Fest Backpack

[Corona]

We had this on the old board and it was invaluable for my first fest. I used pretty much everything in there and it really wasn't too much to carry around at all. So here goes:

Money
Tickets
Sunscreen
Lip Balm
Band-aids (blisters)
r**n poncho (NEVER say the R word on this bored!)
Gum
Tums/Rolaids
Ibuprofen
freezer baggies/foil wrap (to take home dinner from fest)
Coozie
Spray bottle for misting on hot days
Hanky for secondlining or dipping in ice water
batteries for your camera
camera
KLEENEX packs for the port-o-potties...they DO RUN OUT LADIES!
Wet wipes for messy hands after eating yummy food
Supplementals/extra lighters/ciggies
Lagniappes
CUBES!!
Pen

That's all I can think of right now but please fill in the list if you can think of anything....

[chrisjoseph]

gotta carry the grids with you at the fest, so you can plan what you are doing that night...

[Staxsun]

I'm a big Purel fan at fest. There ain't no soap and water, and wet wipes only go so far. It's easy to carry.

[swag]

gotta carry the grids with you at the fest, so you can plan what you are doing that night...

You don't memorize 'em?

[NYMAMA]

I always carry a sharpie pen.(great for autographs on CD's)

[funkkjunkie]

If it's hot, you'll be so happy that you have your
Hat and
Neck bandana with silicone beads that you dip in water-the beer tents will dip in their icy water for you
Mister and even better: mister with fan
Umbrella, if you like to be shielded from the sun in this way
Sunglasses

[ibjamn]

When I could still sit on the ground, I always carried a felt-back plastic table-cloth. Sit on the felt side with plastic down. If the ground is even slightly wet, it will keep you dry. Cheap enough so you can dump it at the end of fest or the weekend. They fold up very flat & are light.

[chrisjoseph]

Swag, you're right. Instead, I have to pack my memory. :)

[NeenAtlanta]

visine or some sort of eye drops for dusty days
some lens cleaner for glasses
lip balm
hand fan
. . .

[McGregor]

Nice thread, very helpful! I had already started thinking about this!

you guys rock!

[funkkjunkie]

Lysine to prevent those damn fever blisters!

[Orleansnj]

I'm addin' cell phone and a small pad o paper to write down all that stuff you surely won't remember (like songs, band names, and new phone #s).

[csoul]

Lysine to prevent those damn fever blisters!

OMG funkkjunkie......Mr. Soul & I both suffer MISERABLY from the bastids. Have you tried this over the counter stuff called Releve? It is very expensive, but if you get these blisters like we do, it is worth every penny. I've picked it up at CVS here in Virginia, but originally found it at a Rite Aid in Mississippi. It is hands down THE BEST stuff I have found to combat them...and believe me, I have tried it all. The lysine is great for preventative measures, but if you start feeling one coming on, Releve will stop it dead in it's tracks.

[Amy Winette]

Csoul, I have got some of that in my purse, gotta stop em before the get going!

[mightyradgumbo]

I'd pack the cubes...IF I HAD THEM!!!! lol is this the wrong thread to say that. Also as far as the spray bottle for misting, the fan ones are pretty cool, just dont buy the last one at a fest booth, right chipchopchick ;)

I also pack a pair of flip-flops to change into from my fest shoes. It seems to help reduce the stress until I can soak my dogs.

[sfnola]

Camera.

And the absolutely, positively, must-have, can't live without at the fest....
a small pouch with a lighter, bowl and some California kind to pack it with. If anything falls under the "essentials" category, it's this!

[Jordan]

A list of nightime shows from jazzfestgrids.com (so I can figure out what I'm seeing that night) and the section from the Gambit (describing the bands at fest).

[bluedog]

*clapping* yep you guys DO rawk! I'm marking this thread along witha few others as "my faves" ... this fest virgin will be SO prepared! I can't wait!

[Corona]

Csoul, I have got some of that in my purse, gotta stop em before the get going!
oh, that's the stuff Amy gave me Mardi Gras night when I started with one on my top lip. It went away completely...then amy flew home and a giant one grew on my bottom lip....no Amy, no Releve....big fever blister that's STILL on my lip as I write this. :(

[pokerchick66]

I'd pack the cubes...IF I HAD THEM!!!! lol is this the wrong thread to say that. Also as far as the spray bottle for misting, the fan ones are pretty cool, just dont buy the last one at a fest booth, right chipchopchick ;)

I also pack a pair of flip-flops to change into from my fest shoes. It seems to help reduce the stress until I can soak my dogs.

I got a nice spiffy new one ready to go! :D And it works, lol.

[csoul]

Csoul, I have got some of that in my purse, gotta stop em before the get going!

Isn't it the best stuff, eva'....
Corona- I feel for ya' girl. Can you get the stuff in Canada????

[rosetree]

speaking of fever blisters...I get this "special" balm from Carr drugs here in NO that is way better than anything that I have tried! As soon as you feel the "tingling" you put this on and it is gone in a day or two...I'm not sure if you can order it, but if you are really inflicted by this all the time, let me know and I can pick some up for you...if I remember, it's not cheap, but it lasts a long time!

As for addding to your backpack----large trash bags, pocket knife (put it in your checked bags), some duct tape rolled up on a pencil---not the whole roll! Duct tape rules!!!!! I also take zip ties everywhere I go, but that's just me......

[Carolina Beadhead]

some duct tape rolled up on a pencil---not the whole roll! Duct tape rules!!!!! ......

I don't see the WD40 on your list.... If ya have the duct tape shouldn't you have the 40? Wouldn't that cover everything?

:D

[rosetree]

I don't see the WD40 on your list.... If ya have the duct tape shouldn't you have the 40? Wouldn't that cover everything?

:D
I thought about it, but getting it in to the Fest might be hard!;)

[Amy Winette]

oh, that's the stuff Amy gave me Mardi Gras night when I started with one on my top lip. It went away completely...then amy flew home and a giant one grew on my bottom lip....no Amy, no Releve....big fever blister that's STILL on my lip as I write this. :(

Shoot, I should have sent it with you girl!

[bluesmama]

rosetree, don't know why I didn't think of duct tape! I've used it for so many things. It especially came in handy early one morning just outside of Jackson Hole, when we hit a deer. It kept the vehicle together until we could get someplace for repairs!

[Amy Winette]

Haha, we bring duct tape into fest. It secures our fest flag to our chairs :)

Where yat Bluesmama? JH is Jeff's stomping ground . . .

[Zydekitten]

You don't memorize 'em?

He tattoos them on his forearm ;)

[Zydekitten]

When I could still sit on the ground, I always carried a felt-back plastic table-cloth. Sit on the felt side with plastic down. If the ground is even slightly wet, it will keep you dry. Cheap enough so you can dump it at the end of fest or the weekend. They fold up very flat & are light.
I highly recommend the Neat Sheet!!! :)

I've been using it for the past few years at Jazzfest and other music festivals (High Sierra, Worldfest, etc.) and they're the best - they are very lightweight, quick and easy to fold/roll up and stow in your bag, they're weighted at the corners to not blow around and best of all - water/liquid just rolls off of them and sand/dirt just shakes off.

For more details, here's their link: http://www.theneatsheet.com/about/index.asp

I bought mine at the local grocery/drug store - but if you can't find them near you, you can buy them online here: http://www.drugstore.com/templates/brand/default.asp?brand=24188

[bluesmama]

Haha, we bring duct tape into fest. It secures our fest flag to our chairs :)

Where yat Bluesmama? JH is Jeff's stomping ground . . .

too far from JH, Amy, tooo far (i'm in NW La), but I love that place! love Wyoming, Colorado, Montana! never wanted to fly into JH after seeing those planes drop into it over the mountains - my parents have a house in Breckenridge, Co. - makes a nice base camp for surrounding areas

[Corona]

Isn't it the best stuff, eva'....
Corona- I feel for ya' girl. Can you get the stuff in Canada????
I've never seen it but gonna try ebay later ;)

[Corona]

Shoot, I should have sent it with you girl!
that's okay Ames, it was expensive stuff...I always get them when I'm completely run down...Mardi Gras kicked my sorry ass ;)

[Corona]

I highly recommend the Neat Sheet!!! :)

I've been using it for the past few years at Jazzfest and other music festivals (High Sierra, Worldfest, etc.) and they're the best - they are very lightweight, quick and easy to fold/roll up and stow in your bag, they're weighted at the corners to not blow around and best of all - water/liquid just rolls off of them and sand/dirt just shakes off.

For more details, here's their link: http://www.theneatsheet.com/about/index.asp

I bought mine at the local grocery/drug store - but if you can't find them near you, you can buy them online here: http://www.drugstore.com/templates/brand/default.asp?brand=24188
I got the family size and a smaller one on ebay last year for $9.00!!! I may do it again so I don't have to pack it in my suitcase...ebay rocks people!!

[Amy Winette]

Girl, I took a lot more breaks than you and it kicked MY ass! You did great :)

[ibjamn]

I highly recommend the Neat Sheet!!! :)

I've been using it for the past few years at Jazzfest and other music festivals (High Sierra, Worldfest, etc.) and they're the best - they are very lightweight, quick and easy to fold/roll up and stow in your bag, they're weighted at the corners to not blow around and best of all - water/liquid just rolls off of them and sand/dirt just shakes off.

For more details, here's their link: http://www.theneatsheet.com/about/index.asp

I bought mine at the local grocery/drug store - but if you can't find them near you, you can buy them online here: http://www.drugstore.com/templates/brand/default.asp?brand=24188

I have one of those too, they work the same way, only a plastic tablecloth is $1.99.. ;)

[steffie]

As for addding to your backpack----large trash bags, pocket knife (put it in your checked bags), some duct tape rolled up on a pencil---not the whole roll! Duct tape rules!!!!! I also take zip ties everywhere I go, but that's just me......


Duct tape and safety pins are the bees knees. Never leave home without them:p :D

[Zydekitten]

I have one of those too, they work the same way, only a plastic tablecloth is $1.99.. ;)

True . . . . but I find the plastic side slips around on the grass, 'specially if it's wet and they can blow around if you don't weight it down with your stuff that people walking through then step on. Plus, I like to have as few plastic/not necessarily reusable things as possible.

Normally (being a Scot) - I'm totally down with cheaper, but in this case I'd rather pay $7 bucks more for something that works better for my (admittedly somewhat picky) needs.

However, Jenn does have a point in that a two-buck tablecloth is a great option for those on a tight budget :)

[McGregor]

If you show up with duct tape, the terrorists have won!

I keed, I keed

[Fred (Texas JF Fanatic)]

Here are a few more things for the backpack: Copy of Offbeat, Beer, and earplugs. If you need earplugs, then just ask. I always have extra.

[Fred (Texas JF Fanatic)]

Did anyone list a watch. I must look at my watch & cubes a million times each day.

[Fred (Texas JF Fanatic)]

Still thinking of my backpack ;) Extra pair of sunglasses, extra car keys if you drive. Oh, and don't forget the ice.

[csoul]

True . . . . but I find the plastic side slips around on the grass, 'specially if it's wet and they can blow around if you don't weight it down with your stuff that people walking through then step on. Plus, I like to have as few plastic/not necessarily reusable things as possible.

Normally (being a Scot) - I'm totally down with cheaper, but in this case I'd rather pay $7 bucks more for something that works better for my (admittedly somewhat picky) needs.

