Undoubtedly, being well-equipped with the necessary items is important. However, at the core, festivals are all about enjoying yourself. Here is a compilation of festival gear you may want to keep on standby just for the sheer delight they bring.
Craft-making kits: Exchanging handmade bracelets is a common practice at electronic music events, and now, various music genres are incorporating it, thanks to the Taylor Swift Eras tour. Any beads will suffice, but I highly suggest Stretch Magic elastic ($20)—the lower-quality ones tend to fall apart easily.
Flow props: Numerous gadgets that some dancers enjoy using. I have a preference for the Fiberflies Pixel Whip ($85), while the Flowtoys PodPoi ($135) is another popular option. You can even find hovering sticks and glowing rods. These are extremely entertaining to dance with (and will engage your fellow participants).
An immediate camera: Most of us carry a perfectly functional camera in our smartphones. However, I find it enjoyable to bring my Instax along to festivals. This way, you get physical, tangible mementos, and it can also be fun to capture images of strangers (with their consent).
Small presents: Tiny ducks. Plant buds for your hair. Soft pets. Festivals often promote a culture of exchanging gifts. While not mandatory, it’s lovely to have some tokens to share with the individuals you encounter. Think about bringing some small keepsakes—you might even forge new friendships along the way.
An illuminating device for the night: In case you find yourself at a festival during the night, navigating in darkness can be perilous. There are instances when you simply wish to get a snack from the cooler without using a flashlight. I appreciate this night-light as it emits a soft glow—enough for visibility but not too intense to disturb others nearby.
A lightweight towel for camping: There are occasions when the weather turns rainy outside or you accidentally spill liquid in your shelter. Whatever the scenario, a camping towel comes in handy. These towels are highly absorbent and dry swiftly.
Enjoyable attire: When it comes to festival outfits, you have the freedom to be daring or pragmatic. Don’t compromise comfort for style! If you’re seeking amusing clothing options, I suggest exploring IHeartRaves and Rave Wonderland. These brands have a connection to EDM events, making them suitable for various festivals like Bonnaroo, Burning Man, or EDC. Also, consider exploring merchandise from your preferred artists. If unsure, experiment with accessories—perhaps a wide-brimmed hat or an elegant shawl with a decorative pattern can add a dash of flair to your ensemble.
A versatile bandana: Our stance on the importance of a compact multifunctional cloth is strong. Music festivals tend to be dusty and dirty atmospheres. A bandana can function as a face mask, a sweat absorber, a makeshift seat cover, and a convenient spill clean-up tool. Keep a few of them in your bag for better preparedness.
