• Knowing what to pack helps you stay comfortable, dry, and energized throughout the event.
• Planning for accommodation, budgeting, and festival navigation keeps things stress-free.
• Whether you’re with a group or solo, communication and flexibility are key to a smooth experience.
• Festival veterans recommend focusing on comfort, trying new things, and embracing unexpected moments.

There’s nothing quite like the energy of Gather Round. The music, the crowds, the buzz of anticipation in the air—it all hits different when you’re surrounded by fans just as hyped as you are. But let’s be real: there’s a fine line between carefree and unpreparedness. The last thing you want is to be frantically searching for sunscreen or dealing with a dead phone when your favorite act hits the stage.

That’s where a little planning goes a long way. Whether it’s your first time heading to Gather Round or you’re back for round two (or ten), knowing what to pack and how to prep will completely change your experience. This guide is here to help you think through it all, from the must-have gear to the underrated hacks. So before you zip up your duffel and race out the door, let’s talk about what should go.

The Essentials You’ll Actually Use

It’s easy to get swept up in the idea that you must bring everything. You don’t. Most people show up with far too much and end up dragging around stuff they’ll never use—or worse, dealing with a bag bursting at the seams when it’s 30 degrees and the crowds are closing in.

First, check the forecast and dress for the weather, not just the ‘Gram. Gather Round has been known to throw a curveball or two in the climate department. Think layers—light ones you can peel off or pile on depending on whether the sun’s blazing or a chilly breeze rolls in. Pack a lightweight rain jacket (even if it looks like clear skies) and a decent hat or cap. And don’t forget sunscreen—seriously, don’t be that person who turns tomato-red by day two.

Next: stay hydrated and keep your gear charged. Bring a reusable water bottle. Many festival grounds have refill stations, and you’ll thank yourself when you’re not paying five bucks for bottled water. A portable phone charger is also non-negotiable. Signal can get patchy with that many people around, and your phone battery will drain quicker than usual when you’re snapping pics, texting your crew, or navigating the app.

Comfort is also key. If you can bring a compact folding chair or a lightweight picnic mat, do it. Your feet (and back) will thank you when the midday slump hits. Also worth slipping into your bag are hand sanitizer, lip balm, a mini first-aid kit, and something to snack on between food stalls—think protein bars or trail mix.

The truth is, you probably don’t need five outfit changes or a full makeup kit. Prioritize the things that will keep you cool, dry, comfortable, and energized. Leave everything else behind and travel light.

How to Plan Ahead Like a Pro

Packing is just one part of the puzzle. The real magic of Gather Round happens when you show up prepared—not just with the right gear, but with a plan that makes the whole weekend smooth, not stressful.

First, secure your Gather Round tickets today if you haven’t already. Seriously, don’t wait. The best passes and seating options tend to disappear fast, especially as hype builds closer to the event. Lock them in early so you won’t have to scramble later or be stuck overpaying on resell platforms.

Once tickets are sorted, it’s time to think about logistics. If you’re traveling in from out of town, book accommodation as soon as possible. Hotels and Airbnbs nearby sell out quickly, and prices skyrocket as the date gets closer. If you’re driving, research parking options now—not all venues are easy to park near, and some require a separate pass.

Get familiar with the festival layout ahead of time. Most events post maps and set times a few weeks before the big day. Download the festival’s app if they have one, or save a screenshot of the lineup. Figure out where the entrances are, where the restrooms will be, and which food vendors you’re dying to try. A little recon means you’ll spend less time wandering and more time enjoying the event.

It’s also smart to think through your budget. Between merch booths, craft beer tents, and gourmet food trucks, it’s easy to drop way more cash than you intended. Set a daily limit (and maybe bring some money as backup in case card readers get overloaded).

Lastly, don’t try to see everything. It’s tempting to build an overstuffed schedule. Still, the best moments usually happen in the unscripted pockets—the set you didn’t expect to love, the surprise guest appearance, the spontaneous dance party with strangers. Plan just enough to keep things moving, but leave room for magic.

Group Vibes and Solo Adventures

Heading to Gather Round with your favorite people can be an absolute blast. There’s nothing like singing your heart out next to your best mates or planning a group outfit that turns heads. But if you’ve ever tried to coordinate a big crew at a festival, you already know it can get a little chaotic. The key? Set expectations early. Choose a general meeting spot if anyone gets separated (spoiler: someone always does), and agree on a few can’t-miss acts you’ll all hit together. Outside of that, it’s okay to split up—festival FOMO is real, but so is friend fatigue.

For those doing Gather Round solo, you’re in for a different kind of adventure—and trust us, it can be just as epic. Going solo allows you to chase the music you love without compromise. Not feeling a set? Wander over to another stage. Need a food break? Go whenever you want. The vibe at Gather Round is super welcoming, and you’ll find plenty of opportunities to chat with fellow fans, especially in queues, chill zones, or during shared moments in the crowd. If you’re up for it, hop into a community group or forum ahead of time—people often post about casual meetups or rideshares.

One of the most underrated tips: stay connected. Service can be patchy at festivals, so swap numbers with your group (and write one down somewhere old-school, just in case). Portable walkie-talkies might sound retro, but some groups swear by them for big festivals. And whether you’re solo or with others, set a simple check-in rule: even a quick “I’m good” text goes a long way.

Pro Tips from Gather Round Regulars

There’s no better way to level up your festival game than learning from those who’ve been through it all—sun, rain, dust storms, and the late-night food truck hunts. The regulars know what’s up, and lucky for you, they tend to be generous with their wisdom.

One common piece of advice? Don’t underestimate the power of a good pair of shoes. You’ll be walking, standing, and dancing for hours. Forget fashion for a minute—go with comfort, and your feet will love you for it. Also, bring a backup pair of socks. Yes, socks. They weigh nothing and can rescue your day if it rains or your feet get sweaty.

When it comes to food, scope out the vendors early and make note of the ones with shorter lines. Everyone rushes to the same stalls at mealtimes, so hitting up lesser-known options during off-hours is a pro move. Bonus points if you try something new—Gather Round usually features awesome local eats that surpass the standard burger and chips.

If you’re planning to buy merch, get it early. Stock runs out quickly, especially for the most popular acts. Plus, nobody wants to carry a giant hoodie around all day. Pro tip: stash it in your car (if it’s close) or bring a foldable tote to keep it safe without adding bulk to your backpack.

Last but not least: don’t let a little chaos ruin your day. Maybe it rains. Maybe your favorite artist’s set overlaps with another. Maybe your phone dies halfway through the night. Gather Round always has its wildcards—but that’s part of what makes it unforgettable. Flexibility, a good attitude, and spontaneity go a long way. So roll with it. That unexpected detour might end up being the best part of your weekend.

Conclusion

Packing right and planning smart can change your Gather Round experience. You’ll spend less time stressing and more time soaking in the music, the vibe, and the unexpected magic that always seems to find its way into a festival weekend. Whether you’re in it for the headliners, the food, or just the atmosphere, being a little prepared frees you up to be fully present when the fun kicks off.

So lay your gear out, check your weather app, text your crew, and make sure your phone is charged. Once you’ve done all that, all left is to show up and have an incredible time. Here’s to good music, great memories, and a Gather Round weekend you won’t forget.

By Chris Bates