However, Jenn does have a point in that a two-buck tablecloth is a great option for those on a tight budget :)

I'm leaning towards the tablecloth idea this year. Have always used neatsheets in the past. I love them, and use them at the beach too. But last year, I had to leave one on the fairgrounds because it r***3d and it got all muddy. I have to admit, it bothered me to leave that $9 bucks laying on the ground. For a 1.99 tablecloth, I wouldn't have thought twice.

[Orleansnj]

How 'bout a trash bag like Rosetree posted earlier and stuff that muddy sheet in there - then hose that thing off for the next day?

Speaking of these thingies - are they real thin like an inexpensive paint drop cloth?

[ozzie]

that's okay Ames, it was expensive stuff...I always get them when I'm completely run down...Mardi Gras kicked my sorry ass ;)

So... a fever blister is a cold sore?

[csoul]

So... a fever blister is a cold sore?

Yep.....I always get my from being out in the sun, but different things cause different folks to get them. Anything from stress, diet, and apparently Corona gets 'em from too much fun ;}

[glinda]

Last year in the crawfish momica line I saw a woman who brought several of those gladware plastic food containers with lids. She had them fill up a couple containers with the magic monica and she put the lids on, popped em in her pack and was off to buy more food! They're lightweight, you could carry a lot of food, keep it warm, and have plenty to bring back to yer camp. Brilliant! I told her, she smiled . "Yes, I'm the jazzfest queen."

Think I'll bring a couple this year, you could fit other stuff inside them as the day begins, so they wouldn't have to take up much space. And no biggie if you decide to toss em at the end of the day.

[Fred (Texas JF Fanatic)]

I'm leaning towards the tablecloth idea this year. Have always used neatsheets in the past. I love them, and use them at the beach too. But last year, I had to leave one on the fairgrounds because it r***3d and it got all muddy. I have to admit, it bothered me to leave that $9 bucks laying on the ground. For a 1.99 tablecloth, I wouldn't have thought twice.

Home Depot has 8x10 tarps for around $8. Just bring a extra large ziplock to put it in after a long day at the fest. I've been known to stop by the car wash & spray it down.

[csoul]

How 'bout a trash bag like Rosetree posted earlier and stuff that muddy sheet in there - then hose that thing off for the next day?

Speaking of these thingies - are they real thin like an inexpensive paint drop cloth?

Ooooh, that sounds like WORK!!! The neat sheats have two sides. They are not would I would consider thin, but not as heavy as a blanket, either. I couldn't begin to describe the material they're made out of, but they really do work GREAT. Some of them even have weights sewn into the corners so that when the wind blows, they don't.....

[funkkjunkie]

My cell phone is my watch and my phone book.
I'll lookl into getting some releve. Anything to help the things go away. But if I take lysine every day, I dont' get the fever blisters. I just forget sometimes. and while innola, i'm going to double up. Using 5000mg lysine everyday, zovirax, and camphophenique, my 3 blisters were gone in 8 days!

[pokerchick66]

Yep.....I always get my from being out in the sun, but different things cause different folks to get them. Anything from stress, diet, and apparently Corona gets 'em from too much fun ;}

And no sleep.

[Zydekitten]

How 'bout a trash bag like Rosetree posted earlier and stuff that muddy sheet in there - then hose that thing off for the next day?

Speaking of these thingies - are they real thin like an inexpensive paint drop cloth?
Well, I can definitely understand not wanting to lose $9 . . . I really like Csoul's idea (although when I r**ns, I just don't put it down on the ground) of bringing a trash bag to put it in and then wash it out at home/hotle (they can be washed in washing machine BTW).

They're not as thin as a drop-cloth - a bit thicker and tougher.

[Zydekitten]

Ooooh, that sounds like WORK!!! The neat sheats have two sides. They are not would I would consider thin, but not as heavy as a blanket, either. I couldn't begin to describe the material they're made out of, but they really do work GREAT. Some of them even have weights sewn into the corners so that when the wind blows, they don't.....

They all have weights in the corners (one of it's best features to my mind) and right now you can find them on eBay for $2.50!!!

[Orleansnj]

good info on their durability. i might have to check this thingie out. I have a blanket/tapestry/ fabric thing that I bought at Kruz in the market years and years and years ago...and it survives fest just fine -but this might be a key addition for those times when the ground is wet...

[Zydekitten]

good info on their durability. i might have to check this thingie out. I have a blanket/tapestry/ fabric thing that I bought at Kruz in the market years and years and years ago...and it survives fest just fine -but this might be a key addition for those times when the ground is wet...
Yeah, I love Kruz - and they do have great tapestry cloths for festivaling!!!

Funny story: I go there every time when I'm in New Orleans as they have great stuff and it's just the kind of place I like to support down there. So, Denbear and I are there last December to work with Habitat in the Muscians' Village, and we're down in the Quarter doing some Christmas shopping and I tell him there's the place on Decatur in which I want to stop.

So, we park and lock the bikes and I begin to walk in Kruz's front door on Decatur - just as Den's going towards the side door (not knowing it's the same store), saying that there's this great store next door, Kruz that I should see and he knows Kruz! :D

Sure enough, he ends up inside the same store that I went into - which is indeed Kruz and he does indeed know Kruz, who was there to catch up on old times with Den! [singing "It's a Small, Small World"]

[bluesmama]

Thanx to all for the good "tips" on what to bring in your backpacks. I'm afraid I may "tip" over if I bring everything I want to! Also thanks for all the ideas on the fest food thread about how to get "things in".
wanted to ask, but wasn't sure if it would be ok to share those ideas here

[csoul]

! Also thanks for all the ideas on the fest food thread about how to get "things in".
wanted to ask, but wasn't sure if it would be ok to share those ideas here

note to self: check out the fest food thread........

[glinda]

Yep, I sometimes give out some baked goodies to members of my krewe before we leave for fest. Everyone carries their own. If questioned at the gate, we are prepared to say, I'm a diabetic and can't wait in line to eat/need emergency rations. Or if they say no go, just eat it! But we've never needed to use the line (so far). Pockets, inside chair bags, etc... easy to hide a cookie or two...

[Corona]

Yep.....I always get my from being out in the sun, but different things cause different folks to get them. Anything from stress, diet, and apparently Corona gets 'em from too much fun ;}
always! It sucks :(

[swag]

If you check the official list (http://www.nojazzfest.com/info/faq.php#9) of prohibited items, you'll notice that food is not mentioned. And a couple of years ago, FestyDave confirmed that outside food is allowed. Just no beverages. So no need to hide your baked goods.

Festival policies & important information
All bags will be searched and vehicles will be subject to search. Small bags and backpacks (17" x 12" x 10") only and twelve-pack soft coolers are permitted. Absolutely no large or hard coolers, including thermoses, whether carried or in vehicles. Wagons, carts, pets, glass, personal tents, metal poles, shade canopies, beach or pole-style umbrellas, and athletic games are not allowed. Bicycles are not allowed on the infield. Strollers for children are permitted. Blankets and ground tarps may not exceed 6'x 8'. Inserting stakes, poles, or any other objects into the ground is prohibited. Video and audio recording equipment is strictly prohibited. No unauthorized vending. Weapons, illicit drugs, and other contraband are strictly prohibited. Fair Grounds management will not allow outside beverages of any kind whether carried or in vehicles. Festival reserves the right to deny entry or remove from the grounds anyone in violation of these polices.

[Carolina Beadhead]

If you check the official list (http://www.nojazzfest.com/info/faq.php#9) of prohibited items, you'll notice that food is not mentioned. And a couple of years ago, FestyDave confirmed that outside food is allowed. Just no beverages. So no need to hide your baked goods.

As long as SECURITY knows that outside food is allowed...

[Jaypee]

For blister prevention, take along some Compeed strips. They are a gel-like, oval-shaped pad that adheres comfortably to blister-prone spots on your feet. You can find them in the footcare section of the drugstore.

A few Jazz Fests ago, a friend gave away a whole box of these to those of us who were limping by the end of the day.

[stlbarb]

You don't memorize 'em?

i miss you!

[stlbarb]

Lysine to prevent those damn fever blisters!

between the stress (lack of sleep) & the sun i used to get FB's at fest.
but now i take Valtrex whenever i'm going to be spending a lot of time in the sun.
talk to your medical provider about a script - but its usually the larger co-pay at the pharmacy. if you dont have drug coverage its really pricey.

lip balm with sunscreen helps also.

[stlbarb]

So... a fever blister is a cold sore?

= Oral Herpes
by adulthood, most adults have been exposed to the virus but not everyone breaks out.

[funkkjunkie]

YYR, ozzie, cold sore is the same. If I can beat it with an amino acid-lysine, that's the way i'm gonna go.

[Chicago Fest Fan]

An absolute must at fest is a small soft cooler. It cuts down on your trips to the beer tent and keep your backups cool. We get 2-3 rounds of beer per trip.
We usually load it with ice before we leave the hotel and bring in a couple of bottles of water too. Then later on the kind folks at the beer tent will give us a couple of chunks of ice per trip to keep it cool all day.

[stlbarb]

An absolute must at fest is a small soft cooler. It cuts down on your trips to the beer tent and keep your backups cool. We get 2-3 rounds of beer per trip.
We usually load it with ice before we leave the hotel and bring in a couple of bottles of water too. Then later on the kind folks at the beer tent will give us a couple of chunks of ice per trip to keep it cool all day.

and remember to tip extra for those chunks of ice.

we have the luxury of a fridge & freezer, so we freeze our water bottles the night before. some of those soft sided coolers leak a bit, so take care where you set them. put your sunscreen container inside a leakproof ziploc and store it in cooler to keep it from getting too runny.

[McGregor]

This is a very informative thread but I have a question for you guys that try and pack all of this stuff and take it in

What size backpack (?) or bag do you usually try to take inside for all of your goodies? Do you carry it around with you all day? Set up shop and leave it there and then wander around?

Just curious and thanks to all of you for all the helpful info!

[Ludlows23]

I usually bring in soft sided coolers to JF too - and ever year my new one bought especially for that year seems to start leaking by the 3rd day. Someone recently told me that the ice sometimes cuts the inner lining (sharp edges) so now I try to load the ice in a thick ziplock bag and its worked better - last year's cooler is still alive!!

[Bill/KC]

I like to carry a small bottle of hot sauce that I buy at the French Market (usually some kind of habenero sauce, or something different than Tabasco). Also, some dental floss. :)

[Zbonnie]

This is a very informative thread but I have a question for you guys that try and pack all of this stuff and take it in

What size backpack (?) or bag do you usually try to take inside for all of your goodies? Do you carry it around with you all day? Set up shop and leave it there and then wander around?

Just curious and thanks to all of you for all the helpful info!I bring a "regular-size" backpack -- offhand I'd say about 10" or 12" wide by 16" high. I HATE to carry it around, and usually set it down at home base. This year I am going to try Barb's suggestion to bring a separate, smaller, very lightweight backpack for short roams. This, however, requires you to know beforehand whether you're going to wind up in Economy Hall (need the parasol for secondlining), at a Watermelon Sacrifice (need the bean shaker), whether it might r**n (need the umbrella, maybe the rubber boots) etc. etc. ... you get the picture.:rolleyes:

[mendelj2]

Socks! Either for later in the day or an extra pair if you're wearing some.

Makes the feet feel better after a long day of dancing!

[McGregor]

thanks for the insight Zbonnie!

