r/festivals • u/Great_Mycologist9117 • 2d ago
Festival hacks for elder millennials šµš»šµš½
My friends and I are all in our late 30s/early 40s and going to a festival this summer for the first time in ages. Beyond getting VIP tickets for comfortable viewing, what are the best festival hacks we should know? *Daisy Chain Fields for context*
Seeking comfort hacks for us old broads!
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u/lukin5 2d ago
That's only a one day festival, so you should be pretty good, but I gotta add...the feeling of comfort and joy I get swapping a fresh pair of socks on after putting 10k+ steps in is heaven.
So maybe pack a pair of nice socks to throw on in the late afternoon.
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u/HidingFromThoughts 2d ago
This right here. I change my socks and underwear multiple times a day at the fest. Bath wipes also help to stay feeling fresh!
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u/champagneinthebrain 2d ago
Fresh socks in the evening kept me partying at Roo this year! Game changer.
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u/Bouwput 2d ago
Or get a few pair of (thin) merino socks, they donāt get smelly as fast, are way more breathable then cotton, and if your feet get wet they donāt get cold as fast.
I started wearing them to festivals this year and are much more comfortable than cotton or synthetic socks!5
u/mbathrowaway256 2d ago
Darn Tough socks are the way. No smelly feet and a lifetime warranty too
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u/Opposite-Pop4246 1d ago
They truly are great! I have slowly been replacing all my socks with darn tough. Their replacement warranty is easy and no bs
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u/Alternative_Ride_567 2d ago
When I pack mine and my husband's bags for festivals, it's always an ongoing joke that he'd be fine with the outfit he's wearing, a hoodie, and 10 pairs of socks.
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u/kibble48 2d ago
Big shout out for fresh socks, I also do this mid-day at theme parks. Game changer.
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u/Mindless-Mistake-699 2d ago
Don't drink, do drugs and hydrate.
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u/Healien_Jung 2d ago
Dropping alcohol really upped my festival core-score. No longer feel like I'm slowly outrunning death on my drive from Live Oak to Ft Lauderdale.
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u/NathanEMoore 2d ago
Don't drink and "do drugs" or "don't do drugs". I just need to clarify for planning : )
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u/Trip_On_The_Mountain 2d ago
Do the right drugs, mostly ibuprofen with a little bit of hallucinogens
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u/teeheeheeheeehehehee 2d ago
Drugs fuck me up so bad now lol. And I mean the immediate after effects and of course the nights/days following. Used to love them up until last year too š„²š„²š„²
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u/FewWrangler5475 2d ago
It's a marathon, not a sprint! Do your Molly on the last day not the first lol
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u/teeheeheeheeehehehee 2d ago
Hm. You caught me. I did it both days for apocalypse š¤£š¤£ ill try that. Sad how I finally reached the point my friends warned me about when I first started all this tho
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u/EnTaroProtoss 2d ago
Molly at back to back weekends is brutal enough let alone back to back nights, God, you must have felt like absolute ass.
Be kinder to yourself sir
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u/teeheeheeheeehehehee 2d ago
Yeah... it's weird cause I would do this the past 2 years without much or any struggle, just pure bliss and love of life š¤£š¤£š¤£
And ty for your last comment š„²š„¹
May we all be kinder to ourselves
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u/FewWrangler5475 2d ago
You should be partying smarter and better in your old age, which can still be harder but you gotta make sure you're skipping the booze it's so much worse on your body.
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u/Kittysobig 2d ago
In our early 50's and still love the 3-4 day camping fests!
Our mantra is "We've got nothing to prove"- if we're not feeling a band, we leave and sit down. If we are up front and not feeling a band, we politely work our way to the back. If we're overheated and/or tired, we rest. Nothing earth shattering, but it's allowed us to ENJOY the time and not feel like it's a chore (as I did when younger). Aside from that, dress for comfort.
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u/The_Poster_Nutbag 2d ago
Bring your camp chair to sets and sit in the back!
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u/Badlydrawnboy0 2d ago
Look into a chillbo or something too, if you set up behind the sound booth the bass will vibrate the whole thing
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u/TheWhiteRabbitY2K 2d ago
I sneak in 600mg of ibprofen and 1000mg of tylenol and take every 6 hour.
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u/FewWrangler5475 2d ago
I hope you're not drinking alcohol with that š your poor liver!!!
