It’s Jazz Fest time!  We’ve waited for two long years to hit the fairgrounds for the fest, and it’s finally here. Here are some of my go-to items you won’t want to forget to pack in your bag as you head out for a day of food, fun, sun and music.

I like to bring a collapsible camp stool, although many opt for more luxurious chairs or loungers, depending on your own personal festival set up. My style being more on-the-go, a small stool allows me to move quickly and easily from spot to spot. And it’s so lightweight, it’s no problem carrying throughout the day.

It’s always a good idea to anticipate a variety of weather when going to Jazz Fest, but always plan for full sun exposure, even on overcast days. In addition to sunscreen, you may consider a sun protection shirt to throw on over a t-shirt or tank top. Massey’s Outfitters in Mid City has some great options, like this one which is both lightweight and offers UV protection, as well as a wide variety of outdoor equipment from water bottles to sun glasses, shoes and more.

An external charger for your phone is a great way to make sure you don’t lose power, plus it’s a great option to have on hand for summer travel or when hurricane season is upon us. The Clutch charger is super thin and lightweight and is easy to stash in a fanny pack or bag. Plus it comes with an attached charging cable so you don’t need to carry any extra equipment.

Sunscreen is key while at the fairgrounds. I like Neutrogena’s Ultra Sheer Dry Touch SPF 55 for everyday use. You can find it any drugstore, it goes on without that goopy feel, it’s inexpensive and is recommended by dermatologists and skin care experts in the know. And don’t forget to grab a lip balm with SPF. Vacation’s Bananas Foster SPF30 lip care offers protection, is vegan friendly and is inspired by the iconic New Orleans dessert.

If it’s Jazz Fest time, it’s best to plan for at least one rainy day. Rain boots, a disposable poncho and an extra pair of dry socks are always good to pack. Bring along an inexpensive shower curtain liner to place on the ground to keep your picnic blanket dry and protected from the muck.

Ziplock bags: Use these to stash your phone in case of torrential downpours, store essentials such as toilet paper, baby wipes and tissues, and to keep your first aid kit (band aids, pain relievers) in one secure place.

Empty Tupperware or storage container: Pack all of your essentials from above into an empty storage container and at the end of the day use it to bring home extra food or leftovers to enjoy when you get home.

Bandanna: Great to keep your neck cool or protected from the sun, to dry your hands after washing them or as a makeshift placemat or napkin.

A handheld folding fan in funky colors and patterns to keep you cool

A pack or two of Liquid IV to add to your water to help stay hydrated (recently spotted at Costco for a bargain)

Hand sanitizer (these handy spray bottles from Dr. Bronner smell and work great)

An empty insulated water bottle, such as these fun versions from S’well, for water or to keep your adult beverage cool

The best in New Orleans dining, shopping, events and more delivered to your inbox.

Your guide to the dining, entertainment, lifestyle, culture and people of New Orleans from the trusted editors of New Orleans Magazine, New Orleans Home, New Orleans Bride, and St. Charles Avenue.

New Orleans Magazine New Orleans Bride New Orleans Homes St. Charles Avenue Biz New Orleans Louisiana Life Acadiana Profile

About Us Contact Us Advertise Subscribe Submit

Get our email updates for the latest New Orleans dining, shopping, events, culture and more.

Copyright © 2022 Renaissance Publishing. All Rights Reserved.

It’s Jazz Fest time!  We’ve waited for two long years to hit the fairgrounds for the fest, and it’s finally here. Here are some of my go-to items you won’t want to forget to pack in your bag as you head out for a day of food, fun, sun and music.

I like to bring a collapsible camp stool, although many opt for more luxurious chairs or loungers, depending on your own personal festival set up. My style being more on-the-go, a small stool allows me to move quickly and easily from spot to spot. And it’s so lightweight, it’s no problem carrying throughout the day.

It’s always a good idea to anticipate a variety of weather when going to Jazz Fest, but always plan for full sun exposure, even on overcast days. In addition to sunscreen, you may consider a sun protection shirt to throw on over a t-shirt or tank top. Massey’s Outfitters in Mid City has some great options, like this one which is both lightweight and offers UV protection, as well as a wide variety of outdoor equipment from water bottles to sun glasses, shoes and more.

An external charger for your phone is a great way to make sure you don’t lose power, plus it’s a great option to have on hand for summer travel or when hurricane season is upon us. The Clutch charger is super thin and lightweight and is easy to stash in a fanny pack or bag. Plus it comes with an attached charging cable so you don’t need to carry any extra equipment.

Sunscreen is key while at the fairgrounds. I like Neutrogena’s Ultra Sheer Dry Touch SPF 55 for everyday use. You can find it any drugstore, it goes on without that goopy feel, it’s inexpensive and is recommended by dermatologists and skin care experts in the know. And don’t forget to grab a lip balm with SPF. Vacation’s Bananas Foster SPF30 lip care offers protection, is vegan friendly and is inspired by the iconic New Orleans dessert.

If it’s Jazz Fest time, it’s best to plan for at least one rainy day. Rain boots, a disposable poncho and an extra pair of dry socks are always good to pack. Bring along an inexpensive shower curtain liner to place on the ground to keep your picnic blanket dry and protected from the muck.

Ziplock bags: Use these to stash your phone in case of torrential downpours, store essentials such as toilet paper, baby wipes and tissues, and to keep your first aid kit (band aids, pain relievers) in one secure place.

Empty Tupperware or storage container: Pack all of your essentials from above into an empty storage container and at the end of the day use it to bring home extra food or leftovers to enjoy when you get home.

Bandanna: Great to keep your neck cool or protected from the sun, to dry your hands after washing them or as a makeshift placemat or napkin.

A handheld folding fan in funky colors and patterns to keep you cool

A pack or two of Liquid IV to add to your water to help stay hydrated (recently spotted at Costco for a bargain)

Hand sanitizer (these handy spray bottles from Dr. Bronner smell and work great)

An empty insulated water bottle, such as these fun versions from S’well, for water or to keep your adult beverage cool