[The Tie Dye Guy]

I made a thread for this but it has gotten pushed back, I will see if I can find and bump it. Below is a paste of my list for ya Corona.

This is a bit long but worth it I hope,
I am anal about this packing thing; I take guff from my group each year for my incessant making of lists and packing the first week of April. Below is my check list and notes for a day at JF. My thanks to Swag for helping to add items to this over the years. His site has increased the overall enjoyment of the fest & usefulness of my pack. Also thanks to all the t-heads who have posted their secrets, ideas and personal accessories for us to consider.

First List – Tie Dye Guy’s Personal List:
1. Hat w/pins (See notes below)
2. Devil Stix
3. Cigars & Zippo (See notes below)
4. Spray Bottle (empty) (See notes below)
5. 2 bottles of avian frozen
6. Camera & extra battery w/vinyl or plastic lined case (in case of r***)
7. JazzFest Journal & pen (See notes below)
8. Nola Pouch with schedule & map (See notes below)
9. Lotion bar & Lip Balm
10. Sunscreen
11. 3-4 Bandannas (See notes below)
12. Lagniappes (See notes below)
13. Tickets
14. Tie Wallet with credit cards AND cash, ID (See notes below)
15. Bag/pack to carry in.
16. Waist pouch (See notes below)
17. Large Zip-loc freezer bags (See notes below)
18. Personal cards or business cards (See notes below)
19. Toothbrush/small paste & mouthwash (See notes below)
20. Aspirin/Advil & few anti-acid tabs (See notes below)
21. Personal Attire (See notes below)
22. Extra Shirt (See notes below)
23. Cell Phone (See notes below)
24. Tea Tree Oil my version of Neosporin (See notes below)
25. Lavender or Ylang ylang oil (See notes below)
26. Towel (See notes below)
27. Copy of the drivers key (See notes below)
28. Sun Glasses with neck cord
29. A few band-aids (See notes below)
30. ROOM KEY! (See notes below)
31. Condoms (See notes below)

Extra options list I sometimes bring or that other t-heads bring & suggest:

1. Chair
2. Booze - Many bring the fruit laced with, others bring mouthwash bottles or water bottles. I prefer the sun tan lotion bottle, pina colada smells like sun tan lotion, and sun tan lotion smells like a pina colada. I like pina coladas, some don't.
3. Contraband & accessories. This is a favorite and must have option for many.
Advice, roll it and spread it out. Pipes get you a bigger fine and problem than the contraband itself in some situations and also smell more as well as being easier to identify from a distance. If you must bring a pipe, bring a tobacco pipe and some smoking tobacco, that way it is only paraphernalia if you get caught with it filled.
Papers should already be rolled with no extras or have tobacco with them or they will be considered paraphernalia if caught. Rolled looks like a cigarette and only a few isn't that likely to cause you an arrest. By spread it out I mean give a few to each member of the group, no one has too much and if someone has to drop then you are not out.
4. Poncho or umbrella
5. Sanitizer or wet wipes
6. Cornstarch or baby/foot powder
7. Hand Fan
8. Cozy
9. Flag, Pole & Duct Tape
10. Extra Shoes (I recommend wearing sandals or flip flops and bringing a pair of light weight close toe cloth slippers, nickels or pool shoes)
11. Small pack of Tissue (toilet paper also works though I like the tissues for the small plastic wrapper).
12. Binoculars
13. Socks (BLASPHEMY)
14. Earplugs – Some people like these. (*Osmotic High Fidelity plugs- www.etymotic.com comfortable, 20db reduction across all frequencies* & *hearos 211* are the t-head recommended choices.)
15. Medications if you have any that you need. If you have allergies Jazzfest is a place to certainly carry some benadryl or your prescription allergy meds.
16. A few good grade plastic trash bags – Useful to put on the ground under your blanket on wet or muddy days, can be used as a make shift r*** coat and good to put your stuff in if it happens to r***.
17. Tampons, Pads, Hygene products you may need. (If you use any type of this stuff for any ailment or use, bring an extra to the festival, you just may need it).

NOTES from the Tie Dye Guy’s Personal List:

1. Hat & Pins - A hat is a must for most of us, keeps you cool and in the shade, also gives you something to hold the ice on your head. Every year we get pins from Oscar's Originals in the French Market (he will be at JazzFest first weekend this year). His pins are original, unique, signed and dated and change every year. You can not wear every tea shirt and bandana from past fest in one day (or if you are like me in a month) but you can wear pins from every year you have gone on your hat.

3. Cigars & Zippo - Please consider others who can not stand the smoke. This year flavors for me are Acid Blondies, Ambrosia Nectars & Van Reefs. These are all soft, spicy cigars that leave a pleasant incense fragrance and almost always bother no one, as well as being a great puff.

4. Empty Spray Bottles - Bring em empty, stop at Ms. Lena's or any beer booth and have them dunk the bottle in the ice water for a quick fill (Don't forget to tip em). This way you do not carry the weight until you are ready to use.

7. Journal & Pen - I keep a few journals, one is of my trips. I bring it along to note interesting things down & elaborate later when reflecting, also great place for autographs & info from others.

8. Nola Pouch, Schedule & Map - First the pouch. I saw this mentioned above, if no one knows here it is. Nola.com & Liuzza's (I believe just these two) handed out these pouches (black in 2k3, red in 2k4) with a schedule & fairgrounds map on the streets before you got to the fest. They stopped handing these out in 2k5 only giving out the schedules. They are a vinyl rectangle with a clear film pouch on one side and an advert on the other with a long cord attached to both sides. You wear it around your neck with the schedule inside the clear film, just pick it up and look at your schedule then drop it back to swinging around your neck. If you weren't luck enough to get one of these try the school & office supply stores for a passport neck wallet or the like, they work just as well, so do large luggage id slips attached to a cord of your making.
As for the schedule & map, I am always afraid that the Nola/Liuzza's crew will run out before I find one so I print my own on photo paper. Being printed on photo paper you can print them on 4x6 in high resolution and they are far less likely to run, tear or fade even when wet with sweat, beer, water bottle spray, dripping ice or wet bandannas or r***.

11. Bandannas - I tie these onto my pack straps, they weigh nothing, don't take up room, add extra padding to the shoulder strap and come in useful for dozens of things. I use them as napkins, hand wipes, to wet and wear, to wear as a sweat band, to tie off bags (plastic shopping bags), to tie of my pack, to blow my nose & more.

12. Lagniappes - things to give to people you meet. This year I am making beeswax lip balms & maybe fragrance tarts (simmering potpourri wax).

14. Tie Wallet - I use a credit card size small leather wallet with a key chain loop attached & fold over closing with Velcro seal (target $4.00 they have em at wal-mart too but I don't shop there). I then cord this around my neck. I do this because I almost never wear pockets to JazzFest and it is impossible to drop or have stolen from me, plus it stays on my body all day so I don't have to dig in my pack to pay for food, beer etc. I do not put anything in my pack that I would want when wandering, too much trouble to go through the pack when not in a place where I can relax.

16. Fanny Pack/Waist Pouch - I bring one with 5-6 zipper pockets; I strap it around my pack shoulder straps and then drop it inside my pack. This way the small things and important things in my pack can be easily found, don't get lost in the mix and tiny or trinket items do not fall out or get crushed.

17. Zip-loc Freezer Bags - I am a fan of these. First, they serve as much more than a food container. They keep things dry, they hold things in your pack and keep them organized, they hold ice for ice packs (especially good for people keeping their beer in a box on their blanket, otherwise the blanket is soaked by noon as many of us have found out). They also work well for food. Here is my take on the food take out from JF. Do it and do it often.
I usually do not have enough time in town to eat all the places I like to eat (you may have noticed if you saw my food schedule or adds to the restaurant review thread). What I do, is get an order or two of the things I like on the last day about 4-5 (as late as I can but not before they sell out), I take the food to the hotel and immediately throw it in the freezer or cooler (depending on when I want to eat it). When ready I thaw it out and heat it up on the oven to HOT temp and you are good to go.
For those who want to know, Crawfish Monica, City Park Jambalaya, crab cakes, red beans, white beans, soft shell crab all freeze VERY well. Monica doesn't keep as long in the freeze but a few weeks at least (mine has never made it more than 2 before I eat it anyway). The fried chicken doesn't freeze well, it dries out too easily; po-boys don't freeze well unless you get them with no sauce or topping and just freeze the meats and add the rest when heating.

18. Business/Personal cards - bring something with your contact info on it to give to people you meet. If you are not meeting people that you remember or enjoy their company at JF, you are missing something, talk to your neighbors. My group has left me at dinner talking to some other group, when I asked where they went they say "I thought you were one of their group now."

19. Toothbrush, toothpaste & mouthwash - I bring a small tube of toothpaste & sample bottle of mouthwash, you never know what you might get dragged to or find altering your plans to go back to the hotel. Hell, when I eat 5 times in a day and then drink & smoke, I want to brush my teeth at least once.

20. Aspirin/Advil & Anti-acid tabs - for obvious reasons I think. I had Uglesich's one morning before the fest, whole plate of oysters, then BBQ oysters & shrimp followed by a day in the hot sun and who knows what else I ate made me feel pretty run down in the stomach by 4-5 o'clock. A tummy settler could have brought me right back and they did not have them at first aid.

21. Personal Attire - Dress for the weather, plan on hot with heat coming in the later morning followed by intense heat in the early afternoon etc. I wear loose baggy air flow pants with a muscle-t, covered by a shredded regular t-shirt to cover my shoulder and back until I get hot or for later cover, with bandannas and hat for head cover.

22. Extra shirt - I bring this item on all days except the first. I buy my JF shirts on the first day so I have an extra shirt if I need it. Having an extra shirt comes in handy often as said above, an extra shirt can be the one you wear home or later in the day after you have dunked your first shirt in ice water all day long or used it to wrap up ice.

23. Cell Phone - I hate these things, I refuse to use one for all but the rarest of business applications. JazzFest is another story, there is no better way to find your friends, tell someone about something great they should come see or to meet your group at the end of the day. Also good to notify each other if someone is in need or leaves early or with someone else. The only way I would not have this at JazzFest is if I came alone.

24. Tea Tree Oil - This is my version of Neosporin, it is a great disinfectant and antiseptic, all natural, cheap, keeps bugs off, DOES NOT come off or wash off sunscreen and is not phototoxic (which means it wont magnify the sun and get your a good sun burn right around your open wound/scratch/bite.

25. Lavender/Ylang ylang oil - a few drops in a bandanna and under the nose removes stomach issues, headaches and calms the nerves and it also works great as a bug repellent & deodorant.

26. Towel - As Slartibartfast will tell you, go no place without your towel. I will not waste the text in the forum listing how useful a towel can be but I will say my favorite use is to get a HUGE brick of ice and wrap it in my towel and carry it around with me.

27. Copy of the Drivers Key - What if you want to get something out of the car? What if you get back to the car first and want to crash until your group arrives? What if the driver loses his key?

29. Band-Aids - Like the tea tree oil above these items can come in useful and who wants to let a small bite or wound wait? Worse, who wants to leave their favorite band to go to the first aid tent to deal with a small burn, scrape or caterpillar sting (I HATE THOSE THINGS!)

30. Room Key - Everyone in your group should have one of these, see Drivers key above. The plastic key card can be written on with a permanent marker to separate multiple room keys.