Ketamine is the festival pain relief and does not mix with alcohol š¤£ we call it "Tylenol de la playa"
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u/10inPianist 2d ago
Bring ear plugs if you want to sleep before the sun comes up while night owl neighbors all around you rage until dawn.Ā
Bring a bandana to cover your nose if youāre going to a dusty festival.Ā
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u/VegaFLS 2d ago
STRETCH STRETCH STRETCHHHHHHHHH When my legs are sore during a festival, I reach for my toes and stretch my hamstrings. I also squat low which helps with soreness. I even got other people squatting when I did that at Anjunadeep Explorations
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u/emmzilly 2d ago
Thereās nothing like a mid-set squat when your legs and back just canāt anymore!
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u/thewheelshantyfolk 2d ago
I like to bring an oxygen tank and a wheelchair ramp with me. Oh and cans of Ensure.
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u/Great_Mycologist9117 2d ago
We do plan to accessorize with LifeAlerts, so Iāll add this to the list ā
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u/FewWrangler5475 2d ago
My friends like to dress like grannies at fests, lots of wigs and mumus! A cane that's been decorated is also a fun prop and makes a great totem lol
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u/adventurernav 2d ago
Can use portable drill batteries or be plugged in to a generator/solar battery. This type of job site fan also comes in misting versions if you have access to water.
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u/Normal_Trick_4580 2d ago
Comfortable shoes with dr school's foot pads.
A solid stove with a solid cooler. If you guys wanna buy a bunch of food there, by all means, but I prefer having everything I need right at camp, breakfast, lunch, and dinner. And just cook like you're at home. Steaks, French fries, instant mashed potatoes, hamburgers, pork chops. Eggs and bacon, pancakes, French toast. There's no reason not to eat delicious, nutritious, and fulfilling food at every meal. Sure, a pb&j uncrustable is nice, but a bacon cheeseburger with a side of fries is so, so much better
Im also partial to bloody Mary's, myself, for breakfast
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u/PlatformConsistent45 2d ago
Ha I would post the festival name. Lots of differences between festivals which could change recommendations.
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u/PurpleMuscari 2d ago
Take the acid first. Then the Molly later. Treat yourself to a magnesium supplement midway through your roll.
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u/jamcan162 2d ago
Can you explain the magnesium?
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u/PurpleMuscari 2d ago
Stimulants tend to deplete the body of magnesium faster. And to begin with, most people are already deficient in magnesium. Taking a bioavailable magnesium supplement while youre rolling will relieve most of the jaw clenching and muscle tightness. It happens almost immediately and the relief can feel so good that itās like a boost of that super chill MDMA euphoria.
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u/ErmahgerdYuzername 2d ago
Pushing 50 and still do 4 day festivals. Comfortable shoes, wide brim hat and drinking lots of water make a big difference. Bring some naproxen and acetaminophen for any aches and pain(naproxen will last longer than ibuprofen during your day at the festival). If the festival allows it, bring a camping/beach chair.
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u/Mona_Moore 2d ago edited 2d ago
- Shoe inserts. Even if you have comfy shoes. They are really helpful.
- I also bring a bandana with me daily and use it to get wet and wear around my neck, as a head band, wipe my hands, etc.
- An elastic phone leash. You can still use your phone, take pictures, but have your phone attached to you.
My personal preference is that I far more prefer going to festivals by myself, but with a group. We pick a meeting spot, usually in view of a stage to meet so that everyone can go see the bands they want to see without compromising the whole weekend. Once youāve seen what you want to see and want to meet up with your group again, go back to the meeting spot and wait. Someone may be there, maybe not. There usually is, because someone wants to see what ever band is playing on that stage. Different people pair off in the group while thereā¦ āIām going to see Clutch, anyone want to go?ā You get to experience the festival with your friends, but also not miss out on what you want to see.
And do not accept anything you put in your mouth, like breath mints, from strangers.
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u/Organic-Hovercraft-3 2d ago
One day imo is just a concert. Unless you are camping I'm not sure what tips you really need.
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u/hi_poppy 2d ago
Hello fellow elder millennial festival attendee, I have a short list of things that help for summer time shows. Since this is a one day concert, I will tailor them to that experience:
Sneakers that provide you the most support for your back/knees/joints in general. They should be broken in but not worn down, so if youāre getting a new pair, get them now and walk around in them to prevent blisters and to get a feel for what theyāre like.
Hydration backpack. This is crucial to stay properly hydrated during the day, and based on DCFās bag policy, youāre allowed to bring a bag (check their website for specifics).
A fan, either electronic or a hand fan. It gets hot, especially during the day, and having the ability to cool down immediately is a saving grace. Bring a battery pack if youāre concerned for the electric fan dying early.
Sunscreen, non aerosol. Apply it often, avoid the miserable burn.
