TMA

It’s spring, which means festival season is upon us! I have lots of festival-related content planned, but I wanted to start off with tips to survive a music festival, especially for first-timers. Last year was my first time at a music festival and I read about a million of these blog posts to make sure I was as prepared as possible. So I wanted to pass on some things that I learned last year to make your first time (or second or third…) the most enjoyable it can be!

1. Pick a meeting spot with friends

This one is seriously crucial. Music festivals get crowded and it can become really easy to get separated from your group. Just in case you can’t find them, picking a meeting spot on the first day, that way if you or one of your friends gets lost everyone knows to head to that location to meet back up again.

2. Get a backpack water bottle insert

I love this tip! It’s super hard to stay hydrated at festivals and water bottles are way overpriced inside. Instead, by a water bottle backpack insert and put it into whatever stylist backpack you’ll be carrying. Then, once you get inside, fill it up at one of the free water stations and you’ll be hydrated all day long!

3. Comfort > Fashion

We all know festivals are basically a fashion show now. And duh you want to look super cute, but also keep comfort in mind. You’re going to be outside all day, walking around, and dancing. It’s going to be crazy hot during the day and freezing cold at night. Trust me, take comfort into consideration while you’re getting dressed. You won’t regret it!

4. Prioritize the sets you NEED to see

It is a music festival, after all, so make time for the music! The number one complaint I hear from people is that they didn’t get to see all the sets they wanted to see. I know I had this problem last year at Coachella. Make sure you create a schedule for yourself of the sets that are super important to you and make seeing them a priority in your day!

5. Plan for no service

This is a huge one and goes back to my first tip about having a meeting spot. More than likely- you’re not going to have service once you’re inside the festival grounds, so plan ahead. Send any texts you need to before you enter the grounds and make sure you stick with your group as much as you can. Investing in a good set of walkie talkies isn’t the worst idea either if you’re worried about not being able to communicate with your friends.

6. Pick your group carefully

It’s like they say, your tribe is your vibe, so pick who you go with carefully. Make sure you ask people what they’re interested in doing while at the festival, who they want to see, and what they want to prioritize. Some people go to festivals to socialize, others go for the music. Make sure you’re on the same page with your group about what everyone wants to do so that you don’t miss out on things you’re interested in!

7. Check the weather

And do it the day before you leave! Weather can change constantly and you want to make sure you’re prepared. Most of the time it’s super hot during the day and cold at night, but it could also be raining or muddy from the days before. Make sure you pay attention and dress/prepare accordingly.

8. Bandanas are more than fashion

Yes, they’re super fashionable and fun to wear at a music festival, but they’re also really important for your health. Everyone talks about how festivals are dusty, so when I went I expected to see tons of dust in the air. However, you really can’t tell how much you’re actually breathing in, which resulted in me getting super sick last year. So make sure you bring a bandana and, especially at night, put it over your face. You’ll be really happy you did!

9. Wear shoes you don’t care too much about

Your shoes will probably get ruined. I see girls wear some crazy shoes around festivals and wonder ‘what the heck?!’ Instead, wear an old pair of sneakers, or buy a cheap pair that you don’t care about. Maybe they’ll be totally fine, but if they get ruined, you won’t be super upset (or out a ton of money).

10. Keep calm and have fun

Music festivals can most definitely be overwhelming, so don’t forget to relax and have a good time. Before my first music festival I had basically zero interest in them, but after experiencing it for myself I realize how freaking fun they are!! So go in, see the music you want to see, and have an amazing time with friends!