12 Tips for First-Time Music Festival Goers

If you’re already set for your first-ever music festival, we’re pretty sure you’re very excited and are probably even losing sleep over it. Don’t worry, we’re not here to judge you because that’s totally normal. However, what we’re here to do is help you make sure your first music festival goes as smoothly and memorably as possible. From what to pack and wear to surviving big crowds and long lines, we’ll be providing tips to help you prepare so you can have fun and enjoy the festival to the fullest.

We’ve been to countless music festivals over the years — Coachella, Lollapalooza, Ultra, and others. Both personally and virtually through streaming services. There are some things that we’ve learned the hard way, and there are definitely a few “I wish I knew that before” moments we could’ve avoided. That’s why we put together this guide so that you don’t make the same mistakes we did. Let’s begin!

1. Dress for Comfort

When it comes to music festivals, comfort should always be your top priority. You will be walking, dancing, sitting on the ground, and probably sweating a lot. Festivals can last all day or all night, and the last thing you want is to be stuck in tight jeans or shoes that hurt your feet.

We recommend you go for loose, breathable clothes and comfortable sneakers or sandals that you can walk in for hours. It’s also great if you bring a light jacket or hoodie for the evening when it gets cold. Keep in mind that you can still look good and feel good at the same time.

2. Pack Light

You don’t need to bring your whole house to the festival. Just carry what you really need. Your phone, ID, some cash or card, sunscreen, a refillable water bottle, and a small power bank. A small backpack or belt bag is perfect for keeping your stuff safe and your hands free.

Keep in mind that carrying too much will only weigh you down and make you tired faster, especially when you’re moving around the crowd all day. It’s a big hassle, so it’s better to pack as light as possible.

3. Hydration Is Key

When you’re walking around under the sun, dancing, and having fun, it’s easy to forget to drink water, but staying hydrated is super important. Many festivals have free refill stations, so bring a refillable water bottle and sip water throughout the day.

Trust us, being dehydrated can ruin the fun real quick. It can make you feel dizzy, tired, and even sick. Water is your best friend at a festival, not sodas, juices, or alcoholic drinks. 

4. Don’t Rely on Your Phone Signal

In crowded areas, phone signals are usually weak. With festivals always having thousands of people, many people are using their phones at the same time. That means you might not be able to call, text, or check the map online when you need it most, regardless of the cell service plans you all have. So, before you enter, screenshot the schedule, map, and any important notes. And always make plans with your friends before you split up, just in case you can’t contact each other later. 

5. Arrive as Early as Possible

It’s better if you try to get the festival grounds as early as you can. You can avoid the longest lines at the entrance and have extra time to get familiar with the area’s layout. You can check out where the stages, bathrooms, food stalls, and water refill stations are before the crowd starts pouring in.

If you are aiming to get a good spot near the stage, especially for your favorite acts. Arriving early in general makes a big difference as it will allow you to settle in, relax, and start the day without feeling rushed. 

6. Sun Protection Is Very Important

You will be under the sun for long hours, and if you’re not prepared, it can be very harmful to your skin and health. Always apply sunscreen before you leave, and keep a small bottle with you so you can reapply throughout the day. Also, please don’t forget to bring sunglasses to protect your eyes and a hat or cap to shade your face.

A lightweight scarf or bandana can also help. It may not feel like a big deal at first, but too much sun can leave you sunburned, dehydrated, and miserable. A few simple items can make a huge difference in keeping you safe and comfortable.

7. Pay Attention to the Bag Policy

Some festivals set a bag policy. For example, some events allow clear bags while others only accept specific sizes. It’s important for you to check this at all times because you wouldn’t want to show up with the wrong bag and be turned away at the gate. That would mean either having to throw your bag away or going all the way back to your car or accommodation just to leave it behind. Both options are frustrating and waste time.

9. Make Sure to Make the Most Out of Your Experience

You can take as many videos and pictures as you want, but don’t spend the whole time on your phone, as you can rewatch performances while TV streaming after the festival, although it varies. The best thing you can do is be present, try different foods, explore the whole venue, and just enjoy all the vibes.

The more open you are to the experience, the more fun you’ll have. Your first music festival will only happen once, so make the most of every moment. Don’t stress too much about sticking to a schedule or catching every single performance. Sometimes the best parts of a festival are the unexpected ones.

9. Use the Buddy System

Festivals are usually jam-packed, so it’s easy to lose track of your friends. That’s why it’s always a good idea to stick with someone, especially when moving through large crowds or heading to different stages. Go to the restroom together, grab food together, or take turns watching each other’s things if you need to sit down.

That’s why it’s always a good idea to stick with someone, especially when moving through large crowds or heading to different stages. If you’re visiting as a large group, make sure to plan your buddy system so you all get to enjoy the festival. Once you have your buddies, you can go to the restroom together, grab food together, or take turns watching each other’s things if you need to sit down. 

10. Have a Backup Meeting Spot

Even if you’re with friends, there’s always a chance you’ll get separated. This commonly happens and is highly likely to happen when phone signals get weak or batteries run out. That’s why it’s smart to agree on a backup meeting spot so no matter what happens, you’ll be able to see each other.

Pick a location that’s easy to remember and find, like a certain food stall, a large flag, or a shaded tree near the entrance. If you ever lose touch, everyone in your group will know to meet there at a certain time.

11. Don’t Overdo It on the First Day

Since it’s your first time, you might be too excited to listen to the rhythm and melodies of your favorite artists and likely want to run from stage to stage and see everything right away, but try to pace yourself. Festivals usually last more than one day, and you’ll need your energy for the rest of the event.

Take breaks, sit in the shade, eat proper meals, and don’t feel guilty if you need to rest for a bit. You’ll enjoy the whole experience more if you’re not totally drained by the end of day one. The goal is to have fun, not to burn out.

12. Be Mindful of Your Alcohol Intake

Drinking can be part of the fun at festivals for many people, but it’s important to know your limits. Drinking alcohol under extreme heat and excitement can be a dangerous combination if you are not careful. So, make sure to drink slowly, limit your alcohol intake, eat before and after, stay hydrated, and know your limit.

It’s also a good idea to look out for your friends and make sure they’re doing okay too. Having fun is great, but your safety and well-being should always come first. You’d want to enjoy the whole festival, not just the first few hours of it. 

Wrapping Up

Attending your first music festival can be exciting and terrifying, but that doesn’t mean you cannot have the best time of your life. Regardless of whether you’re coming with your friends or by yourself, these tips are here to help you make the most out of the first festival.

Honestly, we would recommend you go with friends because it’s more fun that way. But if you prefer to go by yourself, that’s okay, too. Just make sure to be extra careful with your belongings and who you interact with throughout the festival. We hope you have a great time!