The Festival Packing List You Can't Leave Home Without
It’s not just spring: it’s festival season. The time has come for you and your crew to head out to the desert. But before you join the droves of other music-obsessed people, have you packed what you need to have the optimal experience during the whirlwind weekend? Between the jam-packed days, sweltering temperatures, and low phone batteries, it’s important to arrive with more than just the essentials. If you’re not prepped, even the smallest convenience could take you out of the moment. Instead, we’ve compiled a thoughtful list of items to have on your person to keep you a happy camper: when you’re out and about, hopping from stage to stage, or getting lost in the transcendence of live music.
Here’s to feeling hydrated, fresh-faced, and in good spirits no matter the number of hours you’ve been on your feet, waiting to see all the most anticipated acts of the year.
###HYALURONIC ACID WATERY SUN GEL
#####Sunscreen Over Everything: slather on this gel with a P++++ rating from ISNTREE
Skip the white cast plus reap the benefits of eight different types of ultra-hydrating hyaluronic acid. This will help to replenish moisture on your face and neck, along with its main purpose: SPF 50 and an “extremely high” UVA protection rating. This lotion-like texture will make you feel like your skin is chugging water every time you reapply. (And please do. Again and again throughout the day.)
image courtesy of Kosas
###CHEMISTRY AHA SERUM DEODORANT
####Stand in the crowd and still smell fresh-out-the-shower, with a roll-on from KOSAS
This fragrance- and aluminum-free deodorant (with over 36K “hearts” on Sephora) is excellent at keeping unwanted odors at bay. It’s also stain-free so when you reapply, you won’t be marking up the outfits you took months to curate. Arguably the best part is the addition of aloe vera juice, which aims to soothe, moisturize, and hydrate the underarms.
####Design your perfect hydration routine, courtesy of our customizable set
No way around it—hydration is essential in the desert, especially when the perfect (dehydrating) storm of direct sunshine, the mix of salty and fried and buttery snacks, and alcohol are all on the agenda. Our advice? Tear, pour, shake, and hydrate as often as possible. Don’t forget to pack a handful of extra Hydration Multiplier sticks to share. Friends who hydrate together, feel great together enjoying the evening main acts. That’s the saying, right?
image courtesy of Megababe
###THIGH RESCUE ANTI-FRICTION STICK
####Long days and short denim don’t have to be a chafing disaster, with help from MEGABABE
Megababe asks a simple question: “do your thighs rub together?” If so, their plant-rich formula of aloe, pomegranate seed extract, ginger root, orange oil, and grapeseed oil is designed to ensure that skin irritation is not holding you back from feeling comfortable as you sway to the rhythm. Simply swipe directly onto skin (before or after sunscreen) and get back to the show.
###SUPERMINI PORTABLE POWER BANK
####Feel secure knowing you can boost your battery anywhere, with a power bank from ZENDURE
Never miss a moment capturing the weekend—and rediscover the friends you’ve lost in the crowd—with a portable phone charger the size of a credit card. This Wirecutter-approved bank offers a capacity of 10,000 mAh which allows you to recharge your phone up to three times. And there’s two ports, so it’s easy to share with that one friend who’s always running on their last 20% (you know who you are).
image courtesy of Vapur
####VAPUR has redefined how we keep water on hand with this reusable, foldable, freezable, attachable “bottle” that comes in a rainbow of colorways
We love this BPA-free reusable water carrier because it folds when not in use, and according to their site, “defies all laws of what a water bottle should be.” It’s great to keep in your pocket as an easy option to refill any time you happen to be near a water station. No more awkwardly toting a plastic water bottle or lugging a gallon-sized tumbler all day long.
###HANDHELD FAN
####Don’t be at the mercy of stagnant, dry desert air thanks to APOLLO BOX
In moments where it seems like there’s a lot of _waiting—_in line for the bathroom, at the Instagrammable food truck, amongst the throngs of anticipating fans—get a breeze going with this mini and portable hand fan. It attaches to your bag for easy access.
image courtesy of Bluestone Sunshields
####Make a statement and avoid sunburns with BLUESTONE SUNSHIELDS
This visor was developed alongside dermatologists to protect against harmful rays from hitting right on your face. But make no mistake—this visor champions form as equally as it does function, as it comes in a trio of colorways.
####BY HUMANKIND makes toothpaste Earth friendly and gives a post-dentist finish
A quick brush helps keep you refreshed throughout the day, which can feel invigorating in between sets and while you’re making new friends. These tablets, in cinnamon or mint, help to polish and strengthen teeth in the most portable way possible. Simply crush and start brushing.
image courtesy of Unlikely Fox
####…And when night falls and you want to switch up your look, go for UNLIKELY FOX
Bucket hats continue to be the hot hat of the year—demonstrate your style prowess in the desert by sporting one that’s hand-crocheted and hand-dyed in bold and brash colors and fibers.