Your Feet Are Your Foundation
You will walk more than you think. A lot more. The festival grounds are vast, spanning grassy fields, dirt paths, and paved roads. Comfortable, broken-in, closed-toe shoes are non-negotiable. Think sturdy boots or all-terrain sneakers, not brand-new sandals.
The terrain can get muddy, dusty, and crowded, and your toes will thank you for the protection. Outside Lands is a marathon, not a sprint, and that starts with your footwear. Happy feet mean you can last from the opening act to the final headliner without issue.
Embrace the Layers
San Francisco weather is notoriously fickle, a phenomenon locals have dubbed "Fogust." A sunny, warm afternoon can transform into a chilly, damp, and foggy evening in a flash. The key is to dress in layers. Start with a breathable base layer, add a flannel or hoodie, and bring a jacket for when the sun goes down. Tying a jacket around your waist is a classic festival move for a reason. Many veterans suggest renting a locker with friends to stash your evening gear so you don't have to carry it all day.
Preserve Your Phone Battery at All Costs
Your phone's biggest enemy at a festival isn't just taking photos and videos; it's the constant search for a weak cell signal, which drains the battery incredibly fast. Do not rely on finding an open charging station. A fully charged portable power bank is the most crucial piece of tech you can bring. To conserve power, put your phone on Low Power Mode, dim the screen brightness, and turn off background app refresh. Consider switching to Airplane Mode during sets when you don't need service. You'll still be able to take photos and videos, and your battery will last much longer.
Plan for Poor Cell Service
With tens of thousands of people in one place, cell service can be spotty or completely nonexistent. Don't count on being able to call or text your friends to find them. Before you arrive, download the official festival app and screenshot the map and daily set times. More importantly, establish a clear, fixed meeting spot with your group for different times of the day—for example, “the back-left of the sound booth at the main stage” or a specific art installation. This analog approach is far more reliable than a “where are you?” text that may never go through.
Navigate the Lines with Patience
Patience is a virtue, especially at a major music festival. You will wait in lines for entry, for food, for drinks, and for the porta-potties. The best strategy is acceptance and planning. Arrive early if you're determined to be at the front for a specific artist. For popular headliners, crowds start forming hours in advance. If you're more casual, hang back and enjoy the space. Some seasoned attendees have found that the bathroom lines between the Lands End and Sutro stages are often shorter. Also, while most vendors accept cards, cash can sometimes be quicker, getting you back to the music faster.
Hydrate and Pack Smart
Staying hydrated is essential for your energy and well-being. Bring an empty, reusable water bottle or a dedicated hydration pack (check the festival's bag policy for size restrictions). Free water refill stations are located throughout the park. When it comes to bags, Outside Lands has a strict policy: only small purses or fanny packs are allowed, unless you bring a larger clear bag. Pack the essentials: sunscreen, hand sanitizer, and maybe some tissues for when the porta-potties inevitably run out. A little preparation makes a huge difference in your overall comfort.
