Your Complete Festival Checklist and Planning Guide

Secure Your Festival Tickets – Start Here

Before you can start planning your ultimate festival experience, you need to lock down those tickets. But here’s the deal: ticket scams are real, and nothing ruins the vibe faster than realizing you’ve been duped.

That’s why using a trusted platform like SoldOut.com is key. With SoldOut.com, you can:

• Find legit tickets for major festivals worldwide.
• Explore GA, VIP, single-day, and multi-day passes that fit your needs.
• Enjoy flexible payment plans and ticket insurance for peace of mind.
• Score exclusive discounts you won’t find anywhere else.

Get your tickets now, and focus on making memories instead of stressing about entry!

Your Must-Have Festival Checklist

First things first: hit up the festival’s official website to check the rules on what you can bring and what’s off-limits. Every festival is a little different, so knowing this ahead of time is key. Most festivals have lockers available, but if you’re planning to skip the locker, pack light and keep things simple!

Essentials to Pack:

• Your securely purchased festival wristband (preferably from SoldOut.com).
• A bag that meets festival requirements to keep your belongings safe.
• An empty water bottle to stay hydrated.
• Sunscreen and sunglasses to beat the heat.
• Comfortable shoes and breathable clothing.
• A portable phone charger to keep your devices juiced up.
• Electrolyte packets to replenish energy throughout the day.
• Photo ID for age verification.
• Chapstick, travel-size hand sanitizer, and earplugs.
• A bandana or battery-powered fan for extra comfort.

How to Prep for a Music Festival

Preparation is everything when it comes to festivals. Here’s how to set yourself up for success:

• When buying tickets, avoid scams by sticking to trusted sites like SoldOut.com.
• Activate your wristband and link your emergency contact info through the festival’s website.
• Set up tap-to-pay options on your wristband for a hassle-free experience at vendors and merch tents.
• Download the festival’s official app for maps, schedules, and real-time updates. Pro tip: Save screenshots of the map and lineup on your phone in case of bad signal.
• Charge your phone fully before you head out, and bring a portable charger for backup.
• Eat a good meal before arriving and bring snacks to keep your energy up. Staying hydrated throughout the day is a must.
• Check the weather forecast and prepare for rain or intense heat with appropriate gear.
• Secure your belongings in a festival locker if possible—lockers fill up fast, so grab one early!

Navigating the Festival

To make the most of your festival experience and avoid unnecessary stress, it’s all about planning ahead. Follow these tips for smooth sailing:

• Try to avoid peak entrance times, usually mid-day when crowds are largest. Arrive early in the morning or later in the evening to skip long lines.
• Locate water refill stations as soon as you arrive to stay hydrated without overspending on bottled water.
• Seek out restrooms farther from main stages—they’re often less crowded and cleaner.
• Familiarize yourself with the festival layout, including entrances, exits, and medical tents. Knowing where to go in an emergency can make a huge difference.
• Use the festival downtime to explore food vendors and map out your meals. Knowing where your favorite snacks are located saves time when hunger strikes.
• Hit the merchandise tents early in the day or closer to the end of the festival to avoid big crowds.
• Set a meeting spot for your group in case anyone gets lost—festivals can get chaotic quickly.

Taking public transportation to and from the festival is often the easiest option. Parking can be a nightmare, and rideshares or public transit can save you time and money.

Beyond the Essentials

Festivals are all about embracing the unexpected—surprise performances, spontaneous dance circles, and new connections await. Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Be open-minded and flexible. Festivals bring thousands of creative souls together for a reason!
• Stay safe by knowing your exits and meeting points, avoiding scams, and keeping your energy up with food and hydration.

Above all, let loose and enjoy the ride—this is your time to create unforgettable memories!

Upcoming Festivals

• Two Step Inn | Georgetown, TX | April 5-6 - Buy Tickets
• Governors Ball | New York, NY | June 7-9 - Buy Tickets
• Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival | Manchester, TN | June 12-15, 2025 - Buy Tickets
• Lollapalooza | Chicago, IL | August 1-4 - Buy Tickets
• Austin City Limits Festival | Austin, TX | October 3-5 & 10-12 - Buy Tickets