If you’re like me, thinking about being at a rave in that heat can be slightly overwhelming. But if you’re also like me, you know there are ways to beat the heat to be ready to have a fun-filled weekend, despite the temperature! You can come ready to beat the heat yourself with the tips below:
5. Pack a Water Bottle
I know this seems like an obvious one, but do yourself a favor and pack a bottle for your mini backpack, with a carabiner to clip to your pants, or invest in a hydration backpack to stay hydrated at the festival. Whether you're drinking, or staying sober, you’re going to need water -- and lots of it. There’s nothing less motivating to stay hydrated than having to pay for a new water bottle each time, so save your money and bring your own refillable bottle.
iHeartRaves has an awesome selection of hydration packs so you don’t have to settle for one that doesn’t match your outfit. Check them out here. Just make sure it’s empty when you get to the security checkpoint.
I’ve found the hydration packs are great for a group because they hold a lot more water than just one bottle of water. When it’s just me, I usually am OK with one bottle that I refill and hold in my backpack.
Pro Tip: if you and your squad is driving to the festival, pack some FROZEN bottles in the car for the end of the night with even some snacks if you want. You’ll thank me later.
4. Light Layers and Sunscreen
110% pack your sunscreen. I would recommend bringing a sealed bottle (the sample sizes at Target or Walmart are great for this exact reason) or getting in touch with the festival about whether or not an open container is allowed inside.
Personally, I’m a big fan of the cooling sunscreen on super hot days. I also think the Sport option is a good idea too because we’ll all be sweating a lot, and this helps from it just washing off. Also according to SkinCancer.org - you should apply sunscreen 30 mins prior to heading outside, and then reapply every 2 hours. I’d suggest maybe even more if you feel it sweating off. You can also kill two birds with one stone by buying glitter sunscreen, like this
If you’re super nervous about being exposed to the sun for long hours, pack some light, loose layers to wear. Light layers, for example, is kimonos, mesh tops, and of course, they're some real SPF options as well.
3. Learn the Map
I feel like this is a stellar recommendation for any event, but like seriously, this is SUPER important for an event that has any extreme weather conditions. Make sure to make note of the water refill areas, shade areas, and cool-down zones. It's also a good idea to make a note of the med tent - they are there to help you out if you start experiencing symptoms of dehydration.
2. Spray Bottles
Spray bottles and misting fans are a favorite way of mine to stay cool, and make friends! Check the festival's rules about bringing in an empty bottle. You can use a hair tie around the top of it, and then some ribbon to make a little holder so you can keep it on your shoulder! I’m probably rocking this event solo, so I plan on bringing one because it will be easy in to start talking to people and making friends! Just make sure to not spray anyone with a phone or a nice camera!
1. Rest, Rest, Rest
Make sure to take a break from the crowded stage to sit down in some shade, get some food, refill your water and let your body recover. I love checking out all of the food options, finding a meal, then resting in the shade for a bit before I head to my next set! Try to plan ahead where your “open times” will be in between sets so that you are ready ahead of time to head to the food trucks. It’s easy to get lost in the headliners and forget to stop for a break!
R&R time is also a great time to get your photos, cuz I know you’ll be rocking some fun looks and need some squad pics to remember the day! Here are a few accessories I love that add pizzazz to photos!
What's your pro-tip for saying cool at a festival? Tell us in the comments below!
