Combining the freedom of RV travel with the excitement of music, art, or food festivals creates an unforgettable experience. This guide will help you plan your next adventure, ensuring comfort, convenience, and fun.
Planning Your Festival RV TripThorough preparation is the key to a stress-free festival experience. Start planning well in advance, as RV spots often sell out quickly.
1. Research the Festival- RV Accessibility: Check if the festival explicitly permits or caters to RVs. Some only allow self-contained units, while others offer specific RV camping sections.
- Hookups and Amenities: Determine what services are provided. Will you have electric, water, or sewage hookups? If not, plan for boondocking (dry camping) and conserve resources.
- Permits and Passes: Secure your RV pass and festival tickets simultaneously, as they are often sold separately. Look into any required vehicle decals or entry procedures.
Before you hit the road, make sure your RV is festival-ready.
- Safety and Maintenance: Perform a full maintenance check. Check tire pressure, fluid levels, and ensure all appliances (especially the refrigerator and AC) are working perfectly.
- Stock Up: Plan your meals and stock up on groceries, water, and non-perishables. Remember, festival food can be expensive, and lines can be long.
- Entertainment: While the festival is the main attraction, pack games, books, or a portable speaker for downtime at your campsite.
Here are the essentials to pack to make your festival days comfortable and fun:
- Sunscreen and bug spray
- Refillable water bottle
- Small backpack or fanny pack
- Portable phone charger
- Rain gear (just in case!)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Earplugs (for loud stages and for sleeping)
If you are dry camping, conservation is crucial.
- Water: Take quick showers, use paper plates and disposable cutlery to minimize dishwashing, and use hand sanitizer instead of constant hand washing.
- Power: Limit the use of high-draw appliances. Charge devices when the generator is running (if permitted) or use solar panels.
RV camping at festivals is a community experience. Be mindful of your neighbors.
- Noise: Respect quiet hours. Keep music and generator noise at a reasonable level, especially late at night.
- Space: Keep your campsite contained within your designated area.
Always lock your RV when you leave for the festival grounds. Store valuables out of sight.
Post-Festival Wind Down
When the music stops, take your time packing up.
- Cleanup: Properly dispose of all trash. Leave your campsite cleaner than you found it.
- Dump Stations: Locate a nearby RV dump station if the festival grounds do not provide one.
- Rest: Driving an RV after a long weekend of fun can be tiring. Plan for a relaxing travel day or an extra night of rest before the long drive home.