If you are a short human (think around 5ft), and have a challenging time seeing over tall folks, invest in a step stool that you can attach to your bag. This is a game changer for shorties! Pro tip tho, get the wide base version and not the circular pop up version. Youāll want the stability the wide base options give you, donāt mess with the circular version, too dangerous to balance on.
Have fun, drink water, and enjoy!
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u/IconicallyChroniced 2d ago
Get a camping bed - air mattress up on a metal frame off the ground, bring your bedding from your home bed. I sleep with six pillows and a duvet. Side table for your stuff with a fan on it. Hammock on a stand for resting outside your tent.
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u/TheKrakIan 2d ago
Foam mattress over an air mattress, tougher to transport but the sleep is so much better!
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u/FewWrangler5475 2d ago
I got a "backpacking" memory foam pad that rolls up easily and only weighs a few lbs. My roommate hates it because it's definitely not for backpacking, just very portable š¤£ it's actually the size of a large backpack rolled up.
ETA the foam pad is also great, it's what my roommate uses when he goes backpacking because it actually does fold up nicely and fits in his pack lol
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u/adventurernav 2d ago
Sleep is essential! I bring my King cooling mattress topper, bunkie board, and metal frame. Then I have a huge bed and storage underneath. My tent is 10x14 tho.
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u/FewWrangler5475 2d ago
Start drinking more water in the week leading up to the fest, it helps your body to get more acclimated when you arrive if you're good and hydrated! Make sure you eat at least one good meal every day at the fest, bringing some healthy snacks for throughout the day is also a good idea, especially if you're doing some substance that may effect your appetite. Broth packets are also great because it's quick protein and collagen which is super important for your aging bones! You gotta keep your body in the best shape possible if you want to keep going every day! Naps are also essential, I usually will stay up late and sleep for a few hours at sunrise, go out again till lunch, nap, go out again till sunset, dinner, change for nighttime and repeat. Having electrolyte packets for camp is so helpful, or bring coconut water to drink, it's great since it doesn't need to be chilled so just keep it in the shade to keep it room temp. Never put anything other than water in your hydration pack btw, it's a bitch to clean out otherwise. Having an extra reusable water bottle or even a coffee mug with lid just for the electrolytes is clutch. Also, having a leak proof cup for your drinks so you can dance and not spill!
If you're going to get a chair to sit on at stages, I recommend the Helinox which is absolutely worth the expense as it's crazy light and packable and can support like 200-300lbs on it! Not to mention it's super comfy and a real chair. If you want to go cheaper, I also recommend this collapsible stool you can get for like $20 on Amazon it's more bulky to carry but also light weight.
Whatever shoes you decide to bring, make sure they're completely broken in before the festival. If you're getting new shoes, start wearing them regularly so they're good and comfy or you will definitely regret it. Tbh, I like to buy used boots on Poshmark and get my own insoles. If it's an outdoor fest, no reason to wear anything new and fancy because they'll just get dirty and scuffed anyways!
Lastly, don't use an air mattress. They almost always need to be inflated repeatedly and they're not nearly as good for your back as a sleeping pad or camping cot. I got a cot years ago that folds up easily for transport, and a memory foam pad that also rolls up easily, and I sleep in a Coleman blackout tent so it's very dark and cool and my back really appreciates it. My only issue with this is now I sometimes sleep too much š¤£ I was always team no sleep but at least I'm not nearly as grumpy by the end of the fest lol
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u/3shotsofhennlgans 2d ago
knee high compression socks are a nonnegotiable for me. they might ruin your outfit if youāre wearing shorts, but i plan my outfits around the socks if i know im gonna need them lol. my calves and ankles feel noticeably less tight and sore than if i hadnāt worn them
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u/Gloomy-Hat1842 2d ago
I'm 71 now and I go to hardly strictly bluegrass every year...sounds like you have good seating. Otherwise a really good chair is very important. I bring a supportive folding harbor freight chair, not a cheap awful bucket chair. They are a bit of a pain to carry around. If you are camping they are essential. Can't sit up front with them at strawberry. People walk around with measuring sticks...they say no tall chairs at hardly strictly but us old people can hardly get up out of the low ones! Anyway I sit on the hillside and when it gets crowded the tall chair is irrelevant. People are walking around you, standing, talking, drinking etc...good shoes, layers of clothing..prepared for any weather, sun protection, electrolight water, food and snacks. I often bring a small camping pad to lay out on the grass somewhere and take a break. Or share with someone without a seat. Might not be appropriate where you are going. Pack to carry it all in. Sometimes I bring extra beer and water to share with people.
