At festivals across the country and around the world, fashion is quickly becoming almost as big as the music itself. Before putting together your killer outfits, however, it’s important to make sure you have all the right supplies.

Here are 9 music festival essentials to keep you comfortable, safe, and cool while still looking fabulous. 

Table of Contents

Safety First

As fun as it is to let your inner bohemian gypsy goddess shine, there are several items that need to be on your packing list way before your crochet maxi dress and floral romper. 

1. Water

While this may seem obvious (hopefully), you can honestly never have too much water at a summer music festival. Even though I’ve been to Bonnaroo three times, I always wish that I had packed more water in my backpack after leaving camp for the day. Lesson learned: always pack more than you think you’ll need, plus a few extra bottles. 

2. Sunscreen

Another no brainer, but like water, it’s kind of impossible to over-do it with sunscreen when you’re constantly outside and in the sun for an entire weekend. 

Make sure to apply it everywhere (the tops of your ears, the backs of your legs, the tops of your feet, etc.); sun burns at music festivals are a whole new level of discomfort. Hats and sunglasses are also super-important, so don’t forget those either! 

Keep it Clean

Spoiler alert: Unless you’re one of the lucky few who get to enjoy Bonnaroo from the comfort of your own RV, you should expect to get really dirty. You can pay to take showers or bring your own, but it really isn’t necessary if you bring the following items:

3. Dry Shampoo

This stuff is seriously a lifesaver at festivals. I hate the feeling of dirty hair, and with limited washing options at festivals, nothing comes closer to a full lather, rinse, and repeat than a can of good dry shampoo. There are tons of options to choose from, but the ones from Batiste and Dove are my personal favorites.