31. Condoms - You just never know, and when you find out, well you never know, better safe than sorry or blue.

I know this is like a HUGE post but Hats made a nice compilation of the restaurant review last year so I thought maybe I would add my part to this as well as compile what others had mentioned. I hope it helps.

[Corona]

holy crap Jay, how long did it take you to write all that????? Thanks so much! I'm copying it and will refer when I pack my fest pack....ummmm, maybe not the condoms though lol!

[Orleansnj]

holy crap Jay, how long did it take you to write all that????? Thanks so much! I'm copying it and will refer when I pack my fest pack....ummmm, maybe not the condoms though lol!

U gotta pack the condoms - even if they are not for YOU - because you don't want your friends to get in any unnecessary <<ahem>> trouble...a friend in need is a friend indeed....... (you get bonus points around the world if you have them when a friend has not prepared....)

LOL

[Corona]

U gotta pack the condoms - even if they are not for YOU - because you don't want your friends to get in any unnecessary <<ahem>> trouble...a friend in need is a friend indeed....... (you get bonus points around the world if you have them when a friend has not prepared....)

LOL
lol okay...but if my kid finds them...I'm friggin DEAD!:eek:

[Orleansnj]

Ah - point taken.....

Well, I'll try to have some for ya if you need 'em....ROFLMAO !!!!

[pgh_girl]

This is an amazing list! Thanks for sharing! I love the suntan lotion bottle and the condom lagniappes :)

[bluedog]

We had this on the old board and it was invaluable for my first fest. I used pretty much everything in there and it really wasn't too much to carry around at all. So here goes:

Money
Tickets
Sunscreen
Lip Balm
Band-aids (blisters)
r**n poncho (NEVER say the R word on this bored!)
Gum
Tums/Rolaids
Ibuprofen
freezer baggies/foil wrap (to take home dinner from fest)
Coozie
Spray bottle for misting on hot days
Hanky for secondlining or dipping in ice water
batteries for your camera
camera
KLEENEX packs for the port-o-potties...they DO RUN OUT LADIES!
Wet wipes for messy hands after eating yummy food
Supplementals/extra lighters/ciggies
Lagniappes
CUBES!!
Pen

That's all I can think of right now but please fill in the list if you can think of anything....

K I'm gonna be stoopid and ask 'cuz I been thinkin' about this all day ... but how do you bring supplementals with you on a plane? ... and should I take that risk or just man up & do without?

[ohio]

Don't take them on the plane. Figure out a different method. That's all I will say.

[Zydekitten]

Yeah, I'll second Bry's post - don't bring those Festing needs on a plane!!!

[Corona]

K I'm gonna be stoopid and ask 'cuz I been thinkin' about this all day ... but how do you bring supplementals with you on a plane? ... and should I take that risk or just man up & do without?
I have very good friends who live in America and who drive :)

[saturn]

Yeah, I'll second Bry's post - don't bring those Festing needs on a plane!!!

For sure! You have to be careful about those little sniffing puppies around your luggage.

[Ms. Festngator]

When I could still sit on the ground, I always carried a felt-back plastic table-cloth. Sit on the felt side with plastic down. If the ground is even slightly wet, it will keep you dry. Cheap enough so you can dump it at the end of fest or the weekend. They fold up very flat & are light.

We picked this tip up from Jenn years ago, and it was one of the best. We find them at the dollar stores and pack a bunch. We have used the neat sheets but like the vinyl tablecloths even better.

Lis, your list is excellent, time to pull mine out and bring it up to date. Thanks for reposting.

[Corona]

hi Ms. Fest....nice to see you posting :) :) Glad I could be of assistance.

[Zbonnie]

holy crap Jay, how long did it take you to write all that????? Thanks so much! I'm copying it and will refer when I pack my fest pack....ummmm, maybe not the condoms though lol!Well, actually, I'm pretty sure he just cut and pasted it -- as he said, it's been posted here before and I'm sure he's got it saved on his computer. I LOVE the footnotes!:D

[JDP]

Neat Sheets - I spent all morning calling around to places that may have them (Walmart, Targets, etal) - seems they are considered seasonal - a little chilly for outdoor concerts in NH right now.

Well, one use was in baby care and babies aren't seasonal. One last phone call: 7.49 - Toys-R-Us.

[ibjamn]

I know corona gets em cheap on ebay. :)

[Corona]

yes, JDP go on ebay and just type in Neat Sheets.....you can get them pretty cheap!

[JDP]

Yeah - ebay - did that - 3.95 plus 5.00 in shipping. 9 bucks is more than the 7.50 in Toys-RT-Us. Also, I really hate to pay more in shipping than the actual purchase.

[Zydekitten]

Neat Sheets - I spent all morning calling around to places that may have them (Walmart, Targets, etal) - seems they are considered seasonal - a little chilly for outdoor concerts in NH right now.

Well, one use was in baby care and babies aren't seasonal. One last phone call: 7.49 - Toys-R-Us.
I got mine at the grocery store (larger ones with drug stores attached usually have them)!

Also, drugstore.com has them in the two different sizes for good prices (and I think lower shipping than eBay).

[stlbarb]

lol okay...but if my kid finds them...I'm friggin DEAD!:eek:

i'll show you how to turn them into balloon animals.

the 18/19 year kids should know all about condoms.

[Corona]

Yeah - ebay - did that - 3.95 plus 5.00 in shipping. 9 bucks is more than the 7.50 in Toys-RT-Us. Also, I really hate to pay more in shipping than the actual purchase.
awww, gotcha....I bought the 2-pack package which is one family size and one regular size for $12 and then $5 shipping to Ibjamns. The family one is a perfect size for 4 peeps and chairs plus some dancing room :)

[Corona]

i'll show you how to turn them into balloon animals.

the 18/19 year kids should know all about condoms.
ummmm....they sure do! I've found a couple here!!:eek:

She just won't understand why mommy has condoms when her hubbie is back home in Canada lmao!

[saturn]

Last year, we forgot to bring anything, so we went into a local pharmacy in NOLA and bought a cheap picnic tablecloth for about $3 -- plastic with felt backing. It worked great.

[stlbarb]

Last year, we forgot to bring anything, so we went into a local pharmacy in NOLA and bought a cheap picnic tablecloth for about $3 -- plastic with felt backing. It worked great.

for those who plan ahead you can sometimes find these at $1 stores.
'Dollar General' & 'Family Dollar' carry them for about $2. and garage sales often have them for 10 cents.

[sophisticated sissy]

Last year, we forgot to bring anything, so we went into a local pharmacy in NOLA and bought a cheap picnic tablecloth for about $3 -- plastic with felt backing. It worked great.


I guess you'd have to pick up a little spermicide, too, huh?

[Leni]

EARPLUGS EARPLUGS EARPLUGS EARPLUGS -- We're all music lovers and want to be able to hear in the future. Exposure to loud music, even for a short time, will damage one's hearing. Even though most of the stages are outside, some of the stages (not to mention the blues tent), depending upon who is playing, are still extraordinarily loud enough to cause hearing damage. And guys -- you're not a wimp if you wear earplugs!!!

[mightyradgumbo]

EARPLUGS EARPLUGS EARPLUGS EARPLUGS -- We're all music lovers and want to be able to hear in the future. Exposure to loud music, even for a short time, will damage one's hearing. Even though most of the stages are outside, some of the stages (not to mention the blues tent), depending upon who is playing, are still extraordinarily loud enough to cause hearing damage. And guys -- you're not a wimp if you wear earplugs!!!

I'm sorry-I couldn't hear you. ;)

I am lucky enough to be born into circus freaks and have what they refer to as recessed eardrums..have been working concert venues for several years now with no loss of hearing

but on a serious note I will wholeheartedly agree Leni that earplugs are not wimpy in fact many musicians wear them on a regular basis due to the level of hearing loss over the years by other musicians. Also, if you go to music venues and shows as much as y'all do it is good to have a hearing test done to measure the loss of hearing (if any) experienced. /Gumbo stepping down off his soapbox/

[misSeebass]

Thank ya sugar.. but ya missed a cuppla things..

neet hair removah (at least 4 bottles)
boudreauxs butt creem (at least 2 bottles)
bottles o crystal hot sauce
liquid leather vinyl repair kit
mini dallas phone directoree
extra insoles (spikee heel cut)
lip gloss, lip gloss, lip gloss
secund skin catalog
printed directions to the 'artist cafe'
pichure of mistah anders
hancuffs
keys ta hancuffs
cell phone numbah fer judge..

[ohio]

Thank ya sugar.. but ya missed a cuppla things..

neet hair removah (at least 4 bottles)
boudreauxs butt creem (at least 2 bottles)
bottles o crystal hot sauce
liquid leather vinyl repair kit
mini dallas phone directoree
extra insoles (spikee heel cut)
lip gloss, lip gloss, lip gloss
secund skin catalog
printed directions to the 'artist cafe'
pichure of mistah anders
hancuffs
keys ta hancuffs
cell phone numbah fer judge..
Well, well, well! There's mah Hunni!
I got yo keys, baybeee!

[misSeebass]

Well, well, well! There's mah Hunni!
I got yo keys, baybeee!

yep you sho nuff do mistah Oh-hi-ohhhhh! mis S got da 'furr lined' ones all cleaned up an ready fer fess!

[VWGal]

Hey did anyone remember the Nutria anus balm....etc. etc.:eek:

[Zbonnie]

EARPLUGS EARPLUGS EARPLUGS EARPLUGS -- We're all music lovers and want to be able to hear in the future. Exposure to loud music, even for a short time, will damage one's hearing. Even though most of the stages are outside, some of the stages (not to mention the blues tent), depending upon who is playing, are still extraordinarily loud enough to cause hearing damage. And guys -- you're not a wimp if you wear earplugs!!!Check these out, earplugs specifically for listening to music - everything sounds so much better with these than the foam earplugs, you can hear all the highs and lows with no muffling (Not too expensive, $15, neat carrying case, lasts forever): http://www.gudhear.com/

[sophisticated sissy]

Thank you for the link, zbonnie!
I have used hearos in the past, but I find they dampen the vocals.
These look pretty interesting.
I have hearing loss in my right ear at the conversational level and I would like to protect the rest of my auditory function.

[Bill/KC]

Check these out, earplugs specifically for listening to music - everything sounds so much better with these than the foam earplugs, you can hear all the highs and lows with no muffling (Not too expensive, $15, neat carrying case, lasts forever): http://www.gudhear.com/

I've got a pair of those earplugs. They're great.....just have to remember to take them to the concert. :)

[Zbonnie]

I've got a pair of those earplugs. They're great.....just have to remember to take them to the concert. :)Well, since you're a guy, I don't know if my tried-and-true method would work - I keep the earplugs in my small "travel purse", which I take to any and all musical events. A few times I took them out because I thought I wouldn't need them (like at a swing dance), and I was sorry I had.

[Zbonnie]

Thank you for the link, zbonnie!
I have used hearos in the past, but I find they dampen the vocals.
These look pretty interesting.
I have hearing loss in my right ear at the conversational level and I would like to protect the rest of my auditory function.I just looked at the Hearos website -- their "High Fidelity" series earplugs look just like the gudhears-now-Earloves and are the same price, but who knows if they are just the same.