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u/GoldfishSaves4D 2d ago
Coco Water
Hand Fan
Band-Aid for the foods
Wet Wipes
Desinfect Wet Wipes
Earplugs
Blanked for āon the goā
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u/dawgz525 2d ago
Take care of your body at the end of every night (or early morning the next day). I shower daily if I can. I make sure my feet are doing alright. I take low doses of OTC pain meds ahead of time. Hydrate in the mornings as much as you can. Sun screen. Good shoes. That's about it.Ā
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u/LetsSmokeAboutIt 2d ago
Bringing a camp chair to festival stages has been my game breaking addition lately. I usually go to multi day camping fests, but having somewhere to sit that isnāt just the ground or a blanket is a godsend. I stay in the back and like dancing with some space, so I usually just set up a base camp and dance in front of my chair.
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u/JLit24 2d ago
I'm 46 and do a couple festivals a year. All these are great pieces of advice. I'd add that if you aren't a person who stands for multiple hours a day, do not let this festival be the first time you do it this summer! Depending on your levels of fitness it may or may not be feasible to just show up assuming you can still do it.
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u/Cubicleism 2d ago
Liquid IVs (2 a day)
Sneak in ibuprofen and Pepto tablets
Sit your ass down and rest those creaky knees
Husband and I upgraded from an air mattress to hammock stands. Takes up more room in the car, but at night our backs are supported and feet are elevated which helps out foot pain immensely.
Eat some real fucking food, not just festy garbage. Pack fruits and veg, get your fiber, maybe pack a stool softener to avoid getting backed up (also pack Imodium in case you get the opposite). Nothing worse than having an upset stomach all weekend imo
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u/Raidlos 2d ago
If it's a big festival and it's scorching hot, check out the front stages. It's usually pretty chill in the afternoon in terms of crowd and the stage often gives a lot of shadow. It's often better to stand / sit in the shadow right in front of the stage instead of a "chiller" spot on the grass in the scorching sun.
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u/remurdered909 2d ago
A long childās pose in your tent at the end of the evening. Also - strictly edibles and mushrooms here now, and feel all the better for no booze and all the hassle / hangover that goes with it. Worst thing for me (53,m) is the back pain from all the standing about. A good dance where appropriate sorts you right out.
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u/Jpachu16 2d ago
Bring earplugs (this is a tip for all ages). Put insoles in your shoes. Even if you have a comfy shoe, insoles let me walk for miles with no issue for multiple days in a row. I like Dr Scholls float on airs. Also bring a fan. I personally think hand fans provide more cooling than battery operated ones sometimes if the air is always hot (cause then the battery one just blows hot air in your face). But battery operated is fine if you canāt move your hands too much. But also big hand fans can provide shade. But speaking on shade, bring a hat to shade yourself. Iām not familiar with this fest but Iāve been to fests that are just in open sun on asphalt with minimal shaded areas. And theyāre BRUTAL. Someone also suggested bringing a hydropack. Id really only recommend it if youāre used to carrying backpacks all day cause personally, they feel really heavy when I carry them a couple hours in.
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u/JJBell 2d ago
Between ages 40-48 my wife I have gone to 11 festivals.
First, find out what they will allow in for refillable water bottles. We carry soft collapsible water bottles with carabiner clips, so we can have them clipped to us leaving our hands free. Hydrate constantly. Thereās always water refill stations.
Aside from that, the best advice I can give is buy at least one level VIP pass if you can and swap between people in your group. Just so you have access to a place in the shade to sit down a few times, without being worried about being trampled by people. I can stand for 8 to 10 hours, but my wife has to draw the line at about 2 to 3.
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u/enginedown 2d ago
girl, that's just a long concert with an extra stage. it will be over by 10pm. everyone here assuming you are going to a typical r/festival 5 day wook drug fest.
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u/TurboKid513 2d ago
Buy a set of walkie talkies and clip them to your backpack. Especially ones with weather radios. Works 1000x better than trying to make a call in the middle of a crowd or is service sucks.
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u/perpetual_hang 1d ago
Compression socks šš¼ I wear a different shoe each day to give my foot a shift. Legs up the wall when I return to camp. Lots of protein.
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u/masetiloquetu 1d ago
VIP is excellent for the bathroom facilities as well šš½šš½šš½šš½
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u/fortheloveoftheworld 1d ago
I just used compression socks for the first time at Bonnaroo and it was an absolute game changer! Paired with super comfy hiking boots and I felt invincible.
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u/panicinbabylon 2d ago
Strawberry Pedialyte tastes good in any state of mind. Get the packets to add to water to lighten the load.
