LIVE OAK, FLORIDA — As I gear up for my journey to one of the best Halloween celebrations in North America, Suwannee Hulaween, I wanted to share my experience of must-have items for this camping festival. I will also share what to leave at home when you’re packing, as you don’t want to have your items confiscated by security! Hopefully this guide will help you have the most stress-free and joyful experience possible.
WHAT TO BRING
Your Tickets and Government Issued ID – This is obvious but you’d be surprised how many people get turned away because they forgot their ID.
Hammock – Hulaween offers plenty of shaded tree space, both in the festival grounds and in the campgrounds. There’s nothing better than catching your favorite set from the comfort of your hammock! I recommend Wise Owl Outfitters hammocks. These are nearly identical to the ENO brand, are double-wide (so you can fit two people, or spread out as one person) but for 1/2th the cost and they come WITH nice straps (unlike ENO).
Inflatable Lounge Couch – Although there are plenty of trees at the Spirit of Suwannee Music Park, there is no guarantee that you will always get hammock space. When I bring my wind couch, I never have to worry whether there is a place to set up my hammock, or about finding trees that are the right distance apart.These are way easier to set up than other inflatable couches, you just run with them and the wind fills them up. No air pump needed! I’ve used my Chillbo Shwaggins Inflatable Couch at dozens of festivals and on camping trips, it never disappoints. It even comes in these cool colorful designs and includes a carrying bag! For only $40, it’s a must have in my book.
Ear Plugs – Take my word for it, hearing damage is NOT fun. I’ve forgotten mine ear plugs at home before and regretted it – my ears were ringing for weeks! Plus the music quality just sounds muddy when it’s too loud. Eargasm earplugs let you listen to full bass in your face at the front of the stage, without degradation in sound quality. This brand of earplugs even comes with a handy carrying case so you don’t lose them in the crowd.
Portable Battery Charger – I highly recommend having one of these, especially one that charges in the sun! This thing keeps my phone charged for 4 full days on one charge no problem! With a solar pannel, I don’t have to worry about plugging it in if it dies, and it also includes a flashlight which really helps at night. It’s truly a lifesaver.
BLAVOR Solar Power Bank, Fast Charging 10W Wireless Charger 20000mAh
Anti-Theft Hydration Backpack – If there’s one thing I hate about festivals, it’s having to worry about the uncommon but unfortunate reality of theft. Although it’s only happened to me once at a festival (it wasn’t at Hulaween, though), it made me never want to risk it again. This backpack costs a little more than some other hydration packs, but the extra security is worth it. With zippers that face inwards toward the back, you can keep all your valuables safe and stay hydrated.
RaveRunner® Anti-Theft Hydration Backpack | Rave Hydration Pack, Festival Water Bag
Or, if you prefer a cheaper and more simplistic design, go with the Artos Anti-Theft Hydration Backpack:
Adult Onesie – My favorite festival outfit is an animal, Pokemon, or Disney character onesie. They keep me warm at night, they are cute, they are very comfortable, and they are an easy outfit. I see a lot of people wearing onesies at festivals, and I always get compliments on my Tigger onesie.
Fanny Pack – When I don’t feel like carrying my hydration backpack, I attach my water bottle with a carabiner to the strap of my fanny pack. Then I have free mobility to dance but can still stay hydrated. I recommend this hemp-made fanny pack, which is eco-friendly and made out of durable material. At night I love to slap on my fanny pack underneath a onesie, which makes another great anti-theft option!
Rope Lights – One item I wish I had last festival season was rope lights. They are super helpful to light up the campsite, which helps me find it easier. I also love to wrap these lights around my body or around my backpack when I walk around.
JMEXSUSS 100 LED Battery Rope Lights Outdoor Waterproof 33ft Lights
Rain Boots / Shoe Covers – these are a lifesaver for any festival in the event that it becomes a mudfest. I’ve learned the hard way that wet or cold feet can really put a damper on your festival.
Rain Boot Waterproof Shoes Covers, Sand Control Non-Slip Shoe Cover Galoshes
Rain Poncho – You need this for obvious reasons. You can always go with disposable plastic ponchos, but they tend to break and are bad for the environment. I prefer my reusable hooded poncho, which has a pocket for extra storage. I can also use it as a blanket to lay down on the grass.
SaphiRose Hooded Rain Poncho Waterproof Raincoat Jacket for Men Women Adults
Totem & Flag – These things have helped me keep the squad together and find my friends more times than I can count.
Bluetooth Speaker – I love to keep the vibes going at the campsite. This thing has an insane hr 24 hr battery life so you can keep the party going. Just be mindful of your sleeping neighbors!
Yoga Mat – There are lots of Yoga classes and workshops to enjoy at Suwannee Hulaween, I highly recommend you attend them and start your day off right!
Other Essential Items: Tent, Plastic Clamps, Air Mattress, First Aid Kit, Water Bottle, Biodegradeable Trash Bags, Electrolyte Powder, Sleeping Bag, Cooler
Other Useful Items: Rechargeable Headlamp, GoPro, Propane Stove, Cooking & Utensile Set, Solar Shower, Combat Wipes, Coffee, EZ Up Canopy, Flow Toys, Festival Fashion Items, Camping Chair
Check out the Electric Feels Shop for more Festival Essentials!
WHAT TO BRING MONEY FOR
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Tolls for the drive there and back
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Showers
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Ferris Wheel Rides
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Food Vendors ($15 per meal on average)
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Drinks
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Ice
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Vendor marketplace
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Bring an emergency credit/debit/ATM card in the event that you lose your wallet/purse
WHAT NOT TO BRING
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Glowsticks: Single-use plastic is literally killing our planet.
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Anything illegal: Check the local Florida laws! They may be different than your home state.
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Charcoal and Charcoal Grills: Propane grills only!
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Too Much Food: You might think you’re going to cook every meal to save money, but you’ll probably end up buying lots of your meals from the on-site vendors. I recommend bringing just enough food for two easy meals per day.
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Glass of any kind: Glass bottles will be confiscated, even if they are full of drinks! I’ve seen too many people have to pour out their liquor and it’s heartbreaking.
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Bad Vibes: Suwannee Hulaween is touted as a festival with amazing good vibes. Let’s keep it that way!
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Spirit of Suwanne Music Park does not allow weapons, laser devices of any kind, drones, model airplanes, fireworks, luminaries, megaphones
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No outside food or alcohol inside the main venue (they are allowed in the campgrounds)
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For a full list check out the Suwannee Hulaween FAQ page.
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Written by: Colin Eldridge
Colin has been a passionate music enthusiast for as long as he can remember, with a special place in his heart for EDM since hearing his first Psytrance album in 2008. An artist in many mediums, he has worked with Electric Feels since 2016 as a writer, photographer, content creator, and is now the editor-in-chief.
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