[stlbarb]

Check these out, earplugs specifically for listening to music - everything sounds so much better with these than the foam earplugs, you can hear all the highs and lows with no muffling (Not too expensive, $15, neat carrying case, lasts forever): http://www.gudhear.com/

i used to get very similar ones a walmart for about $4 a pair. they came on a string you could detach. they were great - you could hear everything just not as loud and with the string, just hang around you neck between sets.
walmart quit carrying them - guess i'll have to spend a lot more now. but worth it - those foam ones are not great.

[Bill/KC]

Well, since you're a guy, I don't know if my tried-and-true method would work - I keep the earplugs in my small "travel purse", which I take to any and all musical events. A few times I took them out because I thought I wouldn't need them (like at a swing dance), and I was sorry I had.

Sorry, I leave my purse in the car. :)
Actually, I do keep my earplugs in the glove compartment, just forget to grab them most of the time. :o

[saturn]

Sorry, I leave my purse in the car. :)

You need to get yourself a Man-n-Bag
http://www.manbag.com/product-DTRK.htm

[Amyloves...]

You need to get yourself a Man-n-Bag
http://www.manbag.com/product-DTRK.htm

It's a European carryall!!! (Seinfeld)

[pokerchick66]

Woohoo! I just pulled out my backpack from last year and found inside my handy ra*n pancho, a full pack of handy wipes, the lip balm (Country Peach) tie-dye guy gave me last year and a cool lagniappe somebody gave me last year, a purse pack of Charmin toilet seat covers!

I am so excited! I've already added my sunvisor and Ohio's mini-map and food list. :D :D :D

[mightyradgumbo]

i used to get very similar ones a walmart for about $4 a pair. they came on a string you could detach. they were great - you could hear everything just not as loud and with the string, just hang around you neck between sets.
walmart quit carrying them - guess i'll have to spend a lot more now. but worth it - those foam ones are not great.

Ironically, the foam ones block the most sound but not the most noise. So while they muffle the sound they do not eliminate the levels that most affect hearing loss.

[rosetree]

Woohoo! I just pulled out my backpack from last year and found inside my handy ra*n pancho, a full pack of handy wipes, the lip balm (Country Peach) tie-dye guy gave me last year and a cool lagniappe somebody gave me last year, a purse pack of Charmin toilet seat covers!

I am so excited! I've already added my sunvisor and Ohio's mini-map and food list. :D :D

cross them off your list Baybee!!!!;) :D

[Zydekitten]

Ironically, the foam ones block the most sound but not the most noise. So while they muffle the sound they do not eliminate the levels that most affect hearing loss.
I just can't find any that fit my delicate and petite ears without hurting like crazy . . . I just go without and make sure not to stand right in front of a speaker.

[fesstgeek]

Toss in a little jar of bubble juice, the kind with the wand inside. Ibuprofen for those dancin' knees, ankles, and sacroiliacs! For schedules/cubes/grids/all kinds of info/emergency r**n hat/emergency toilet seat cover/seating pad/origami material/etc etc you just can't beat a copy of Offbeat! Or the price!

[pokerchick66]

cross them off your list Baybee!!!!;) :D

I know! I'm so excited. :D

[Fred (Texas JF Fanatic)]

EARPLUGS EARPLUGS EARPLUGS EARPLUGS -- We're all music lovers and want to be able to hear in the future. Exposure to loud music, even for a short time, will damage one's hearing. Even though most of the stages are outside, some of the stages (not to mention the blues tent), depending upon who is playing, are still extraordinarily loud enough to cause hearing damage. And guys -- you're not a wimp if you wear earplugs!!!

If you need earplugs & you see me, just ask. I always carry 20-25 extra pairs to give out but always forget to ask if anyone needs them. I must bring a 100+ pair a year to hand out. Earplugs just cut out the highs & lows while saving your hearing.

[pokerchick66]

If you need earplugs & you see me, just ask. I always carry 20-25 extra pairs to give out but always forget to ask if anyone needs them. I must bring a 100+ pair a year to hand out. Earplugs just cut out the highs & lows while saving your hearing.

If you see me, toss me a pair, por favor.

[pgh_girl]

If you need earplugs & you see me, just ask. I always carry 20-25 extra pairs to give out but always forget to ask if anyone needs them. I must bring a 100+ pair a year to hand out. Earplugs just cut out the highs & lows while saving your hearing.
Fred - that is awesome - I wanted to get some this year since my ears ring for hours after I leave a show these days - what kind do you recommend?

[Corona]

I just ordered some too...I think it's time :(

[mdfest]

I made a thread for this but it has gotten pushed back, I will see if I can find and bump it. Below is a paste of my list for ya Corona.

This is a bit long but worth it I hope,
I am anal about this packing thing; I take guff from my group each year for my incessant making of lists and packing the first week of April. Below is my check list and notes for a day at JF. My thanks to Swag for helping to add items to this over the years. His site has increased the overall enjoyment of the fest & usefulness of my pack. Also thanks to all the t-heads who have posted their secrets, ideas and personal accessories for us to consider.

First List – Tie Dye Guy’s Personal List:
1. Hat w/pins (See notes below)
2. Devil Stix
3. Cigars & Zippo (See notes below)
4. Spray Bottle (empty) (See notes below)
5. 2 bottles of avian frozen
6. Camera & extra battery w/vinyl or plastic lined case (in case of r***)
7. JazzFest Journal & pen (See notes below)
8. Nola Pouch with schedule & map (See notes below)
9. Lotion bar & Lip Balm
10. Sunscreen
11. 3-4 Bandannas (See notes below)
12. Lagniappes (See notes below)
13. Tickets
14. Tie Wallet with credit cards AND cash, ID (See notes below)
15. Bag/pack to carry in.
16. Waist pouch (See notes below)
17. Large Zip-loc freezer bags (See notes below)
18. Personal cards or business cards (See notes below)
19. Toothbrush/small paste & mouthwash (See notes below)
20. Aspirin/Advil & few anti-acid tabs (See notes below)
21. Personal Attire (See notes below)
22. Extra Shirt (See notes below)
23. Cell Phone (See notes below)
24. Tea Tree Oil my version of Neosporin (See notes below)
25. Lavender or Ylang ylang oil (See notes below)
26. Towel (See notes below)
27. Copy of the drivers key (See notes below)
28. Sun Glasses with neck cord
29. A few band-aids (See notes below)
30. ROOM KEY! (See notes below)
31. Condoms (See notes below)

Extra options list I sometimes bring or that other t-heads bring & suggest:

1. Chair
2. Booze - Many bring the fruit laced with, others bring mouthwash bottles or water bottles. I prefer the sun tan lotion bottle, pina colada smells like sun tan lotion, and sun tan lotion smells like a pina colada. I like pina coladas, some don't.
3. Contraband & accessories. This is a favorite and must have option for many.
Advice, roll it and spread it out. Pipes get you a bigger fine and problem than the contraband itself in some situations and also smell more as well as being easier to identify from a distance. If you must bring a pipe, bring a tobacco pipe and some smoking tobacco, that way it is only paraphernalia if you get caught with it filled.
Papers should already be rolled with no extras or have tobacco with them or they will be considered paraphernalia if caught. Rolled looks like a cigarette and only a few isn't that likely to cause you an arrest. By spread it out I mean give a few to each member of the group, no one has too much and if someone has to drop then you are not out.
4. Poncho or umbrella
5. Sanitizer or wet wipes
6. Cornstarch or baby/foot powder
7. Hand Fan
8. Cozy
9. Flag, Pole & Duct Tape
10. Extra Shoes (I recommend wearing sandals or flip flops and bringing a pair of light weight close toe cloth slippers, nickels or pool shoes)
11. Small pack of Tissue (toilet paper also works though I like the tissues for the small plastic wrapper).
12. Binoculars
13. Socks (BLASPHEMY)
14. Earplugs – Some people like these. (*Osmotic High Fidelity plugs- www.etymotic.com comfortable, 20db reduction across all frequencies* & *hearos 211* are the t-head recommended choices.)
15. Medications if you have any that you need. If you have allergies Jazzfest is a place to certainly carry some benadryl or your prescription allergy meds.
16. A few good grade plastic trash bags – Useful to put on the ground under your blanket on wet or muddy days, can be used as a make shift r*** coat and good to put your stuff in if it happens to r***.
17. Tampons, Pads, Hygene products you may need. (If you use any type of this stuff for any ailment or use, bring an extra to the festival, you just may need it).

NOTES from the Tie Dye Guy’s Personal List:

1. Hat & Pins - A hat is a must for most of us, keeps you cool and in the shade, also gives you something to hold the ice on your head. Every year we get pins from Oscar's Originals in the French Market (he will be at JazzFest first weekend this year). His pins are original, unique, signed and dated and change every year. You can not wear every tea shirt and bandana from past fest in one day (or if you are like me in a month) but you can wear pins from every year you have gone on your hat.

3. Cigars & Zippo - Please consider others who can not stand the smoke. This year flavors for me are Acid Blondies, Ambrosia Nectars & Van Reefs. These are all soft, spicy cigars that leave a pleasant incense fragrance and almost always bother no one, as well as being a great puff.

4. Empty Spray Bottles - Bring em empty, stop at Ms. Lena's or any beer booth and have them dunk the bottle in the ice water for a quick fill (Don't forget to tip em). This way you do not carry the weight until you are ready to use.

7. Journal & Pen - I keep a few journals, one is of my trips. I bring it along to note interesting things down & elaborate later when reflecting, also great place for autographs & info from others.

8. Nola Pouch, Schedule & Map - First the pouch. I saw this mentioned above, if no one knows here it is. Nola.com & Liuzza's (I believe just these two) handed out these pouches (black in 2k3, red in 2k4) with a schedule & fairgrounds map on the streets before you got to the fest. They stopped handing these out in 2k5 only giving out the schedules. They are a vinyl rectangle with a clear film pouch on one side and an advert on the other with a long cord attached to both sides. You wear it around your neck with the schedule inside the clear film, just pick it up and look at your schedule then drop it back to swinging around your neck. If you weren't luck enough to get one of these try the school & office supply stores for a passport neck wallet or the like, they work just as well, so do large luggage id slips attached to a cord of your making.
As for the schedule & map, I am always afraid that the Nola/Liuzza's crew will run out before I find one so I print my own on photo paper. Being printed on photo paper you can print them on 4x6 in high resolution and they are far less likely to run, tear or fade even when wet with sweat, beer, water bottle spray, dripping ice or wet bandannas or r***.

11. Bandannas - I tie these onto my pack straps, they weigh nothing, don't take up room, add extra padding to the shoulder strap and come in useful for dozens of things. I use them as napkins, hand wipes, to wet and wear, to wear as a sweat band, to tie off bags (plastic shopping bags), to tie of my pack, to blow my nose & more.

12. Lagniappes - things to give to people you meet. This year I am making beeswax lip balms & maybe fragrance tarts (simmering potpourri wax).

14. Tie Wallet - I use a credit card size small leather wallet with a key chain loop attached & fold over closing with Velcro seal (target $4.00 they have em at wal-mart too but I don't shop there). I then cord this around my neck. I do this because I almost never wear pockets to JazzFest and it is impossible to drop or have stolen from me, plus it stays on my body all day so I don't have to dig in my pack to pay for food, beer etc. I do not put anything in my pack that I would want when wandering, too much trouble to go through the pack when not in a place where I can relax.

16. Fanny Pack/Waist Pouch - I bring one with 5-6 zipper pockets; I strap it around my pack shoulder straps and then drop it inside my pack. This way the small things and important things in my pack can be easily found, don't get lost in the mix and tiny or trinket items do not fall out or get crushed.