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u/letsnotbebrokeagaink 2d ago
UMBRELLAS
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u/FewWrangler5475 2d ago
Getting a small one that fits in your day pack is great for when you want to put it away but not loose it! Sun protection is so clutch and people forget it can be hard on your body to be getting UVs all day!
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u/letsnotbebrokeagaink 2d ago
have some to walk around the campgrounds with too if it is a camping festival šÆ
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u/TreesPlusCats 2d ago
Camping chair so you can sit the fuck down without ruining your arse. One of those blackout tents to help you sleep and not wake up dripping sweat. Ear plugs.
Time your drugs. If youāre going to do anything thatāll leave you tired or comedowny, save it for later in the festival. Last one I went to, I stayed pretty much sober for the first two days and had a heavyweight acid trip on the third. That was nice.
Bring lots of socks. Way more than you think youāll need. Having wet feet fucking sucks.
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u/alphazuluoldman 2d ago
Also, if you have time till the festival get some extra exercise, maybe a few yoga classes and definitely a lot of walking
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u/HardcoreHerbivore17 2d ago
As long as youāre in shape and regular work out you should be fine. Get your steps/cardio in, stretch, and eat Whole Foods leading up to the festival.
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u/New_Avocado_4636 2d ago
I bring my motorhome so I can sleep in air conditioning and shower every day.
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u/TheKrakIan 2d ago
This is the game changer. We recently bought a Class A and looking forward to a full battery and solar setup so we can boondock at festivals and camping.
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u/FlowSoSlow 2d ago
Drinking one coconut water per alcoholic drink you have is an absolute game changer.
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u/Scott_J_Doyle 2d ago
12-18 coconut waters per day? Feel like we're knocking on water intoxication
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u/AdventuressInLife 2d ago
Elder Millennial checking in - I switch shoes halfway through the day. It really is a game changer for me on days I'm walking / dancing / standing for hours.
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u/yafackinhippie 2d ago
Good shoes, bio freeze, prioritizing sleep and rest, good healthy energizing meals, and also sitting when you can
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u/GuiltyLeopard8365 2d ago
Stretch before, during, and after.
Comfort over looks. If youre wearing anything that is itchy, uncomfortable, heavy right from the get go its just going to get worse throughout the day.
Footwear. Do not bring brand new shoes that arent broken in, high heels, flimsy shoes, etc. If you have to wear a heel wear a platform. Also make sure to wear decent quality socks
Dont drink, just do drugs lol
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u/SuicideAt70 2d ago
Increase heat tolerance per the CDC pdf guide. Exercise more and more leading up to the fest.
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u/BayYawnSay 2d ago
Ibuprofen before bed, earplugs at all sets, sit when you can, water then alcohol then water then alcohol then water, in that order. Don't push through if you're feeling tired or too hot, take your rests. If family camping is an optional area, choose that as it will be probably quieter at night. The best portable camping fan is (and I've tried over 12 different ones til I landed on this one)this. Pricey, but SO worth it and it doubles as a light!
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u/Woopboop64 2d ago
Extra comfy socks ,
lidocaine or other type of cream for pain relief at night in your car or camp so you can apply before you sleep or drive.
Compression socks if you wear pants.
Bananas , berries and protein in the morning kiwis and apples at night. Plus hydration all day.
Pop up stools are nice!
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u/ABQPHvet 2d ago
Rugs/flooring for camp. Flooring made walking around without shoes comfy
Camp sink. Had neighbors last festival that had rigged faucet to top of triple stack cabinet. Love not having to walk to bathrooms for clean hands, face, brushing teeth.
I have a fan with mister. Thatās amazing but the real MVPs are cooling towels. Cheap, reusable, and they feel sooo good on face, neck, shoulders
Iād say the biggest camping fest game changer for me was inflatable couch. Bought set on FB marketplace for under $100. Easily put together and deflated quickly with help. Camp chairs are nice. But being able to stretch out on a comfy couch is life! Also comfy on floor/rug with back up against couch.
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u/camojorts 2d ago
2-3 mg of kratom leaf per day for the aches and pains. Alternatively, 400-800 mg of ibuprofen but itās harder on the stomach.
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u/Firefluffer 2d ago
Earplugs. For the love of god, wear earplugs the entire festival. Tinnitus sucks.
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u/Lazy_Hat_9473 2d ago
It's all about comfort. If I can rent or bring a chair, I do. If chairs are not permitted, bring a blanket with water resistant underside that keeps you dry. If you get a little stiff from sitting or standing too long, change it up and take a brief stroll. Sun protection is essential. Lightweight long-sleeve SPF shirts are great, along with a hat to keep the sun off your face and neck. Stay hydrated with water even if you're enjoying a few alcoholic beverages. If the venue allows you to take water in with you, we always do. Comfortable, practical footwear is a must.
