The student media organization of California State University Northridge

Daily Sundial

The student media organization of California State University Northridge

Daily Sundial

The student media organization of California State University Northridge

Daily Sundial

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Ways to make life easier at music festivals

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MCT
The crowd cheers for the band Haim on the first day of the second weekend of the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, Calif., on Friday, April 18, 2014. (Jay L. Clendenin/Los Angeles Times/MCT)

If you’re planing three days of mischief and musical bliss at a spring music festival, it’s important to pack for the main event.

We’ve put together five essential items that will get you through the fun, heat and crowds. This roundup of all-things festival is sure to have you fully prepared whether you’re “hotel-ing,” driving in for one day or camping at Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival and Stagecoach.

  • Empty CamelBak or Empty Water Bottle

It’s easy to forget your body needs to be hydrated when you’re dancing in the sun. Be sure to bring an empty CamelBak and fill it up once inside the festival gates. Find an affordable CamelBak here.

Sealed water bottles are not allowed into the venue at Coachella or Stagecoach, but empty bottles are. Chug water constantly to avoid passing out or any other medical emergency.

  • Cash

To save time before you catch your favorite artists, it’s important to get cash out before you arrive. Festival ATM machines tend to charge a fee and have long lines. Most transactions require cash anyway. Keep it safe and split the cash up in small amounts.

  • Spray Sunscreen

Spray sunscreen is quicker and easier to use than lotion. No matter how tan you might be, everyone needs sunscreen. Bring enough to share with friends. Also, skin cancer and the Indio sun are no joke.

  • Phine Battery Case and Charger

Invest in a battery charging case for your mobile phone. The built-in rechargeable batteries will keep your phone alive. You can find affordable case prices on Amazon.

If you don’t want to buy a new case, remember to bring your charger along. There’s plenty of charging stations inside the festival. Put your phone on airplane mode and turn down the screen’s brightness. Airplane mode disables your Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, so you won’t be able to receive or make calls and text messages. No matter what, don’t rely on your phone for everything and plan to lose cell service.

  • A Spare Set of Keys

Bring an extra set of car keys if you plan to drive or camp. Make sure to give the keys to the most responsible person in your group, and don’t hide them in the car. Also, bring an extra hotel key if you’re not outdoor camping.

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