Music Festival Survival Guide: What to Pack for 3 Days in the Sun

Music festivals are some of the most exciting events of the year — long days filled with friends, music, and memories that last a lifetime. But if you’ve ever been to one, you know they’re also exhausting. Between the heat, the walking, the dancing, and the late nights, it’s easy to burn out by day two if you’re not prepared.

The key to making it through a festival weekend without crashing? Smart packing. Here’s your music festival survival guide with everything you’ll want to bring for three full days in the sun.

1. Hydration Essentials

Dehydration is one of the biggest risks at festivals. You’re in the sun all day, often drinking alcohol, and dancing non-stop. Staying hydrated isn’t just about comfort — it’s about safety.

• Hydration pack or refillable bottle: Most festivals allow hydration packs like CamelBaks. If not, bring a refillable bottle for water stations.
• Electrolyte packets: Water alone won’t replace what you lose when you sweat. Pack electrolyte mixes for quick rehydration.
• Coconut water: A natural source of potassium and hydration.

👉 According to the CDC, even mild dehydration can affect mood and energy levels — the last thing you want when you’re there for the music.

2. Sun Protection

Spending 8–10 hours outside under direct sun is brutal without protection. Sunburns and heat exhaustion can cut your festival short.

• Sunscreen: SPF 30+ and water-resistant. Reapply every two hours.
• Hat & sunglasses: A wide-brim hat and UV-blocking shades save your face and eyes.
• Lightweight clothing: Loose, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.

👉 The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends applying sunscreen 30 minutes before exposure for the best protection.

3. Comfort Items

Festivals involve endless walking, standing, and dancing. A few comfort items can save your body.

• Comfortable shoes: Ditch the cute sandals — sneakers or boots with support are your best bet.
• Cooling towel: Soak in cold water and drape over your neck when temps rise.
• Foldable blanket: Perfect for breaks between sets.

4. Health & Safety Kit

You’ll thank yourself for packing a small “festival survival kit.” Think of it as your first aid station in a bag.

• Pain relievers (like Advil or Tylenol)
• Band-aids (blisters are inevitable)
• Antibacterial wipes or hand sanitizer
• Electrolyte packets or hydration support
• Earplugs (protect your hearing for those late-night sets)

👉 According to ASHA, exposure to loud music without ear protection can lead to permanent hearing damage — pack earplugs, seriously.

5. Festival-Friendly Snacks

Festival food is pricey and sometimes hard to find when lines are long. Having small snacks on hand keeps your energy up.

• Protein bars
• Trail mix
• Dried fruit or apple slices
• Beef jerky or nut mixes

6. Sleep & Recovery

Whether you’re camping or staying nearby, sleep at festivals is never ideal. Make recovery a priority to survive all three days.

• Earplugs & eye mask: Block out noise and light for better rest.
• Electrolytes + vitamins: Replenish your body before bed.
• Mini recovery kit: Rally-style party recovery kits with gum, wipes, and hydration packs help you reset faster.

👉 The Sleep Foundation notes that even small amounts of alcohol and noise can severely disrupt your sleep cycle. Prep ahead to minimize the crash.

7. Smart Tech

Your phone is your ticket, map, and camera. Don’t let it die on you.

• Portable charger: At least 10,000mAh capacity for all-day use.
• Phone lanyard or crossbody pouch: Keeps it safe from drops and theft.
• Offline maps: Download in case service is bad.

8. Festival Extras

These aren’t must-haves, but they’ll level up your experience:

• Face glitter or temporary tattoos
• Reusable cup for cocktails
• Waterproof poncho (rain happens)
• Small fan or mister bottle

Final Thoughts

Festivals are marathons, not sprints. The people who make it to the closing act aren’t just lucky — they’re prepared. By packing smart with hydration, sun protection, recovery kits, and comfort items, you’ll set yourself up for three days of music, dancing, and memories instead of exhaustion and regret.

So grab your crew, load up your bags, and get ready to survive (and thrive) at your next music festival. Because the only thing worse than a bad hangover is missing your favorite band’s set.