How to Survive an Outdoor Music Festival

Summer concert extravaganzas are a lot of fun, but present a lot of challenges, too. This checklist will help you make the most of the experience.

Instructions

Step 1: Bring cash and water Bring more cash than you think you'll need. ATM lines are long, fees are high, and food and beverages are expensive. The same goes for water: it's important to stay hydrated and water station lines can be brutal.
TIP: Fill milk jugs with water, freeze them, and stash in your cooler.
Step 2: Dress comfortably Wear comfortable, closed, waterproof walking shoes. Consider wearing cargo pants so you have plenty of pocket space; stuff a spare T-shirt into one. Use carabiners to secure your keys and a water bottle.
Step 3: Bring a tent and a tarp Besides bringing a tent to sleep in, take along a tarp for eating under and escaping the sun. Invest in heavy-duty stakes; the ones that come with the tent and tarp may be too flimsy to penetrate the ground. Mark it with an unusual flag and bring a flashlight so you can easily find it, day or night.
TIP: Lock valuables in your car trunk; they won't be safe in your tent.
Step 4: Be prepared for any weather Bring plenty of sunscreen even if it's not sunny, plus a hat; a sunburned scalp and ears are no fun. Wear tall rain boots if the forecast is gloomy, and pack a pocket poncho just in case. If it does rain, stash your cell phone in a sealable plastic bag.
TIP: Trash bags and duct tape can be turned into rain gear in an emergency.
Step 5: Supply your own wipes Have tissues on hand when you use the portable toilets. Use baby wipes as a shower stand-in.
Step 6: Take earplugs Take earplugs along in case the music is uncomfortably loud, you can't stand one of the bands, or you just need a little peace and quiet. Throat lozenges are a good idea, too, after days of yelling over music.
FACT: Milwaukee, Wisconsin's Summerfest is the world's largest outdoor music festival, with as many as a million attendees over 11 days.