Gear to get you through the next music festival

10 essential items for an unforgettable music festival experience

Unpredictability is a central theme during any weekend music festival and the best investment you can make (other than the festival itself) is on preparedness. We shared our festival guides for how best to survive a music fest in your 20s, 30s and 40s—consider this the recommended gear guide to go with.  

1. Resist the Weather

Prepare to withstand any elements that Mother Nature might throw at you with this waterproof Rain Poncho ($127) from The North Face.

2. Camp Like a Pro

At only $200, the MEC Camper 2 Tent offers an affordable and sustainable investment that will surely last several camping trips, and maybe, a return to Pemberton when Frank Ocean’s inevitable comeback (finally) happens.

3. Stay Fresh

Whether you’re combatting cheapo hotel toiletries or are faced with an emergency hair wash in the river, you’ll be so happy you had the good sense to pack your Organic Adrenaline Mint Shampoo Soap ($15) from Vancouver-based Two Blooms. 

4. …and Hydrated

Need a refreshing summer beer that will keep your spirits up as you wait for Miguel to hit the stage? Load up on Bomber’s Park Life Passion Fruit Ale ($13.80) or grab one of Parallel 49’s classics, the vibrant Tricycle Grapefruit Radler ($10.79).

5. Get the Cool Kicks

Comfort, style, and functionality reigns supreme here. Nike’s Flyknit Lunar 3 Midnight Pack ($140) easily checks off all the boxes. 

6. Stay Caffeinated

Waiting for Drake to hit the stage can take hours—don’t fall asleep and miss it. This Handy Espresso Machine ($129) is going to make you the most popular camper at the festival. 

7. Take a Seat

Alleviate some of the hassles of standing and walking around all day with this super handy folding stool. At only $10, this portable seat could be your best purchase.  

8. Maintain your Cool

Keep your drinks chilled with this Vintage Red Cooler ($93.50) from Williams-Sonoma. Its chrome handle also works as a lock mechanism and its double-wall lining can also keep hot food insulated. 

9. Charge Up

You don’t want to miss out on Snapstories and Insta-worthy photos because your phone died. This sleek portable charger ($31) from Urban Outfitters can keep your device powered, while ditching the bulkiness of other back-up batteries. 

10. Hang Out

Make the most out of your downtime breaks by lounging in one of Atmosphere’s Slacker Double Hammocks ($89.99). There’s even enough space for two!

Read about doing a music festival in your 20s here >>>

Read about doing a music festival in your 30s here >>>

Read about doing a music festival in your 40s here >>>