17. Zip-loc Freezer Bags - I am a fan of these. First, they serve as much more than a food container. They keep things dry, they hold things in your pack and keep them organized, they hold ice for ice packs (especially good for people keeping their beer in a box on their blanket, otherwise the blanket is soaked by noon as many of us have found out). They also work well for food. Here is my take on the food take out from JF. Do it and do it often.
I usually do not have enough time in town to eat all the places I like to eat (you may have noticed if you saw my food schedule or adds to the restaurant review thread). What I do, is get an order or two of the things I like on the last day about 4-5 (as late as I can but not before they sell out), I take the food to the hotel and immediately throw it in the freezer or cooler (depending on when I want to eat it). When ready I thaw it out and heat it up on the oven to HOT temp and you are good to go.
For those who want to know, Crawfish Monica, City Park Jambalaya, crab cakes, red beans, white beans, soft shell crab all freeze VERY well. Monica doesn't keep as long in the freeze but a few weeks at least (mine has never made it more than 2 before I eat it anyway). The fried chicken doesn't freeze well, it dries out too easily; po-boys don't freeze well unless you get them with no sauce or topping and just freeze the meats and add the rest when heating.

18. Business/Personal cards - bring something with your contact info on it to give to people you meet. If you are not meeting people that you remember or enjoy their company at JF, you are missing something, talk to your neighbors. My group has left me at dinner talking to some other group, when I asked where they went they say "I thought you were one of their group now."

19. Toothbrush, toothpaste & mouthwash - I bring a small tube of toothpaste & sample bottle of mouthwash, you never know what you might get dragged to or find altering your plans to go back to the hotel. Hell, when I eat 5 times in a day and then drink & smoke, I want to brush my teeth at least once.

20. Aspirin/Advil & Anti-acid tabs - for obvious reasons I think. I had Uglesich's one morning before the fest, whole plate of oysters, then BBQ oysters & shrimp followed by a day in the hot sun and who knows what else I ate made me feel pretty run down in the stomach by 4-5 o'clock. A tummy settler could have brought me right back and they did not have them at first aid.

21. Personal Attire - Dress for the weather, plan on hot with heat coming in the later morning followed by intense heat in the early afternoon etc. I wear loose baggy air flow pants with a muscle-t, covered by a shredded regular t-shirt to cover my shoulder and back until I get hot or for later cover, with bandannas and hat for head cover.

22. Extra shirt - I bring this item on all days except the first. I buy my JF shirts on the first day so I have an extra shirt if I need it. Having an extra shirt comes in handy often as said above, an extra shirt can be the one you wear home or later in the day after you have dunked your first shirt in ice water all day long or used it to wrap up ice.

23. Cell Phone - I hate these things, I refuse to use one for all but the rarest of business applications. JazzFest is another story, there is no better way to find your friends, tell someone about something great they should come see or to meet your group at the end of the day. Also good to notify each other if someone is in need or leaves early or with someone else. The only way I would not have this at JazzFest is if I came alone.

24. Tea Tree Oil - This is my version of Neosporin, it is a great disinfectant and antiseptic, all natural, cheap, keeps bugs off, DOES NOT come off or wash off sunscreen and is not phototoxic (which means it wont magnify the sun and get your a good sun burn right around your open wound/scratch/bite.

25. Lavender/Ylang ylang oil - a few drops in a bandanna and under the nose removes stomach issues, headaches and calms the nerves and it also works great as a bug repellent & deodorant.

26. Towel - As Slartibartfast will tell you, go no place without your towel. I will not waste the text in the forum listing how useful a towel can be but I will say my favorite use is to get a HUGE brick of ice and wrap it in my towel and carry it around with me.

27. Copy of the Drivers Key - What if you want to get something out of the car? What if you get back to the car first and want to crash until your group arrives? What if the driver loses his key?

29. Band-Aids - Like the tea tree oil above these items can come in useful and who wants to let a small bite or wound wait? Worse, who wants to leave their favorite band to go to the first aid tent to deal with a small burn, scrape or caterpillar sting (I HATE THOSE THINGS!)

30. Room Key - Everyone in your group should have one of these, see Drivers key above. The plastic key card can be written on with a permanent marker to separate multiple room keys.

31. Condoms - You just never know, and when you find out, well you never know, better safe than sorry or blue.

I know this is like a HUGE post but Hats made a nice compilation of the restaurant review last year so I thought maybe I would add my part to this as well as compile what others had mentioned. I hope it helps.


My list is the same as last year

1. Sunglasses
2. tickets
3. Map to Tie Die Guy

This saves the wife from having to lug around a lot of stuff all day

[pokerchick66]

My list is the same as last year

1. Sunglasses
2. tickets
3. Map to Tie Die Guy

This saves the wife from having to lug around a lot of stuff all day

lmao, you are one sick puppy.

God, I've missed yall. :D

[ohio]

I just ordered some too...I think it's time :(
I find the biggest problem with them is remembering to bring them to the show!

[mamaroux]

Fred - that is awesome - I wanted to get some this year since my ears ring for hours after I leave a show these days - what kind do you recommend?

here's a site: http://earplugstore.stores.yahoo.net/nasopl.html

here's a link to a discussion about concert ear plugs:
http://forums.macrumors.com/archive/index.php/t-209505.html

[Fred (Texas JF Fanatic)]

Fred - that is awesome - I wanted to get some this year since my ears ring for hours after I leave a show these days - what kind do you recommend?

The best kind of earplugs are free. :) They are all rated about the same. Noise reduction rating from 28-33 decibels. I have two types to handout. Pre-fitted and ones that you compress with your fingers & they expand in your ears. One size fits all. Our krewe prefers the fitted type. You can use these for 3 or 4 days and just throw them away. No need for cleaning. If you, pokerchick or anyone else needs earplugs, just post your email here & I will get your address & mail you a handfull before JF. So, everyone save your money and let me know if your interested. If not just ask for some when you see me.

[Zydekitten]

The best kind of earplugs are free. :) They are all rated about the same. Noise reduction rating from 28-33 decibels. I have two types to handout. Pre-fitted and ones that you compress with your fingers & they expand in your ears. One size fits all. Our krewe prefers the fitted type. You can use these for 3 or 4 days and just throw them away. No need for cleaning. If you, pokerchick or anyone else needs earplugs, just post your email here & I will get your address & mail you a handfull before JF. So, everyone save your money and let me know if your interested. If not just ask for some when you see me.
Hey, Fred!!! I'd love some earplugs that might fit my dinky little ears - so if you have some that you think might work, please e-mail me at red_beansandrice@yahoo.com and I'll send you my addy. Thank you for being so generous!! :D

[Corona]

The best kind of earplugs are free. :) They are all rated about the same. Noise reduction rating from 28-33 decibels. I have two types to handout. Pre-fitted and ones that you compress with your fingers & they expand in your ears. One size fits all. Our krewe prefers the fitted type. You can use these for 3 or 4 days and just throw them away. No need for cleaning. If you, pokerchick or anyone else needs earplugs, just post your email here & I will get your address & mail you a handfull before JF. So, everyone save your money and let me know if your interested. If not just ask for some when you see me.
hey Fred, I'll try them...I ordered the others but now I'm worried about fit....my email is lparent8ATcogecoDOTca Thanks so much!

[pokerchick66]

The best kind of earplugs are free. :) They are all rated about the same. Noise reduction rating from 28-33 decibels. I have two types to handout. Pre-fitted and ones that you compress with your fingers & they expand in your ears. One size fits all. Our krewe prefers the fitted type. You can use these for 3 or 4 days and just throw them away. No need for cleaning. If you, pokerchick or anyone else needs earplugs, just post your email here & I will get your address & mail you a handfull before JF. So, everyone save your money and let me know if your interested. If not just ask for some when you see me.

Thanks, Fred! You rock. monica7966 at yahoo. :)

[saturn]

Thank you, Fred.

saturnwreck AT yahoo DOT com

[NeenAtlanta]

Hey, Fred!!! I'd love some earplugs that might fit my dinky little ears - so if you have some that you think might work, please e-mail me at red_beansandrice@yahoo.com and I'll send you my addy. Thank you for being so generous!! :D

Kitten - I have the same problem - tiny ear canals. Solved it by buying "youth" model of earplugs. I think they were sold by a hunting supply company. But look for child or youth models, thye may do the trick.

[pgh_girl]

Thanks, Fred! You rock. monica7966 at yahoo. :)
I ordered a pair of the ones the ZBonnie recommended - I have small ear canals too, so now I am starting to worry that they won't fit - oh well - if not, I may be looking you up at the TH meetups for a small pair! When I saw Sonny Landreth last weekend my ears rang for hours afterward - its hell getting old! :(

[Mardigrasbaby35]

Shoot, I should have sent it with you girl!

okay, i have the fever blister issue too - i go the prescription route - valtrex (and yes, it the one that they have the ads on for tv, apparently it works for ALL kinds of coldsores) - the minute i feel a fever blister coming on, i take two valtrex and they are knocked out - HOWEVER, the prescription is pricey, about $57, with insurance - but its well worth it - nothing sucks more than a fever blister......

[Lester_leaps_in]

Thanks, Fred! You rock. monica7966 at yahoo. :)


Thanks. john at jsmays dot com

[Zydekitten]

Kitten - I have the same problem - tiny ear canals. Solved it by buying "youth" model of earplugs. I think they were sold by a hunting supply company. But look for child or youth models, thye may do the trick.
Heya, Neen - how you doing?? It's so great to see you back posting on the board - I hope you're feeling better and getting well quickly!

Thanks for the tip on the earplugs - I hadn't thought of that, but I'll look for some in "yute" size!!

[mdfest]

just lick em before insertion. is that so hard? like a wet willie. it also cleans them at the same time

[Zydekitten]

EEEEEEEEEEWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW!!!!!

[hikerlady]

just lick em before insertion. is that so hard? like a wet willie. it also cleans them at the same time

So funny to only read the last few comments then have to back up to see what the feek is being talked about!

[sophisticated sissy]

okay, i have the fever blister issue too - i go the prescription route - valtrex (and yes, it the one that they have the ads on for tv, apparently it works for ALL kinds of coldsores) - the minute i feel a fever blister coming on, i take two valtrex and they are knocked out - HOWEVER, the prescription is pricey, about $57, with insurance - but its well worth it - nothing sucks more than a fever blister......


It does cost deep in the purse and it is quite effective, but I have been plagued by a severe headache when I have used it.
When it's metabolized, valtrex is pretty rough on the liver, so if you're using Motrin or Advil, and enjoying quite a few Adult Beverages, it may not always be a good 1st choice for everyone.

Abreva is an OTC topical ointment that is the only FDA- approved non-prescription remedy for the "bane of kissers". It zaps cold sores without the side effects of valtrex. I use Abreva at the onset of a cold sore to shorten the life of the infection, and also a prescription ointment, zovirax, to avoid shedding the virus and sharing it w/ others.

[Mardigrasbaby35]

It does cost deep in the purse and it is quite effective, but I have been plagued by a severe headache when I have used it.
When it's metabolized, valtrex is pretty rough on the liver, so if you're using Motrin or Advil, and enjoying quite a few Adult Beverages, it may not always be a good 1st choice for everyone.

