CMC Rocks is on the horizon, and the excitement is building! Whether you’re a seasoned festival-goer or a first-timer, packing strategically can make all the difference in ensuring you have an unforgettable experience in the heart of Australia’s country music scene. Read on for our tips on what to pack for CMC Rocks 2024.
1. The Essentials
Tickets and ID: It goes without saying that you’ll need your tickets, camping passes (for all you campers) and some ID.
Festival Map: Familiarise yourself with the festival layout for a seamless experience. CMC have an awesome app that you can download so you have instant access to set times, vendors and maps.
Cash and Cards: Again, another one that might go without saying but make sure you have your cards with you. Also, while it may not be essential, a bit of cash can come in handy.
2. Clothing
Everyone has a different style and that’s part of what makes festivals great. Below we’ve listed a few items we think should be a staple in your bags.
Boots: Those that wear them daily know how comfortable a good pair of boots can be for your feet. So whether you’re dusting off a pair of ol’ faithfuls or buying new, a good pair of boots should be a staple in your wardrobe.
Hats: Cowboy hats, truckers or a bucket hat. No matter what you choose, having on for sun protection (and style) is a no brainer. Holdfast has a wide range of trucker caps that don’t break the budget. We might even have some stock available at the festival. Come find us! ( www.holdfastclothing.com.au )
Layers: Although CMC usually likes to bring the heat, it helps to be prepared for fluctuating temperatures and weather. Make sure to pack some layers so you don’t get caught out in the cold.
Swimwear: Although not essential, packing your togs can become super handy. It’ll make sense when you get to the camping gear section
Wet Weather gear: Better to be safe than sorry, having some quality wet weather gear can make all the difference in the event that it starts to rain. For something a little bit cheaper, grab a couple of disposable ponchos and chuck them in your bag
3. Sun Protection
Sunscreen: As we know, the harsh Aussie sun can be unforgiving. Pack a high SPF sunscreen and reapply throughout the day
Sunglasses: Don’t forget to protect your eyes. No matter what style your rocking, make sure you pack those sunnies.
4. Camping Gear
For those of you that are camping throughout the weekend, the below items will make your CMC Rocks experience that much better.
Tent: Probably another on the list that probably doesn’t need a mention. But If you’re camping, a reliable tent or swag is an absolute must. Rooftop tents, ground tents or swags are all great options and usually have pretty good ventilation. Something to consider might be getting a stretcher tent to get you off the ground. Fan: Finding a small battery powered fan can be an absolute lifesaver on those hot nights. Adding a cool breeze to your tent can be the difference between getting a good night sleep and lying awake sweating.
Camping Chairs: Packing lightweight camping chairs is essential. Great for sitting around the campsite and the festival grounds has space where you can set up a chair and watch soak up the music.
Cooking gear – Although CMC Rocks has excellent food options, having the option to cook your own food at the campsite is awesome. Pack a compact travel BBQ and your friends will love you.
Blow up pool: Now, this is not an absolute necessity, but bringing a small blow up pool to chill in while your relaxing at your campsite can be an absolute lifesaver on a hot day. Fill ‘er up and grab some ice to stay cool all day. (Also why we said to pack your swimmers)
5. Snacks and Hydration
Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is absolutely critical throughout the festival. Make sure you have water on hand. Don’t stress though, there are plenty of water stations around the festival grounds.
Snacks: Pack snacks that withstand the heat and provide quick energy boosts. And plus, having snacks always makes chilling at camp that much better.
Esky/Cooler: Goes without saying, having an esky or some sort of cooler will help keep your food and drinks cold and fresh.
6. Tech
Although staying away from tech and enjoying the moment is awesome, we understand that sharing your experiences and staying connected is important. So here’s a few items that will help you stay connected during your time at CMC.
Phone and Charger: Capture, Share and save your memories and stay connected with a charged phone.
Portable Charger: A portable charger ensures your devices stay powered up during the festivities.
Camera: Consider bringing a camera for high-quality photos and to save phone battery. If you fancy yourself as a bit of a photographer bring your camera along and really capture those memories.
*CMC Rocks has rules around camera size so make sure you double check the FAQs on their website.*
7. Medical
While we all want to have an awesome time at CMC, accidents can happen. Having the below items can make your trip a bit more comfortable if something goes wrong.
Basic First Aid Items: Band-Aids, pain relievers (for those times when you have a few too many whiskeys), and any personal medications.
Insect Repellent: Be prepared for potential encounters with Australia’s unique wildlife.
*There are first-aid/medical tents at the festival so don’t stress, good help is never far away*
8. Good Vibes
Positive Attitude: The most important thing to pack is a positive attitude and a willingness to embrace the incredible atmosphere of CMC Rocks 2024!
So there you have it, a basic packing guide for your trip to CMC. This is by no means and exhaustive list, so take what you think is going to make your trip as memorable as possible. Pack smart, be prepared, and get ready for an unforgettable country adventure filled with great music, good company, and lasting memories!
