WHAT TO A PACK TO A MINI FESTIVAL

Words: Nhlanhla Masemola | Photography: Supplied

Didn’t make it to Beychella – or any version of Coachella? Still recovering from the fact that not only was this year’s Little Gig cancelled, but OppiKoppi too? And Rocking the Daisies is just under two months away. We’re here to help.

For one day only, MINI is bringing Carnaby Street – London’s capital of cool – to South Africa to celebrate its 60th birthday. Aptly named Carnaby Square, the festival on Saturday 31 August will bring you a whole lot of local flavour with two artist stages featuring Shortstraw, Samthing Soweto, Shekinah and more, plus non-stop entertainment, food and fashion for one day only. First, get your tickets here before they sell out. Second, start planning for a short (or long-ish, depending on where you’re coming from) left to the Cradle of Humankind in Gauteng. Then, the only thing left to decide is what to pack and who to go with. Find your festival personality from our guide below, then you’re all set.

THE KONMARI ACOLYTE

Who: If you enjoy planning your trips to the letter and have an affinity for spreadsheets and sticky notes – take note. You very easily overpack, but you're trying to get better. “What if it snows? What if there’s a VIP section? What if all my outfits don’t match with my crew?” You eagerly follow the teachings of Marie Kondo, theoretically. Now’s the time to whip out your note-taking app...

What to pack: Triple check that you’ve got your torch, music solutions, sensible shoes. Plasters for the blisters. A fanny pack, because they're surprisingly functional yet snazzy. Duct tape to fix a damaged tent or torn bag. Water bottles. Raingear, several trendy pairs of sunglasses, sunscreen, a makeup bag, dry shampoo, a moisture spray, wet wipes, wide-brim sun hats (yes, plural). Bin bags, a spare car charger, a just-in-case aux cable, your festival tickets in a ziplock bag...

Who to take: Your friends may not always be willing to accept your organisational passion, so make sure to bring a sister or cousin, who can weather your flurry of pre-event emails and laminated itineraries.

Festival anthem: Shortstraw featuring Laudo Liebenberg Eventually

THE OVERSHARER 

Who: Social media is not just about content, it's about content. Every moment deserves to be shared because memories are precious (...and can be monetised). People may scoff at what you do, but that’s on them. They’ll be the first ones asking you to share your group snaps with them anyway. It’s highly likely that this experience will be vlogged, you’ll make sure your outfit is #OOTD and you’ve already selected the day’s camera person.

What to pack: Portable phone charger. Translucent powder for the T-Zone and a juicy lip gloss. Being a trendsetter means that you need to look fresh in any weather, but it’s important to be practical. Don’t forget to include your favourite logo tees, that perfect pair of high-waist jeans, two pairs of shorts, a hoodie and some high-summer dresses – lace, fringe, florals, suede, denim, tie-dye, up to you. Canary yellow raincoat and Wellies, check. And remember to pack an inflatable pillow – your beauty sleep is non-negotiable.

Who to take: Your best friend. They know all your good angles without needing to be briefed.

Festival anthem: Lady Zamar It's You - Dreaming

THE FREE SPIRIT 

Who: You love being in nature, which makes it easier for you to be a festival regular. They’re the habitat of your favourite people – music lovers, creative thinkers and bohemians. You live for the vibrancy and youthful energy of festivals. You’re also enthusiastic about taking care of your body, inside and out. You’re not into flower crowns, but they really go with your aesthetic.

What to pack: An adventurer at heart, you will drop everything for a chance to travel. You’re not against the utility of backpacks, yours will be packed to the max. You can never pack enough nuts or cereal bars – something with a mix of protein and fat to keep the party going, along with an endless supply of water and (glass) water bottles.

Who to take: Anyone who shares your taste in music, because this shapes how good your experience is.

Festival anthem: Shekhinah featuring Mariechan Different 

THE VETERAN

Who: You’ve seen some things and this isn't your first rodeo. You’re likely older than everyone else, but no one pays it any mind. Over the years, you've developed a keen desire to avoid festival-planning Whatsapp groups, but when your rubber arm is twisted, you’re up for glamping. You’re all for the fun, but enjoy convenient amenities (who wants to queue for restrooms?), safety and a touch of refinement.

What to pack: In truth, you’re actually the KonMari Acolyte, 20 years down the line. Go with her essentials.

Who to take: You’ve vetted all your festival friends at this point, flagged any and all concerns and your agemates are feeling a bit reluctant. Fancy your first solo trip? You can always make new friends once you’re there.

Festival anthem: Sun El-Musician featuring Samthing Soweto Akanamali