Onsite Update & Pack Like a Pro: Essential Tips for Festival Camping

Aug 1-4

Wednesday July 24, 2024

by Pickathon

If you’re anything like us, you’re a busy bee wondering what to pack for next weekend. Will you start now or leave it until the night before? That is the grand question! We’re big into the choose your own adventure lifestyle so we’ve polled the community, asked the pros (aka Pickathon staff) and compiled your one-stop-shop for packing essentials and reminders here. Bookmark it and come back to it!

Before you dive in, check out the latest on site update from Pendarvis Farm!

If you’re anything like us, you’re a busy bee wondering what to pack for next weekend. Will you start now or leave it until the night before? That is the grand question! We’re big into the choose your own adventure lifestyle so we’ve polled the community, asked the pros (aka Pickathon staff) and compiled your one-stop-shop for packing essentials and reminders here. Bookmark it and come back to it!

Before you dive in, check out the latest on site update from Pendarvis Farm!

Pack Like a Pro…

Packing for a festival can be a daunting task, but with the right strategy, you can ensure you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here’s how to pack like a pro for Pickathon or any other festival:

1. Plan Ahead

Make a List: Write down everything you need. This helps you stay organized and ensures you don’t forget anything.
Check the Weather: Knowing the forecast will help you pack appropriately for sun, rain, or chilly nights. Spoiler alert: the weather looks great right now!
Map and Schedule: Familiarize yourself with the Pickathon map and schedule to plan your festival days.
Travel Arrangements: Consider riding your bike or taking the Pickathon Shuttle or carpooling to reduce your carbon footprint and enjoy a smoother arrival.

2. Essentials

Tent: Choose a tent that’s easy to set up and spacious enough for you and your gear.
Sleeping Bag and Mat: Opt for a comfortable sleeping bag suitable for the weather. A sleeping mat or air mattress adds extra comfort.
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated with a sturdy, reusable water bottle. Many festivals have water stations for refills.
Portable Phone Charger: Keep your devices charged for the entire festival.

3. Must-Haves

Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
Hat and Sunglasses: Shield yourself from the sun and stay cool.
Comfortable Clothing: Pack layers to adapt to changing temperatures. Include items like sun shirts, pants, shorts, tank tops, and dresses with pockets.
First Aid Kit: Be prepared for minor injuries with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.
Snacks: Bring non-perishable snacks like granola bars, nuts, and dried fruit.

4. Camping Gear

Bandanas: Multi-purpose for protection from dust, sweat, or as a makeshift towel.
Boots: Sturdy and comfortable footwear is essential for walking around the festival grounds.
Lightweight Blanket: Useful for extra warmth at night or sitting on during the day.
Insect Repellent: Keep the bugs at bay with a good repellent.
Wet Wipes/Hand Sanitizer: Essential for quick clean-ups and maintaining hygiene.
Toiletries: Include basics like toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and deodorant.

5. Comfort and Convenience

Folding Chair or Blanket: Great for relaxing at your campsite or watching performances.
Earplugs: Ensure a good night’s sleep despite the noise.
Trash Bags: Keep your campsite clean and pack out your trash.
Cooler with Ice Packs: Keep your food and drinks cold.
Cooking Supplies: If allowed, bring a portable stove, utensils, and biodegradable soap for cleaning.
Map of the Festival Grounds: Know where everything is, from stages to bathrooms. There are several maps placed throught Pendavis Farm to keep you oriented.

6. Final Checks

Festival Tickets/Wristbands: Ensure you have purchased your entry passes.
Identification and Health Insurance Card: For picking up your tickets and emergencies.
Emergency Contact Information: In case you need to reach someone.

Pro Tips:

Arrive Early: Secure a prime camping spot and settle in before the festivities begin. Early arrival starts Thursday!
Stay Organized: Keep your campsite tidy for a more comfortable stay.
Stay Hydrated: Use the free water stations to refill your bottle regularly.
Plan Your Schedule: Check the festival lineup and plan your must-see performances.
Take Breaks: Relax and recharge to avoid burnout during the festival.
Bring a Tarp: Useful for creating shade or an extra layer of protection under your tent.
Meet Your Neighbors: Connect with fellow campers and share the Pickathon experience.
Respect the Environment: Follow Leave No Trace principles to keep the farm beautiful.

Remember, tent camping is free for weekend pass holders, adding great value to your festival experience. Enjoy the natural surroundings, community atmosphere, and make the most of your time at Pickathon!

Packing Advice From the Community

First time camping in the woods at Pickathon? Here’s some invaluable advice from our seasoned Pickathon community:

Bring some sort of clippers and a small shovel/ trowel to cut small vegetation, like blackberry vines or level out bumps. Cord and tapestry/ sheet you can string between trees to create privacy walls

My biggest advice is to pack like you’re backpacking.

Definitely go grab a tent spot, as early as you can (Thursday yah?). Folks already said a wagon.

Bring a mister spray bottle. Ear plugs…

borrow or find a backpacking backpack for you and the 11 year old. I tell my kids they have to pack in their own stuff.

You can use gear drop to take all of your stuff to one area.

We realized we could’ve gone down hill vs up. Would’ve saved a lot of walking. Don’t be afraid to infill, make friends with your neighbors.

It’s a good idea to grab a light piece of equipment and head up to claim a spot as early as you can then go back to the welcome lot and unload your car at the gear drop that will unload nearest. It means two trips to the welcome lot but finding sites is hard. Or if you have an extra grownup, one can stay back to unload at gear drop once you know which one. It’s nice to go back to cool off and rest midday- so whatever you need for a woods ‘living room. Gear drop is great, but you still have to get it up to whatever site you pick so bring what you need but also pack like you’re walking. And they can take a while so we usually take the basics to hold a spot, and then go wander and get a snack while we wait for the rest of the gear to arrive.

Bring a compatible cart for sure, for hauling stuff and sleeping littles. Even better if you can have it covered. It’ll be hot. Baby wipes. Bubbles! This list could get really long, haha.

It is not a campground, just the woods. Find a level spot.

Look for a spot in the Family Camp area. It is closer and you ‘ll be surrounded by other families.

Camping at Pickathon is more than just a place to sleep—it’s an integral part of the festival experience. With the right preparations, you can make your stay comfortable, enjoyable, and unforgettable. Bookmark our packing list and pro tips to ensure you’re ready for everything Pickathon has to offer. See you at Pendarvis Farm!

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