How To Survive Bonnaroo

I was a fresh-faced 19-year-old when I first set my sights on the 700 acres of farmland in Manchester, Tenn. that is home to Bonnaroo.
 
I’m almost 23 now and this will be my third trip in four years. Now I find myself offering advice to first-and second-time goers.
 
The problem isn’t the line-up or hoping the bands will play your
favorite songs, because they will.
 
With over 200 bands, a comedy stage and tons of other exciting events, there is sure to be something for everyone.

The problem is preparing for three days of general irresponsibility and indulgence. We’ve all heard the horror stories of running out of money or cars breaking down. We’ve also heard the epic tales of debauchery and blistering, late night sets that didn’t conclude until sunrise but couldn’t have lasted long enough.

So what can you do to make your Roo trip “Desitively Bonnaroo?”

DO:
-Take your own booze, ‘medicinal’ products, water and food.
 Everything is about 10 times more expensive inside the park. For example, a 12 oz. bottle of Bud Light runs for about $8 and a bottle of water isn’t much cheaper.

-Bring a small, portable grill.
These are a lifesavers. Throwing hot dogs or burgers on a small grill rather than buying hot food there can largely help cut down on food costs.

-Bring the right clothes
 When it comes to clothes and shoes, it’s in with the old and out with the new. Dudes: Bring a hoodie, it can get really cold at night on the farm, especially if it rains.
Babes: Don’t bring that favorite jacket or pair of shoes that your boyfriend bought you. They will likely be dirtied or lost altogether.

-Bring Shelter
Bring a canopy with your tent for staying cool during the day. The Tennessee sun is hot enough to fry a hippie on the sidewalk.

-See Explosions in the Sky
It will be more awesome than The Strokes, and you will thank yourself (and me) for it afterwards.



DON’T:
-Be a dick.
One of the most notable features of Bonnaroo is the attendees. It’s like these people forget how much they hate the rest of society when they’re surrounded by their favorite music. There’s always ‘that guy’ who took four too many shots or two too many hits of whatever else. Don’t be him.  The people at Bonnaroo are friendly and welcoming, but being obnoxious won’t help you make any new friends.

-Spend too much money.
 I generally tell people that they should expect to spend anywhere from $200 to $500. Planning expenses out ahead of time is strongly recommended.  There are also lots of  “souvenirs” to be brought back for you and your friends, so plan accordingly.
-forget the necessities.

In all of the planning for tents, shade, food and coolers, sometimes obvious things get left behind. For example, the first year we didn’t bring any lawn chairs to sit in at our campsite. Another time, someone in our group forgot a charger for their cell phone. Especially in groups of more than two or three people, phones will be vital in tracking down straggling — or inebriated — members of your camp.

-Assume you have everything:
Clorox Wipes and flashlights are good investments you may not immediately remember to pick up. Facial cleansing wipes, other toiletries and extra pairs of gym shorts also deem useful. Really sit down with your group and think about your trip and the things you’re going to bring.  Then do it all over again.

-Bring your Reservations.
You’re going to a festival to have fun. Don’t let any insecurities or shyness hold you back from dancing, meeting new people and enjoying your experience.  Lots of other people haven’t put on makeup that day either, or even showered, for that matter.

-Miss Twin Shadow.
 George Lewis Jr. and his band will play Thursday night and it is sure to be one of the best sets of the entire weekend. I’m predicting a post-Bonnaroo blow-up for Twin Shadow, much like MGMT and The xx, who gained large amounts of attention and new fans after their appearances.

-Jake Amrhein
jtamrhei@indiana.edu