There’s no better feeling than planning for a music festival: putting your outfits together, texting your friends to figure out the schedule, deciding which artists you absolutely have to see, and making sure you have everything you need for a fun and safe time — it’s all part of the excitement. I’ve been going to music festivals since I was a teen, back when Governor’s Ball was still held on Governor’s Island. So at this point, I like to think of myself as a pretty trustworthy guide when it comes to knowing exactly what you need to survive the weekend and have the best time possible.
Now that the weather is warming up and festival season is officially on the horizon, I’m sharing my go-to survival and style essentials to help you make the most of it. Of course, there are the basics, like a reusable water bottle, a digital wallet (because no one wants to lose their physical one), and a portable charger to keep your phone alive. But this list goes beyond that. It’s packed with Latine-owned brands that will not only keep you ready for whatever the day throws at you, but also add some extra style, comfort, and cultura to your festival experience. From beauty must-haves to functional accessories, these picks will help you dance the day and night away feeling your absolute best.
If there’s ever a time to go all out with your makeup, it’s at a music festival, and Terra Moons’ Space Chemistry Palette is basically made for those sparkly, out-of-this-world looks. With a mix of duochromes, multichromes, shimmers, and mattes inspired by the cosmos, this palette gives you the perfect excuse to play with color.
Terra Moons Terra Moons’ Space Chemistry Palette, $, available at Terra Moons
Festival days mean long hours under the sun, and you’re going to need more than just sunscreen. The Mamisuki Sunglasses by Kiara Luna NY deliver the perfect combo of sun protection and cool factor. Their bold square frames and gold detailing will make them the cherry on top of your festival fit.
Kiara Luna NY Kiara Luna NY’s Mamisuki Sunglasses, $, available at Kiara Luna NY
We love a multifunctional piece, especially when it’s cute and practical, and Sarelly Sarelly’s Nano Everyday Bag checks every box. This mini bag might be small, but it’s designed to fit your festival essentials without weighing you down. With a detachable phone holder and hand strap, it’s easy to wear however you need.
Sarelly Sarelly Sarelly Sarelly’s Nano Everyday Bag, $, available at Sarelly Sarelly
Speaking of multifunctional, Daybird’s 4-in-1 Skin Tint is the ultimate festival beauty essential for staying cute and protected all day long. This lightweight skin tint serves as a serum, moisturizer, sheer tint, and mineral SPF 50 sunscreen, so you can keep your routine simple without sacrificing your glow.
Daybird Daybird’s 4-in-1 Serum Skin Tint, $, available at Daybird
Having a hat on hand during a festival is always a good idea — whether you’re shielding yourself from the sun’s rays or staying dry if the weather turns. Plus, it adds an extra layer of style to your outfit. AKNA’s Distressed Hat will help you achieve that effortlessly cool look, with its hand-dyed, distressed finish, and leather and metal details.
For the days when your curls need a little love, Rizos Curls Travel Size Refresh & Detangle Spray is your girl. Whether you’re battling humidity or just need a quick pick-me-up, this spray makes sure your curls stay stunning, and it’s TSA-friendly.
Rizos Curls Rizos Curls Travel Size Refresh & Detangle, $, available at Rizos Curls
For the girlies who want bold nails without the fuss, Chillhouse’s Unicorn Club Press-On Nails will have your hands looking fab all festival long. This chrome pink set gives you salon-quality nails in under 15 minutes, are long-lasting, and best of all, they are reusable.
Chillhouse Chillhouse Unicorn Club Press-On Nails, $, available at Chillhouse
Festival weather can be unpredictable, so if you can, always bring a sweater or jacket to stay cozy. Annaiss Yucra’s Sunny Skin Puffer Jacket stands out with its stunning embroidery and is made from recycled materials, featuring smart fabric with repel technology to keep you dry. Plus, the removable hood makes it fitting for any weather.
Annaiss Yucra Annaiss Yucra’s Sunny Skin Puffer Jacket, $, available at Annaiss Yucra
As fun as festivals are, we all know things can get pretty messy. That’s why I love Touchland’s Hand Sanitizer. Not only does it keep your hands sanitized, but it also hydrates with a refreshing coconut water scent — it’s like a mini getaway in a bottle. Perfect for freshening up between sets or after touching anything less than ideal.
Touchland Touchland’s Beach Coco Hand Sanitizer, $, available at touchland
Your choice of shoes is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for festival day. They need to be comfy, waterproof, and most of all, speak to your personal style. Consider Melissa’s Nubia II Platform boots; these chunky platform boots give you the height and support you need while making a retro statement. Plus, they’re water-resistant and made from a zero-waste process.
Melissa Melissa’s Nubia II Platform Bootie, $, available at Norstrom Rack
Festival essentials don’t always have to be the things you carry with you on the field. Sometimes it’s about showing yourself a little TLC after the music stops so you’re ready to do it all again the next day. Santu’s Jazmine Tropical Salt Scrub is needed for that post-festival shower reset. Made with locally harvested Mexican sea salt, mango, and pineapple, it scrubs away the dust, sweat, and sunscreen while leaving your skin soft, hydrated, and refreshed.
Santu Santu’s Jazmin Tropical Salt Scrub, $, available at Santu
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This article was originally published on refinery29.com.
