If you’re new to traveling, packing for a 4-day weekend can seem like a daunting task, especially if you’re only using a carry-on. How do you fit everything you need into one bag without overpacking? And if that trip happens to be a music festival, the challenge gets even trickier because you want to wear your biggest and boldest outfits, but with what room??? Plus, let’s be real—you do not want to be the person struggling to haul an oversized suitcase through a campground or getting stuck at the festival entrance with an unapproved item.
The good news? A little strategic packing goes a long way. Whether you’re prepping for a festival or just a long weekend away, these tips will help you streamline your packing process so you have everything you need without the extra bulk.
Check out our segment on FOX 5
Plan Your Outfits Ahead of Time
The best way to utilize space in your luggage, don’t pack anything you don’t need. Place each outfit together, fold it into the biggest piece in the look (usually the pants). Then, I organize each outfit in the order by the day I plan on wearing them. This takes a little bit of forethought, but it’s essential for keeping my suitcase organized the entire weekend.
Festivals are the perfect excuse to go bold with your fashion choices. Bright colors, fun patterns, and statement pieces are all fair game. I love this vibrant, neon crop top from South Moon Under—it’s a great pop of color that will fit right in at any festival.
For traveling in general, layering is key. If you’re out all day, the temperature can swing from hot afternoons to chilly nights, so your best bet is to bring pieces that can be easily added or removed. A short-sleeve button-up or a lightweight jacket can go a long way in making sure you’re comfortable throughout the day.
Cute Accessories That Are Still Functional
Accessories are where you can really show off your personal style, but they also need to be functional. Keep in mind that whatever you bring into the festival, you’ll have to carry with you all day.
First things first: check the weather. This will help you decide whether to bring a sunhat and sunglasses or a rain poncho. If your festival is in an open field, sun protection is a must. A bandana, bucket hat, and sunglasses are solid choices. Stay cool with a handheld fan or a cooling neck wrap can make a huge difference.
Bags are another biggie. A small backpack, crossbody sling, or fanny pack is ideal for keeping your hands free while making sure you have your essentials—phone, wallet, keys, and a portable charger—on hand. Some festivals require clear bags, so double-check the venue’s guidelines before packing.
And let’s not forget festival makeup. Glitter and bold colors are always a fun addition to your looks. Plus, Anthropologie has Barrière skin support patches to enhance any look. The stickers are great for accessorizing, take up little space in your luggage and they hydrate and protect your skin.
Comfortable Shoes Are a Must
Shoes are probably the bulkiest items in your luggage, so the trick is to wear your biggest pair while traveling. Two is the magic number because you don’t want to overpack, but you also don’t want to wear the same pair of shoes all weekend- your feet need a break!
But here’s the golden rule: your shoes need to be comfortable. You’ll be standing, dancing, and walking all day, and if your shoes are killing your feet, you won’t be having a good time. Opt for comfy sneakers or broken-in boots—anything that you know you can last in all day
Checking the weather is also important here. If it rains, you don’t want to be caught in anything made of suede or real leather. Don’t ruin your good shoes!
Packing Cubes
Packing cubes are a great way to stay organized on any trip. I like the CalPak compression cubes from The Container Store because the double zippers allow you to save even more space. I can fit 4-5 outfits into a cube and fit my intimates and PJs in another, and they both fit perfectly into one side of my suitcase.
I’m sure you could also fit more if you like the rolling method that some packers suggest. I’ve heard it allows you to save even more room, but I like to layer my clothes by outfit so that everything stays organized, and this way, I save time without having to rummage around to find what I need. I also find this method keeps things from getting too wrinkled in my suitcase.
Stay Hydrated
Being outside all day—especially in the sun—means hydration is essential. A lightweight, refillable water bottle is a must. Many festivals have hydration stations, but some have restrictions on the type of bottles you can bring, so check the festival’s website for details. Make note of where the hydration stations are. The lines can be long so be sure you schedule your water break into your day.
Electrolyte packets are also a great idea. They take up no space in your luggage, and they’ll help keep you from crashing midday. Nothing ruins a festival faster than dehydration. I love the LMNT salt packets. You can find them at The Vitamin Shoppe. They are the perfect electrolytes because they don’t include any additives and they have a variety of flavors. Pro tip: Grapefruit is hands down the best flavor.
Pack Your Favorite Prepackaged Snacks
While there is food inside the venues, I’d highly recommend bringing some of your own snacks that won’t go bad or melt. If you’re at a festival with a campsite, things like trail mix, crackers, sardines, jerky, and dried fruit snacks will be your best friend. If you’re in a hotel or Airbnb, you have more flexibility with perishable items. Eating a full meal before you leave for the day ensures that you will be full, which saves you money because you won’t have to buy every meal in the venue each day.
Obviously, if you’re a coffee girl like me, you’ll want to have a plan for coffee when you first wake up. Whether it’s cold brew or a to-go pour-over, make sure you pack what you’ll need.
Toiletries
For travel-friendly skincare, I swear by the Cadence leak proof magnetic containers from The Container Store. They’re small enough to fit in any bag, easy to clean, and they keep all my skincare essentials from leaking. I like them because they are easy to refill and clean after each trip. If you’re staying at a campground, hygiene is a little trickier, so you’ll want to come prepared. Body wipes and dry shampoo will be your best friends.
Oh, and sunscreen. Seriously, don’t forget sunscreen. You can also opt for an Isle of Paradise self-tanner (Sephora) if you want to add some color.