Abreva is an OTC topical ointment that is the only FDA- approved non-prescription remedy for the "bane of kissers". It zaps cold sores without the side effects of valtrex. I use Abreva at the onset of a cold sore to shorten the life of the infection, and also a prescription ointment, zovirax, to avoid shedding the virus and sharing it w/ others.

thanks for that info - i had a feeling that valtrex might be rough on the liver, i usually will take two at the onset of the fever blister, but i rarely use the entire prescription (i know, your supposed to ....) - also, i agree 100% regarding zovirax, i keep that handy too - i'll try Abreva, also sounds promising......

[rosetree]

thanks for that info - i had a feeling that valtrex might be rough on the liver, i usually will take two at the onset of the fever blister, but i rarely use the entire prescription (i know, your supposed to ....) - also, i agree 100% regarding zovirax, i keep that handy too - i'll try Abreva, also sounds promising......

MGbaby:
If you are ever on the Bestbank, Randy Carr @ Carr Drugs makes a cold sore/fever blister salve that is the best that I have used. It comes in an applicator like chapstick. I put it on at the first tingle, and it minimizes the length of the sore. HTH

[Fred (Texas JF Fanatic)]

So funny to only read the last few comments then have to back up to see what the feek is being talked about!

Major LOL!!!!! So, what were you thinking about? Please tell all. ;)

[Fred (Texas JF Fanatic)]

I will email everyone later & get your address. I might wait a couple of days to see if anyone else is interested and mail everything at one time.

[Fred (Texas JF Fanatic)]

Thanks. john at jsmays dot com

John, is that a yahoo email address?

[Lester_leaps_in]

John, is that a yahoo email address?

Nope, that's the whole address: john@jsmays.com

[Fred (Texas JF Fanatic)]

Yall have mail....

[NeenAtlanta]

Heya, Neen - how you doing?? It's so great to see you back posting on the board - I hope you're feeling better and getting well quickly!

Thanks for the tip on the earplugs - I hadn't thought of that, but I'll look for some in "yute" size!!

doing well - my main problem is behaving myself and not using the arm like I'm not supposted to. (like typing, for instance. :D )

Thanks for the e-cards, sweetie!

[mamaroux]

I will email everyone later & get your address. I might wait a couple of days to see if anyone else is interested and mail everything at one time.

Fred, I'd love to try some for me and my hubby... he's got tiny ear canals so we have a hard time finding ear plugs for me. My email is mamaroux at comcast dot net thanks so much1

[Zbonnie]

Gross, but true - the earlove earplug instructions recommend that you moisten the earplug first, pull your ear away from your head with one hand, and insert the earplug with a twisting motion with the other hand. The pulling the ear away from your head part makes a HUGE difference in being able to get the earplug inserted far down enough to be really effective.

[Ludlows23]

Fred - if you are still doing a mass mailing - I would love a few of the smaller ones. I've just noticed a lot more ringing after being in a loud venue...

ludlows23 at yahoo dot com

Thanks a million!

[mdfest]

http://www.gadling.com/media/2006/04/headphones.jpg
the threadhead patry

[Corona]

NOT! lol

[Orleansnj]

Fred - if you are still doing a mass mailing - I would love a few of the smaller ones. I've just noticed a lot more ringing after being in a loud venue...

ludlows23 at yahoo dot com

Thanks a million!

me too...... orleansnj <at> gmail <dot> com

please and thanks.

[pgh_girl]

The best kind of earplugs are free. :) They are all rated about the same. Noise reduction rating from 28-33 decibels. I have two types to handout. Pre-fitted and ones that you compress with your fingers & they expand in your ears. One size fits all. Our krewe prefers the fitted type. You can use these for 3 or 4 days and just throw them away. No need for cleaning. If you, pokerchick or anyone else needs earplugs, just post your email here & I will get your address & mail you a handfull before JF. So, everyone save your money and let me know if your interested. If not just ask for some when you see me.
cjregan99@comcast.net if you haven't done your mailing yet! thanks again! :)

[Fred (Texas JF Fanatic)]

You have mail...

[Orleansnj]

We had this on the old board and it was invaluable for my first fest. I used pretty much everything in there and it really wasn't too much to carry around at all. So here goes:

Money
Tickets
Sunscreen
Lip Balm
Band-aids (blisters)
r**n poncho (NEVER say the R word on this bored!)
Gum
Tums/Rolaids
Ibuprofen
freezer baggies/foil wrap (to take home dinner from fest)
Coozie
Spray bottle for misting on hot days
Hanky for secondlining or dipping in ice water
batteries for your camera
camera
KLEENEX packs for the port-o-potties...they DO RUN OUT LADIES!
Wet wipes for messy hands after eating yummy food
Supplementals/extra lighters/ciggies
Lagniappes
CUBES!!
Pen

That's all I can think of right now but please fill in the list if you can think of anything....

Bumping because it is getting CLOSER by the minute !!!!

http://cued-up.com/bb/images/smiles/icon_jump.gif

[Corona]

Bumping because it is getting CLOSER by the minute !!!!

http://cued-up.com/bb/images/smiles/icon_jump.gif
the backpack is already beginning to fill :D

[Lester_leaps_in]

Two weeks from today, I'll be in New Orleans at The Howling Wolf listening to Little Feat, et.al. The pile next to my backpack is already bigger than the backpack.

[linza22]

the backpack is already beginning to fill :D

my palms are all sweaty and there's ringing in my ears....i'm gonna DIE waiting....

[Orleansnj]

TFF - my pile is mounting and I'm debating about which pack to take. (oh, the drama of it all - LOL).

I'm also mindful of the fact that I'm not going to want to carry that freakin' thing around if it gets too heavy - so.....editing may be in order. Although the lists have small, light items.....

My goal is to have the back pack done this weekend and the clothes pile in order to pack on Wednesday - and then it's off to the airport on Friday - yea !!! I'm getting giddy......

[Lester_leaps_in]

My earplugs arrived today, Fred. Thank you very much.

[Jada]

My dining room table is always the designated Fest table. It's getting pretty difficult to find an open spot for more stuff these days. The mound is growing :)

[stlbarb]

My dining room table is always the designated Fest table. It's getting pretty difficult to find an open spot for more stuff these days. The mound is growing :)

use a laundry basket (or 2) to collect everything in.

[saturn]

My dining room table is always the designated Fest table. It's getting pretty difficult to find an open spot for more stuff these days. The mound is growing :)

Mine is heaped on the spare bed --- nobody better show up expecting to sleep over :o

[luvdancin]

Barb is the queen of laundry baskets--for everything, but laundry.

I have my two big suitcases on the floor in my living room and they are starting to fill up--even the cats have crawled in!!

[Jada]

Barb is the queen of laundry baskets--for everything, but laundry.

I have my two big suitcases on the floor in my living room and they are starting to fill up--even the cats have crawled in!!


TFF! You're going to get to NOLA, start to unpack and a cat will jump out

[pgh_girl]

Got my earplugs today Fred -thank you so much! :)

[Belle]

We are going straight to fest with nothing but ourselves and money for beer, no chairs, no backpack, maybe some wipes, sunscreen, hats we wore on the plane, no chairs and a man with a healing leg. Are we going to be disappointed? Don't think so. But maybe I am wrong. Saturday...more implements

[funkkjunkie]

Oh, hunni, it will be all so very good. If the man with the healing leg needs to sit, there are chairs at jazz, gospel, blues, lagniappe, economy, kids and in the grandstand. It's almost here! It's almost here!

[Belle]

Oh, hunni, it will be all so very good. If the man with the healing leg needs to sit, there are chairs at jazz, gospel, blues, lagniappe, economy, kids and in the grandstand. It's almost here! It's almost here!


There you go again with your wonderful self!! I have to meet you and your karma. He may be slow walking but he does float my boat so I too will walk slow.

[Jacquesimomo]

Bumpin this for all of you packin' this weekend! WOOOOOHOOOOOO!

[mdfest]

ban this guy please

[NeenAtlanta]

Bumpin this for all of you packin' this weekend! WOOOOOHOOOOOO!

Perfect timing - I just spread a blanket over the dining room table and starting laying everything out. One week from right this moment, I'll be landing in NOLA. WHEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!

[linza22]

We are going straight to fest with nothing but ourselves and money for beer, no chairs, no backpack, maybe some wipes, sunscreen, hats we wore on the plane, no chairs and a man with a healing leg. Are we going to be disappointed? Don't think so. But maybe I am wrong. Saturday...more implements

hey belle, whatever you need, we will have! no worries....oh my....7 days....7 DAYS!!!!!!

[bluesgirl]

Perfect timing - I just spread a blanket over the dining room table and starting laying everything out. One week from right this moment, I'll be landing in NOLA. WHEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!

I'm using the bed in my guest room for that purpose.

I bought a new suitcase. It's big enough to put Tab in to bring him home as a souvenir. ;)

[Zbonnie]

I'm using the bed in my guest room for that purpose.

I bought a new suitcase. It's big enough to put Tab in to bring him home as a souvenir. ;)Just noticed your signature line, Bluesgirl. Love it!

[bluesgirl]

Just noticed your signature line, Bluesgirl. Love it!

Thanks. It's a true story, too. ;)

[Zbonnie]

Thanks. It's a true story, too. ;)I never doubted its veracity for a moment!!

[Zydekitten]

We take a red-eye out Monday night/Tuesday morning to NOLA!!! Woo to the Hoo, y'all!!!

http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o67/Zydekitten/stowawaykitty.jpg

[pokerchick66]

lol, I love the woo to the hoo! :D

[TheGuzilla]

We take a red-eye out Monday night/Tuesday morning to NOLA!!! Woo to the Hoo, y'all!!!

http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o67/Zydekitten/stowawaykitty.jpg

and then...
http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w12/TheGuzilla/CocktailKitten.jpg

[mightyradgumbo]

Bumping for those who pack at the last minute like myself

[Jacquesimomo]

I like to carry a small bottle of hot sauce that I buy at the French Market (usually some kind of habenero sauce, or something different than Tabasco). Also, some dental floss. :)

Ditto on the dental floss... comes in quite handy

[McGregor]

freezer baggies/foil wrap (to take home dinner from fest)

Spray bottle for misting on hot days


I would like to thank all of you for posting these two items above. Getting back to your hotel and having a huge sack of jambalaya lying around is pure heaven when you need to rejuvenate a bit before heading back out. Best $200 spent all weekend (besides that dumpstaphunk ticket!). I would have never even considered that, THANK YOU GUYS!

And well the misting-fans speak for themselves!

[Corona]

thank god for those misting fans. They saved me numerous times during fest...as did the freezer bags for taking food home so I could rest instead of going out for dinner :)

[Corona]

okay kids...someone mentioned this in another thread...here it is...we're only 8 weeks away!!!!
WEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!

[KateMW]

Last year in the crawfish momica line I saw a woman who brought several of those gladware plastic food containers with lids. She had them fill up a couple containers with the magic monica and she put the lids on, popped em in her pack and was off to buy more food! They're lightweight, you could carry a lot of food, keep it warm, and have plenty to bring back to yer camp. Brilliant! I told her, she smiled . "Yes, I'm the jazzfest queen."

Think I'll bring a couple this year, you could fit other stuff inside them as the day begins, so they wouldn't have to take up much space. And no biggie if you decide to toss em at the end of the day.
I know that this might be a crazy question...and it's surely off-topic, but what is Crawfish Monica? I saw a picture on Swag's fantastic site and it looks yummy!

