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!
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!
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.
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
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.
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.