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I mentioned festival season in my previous blog post, and then realized that I lied on a podcast. I said that one of my most popular blog posts was what to bring to Boston Calling Musical Festival, and recently realized that was an Instagram post that never actually made it to the blog.

Even though this year Boston Calling Music Festival won’t be taking place, Coachella and Breakaway, as well as other music festivals will be. And honestly for the year, this season starts concert season for me regardless.

I attended my first concert of the season with Andrew, and we loved it. My life had been missing live music for sure. Twice was a much needed fix and while I don’t currently have anything lined up, I still already can’t wait for whatever my next concert will be.

That said, here are my music festival and concert must haves.

What to Bring

Above anything else, you need the right size bag. This will very much so be dependent on the venue, so you HAVE to make sure to do your research first. For example TD Garden doesn’t have to be clear, but must not exceed 6″ x 4″ x 1.5″ which is essentially a wristlet. While Gillette Stadium is 12″ x 12″ x 6″ but must be clear.

If the bag policy allows, here is what I almost always try to make sure to bring, especially for outdoor venues.

SPF

I prefer a travel size spray, but honestly anything is fine as long as you have some form of UV protection. And one for your face.

Lip Balm/Tint

One with SPF is a must for me.

Portable Fan

If it’s hot, a fan is nice to have. I don’t like feeling sweaty and a nice little breeze can come in clutch.

Portable Phone Charger

You will not catch me with a dead phone. I will never not have a portable phone charger. Sometimes I pack my usb charge cord as well (just in case, some festivals have charging stations).

Water Bottle

This is festival specific, the days are long and it can get hot. Stay hydrated out there! A collapsible one is ideal for packing purposes.

Earplugs

I myself rarely use these, but the one time I didn’t pack them, Andrew asked for them and I felt terrible. You don’t realize how loud it is until your ears are ringing the entire way home. Also good to have if you get overstimulated easily, there is a lot going on and earplugs can help.

Anti-Chafe Stick

If your thighs will be touching, you need this. Period.

Flip Flops

Depending on the bag policy, I’ll bring flip flops. You can also clip them to a smaller bag if really needed. The amount of times I’ve worn boots and regretted life but had to suck it up going home because I didn’t have a change of shoes? Never again. Bare foot is an option, just not for me.

Trends to Try

Concerts and music festivals are kind of like cosplay. Hear me out, you can wear something that you love the look of, but might feel out of place wearing it in any other context. This makes it the perfect opportunity to try a fashion trend you may not be so sure of.

Here are a few trends that I’ll be giving a try.

Crochet Clothing

I previously mentioned a matching set that I’d picked up after seeing it in store. I failed to mention that the set was crochet, so if you didn’t click through the link to check it out, you might have missed that detail. I have yet to wear it, but know the top would be cute for let’s say the Bruno Mars concert later this summer. Yes, this is my not so subtle attempt to try and manifest it.

Jelly Shoes

Admittedly, I can be a bit reluctant to jump on trends that are nostalgic. Growing up I often dressed in a way that got me called weird. So seeing things being loved that I was picked on for, doesn’t exactly sit well with me. For example, crocs. It took me a bit to fall back in love with them, but now that I have, I’m happy I got over myself. On that same wave length, jelly shoes have been making a major comeback and this time around I will be embracing them early instead of denying my inner child of her happiness.

I got a clear pair from Melissa Shoes that I’ll be trying out. Once I do, I will make sure and report back. Since ordering them, I learned that they also have a collaboration with Dr. Scholl’s. As an elder millennial, that is something worth giving a try just for comfort purposes. If you’ve never been to a music festival or concert before, there is a lot of walking and standing involved. So comfort is key. Especially with these knees and this back.

Sneakers with a Twist

Comfortable footwear for me, often looks like sneakers. Specifically Adidas Sambas are my shoe of choice. If trying trends isn’t something you’re really into, you can always go with a classic sneaker with a bit of a twist. Like adding little charms to your shoe laces, or swapping out your shoe laces for ones in a bright color or lace material. There’s also options, including embroidered shoes or metallic ones.

Fun Fanny Packs

Fanny Packs in my opinion are never going anywhere, they’re the best bag for running errands and are great when you don’t need to carry too much. Plus they just look cool. I’ve done a blog post just on fanny packs, and I know I not the only one who loves them.

I personally love the ones I currently own, but do have my heart set on the Clare V. Grande Fanny, I just need to pick which one.

Again, I must reiterate, please please please triple check the bag policy of your venue. If you don’t, you won’t be able to bring your bag in and may have to rent a locker or worse…

Could this have been two separate blog posts? Yes. Should it have been? Probably. But I was feeling chatty and up for a challenge. So, you’re welcome. I hope.