ACL 2025 Survival Checklist: What to Pack for Austin City Limits

Gear up ATX, It's time for Austin City Limits!

For the non-Austin-locals, Austin City Limits (or ACL), is a multi-day marathon full of music of all genres, incredible food, and that legacy Austin energy.

But surviving the weekend takes more than sunscreen and allergy meds.

Whether it's your first ACL go or your fifth, this checklist helps you pack smart, stay comfortable, and enjoy the experience. The best kind of luxury is being fully present and trust me; you want to be present for this iconic Austin staple that keeps the city buzzing!

What to Bring to ACL 2025 (Essentials)

Hydration + Energy

These are your non-negotiables. Start with the basics.

• Wristband (already registered)

• ID + credit card (some spots may accept Apple pay, make sure your card is good to use)

• Portable charger or power bank

• Empty reusable water bottle (Owala is my favorite! *This is an affiliate-link recommended product*) 

• Sunglasses + hat

• Lightweight crossbody or clear bag

• Blanket

Pro tip: ACL security is strict! Clear bags must be under 12”x12”x6”. Make sure to check the official rules before heading out!

How to Stay Cool, Comfortable, and Energized at ACL

Beat the Heat

Austin heat hits different and definitely doesn't care how good the lineup is. Prep!

• Cooling towel or mini fan

• Sunscreen

• Electrolyte packets (Liquid I.V., LMNT, etc.)

• Mini deodorant or face mist

• Hand sanitizer or wipes

• Bandaids and blister patches

• Earplugs (your future self will thank you)

Reminder! Hydrate early and often.

Festival Style That Actually Works All Day

Pack Smart

You can look good and feel good. Festival fashion is fun until you're six hours in and you swear off shoes for the rest of your life.

• Comfortable, broken-in shoes (not new ones)

• Layers for when the sun drops

• Hair ties, clips, or a mini brush

• Compact mirror and lip balm with SPF

• Mini first-aid pouch or safety pins

Pro Tips from Seasoned Festival Attendees

Avoid Rookie Mistakes

The "I wish I thought of that" section because no one likes learning the hard way.

Small things that make a huge difference:

• Ziplock bag for muddy shoes or wet wipes

• Small trash bag for your own cleanup

• Temporary tattoos or body glitter wipes (if that’s the vibe)

• Screenshot the lineup + map (crowds = black hole for cell service)

• Preloaded rideshare app + backup meeting spot (and then maybe another backup spot)

• A “chill item” like a book, sketchpad, or disposable camera for downtime between sets

Presence is the real headline. The fewer things you have to manage, the more energy you spend enjoying yourself.

Bonus Tip: Hydrate Like It’s Your Job

Festival pros swear by this: start hydrating the day before. Alternate every alcoholic drink with water and toss a few electrolyte packets in your bag. You’ll thank yourself later.

And if the prep still feels like too much, well, that’s what we’re here for.

Photo by Tomek Baginski on Unsplash