So, being a first time camping festival goer can be scary. Okay, well for me at least since I'm not the most "outdoorsy" type, but hey "SYFI" right? It took my friends, who are music festival experts, a little bit of convincing to get me to go to Okeechobee Music and Arts Festival, which is coming up in a few short weeks. I truly cannot wait to witness performers like Usher, Wiz Kalifa, Flume, and Kings of Leon kill it on stage.
Getting ready for this trip, however, is much more than just buying a ticket, shout out to Shannon Utter and Just College for the hookup! It takes a lot of preparation and supplies to fully enjoy this experience. I mean, camping out for four days without a hot shower or my own bed is a scary thought for me. Keep in mind, though I am still tent-less, I thought I'd share some advice that was given to me for this four-day camping excursion and how to prepare for it.
1. Weather
The first thing my friends warned me about was the weather. I mean I think we all remember the disaster of Tomorrow World 2015. I've heard complete horror stories from those who attended, from completely drenched tents, the muddy ground, and endless walks to find an Uber. I swear that is my worst nightmare. From talking to multiple of my friends, their first word of advice was to prepare for any weather, rain or shine. I'm really keeping my fingers crossed for the sunny weather, though. I'm for sure bringing my poncho, a ton of towels, and my rain boots just in case.
2. Food And Water
Make sure that you bring a decent amount of food and a ton of water. I mean, it's really hard to consider how and where you are going to store this food for the next four days. My friends told me they lived off of hot dogs (yum), Nature Valley bars, and eggs last year. Though none of this sounds too appealing, I heard their food trucks are great, so I'm definitely pumped for those. Since I've heard the showers are a little expensive and the lines are super excessive, my friends recommended using jugs of water and bathing themselves. The thought of this already makes me miss my bath.
3. Shelter
Well, I should have probably gone and done this by now, but buy a tent. I've heard of some people staying in their cars, which is totally cool and all, but I think having a "home" to go back to after a long day of concerts would be the ideal option. In the tent, be sure to have loads of toilet paper, sunscreen, and battery packs. I'm also investing in those chargeable iPhone cases.
4. Good Attitude And Vibes
Lastly, I think the most important part is to bring a good attitude and good vibes. Though I am not into camping and I'm really into showering and my comfy bed, I'm super into good music and hanging out with an awesome group of people. I cannot wait for this electric weekend and wild performances that I'll get to experience. I hope to see ya all there!
