Spring is around the corner, and so is Hangout Fest, only the most fun a girl could have with her BFFs on the beach in Gulf Shores, Alabama-am I right? The music festival is May 16-19, with a killer lineup, including Cardi B, Khalid, The 1975 and so many more. Hellooooo girls trip! Though music festivals can be the time of your life, there’s a lot of prep work that has to be done, but thankfully, it’s all almost fun as actually going to HOMF.
Here are some tips to prepare for the fesitval, not only so you’re ready to go, but so that you can make it a trip to remember.
- Stay in a condo or space close to the fest for easy access & cheaper rates
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Nothing can kill the mood like an overpriced hotel that’s too far from your fun. Hangout allows you to come and go as you please throughout the fest, so long as your wristband is still on, and not tampered with. So, stay somewhere close to the fest, not only to save on those hotel rooms and higher Uber costs, but for easy access to and from the fest whenever you want. Thankfully, Hangout provides a lodging page, with some pretty sweet deals on condos you and your friends can pitch in on. Need an afternoon nap? NBD, some of these are within walking or shuttling distance from the fun.
- If you’re not staying somewhere close, use the shuttle system
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If you’re not quite within walking distance from your condo or hotel, Hangout has a shuttle pass that’s $50 dollars, but runs continuously throughout the festival weekend and its start/end times. It’s not overly expensive, and would be way easier than calling an Uber. Not to mention, there are several stops, so you are bound to be close to at least one of them. Just be sure to go together, there’s safety in numbers!
- Bring your essentials, and your essentials only
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Unfortunately, you can’t just stroll into Hangout with a big purse or drawstring backpack, nor do you want to be bogged down with unnecessary items. Be sure to focus on the essentials. To name a few, I would bring: an empty water bottle to fill up and stay hydrated while in the fest, sunscreen, sunglasses, bug spray, and even a beach towel or hat, since you will be *on* the beach. If you’re going to bring everything in a bag, just make sure larger bags are clear, or try to condense down to a fanny pack or clutch. To make sure you aren’t breaking any rules, check the guidelines on bags and prohibited items here.
- Get amped by making a playlist of songs by artists on the lineup
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Nothing gets you more stoked than listening to the music you’re about to see live with your BFFs to get amped for the weekend. Spotify makes it so simple to make new playlists and share them with friends, so be sure to include some of your fave songs by the artists on the lineup and listen while you get ready in the mornings before the festival.
- Go on a mini shopping spree to find the perfect festival outfits
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Nothing is more fun than buying new clothes for a girls weekend, especially for a beachside music festival. Swimsuits are totally accepted, and soon, new bikini lines will be dropping, if they haven’t already. Don’t be afraid to treat yourself to a new bikini, or some shorts to make those festival looks complete. The perfect combo? A one piece and jean shorts, IMO. Scour Pinterest for some inspo.
- Take FULL advantage of the activities at Hangout
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There’s no guarantee that you’ll want to see every performer, or won’t want a break here and there throughout the days on the shore. There’s plenty to do at Hangout aside from watching shows, so be sure to take full advantage-get that money’s worth, girl! There’s a complete list of activities on their site, but some of the coolest spots I’d be visiting include Hammock Beach, for all the naps, beach volleyball for some competitive fun, and Camp Hangout for some s’mores and new friends. Hey, who knows, maybe you and your girls will find sme cute beach hotties to take with to a few of the acts. Anything is possible on a girls trip!
- Don’t let the scenery go to waste & take plenty of Insta-worthy pics
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I mean, come on- you’re at the beach, at a music festival, with cute outfits *and* your best friends. This is the perfect opportunity to take hella Instagram photos, and without any shame, because you know everyone is doing it. There’s so many people around to ask for help for group photos, and the sunsets will be KILLER, so don’t miss out! You’re going to want to look back on these memories some day, I promise.
Hangout Fest is a dream come true, especially when it’s spent with your BFFs. There’s so much to do and see, the anticipation for May is *killer.* But hopefully, with some of these tips, the trip will be a piece of cake, and instead of focusing on the little details, you can focus on letting the music take you away from your responsibilities, if only for the weekend.