How To Survive ACL
ACL 2023 Essentials: How to Survive and Thrive at Austin's Iconic Music Festival
The Austin City Limits Music Festival (ACL) is an epic, jam-packed weekend full of incredible live shows. But navigating the crowds, Texas heat, and non-stop action can be daunting for first-timers. Use this guide to get equipped with the top ACL essentials for surviving and thriving at one of the country’s best music festivals.
Stay Hydrated
The number one ACL essential is proper hydration. With temperatures climbing into the 90s, you’ll sweat a lot at Zilker Park. Bringing a reusable water backpack is a must. You can never go wrong with the Camelback Backpack. The Camelback has been a staple in the outdoor event and concert space since its inception. Countless knockoffs have came out since, none better than the original. To replenish nutrients lost from sweating, bring electrolyte tablets like Nuun Sport to add to your water. Hydrating well ahead of time in the days before the festival will also give you a head start.
Protect Your Skin
Don't forget sunscreen - aim for SPF 30 or higher in a lightweight, non-greasy formula like Neutrogena Dry Touch. You'll need to reapply often. Bring lip balm with UV protection as well, like Jack Black Intense Therapy Lip Balm with SPF 25. Wearing a breezy sun hat helps block rays while keeping you cooler - brands like Tilley, Columbia and Outdoor Research make great quality options. And don’t forget the sunglasses to shield your eyes from harsh glare that can lead to headaches. Look for polarized lenses that block 100% UV rays.
Comfy Shoes
With all the walking, dancing, and standing at ACL, your feet will take a beating. Choose flexible, supportive shoes like Nike Roshe Ones or Adidas Ultraboosts over flimsy flip flops or fashion boots that lack support. If it’s wet, waterproof boots can keep your feet dry. Bring an extra pair of shoes so you can swap if your feet get sore or wet. Packing some moleskin, blister bandages and petroleum jelly can save you if you get blisters on your feet.
Beat the Crowds
A foldable chair like the ALPS Mountaineering Rendezvous is essential for rests between sets. Chairs help you get off your feet and avoid losing your space. A telescoping selfie stick from XShot lets you get epic panoramic footage over the crowds when your view gets blocked. And a waterproof fanny pack like the Venture Pal ensures you don’t lose valuables on rides. Arrive early each day and catch the headliner’s set live instead of on the screens to beat long exits.
Stay Charged
Keep your phone charged all festival long with a high-capacity portable power bank like the Anker PowerCore Slim 10000. Getting separated from friends is common - so make sure you stay connected. Separate your phone in a water-resistant pouch like the JOTO CellPhone Dry Bag when hydrating so it doesn’t get damaged. Download the ACL app and sync set time reminders so you don’t miss shows. And consider buying a disposable film camera to capture iconic moments unencumbered by devices.
Layer for Comfort
Austin weather fluctuates, so layered clothing is key. Pack lightweight moisture-wicking tees and tanks that won’t get heavy with sweat. Bring items like flannels, ponchos, or a hoodie like The North Face Venture for when the sun sets and it gets chilly. Brands like Kuhl and Columbia make great lightweight pants perfect for hot festival days. And keep a compact rain poncho handy in case of storms.
Stay Protected
Keep daily essentials like sunscreen, cash, cards, and ID in a crossbody bag for security in crowds. Pack a small first aid kit with bandaids, alcohol wipes, medications, etc. in case of scrapes or headaches. Earplugs help prevent long-term hearing damage in front of speakers. And keep your valuables locked in your hotel or secured in a locker to avoid theft on the festival grounds.
Fuel Up
Pack nutritious snacks like protein bars, trail mix, dried fruit and mixed nuts to power you through the long festival days. Stop by the various food vendors scattered throughout the park for heartier Austin-style bites like tacos, burgers, pizza and more. Stay hydrated with water and drinks like Gatorade. And be sure to eat balanced meals before and after each day to properly refuel.
With the proper essentials, you can take on the iconic ACL festival in comfort and style. Follow these tips to stay hydrated, powered up, and equipped for an epic experience immersed in amazing live music. Get ready to rock in the Austin sunshine!