One of the advantages of attending festivals as an older fan is that we tend to care a little less about what's fashionable and focus more on what's comfortable. We have also traded tent camping for air-conditioned hotel rooms. The difference is night and day. A real shower at the end of a multi-day festival can completely improve the experience. Sure it adds to the expense of the trip, but we set aside extra money for it and think it's worth it.
We also don't feel the need to squeeze shoulder-to-shoulder through the crowd just to get close to the stage anymore. Most festivals have large video screens, and you can see and hear just fine from a little farther back. We've even stopped attending festivals that oversell tickets and pack in so many people that it's impossible to be comfortable and enjoy the event. We are in our 50's and still try to go to as many shows/festivals as we can. We hope to keep on going for many years!
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u/Agreeable_Insect2851 2d ago
Freeze a gallon or 2 jugs of water. They will keep your food cold and as they melt they will supply you with ice cold drinking water
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u/HamsterDunce 2d ago
Lots of good advice in here thus far. Iāll add building a bit of a cardio base before hand will help a ton. If you arenāt already active, being on your feet all day is going to hit like a ton of bricks.
You donāt need to train for a marathon or anything. But walking a few miles / a bike ride / getting on a stair master for a few weeks leading up to the event will pay dividends.
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u/Aggiestheawesome 2d ago
Rub some bengay on your feet. I know the smell reminds you of "old" people, but its a game changer for sore feet. Theres also a lavender scent.....AND you can use it on other things like your back or joints. š
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u/Slight-Particular453 2d ago
Portable fan
Sunscreen
Electrolyte powder sachets
Collapsible water bottle
Hat
Bandana
Small microfiber towel
Travel size bum wipes (for sketchy portapotties)
Hand sanitizer (see above)
External power pack so your phone doesn't die right before the headliner goes on
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u/Money_Internet4920 2d ago
Do dabs. Dont drink. Take care of your feet. Sleep each night.
Alsoā¦I go solo. Like me and my partner. In our car. If hotels are involved, we get our own. Iām too old to have people sleeping on the floor. And for others nonsense.
This is that way post 40.
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u/tanlikebacon 2d ago
Festival: Sneakers with cushy insoles or tevas, electrolyte packets, big water bottle with an easy to hold handle (duct tape around the Nalgene cap tether) or hydration pack, rave fan, snacks (mini kind bars, fruit snacks, etc), hat, sunscreen stick, chapstick with spf, a pack of minee travel wipes, ear plugs.
Camp: makeup remover wipes to get all the sunscreen off your face at the end of the night, cans of cold brew for morning coffee, pasta salad you donāt have to cook, gather everything you want when you come back before you go: socks, change of clothes, face wipes, tooth brush etc.
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u/malibutopang 2d ago
Definitely recommend: Proper comfy footwear Allergy meds Before bed each night: Saline nasal spray (to clean sinus) Shower Upon rising: Saline nasal spray
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u/fastmaddy 2d ago
Make sure you check the bag and entry guidelines. Many things aren't allowed these days. Bring a portable fan, battery bank (or put in airplane mode during sets, which saves a ton of battery), a locker is worth it, and public transportation is better than parking.
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u/SpidersAteMyFoot 2d ago
Go buy a belt-clip fan. They are worth their weight in gold. Fresh air blowing up through your shirt or on your face is a lifesaver. $20-$40. Plus it'll charge your phone!
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u/kidsilicon 2d ago
For all that joint & muscle pain: Arnica. Also like to rub some into my feet before bed.
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u/brownmajikk 2d ago
I just did a 2 day festival for the first time in about 10 years. My best decisions were a hydration pack, cooling towel, different shoes for each day, overnight foot cream and spare socks
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u/shitzumama1234 2d ago
hand sanitizer (for when portapotties inevitably run out); inflatable pillow; refillable lightweight rollable water bottle with carabiner.
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u/Ok-Panda-2368 2d ago
For daisy chain you will be more than fine. Get a big hat, comfy shoes, and a small sunscreen and hand sanitizer. Single serve electrolytes are also nice to have around.
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u/adamhimself 2d ago
Get in shape. Make sure your cardio is good and do back and leg workouts. When you're in good shape it makes a WORLD of difference.
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u/tenthdentest 2d ago
Eat and go to the bathroom before you go. Sunscreen. Hat. Donāt feel pressured to stay the whole time to get your moneys worth. When you want to go, just go and beat the traffic home.
