At the time writing, there are a few weeks left until everyone starts arriving in Kingston Downs in Rome, GA.  While Atlanta is about an hour away, the fresh air and chill vibes will make you think you are hours away from the big city.  As someone who has attended several camping festivals in various countries, I would like to think I have some helpful tips for anyone who has never been to this festival, or any other for that matter, or would like to make the experience more enjoyable.  Here are some tips that have helped me learn to not only survive, but leave having enjoyed the whole experience.

Written by Jessica Trail

Remember, this is a music festival, so sorting out a plan for the music should be one of your top priorities.  First, secure tickets for the festival.  Second, arrange accommodations be it, RV, tent camping or hotel.  Do not forget to look into the fun add-ons such as pool parties and locker rentals, which can be purchased if desired.  It is then helpful to review who you are interested in seeing from the lineup.  See who is playing on each stage in the lineup and what time slot they are playing at for each day.

Once tickets are purchased, accommodations are set, add-ons are selected, and know whom you are planning to see at which stage, it is then time to get packing.  Remember to review the items allowed and prohibited for both camping sites and festival grounds.  Every festival is a little different, so make sure you review festival rules and regulations carefully before you attend any festival to see if anything has changed!  Imagine’s “Don’t Leave Home Without It” and “You Don’t Need It To Survive, But You’ll Be Happy You Did” lists are quite good, but I have a few more recommendations to add:

For clothing, it is important to think about both hot days and cool nights.  Also, plan for the unthinkable such as rain for the entire festival, though hopefully it will not.  As a general travel tip, pack 1.5 times the number of socks and undergarments you will need because things can and do happen!

I’m sure some of you have been thinking about this years’ festival outfits since last year and already have everything ready to go.  For those that haven’t, here is something to consider.  Of course, you will want to wear something fun, but don’t underestimate the luxury of comfort!  I am bad at following my own tips at times, but dark colors are not always your friend for outdoor festivals.  Lighter colors are key!  But, if you must wear dark colors, I suggest something light weight such as a tank top.

Remember the add-ons we spoke of earlier?  Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit!  Even if you didn’t purchase the pool package, they are comfortable to wear on a hot GA day!  Along those lines, sunscreen will be your best friend.  Use it, but more importantly, remember to reapply.  There is nothing worse than a car ride or plane ride when you have a sunburn.

While we’re on the topic of clothing, the super cute shoes you bought just for the festival might seem like a fantastic idea, but your feet (and back) will thank you for wearing something semi-practical.  As someone who has been attending festivals for over 20-years, I promise you I never regretted the times I was comfortable!

Other festival essentials are numerous.  Earplugs, neck / handheld fans, toiletries if you intend to shower (wipes if you don’t), makeup, face paint, body paint, feminine hygiene products (guys, bring them too because you never know when you might be someone’s hero!), toilet paper, towels, bug spray, water bottle, hydration pack, a hat or two, sunglasses, powerbank / cables for your phone, trash bags and yet more earplugs.

In case of rain, it may be worth your while if you also pack boots, waterproof bags for essentials, an umbrella and / or poncho.  If you have selected tent camping, it may be silly to say, but do NOT forget your tent, air mattress, sleeping bag, blankets, pillows, and a flashlight!

Now that you have gone through your checklist, and maybe added a few more items from the festivals list, or any of my recommendations, there is just one last thing to do after you arrive:  Don’t forget to have an amazing time!  Don’t let someone else’s bad vibes ruin your fun time.  Bad moments are temporary, but memories of amazing moments last forever.  I can’t wait to see everyone there!

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Main Photo Credit: DV Photo Video