Music Festival Survival Guide: Packing Essentials + Dos & Don'ts

A wise saying states: there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad gear and bad preparation.

A similar principle applies to music festival experiences. While bad weather and other circumstances can be beyond one’s control, bringing the most essential gear and being properly prepared can go a long way toward making your time at a music festival a positive one.

Beyond bringing the basics like tents, shade, coolers, snacks, and other campsite necessities, JamBase asked for input on the one essential item that should be on every festival packing list. The team also sought advice on the dos and don’ts for surviving and enjoying your time attending music festivals. ⁠

The answers included must-have comfort and health items, campsite tips, navigation advice, what to steer clear of and what not to miss. Keep scrolling for a sampling of the crowd-sourced responses JamBase received and follow @JamBaseFestivals on Instagram for more festival coverage.

Festival Essentials

Water
Wide Brim Hat
Toilet Paper
Gold Bond
Duct Tape
Wet Wipes
Ziplocks
Ear Plugs
Eye Mask
Party Lights
Tapestries / Decorations
Rain Boots
Sunscreen
Portable Power Bank
First Aid Kit
Ca$h
Lip Balm
Bug Spray
Liquid IV
Extra Pair of Socks
Trash Bags

From JamBase’s partners ENO:

ENO DoubleNest Hammock Print

ENO Lounger SL Chair

ENO Lounger GL Chair

ENO SunFly Shade

Festival Dos & Don’ts

Do

Comfortable shoes are ESSENTIAL!
Whatever you do, take care of your shoes.
Bring extra socks.
Go ahead and volunteer for that comped ticket. And do it again… get in good with the volunteer managers and you could end up getting paid to go to your favorite fest. Working a festival and having a golf cart, radio and back stage access is life changing.
Landmarks! Know your way home!
Always set up camp first!
Always pitch your tent in daylight.
Find shade. Make friends with your neighbors that have better food and equipment than you.
Festivals are the time to wear that outfit you’ve always wanted to wear. And extra glitter. Go for it! And don’t think twice.
Make sure your wristband is on securely, but not too tight. Are you right handed? Put it on your left wrist. It won’t get in the way of daily activities (and keeps things more sanitary)!
Catch as many shows as possible.
Talk to strangers.
Stay well hydrated.
Follow your crystal, take care of you, and drink water.
Take care of one another. Always.
Leave all your worries behind for a few.
Rest and Relax – Don’t try to push through when you’re tired. Find a shady spot to rehydrate, put your feet up, and even maybe nap between sets to make sure you can rage until sunrise.

Don’t

Don’t worry about the group doing every single thing together at the same time the whole weekend.
Don’t get wrapped around the axle about stage conflicts or not knowing many of the bands on the lineup. You’ll be sure to find some new favorite artists every time!
It’s a marathon not a sprint. Don’t go too hard on day 1 or 2 so you have enough gas in the tank for the last day or more. Best time of the year!
Don’t wait to set up your tent later.
Don’t forget your low profile chair, ground blanket, hammock, or even sunshade/tarp to relax stageside throughout the day.

The JamBase Festival Guide is consistently growing with the addition of new music fests happening globally.