance during a festival but it can be hard to remember to drink water with the endless supply of stimulation and distractions surrounding you. A hydration pack, like this one from CamelBak, which stores up to 50 fluid ounces, makes it easier than ever to sip on water throughout the day without carrying a heavy water bottle in your bag.
First-Aid Kit
Bruises, scratches, and the likes are basically a rite of passage at festivals. If you come prepared with an adorable first aid kit like this one from Welly, your friends will thank you for it.
Portable Hand Sanitizer Spray
If you didn’t panic-buy a year’s worth of hand sanitizer a year ago, then now’s the time to re-stock. Aside from effectively disinfecting and keeping you safe from germs, EO is also an easy way to clean off dust and dirt that’s sure to accumulate on the festival grounds.
Ear Plugs
Powerful speakers are necessary during outdoor events where the standing crowd can stretch back a limitless amount. Whether you’re one to bravely wheedle your way to the front, or safely stand farther from the crowd, ear plugs are a good way to mitigate ear damage and more comfortably listen to the music. Check out more of the best ear plugs for concerts here.
Portable Phone Charger
Yes, this year is the year that you’re responsible enough to bring your own portable phone charger and don’t go phoneless, and totally hopeless, for the rest of the weekend. This high-rated one from Anker is slim and hassle-free, while also offering more than two full charges for the iPhone 12 and close to two full charges for the Galaxy S20.
Apple AirTags (Four-Pack)
Apple AirTags are the best way to avoid lost phones (and people). The four-pack deal is the best way to save on AirTags and score a discount online. Amazon is also the best place to score an AirTags deal — the trackers are still $99 for a four-pack on Apple.com.
iPhone Phone Fan Accessory
Keep cool throughout the day with this handy fan, that can spin for up to 100 hours while plugged into your phone.
Baby Wipes
If you’re heading to the desert, you know how easy dust can accumulate. Keep yourself sanitized with this portable pack of baby wipes — your friends will thank you.
Camping Chair
If you’ve graduated from the mosh pits to the grassy field behind the crowds, then you’ll need a comfy chair to stake your claim. This one from Coleman folds up small enough to easily carry around and has cup holders and pockets to store any essentials while you lounge.
Koozie
Whether you bring your own beverages or buy them on the grounds, you’ll want a soft coozie to keep your hands warm once the temperatures drop.
Dry Shampoo
Dry shampoo is a must, especially at dust-ridden desert fests like Coachella and Stagecoach.
Disposable Camera
Sometimes the vintage haziness of adisposable camera is preferable over a hi-res iPhone photo. Plus, it’s an easy way to save battery and storage throughout the long weekend.
Leave a Reply