How big a portable charger do I need for a festival?

A 20,000mAh power bank charges a phone 4 to 5 times, covering a full festival day with backup. A 10,000mAh works for a single careful day.

Festival · Lifestyle

Music Festival Essentials: What to Actually Pack

By Janet
Updated June 2026 · 6 min read

Festival outfit in front of the Ferris wheel at Coachella — Out in the desert at Coachella, where I learned the packing list is everything.

Mom by day, festival girl when I get the chance. After a few weekends out in the desert and at summer festivals, I've learned the packing list is everything: the right small bag and a few smart items are the difference between dancing all day and dragging by 4 pm. Here's what actually earns its spot.

The non-negotiables

A fanny pack or clear belt bag that stays on your body (hands-free, pickpocket-proof). Many festivals require clear bags no bigger than 12 x 6 x 12 inches, so check the rules and pack accordingly.
A portable charger, your phone is your ticket, map, and group chat all day. A 20,000mAh bank gets you through the whole day with charges to spare. I keep a slim power bank with built-in cables in my bag so I'm never stuck.
SPF 50, reapplied. The desert sun is no joke. I love a setting-mist sunscreen I can spray over makeup without ruining my look.
Refillable water bottle (most festivals have free refill stations). Hydration is the whole game.
High-fidelity earplugs, they protect your hearing and somehow make the music sound cleaner.
Broken-in comfy shoes. Never wear new shoes to a festival. Grip socks under your sneakers help with the all-day miles too.

My desert MVP: a JISULIFE handheld mini fan that's also a power bank and a flashlight. It cools you in the crowd, tops up your phone, and lights the walk back to the car. Three jobs, one tiny gadget.

The small stuff that saves you

Cash + ID + card in a zip pocket
Lip balm, blotting/setting product, a mini mirror
Hand sanitizer and a few wipes
A bandana or mini towel for dust and sweat
An AirTag in your bag (and on your car keys)
A light layer, the desert gets cold at night
Hair ties and a claw clip for when it's just too hot

Shop my festival kit

The belt bag, charger, mini fan, SPF, earplugs, and comfort items I actually pack are all in my Amazon storefront.

See my Amazon picks → As an Amazon Associate I may earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.

What NOT to bring

Leave the big backpack, anything valuable you'd cry over losing, glass, and new shoes. Travel light, you'll thank yourself by hour six.

Going to Coachella?

Here's my Coachella outfit guide (festival fashion that's actually comfortable) and the full Coachella 2027 dates, tickets, and planning rundown.

Frequently asked questions

What size bag can I bring to a festival?

Most festivals require clear bags no larger than 12 x 6 x 12 inches, and a small clear fanny pack or belt bag is the safest bet. Always check your specific festival's bag policy.

How big a portable charger do I need?

A 20,000mAh power bank will charge a phone 4 to 5 times, which covers a full festival day with backup. A 10,000mAh is fine for a single day if you're careful.

What's the one thing people forget?

Earplugs and reapplying sunscreen. Both quietly make or break the day.

Heads up: some links in this post are affiliate links, including my Amazon storefront, which means I may earn a small commission if you buy through them, at no extra cost to you.

Janet

Orlando mom, creator, and festival lover behind Planet Janet TV. I share the real travel, finds, and outfits I actually use. Come say hi on Instagram.

Now build the outfits

Festival fashion trends that look amazing and still let you dance all day.

Read the Coachella outfit guide →

Sources: Variety, Ticketmaster, plus personal experience. Always check your festival's official bag and item policy before you go.