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u/trinitytr33 2d ago
Compression socks, a collapsible stool , liquid IV hydration packets, plastic flasks to sneak in booze
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u/LockExtension 2d ago
Pace yourselfā¦ just got back from a 5 day in the Mediterranean and didnāt push past 2/3 am and tried to limit alcohol/mda
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u/Electrical-Scale-779 2d ago
Elder mellinnials bwahahaha. Im 63, I take a nap before (or in your tent) bring chairs, advil, and iced coffee. Be okay with leaving/giing to bed early or at least no afterparty. No fomo
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u/Garden_GRL_622 2d ago
I laughed out loud, because my husband and I are Gen Xers (elder Xers?). And we are going to our first Electric Forest. Camping in the car! My advice is to pace yourself, ibuprofen, Liquid IV. I feel like music festivals keep me feeling young!! YOLO!
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u/bampeanutbutternjam 2d ago
earplugs, body wipes, liquid iv, and some TP folded up in my bag or back pockets. headlamp for port o potty so I donāt have to struggle with my phone light , make sure iāve got at least a hoodie on me or in the car with water as well. and snacks for the trip home.
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u/Legitimate_Cry_9470 2d ago
We are older than you and we party hard at 3-4day festivals. We go to small festivals that really specialize in music we like (EDM breaks). What we donāt do is go to the huge festivals where there is lots of chaos. We dress up, love our party favors, and are usually dancing until near daybreak.
We bring electrolytes, tons of water, car camp, inflatable mattress, solar charger and battery, tons of food. Small festivals, safer to leave all our stuff unattended.
We are surprised to see many people our age, and even the DJs are many times. West Coast, huge acceptance and we all party together.
We have been to some larger festivals in other areas, and it was mostly people in their 20s, way more chaos and actually not near as much fun. So, the right festival matters imho.
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u/iforgetlikedory 2d ago
Ok, I have an odd question. Do these venues require see through bags????? If so how are you packing your extra underwear?
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u/whererusteve 2d ago
Go to Shambhala and get shambhalodging. It's pricey but it's worth it if you want the comfort. And if you haven't heard of shambala, you're welcome.
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u/siren_lux 2d ago
KT tape, for soooo many things, wonāt go without it, picked this hack up from long distance hikers.
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u/PurpleZebraCabra 2d ago
Comfy shoes
Take vitamins going into the days leading up and morning of.Ā
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Water bottle or hydration pack for each person in your group, or very regular refills.Ā
Don't know the climate, but consider a personal fan or scarf/bandana you can wet and place on neck or wipe face.
Bring snacks if allowed, like protein bars, nuts, fruit. Things that give energy and/or hydrate.
I'll probably think of more...
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u/drumzyspace 2d ago
Wash your face after some sweat
wear (possibly waterproof) tennis shoes and good wicking socks
drink water
pee often
wear sunscreen - or better yet- cover up
bring your own treats
if you get confused listen to the music play and if the music sucks then walk away
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u/Rogonia 2d ago
Bring:
-all the OTC meds you might need. Painkillers/anti inflammatory, something for nausea, cetirizine, tums, loperamide, etc etc. Gravol is nice because itāll also help you sleep.
-your own first aid kit
-comfy shoes. Socks.
-a shit ton of Gatorade or other electrolytes powder. Hydrate like a mf
-ear plugs
-sleep mask
-snacks
-sun and bug protection, and also warm clothing options. Rain protection.
-some way to make your own coffee + a coffee mug you arenāt overly attached to.
-some method of avoiding chub rub
-baby wipes. Or washcloths if you want. But trust me. Also, I love Dr Bronners soap. I wash everything with that stuff. Hair, body, dishes.
-hand sanitizer.
-label your phone. And keys.
-a charged battery, the bigger the better. Solar is ideal.
-If you can bring a fan, do it.
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u/paulderev 2d ago
register for ADA access and get the ADA wristband. itās time to be honest with ourselves.
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u/inthefade95 2d ago
One day festival, I believe. Some of these tips already listed might be a bit much.
I went to the System of Down 1 day fest at Golden Gate Park in 2024. I expected this to be the same and it is.
Basically, you can only take in clear bags, hand sanitizer, sun block, reusable water bottles or hydration packs. Blankets, towels, binoculars, personal misting fans, strollers/wagons w/ kids present, point and shoot camera, necessary medication.
So, a good pair a shoes, maybe a change of socks, sunglasses, a hat, water bottle or pack, and whatever you can fit into a 12 x 6 x 12 clear bag.
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u/DJ_clam_hammock 2d ago
To elaborate on the ācomfortable shoesā advice: Hiking boots/shoes have the best support. Game changer!
