Elvis Festival season is upon us, with the Mecca of Memphis just around the corner. Before heading out for the many festivals, it is important to plan ahead and ensure you have all that is necessary for surviving the summer season! Here is a breakdown of travel essentials to make sure you have the most fun ever, while remaining safe.
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Breathable clothing
Memphis gets hot. In fact, most places are very hot in the summer and the best way to protect yourself from the heat is to start with clothing choices. Avoiding certain fabrics and ensuring the fabric does well with sweaty bodies, is a good way to stay comfortable in the heat.
Here is list of fabric options to look for:
Cotton – natural fiber that allows air to circulate and move freely through the fabric.
Linen – similar to denim but is a plain weave making it softer and lightweight.
Bamboo – extremely soft and lightweight alternative to cotton.
Seersucker – lightweight cotton fabric that is made with puckered stripes.
Pro-tip: Bring multiple outfits for each day. If the heat starts to get to you, change your clothes to remain fresh and photo ready!
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Water Bottles
Did I mention it gets hot in the summer? One of the most important aspects with festivals is remembering to stay hydrated – alcohol does not count in this regard. In the heat, your body needs to sweat and when you stop sweating, that is one of the first signs you are dehydrated. Pack your favorite water bottle or even splurge a little and buy an Elvis themed one! Keep drinking water – your body will thank you.
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Snacks
Let’s be real, Elvis fans often suffer from FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out). Raise of hands if that is you – I raised my hand too. Stomachs do not always understand this and cannot wait to indulge in Gus’s Fried Chicken or some Memphis BBQ. Bring some snacks with you to hold you over. No one wants you to pass out from hunger or getting sick from going HAAM (Hard As A Mother–) once food is in your sights. Small bags of chips, raisins, nuts – whatever you fancy – pack it to avoid getting hangry.
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Comfortable Shoes
Whether you are going to Memphis or an Elvis Festival, comfortable shoes are a must. I have fallen (pun intended) victim to wanting to look my best and wearing heels. I am very much past this point in my life. Standing or walking for hours is not always good for your legs/feet but if doing so in comfortable shoes, you are much better off than in heels. Let’s say you get a blister your first day – every day after the first day your foot will hurt. Is it worth it? Now, if you are like my mother and obsessed with shoes you may say of course! As for someone like me, who has had to push through the pain, now knows the importance of wearing comfortable shoes. At least bring a change of shoes. Walk in wearing your comfortable shoes and then sit in your heels in style. I have also done this and made sure to use a bigger purse to fit my shoes.
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Bug Repellent
Between mosquitos and chiggers, BUGS ARE NO JOKE! Especially during Elvis Festivals. Bring/wear as many options as you want. I am the type of person who never gets eaten up by bugs, but once I am at an Elvis Festival, I quickly learn bugs do not discriminate. My poor sister and BFF ended up with over 100 between the two of them. So, remember: Pack bug repellent.
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First Aid Kit
Anything can happen at an Elvis Festival and ANYTHING can happen in Memphis. To ensure you are prepared for anything pack a small first aid kit.
Here is a list of what should be included (make sure to adjust for your personal needs!):
Band-Aids
Headache medication (Advil, Tylenol, etc.)
Medication for an upset stomach (ginger root, Tums, etc.)
Ointment (Neosporin, etc.)
Tissues
Hand Sanitizer
There are MANY things to bring on your trip, but these are just the essentials! Elvis Festivals and Memphis can be the most exciting time and packing these items can help you enjoy your time to the MAX!
Until we meet again,
TCB and TCE
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