1. Strategize Your Merch Attack
Camp Flog Gnaw is famous for its exclusive merch, and the lines are notoriously long. Seasoned attendees know that getting the most sought-after Golf Wang and festival-specific items requires a plan. If a particular hoodie or hat is a must-have, consider
heading to the merch tents as soon as the gates open. Some fans even line up well before doors open to be first. Alternatively, try your luck during a major headliner’s set when lines might dip slightly. Check online for a preview of the merch to decide what you want ahead of time, so you can be quick and decisive.
2. Embrace the Carnival Early (or Late)
The carnival rides are a huge part of the Flog Gnaw experience and, best of all, they're free with your wristband. The Ferris wheel and other attractions offer amazing views of the festival grounds and the LA skyline. However, everyone wants that perfect sunset picture from the top. To avoid spending your favorite artist's set in a queue, hit the rides early in the day when many people are focused on the stages, or wait until later in the evening. The lines are often shortest during the first couple of hours after gates open.
3. Pack a 'Flex' and a 'Comfort' Outfit
Fashion is a huge part of the culture at Camp Flog Gnaw. It's a place to see and be seen, with many attendees planning their outfits for weeks. Go ahead and plan that 'flex' fit for your photos. But remember, it's a long two days on asphalt. Smart veterans pack a second, more comfortable pair of shoes or a change of clothes in a locker. Your feet will thank you when you're still able to dance during the final set of the night. Prioritizing well-cushioned shoes from the start is a pro move.
4. Explore the Undercard Discoveries
Tyler, the Creator's curation is immaculate, extending well beyond the big-name headliners. The Flog Gnaw lineup is always a thoughtful mix of hip-hop, R&B, indie, and genres you wouldn't expect. Before the festival, dive into the official playlist or create your own on a streaming service to discover your new favorite artist. Wandering to a smaller stage to check out a lesser-known act is often where the real magic of the weekend happens, and the crowds are more manageable.
5. Don't Sleep on the Food Vendors
Festival food has a reputation for being expensive and mediocre, but Flog Gnaw often bucks this trend with a curated selection of Los Angeles's best food trucks and pop-ups. While it's wise to eat a hearty meal before you arrive, save some room to explore the offerings. You can often find unique eats that go far beyond typical pizza slices and hot dogs, including quality vegan and vegetarian options. Think of it as another layer of the festival's curated experience.
6. Master the Art of Crowd Navigation
Dodger Stadium is a massive venue, and the crowds can be intense, especially for headliners. If you're trying to get a good spot for a popular act, the key is to move up between sets, not during them. As one crowd files out, you can slip in. If being close isn't a priority, the sound and view near the soundboard are often surprisingly good and less packed. For a truly close view, you may need to camp out at a stage for hours. Also, be aware of your surroundings and help others in the pit.
7. Designate a Low-Tech Meetup Spot
Your phone will be practically useless. Between massive crowd-related network congestion and a dying battery, you can't rely on texts or calls to find your friends. At the beginning of each day, pick a clear, easy-to-find meetup spot that isn't directly in a high-traffic area. 'Meet by the third speaker tower on the right of the main stage' is a better plan than 'meet by the bathrooms.' Set specific times to meet there throughout the day to regroup.
8. Plan Your Exit Strategy Before the Encore
Getting into the festival is one thing; getting out is another challenge entirely. The rush for rideshares and shuttles at the end of the night is chaotic. Consider leaving the final set 15 minutes early to beat the biggest wave of people. A popular local hack is to walk a significant distance away from the stadium—down the hill toward Chinatown, for example—before even attempting to call an Uber or Lyft. Alternatively, the free shuttles from Union Station are a great option to bypass the rideshare surge pricing and traffic jams.
