Coachella kicked off its first of two weekends of music, camping, and outrageous fun this past weekend, and if you are anything like me, you stalked the whole event via Instagram and Snapchat, praying that one year you will have the money and time to go.
But, when I got over being extremely jealous of those actually in California for Coachella, I realized that this means one thing -- festival season is officially happening. It is no longer in the distant future. Over the next few months, festivals like Bonnaroo, Burning Man, and Governor's Ball will leave thousands of people sunburned, poor, and incredibly happy.
Here are some tips to prepare you for whichever festival you plan to attend this year.
1. Pack sunscreen.
While every music festival is a unique experience, there is one thing that every single one has in common: the outdoors. Whether it's in the desert, on the beach, or in the concrete jungle -- you are definitely going to be spending copious amounts of time in the sun. You do not want to spend the first day having a blast and then the next week crying because you got sun poisoning and no amount of aloe vera will help you. Just pack your favorite sunblock and lather it on before the first show and you will be good to go (but remember the advice of mothers everywhere and don't forget to re-apply)!
2. Budget!
Festivals tend to get expensive. From the actual tickets and the transportation and accommodations, to the food and drinks, it will all start to add up. Make sure you plan in advance how much you are willing to spend on each part of your trip, and then give yourself a little bit of wiggle room and emergency funds. There would be nothing worse than finding yourself stranded in a strange city with $3.66 in your checking account.
3. Get that festival wardrobe together ASAP.
Channel your inner Kendall Jenner and bust out the high-waisted shorts, fringe vests, and floral headbands because this is probably one of the only times that everyone will completely understand and accept your faux-hippie outfit. If you are ballin' on a budget like me, make sure to the start the shopping a few months early so you can spread it out -- plus, it's a good excuse to go the mall over and over to hunt for the best deals and outfits you can find.
4. Know your limits ahead of time.
Festivals can get crazy, but you only have to get as crazy as you want. You need to know before you show up, what your limits are. Knowing ahead of time and letting your festival crew know what those limits are can really help avoid peer-pressure or awkward situations.
5. PFD (post-festival depression) is real.
Just know going into the festival that when you come out you are going to absolutely hate that first day back to work, and you are going to be sad simply listening to Drake on the radio when you saw him live a few days ago. PFD usually fades after a few days or weeks (depending on the person), but just be prepared for the days following the festival to be bittersweet.