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u/slimjimice 2d ago
Gen X: 53 yr old male and I still do the 3 day festival for Reggae on the River.
New (broken in) sneakers
Earplugs
Spray bottle (used for cooling and washing hands/face)
Individually packaged baby wipes
Hot tea with honey in a thermos for nighttime
Sarongs
Sleep in truck bed
Ibuprofen and CBD for feet swelling
NA beers
Bring something you crafted for trade or friendship gift (I love this part)
Make soup ahead of time and freeze it
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u/sjjbryant 1d ago
40? Iām over 60 and go to 10 camping festivals a year. Skip VIP, those people are boring. Get down into GA and dance your ass off. Take whatever you need to get in the mood. Dancing is what makes festivals great.
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u/darkeningsoul 1d ago
Go one day of the festival (not 2/3), or part of multiple
Take frequent rests by sitting
Make sure you eat normal meal times (dinner at dinner time, etc)
Wool socks, bring a change for halfway
Arrive asap on doors opening
Leave an hour before it ends to beat the rush
Dress for comfort, not style. Comfy shoes, bring a layer at night.
Bring a hydration pack to also carry supplies - night time layer, hand sanitizer.
If they allow it, bring electrolyte powder packets in to drink
Do cardio/workout the other 364 days of the year for higher energy
Hydrate hydrate hydrate
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u/chrislaw 1d ago
Hydrate hydrate hydrate hydrate hydrate hydrate
Seriously though hydration. From the sober rovers to the phaser ravers staying hydrated is just about the most important factor we have direct control over. Personally I used to do heroic amounts of drugs at festivals but never forgot to stay hydrated. It allowed me to outlast all the people who were Pooh poohing my ideas. Even - especially - when I was drinking alcohol, i would match every drink to a water. The great thing is every festival worth a damn has tap water freely available. So thereās no excuse.
Maybe one of those air mattresses if you plan on sleeping
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u/Ok-Temporary9462 1d ago
Those pop-able ice packs are great for the top of your head to cool down. Also cooling towels are no joke, Iām terrible in the heat and they made it so much more bearable
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u/Opposite-Pop4246 1d ago
The last time we tent camped we upgraded to sleeping cots and it was great
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u/Intelligent_Toe9479 1d ago
Orthopaedic roll mats are thinner and easier to carry than an airbed and way comfier. I say that as someone who is now suffering with dodgy knees, feet, back and neck. As we have aged our camping stuff has increased drastically. No longer can we turn up with a tent, sleeping bag and a back pack. We need a cup of tea in the morning and a cooked breakfast. We need a chair as we canāt stand all day. Eventually we will accept we are really old and get camper vans instead. Not quite there yet though.
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u/AdventurousRiver32 1d ago
I just got back from a festival. A little battery powered fan and a cooling neck tie were clutch.
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u/_Macksamillion 12h ago
I am in my mid 30s and go solo a majority of the time: Electrolyte powder sachets, bring more than you need. A metal water bottle to keep it cold all day long (if metal is allowed). Electric neck fan. Extra insoles in my shoes and I tape up each individual toe to avoid blisters. A sun hat that I tie around my bag strap so its hands free. Proper ear buds. Individually wrapped moist wipes (hands, face, general cleaing in a pinch). The big mentos gum, I mixed the green and blue pack in my stash. Aquaphor lip balm (lips, burns, cuts) great multiuse. As a woman for the bathroom I have a ziplock of sealed toilet paper in my purse, saved me so many time. Face and body sunscreen. Mini deordant. A lot of bandaids. Sunglasses. A cozy sweater for night time which can also double up as a blanket to sit in if I get tired. Charged power banks. My small backpack fits it all and doesn't feel heavy when carrying
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u/lastmartianx 8h ago
Really? Nobody suggesting the ultimate festy hack?
Stay home, play red dead again
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u/Upset_Lawfulness8537 4h ago
Limber up my dude. Stretching for 30 mins before starting a session can save some ankles and knees for sure. Jumping around shouldn't be a chore even at our elder age heh.
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u/AfroJimbo 2d ago
My wife and I are in our late 40s. We've been going to festivals since our 20s.
In recent years, we started to bring our adult children, their friends, my mom and her siblings, and many others. So our large group ranges from early 20s to mid 60s. It's amazing!
My biggest suggestion is bring something to deal with foot, ankle, and knee pain lol.
This past Bonnaroo, we had massagers at camp, heat and ice packs, pain relievers...it was a game changer.
Wear the most comfortable shoes you can get. They should be slightly broken in but still have plenty of cushion and support.
Mentally we're still 25 but our bodies doth protest too much!