[mightyradgumbo]

I know that this might be a crazy question...and it's surely off-topic, but what is Crawfish Monica? I saw a picture on Swag's fantastic site and it looks yummy!

Remember Kate, there's no such thing as crazy questions, just crazy people asking questions :D j/k I have been told before about scaring away the newbies...Crawfish Monica is Pasta with a cream sauce and crawfish
Here is one of many recipes for it:

1 lb. crawfish tails, boiled and peeled; OR
1 lb. shrimp, peeled; OR
1 lb. lump crabmeat; OR
1 lb. oysters, drained and quartered.
1 stick of butter (Do not use margarine.)
1 pint of half-and-half
1 good-sized bunch green onions, chopped (tops, too)
3 - 10 cloves garlic, chopped (to your taste)
Creole seasoning to taste (or 1 - 2 tbsp.)
1 lb. cooked fresh pasta (Dry pasta is all right if fresh is not available. Rotini is preferred, but use your favorite shape.)

[Belle]

I am not a long time veteran but I take my body, hubby, a 6 pack cooler, money and baggies in the pocket for food on the way home (hotel) and that was it. Needed nothing else. Got there when the gates opened and gates closed but again I always pack light. I hate being encumbered. But again this year I am adding the bicycle.:D

[KateMW]

Remember Kate, there's no such thing as crazy questions, just crazy people asking questions :D j/k I have been told before about scaring away the newbies...Crawfish Monica is Pasta with a cream sauce and crawfish
Here is one of many recipes for it:

1 lb. crawfish tails, boiled and peeled; OR
1 lb. shrimp, peeled; OR
1 lb. lump crabmeat; OR
1 lb. oysters, drained and quartered.
1 stick of butter (Do not use margarine.)
1 pint of half-and-half
1 good-sized bunch green onions, chopped (tops, too)
3 - 10 cloves garlic, chopped (to your taste)
Creole seasoning to taste (or 1 - 2 tbsp.)
1 lb. cooked fresh pasta (Dry pasta is all right if fresh is not available. Rotini is preferred, but use your favorite shape.)
Sounds yummy!!!! I can't believe I'm losing weight, just so that I can go down there to gain it all back. Yummmmmmm

[stlbarb]

Remember Kate, there's no such thing as crazy questions, just crazy people asking questions :D j/k I have been told before about scaring away the newbies...Crawfish Monica is Pasta with a cream sauce and crawfish
Here is one of many recipes for it:

1 lb. crawfish tails, boiled and peeled; OR
1 lb. shrimp, peeled; OR
1 lb. lump crabmeat; OR
1 lb. oysters, drained and quartered.
1 stick of butter (Do not use margarine.)
1 pint of half-and-half
1 good-sized bunch green onions, chopped (tops, too)
3 - 10 cloves garlic, chopped (to your taste)
Creole seasoning to taste (or 1 - 2 tbsp.)
1 lb. cooked fresh pasta (Dry pasta is all right if fresh is not available. Rotini is preferred, but use your favorite shape.)
so i open the post and see a list, assume its stuff to put in your backpack, then start laughin'.
crawfish monica is something you would want to bring baggies for, then take home (carefully) in your backpack. its yummy, i just cant eat it in the hot sun.

[Corona]

I am not a long time veteran but I take my body, hubby, a 6 pack cooler, money and baggies in the pocket for food on the way home (hotel) and that was it. Needed nothing else. Got there when the gates opened and gates closed but again I always pack light. I hate being encumbered. But again this year I am adding the bicycle.:D
that's cool Belle! Gonna be so convenient!

[KateMW]

Ok, I've been thinking about this for a couple of days...

What do you use the duct tape and zip ties for?

[rosetree]

Ok, I've been thinking about this for a couple of days...

What do you use the duct tape and zip ties for?

To keep someone quiet???? :eek: :eek: ...sorry, that was just wrong!

[KateMW]

To keep someone quiet???? :eek: :eek: ...sorry, that was just wrong!
Well, that was the obvious answer...or to kidnap Stevie Wonder and bring him home with me!!

[rosetree]

You can use them to tie your flag to your chair, fix a rip in whatever, or.....
.....what the hell, here's a link for ya! ;)

http://www.thezac.com/ducttape/

[marignygreg]

I just bring money and sunglasses. I put sunscreen on before leaving.

[stlbarb]

Lysine to prevent those damn fever blisters!

talk to your doctore about Valtrex. i take a 1/2 one per day when i'm going to be out in the sun alot. if i start getting a fever lister from stress or infection i take them and it really stops the fever blister from turning into 'duck lip'.
its a pricey script, but it works.

[stlbarb]

OMG funkkjunkie......Mr. Soul & I both suffer MISERABLY from the bastids. Have you tried this over the counter stuff called Releve? It is very expensive, but if you get these blisters like we do, it is worth every penny. I've picked it up at CVS here in Virginia, but originally found it at a Rite Aid in Mississippi. It is hands down THE BEST stuff I have found to combat them...and believe me, I have tried it all. The lysine is great for preventative measures, but if you start feeling one coming on, Releve will stop it dead in it's tracks.

see my other post. Valtrex will prevent those fever blisters.

[funkkjunkie]

I like the lysine route. Lysine is an amino acid that's sold with the vitamins and minerals wherever you buy yours. It's what bodies that have fever blisters are short on. You can read about it here:
http://www.healthy.net/asp/templates/article.asp?PageType=article&ID=1744

If I take a couple every week, I don't even have flareups. If I do have a flareup, I take 2000 milligrams a day for a few days and it disappears.
Probably much cheaper than valtrex. But the pills are kinda large.
:D

[stlbarb]

I like the lysine route. Lysine is an amino acid that's sold with the vitamins and minerals wherever you buy yours. It's what bodies that have fever blisters are short on. You can read about it here:
http://www.healthy.net/asp/templates/article.asp?PageType=article&ID=1744

If I take a couple every week, I don't even have flareups. If I do have a flareup, I take 2000 milligrams a day for a few days and it disappears.
Probably much cheaper than valtrex. But the pills are kinda large.
:D

i used to take Lysine (pharmacist told me about it in the 80's) , 1 everyday, more if i was going to be out in the sun. i still got outbreaks, especially from stress. big, nasty, painful ones. "duck lip". don't miss those.

with insurance, the valtrex script is $25 and lasts many months. but if you needed to take it daily, it would only last a month. yup, its the same drug used to treat the other kind of herpes. and they are just as big as the lysine, maybe bigger - but i only take 1/2.

[Corona]

i used to take Lysine (pharmacist told me about it in the 80's) , 1 everyday, more if i was going to be out in the sun. i still got outbreaks, especially from stress. big, nasty, painful ones. "duck lip". don't miss those.

with insurance, the valtrex script is $25 and lasts many months. but if you needed to take it daily, it would only last a month. yup, its the same drug used to treat the other kind of herpes. and they are just as big as the lysine, maybe bigger - but i only take 1/2.
hmmmmm.....interesting Barb....I hate those things. Both Trish and I are susceptible to fever blisters and it usually happens at the end of the trip from exhaustion. Bought the lysine and that seems to work....not sure about Valtrex over here in Canada. Will have to ask my doc.

[linza22]

i used to take Lysine (pharmacist told me about it in the 80's) , 1 everyday, more if i was going to be out in the sun. i still got outbreaks, especially from stress. big, nasty, painful ones. "duck lip". don't miss those.

with insurance, the valtrex script is $25 and lasts many months. but if you needed to take it daily, it would only last a month. yup, its the same drug used to treat the other kind of herpes. and they are just as big as the lysine, maybe bigger - but i only take 1/2.

ok...i kept reading lysol! what is wrong with me today!?

[Festvet]

Sunglasses
Lip Balm
ATM/Credit card
Business cards (easier than writing down all that information)
Lagniappes

[linza22]

Sunglasses
Lip Balm
ATM/Credit card
Business cards (easier than writing down all that information)
Lagniappes

i would also like to add....a atm/debit card with limited money in it. that way if someone steals it/lose it, you'll have your main one locked up at the hotel.

[Belle]

Sunglasses
Lip Balm
ATM/Credit card
Business cards (easier than writing down all that information)
Lagniappes

Money/Cards
Tickets
Tiny camera
Cell (leaving those kids at home ya know)
Bringing Legniappes this year. The daily amount should fit under the hat. Glad to see I am not the only one who travels real lite.

[Zbonnie]

Ok, I've been thinking about this for a couple of days...

What do you use the duct tape and zip ties for?You first: tell us what scenarios you were imagining?;)

[Zbonnie]

Corona, you bought $200 worth of jambalaya at the fest and put it in a ziplock bag?!?!?!?

Also, I just appropriated the "Jazzfest Queen's" idea and added Ziplock plastic containers to my honed-over-many-years Jazzfest excel spreadsheet packing list (available, as always, upon request to zbonnie at comcast dot net)

[NYMAMA]

I always pack;
sunscreen
cheapplastic r#@n poncho
cheap plastic table cloth(I don't bring a chair and this works well)
cubes highlighted in page protectors
camera
laginappes
black sharpie(for the chance of getting an autographed cd)

[Corona]

Corona, you bought $200 worth of jambalaya at the fest and put it in a ziplock bag?!?!?!?

Also, I just appropriated the "Jazzfest Queen's" idea and added Ziplock plastic containers to my honed-over-many-years Jazzfest excel spreadsheet packing list (available, as always, upon request to zbonnie at comcast dot net)
lol NO!!! That wasn't me...I don't even like jambalaya except for Ibjamn's Jennbalaya lol!

Linza....nothing is wrong with you today...you just have Festitis ;)

[ohio]

Who's got a copy of Tie Dye Guy's list? That is the mother of all lists!
He should be checking in soon i'd guess...

[rosetree]

lol NO!!! That wasn't me...I don't even like jambalaya except for Ibjamn's Jennbalaya lol!

Linza....nothing is wrong with you today...you just have Festitis ;)

I once traded for a couple of pans of jambalaya. Another year I traded for a few quart containers of Pheasant, Duck and Andouille gumbo!;) Good thing I had a car to get them safely home! I love the barter system....

[Corona]

That's really cool RT! Good thinking....btw, you ever do that with cracklins?

[BigDag]

Who's got a copy of Tie Dye Guy's list? That is the mother of all lists!
He should be checking in soon i'd guess...

Here it is:

http://www.nojazzfest.com/chat/showthread.php?t=1295

[stlbarb]

Here it is:

http://www.nojazzfest.com/chat/showthread.php?t=1295

jazzfest practice:

pack you backpack, then carry it around for several hours. all those little things add up. find lighter versions of stuff. rethink your list.
how important is the item. how much positive difference could it make (mister bottle big on hot day, not so important on r*iny day), how much negative difference could it make if not available (you want a cheap disposable poncho everyday! trust me).

i love stuff. i bring way too much stuff to fest. its really easy to keep on throwing it in because you might need it. i used to carry a journal because i fully intended to log the events of the day. after a few years of not writing one word, i quit carrying it.

dont like to carry a backpack? hang with someone who does - then you can borrow their stuff. but buy them (me) a beverage once in a while. :)

[Fred (Texas JF Fanatic)]

just lick em before insertion. is that so hard? like a wet willie. it also cleans them at the same time

What in the heck are you talking about? oh wait.....now I understand

[ohio]

Aw, I miss Brian...I'd give him a wet willy if he were here! So would Willy!