What to Pack in Your Ottawa Bluesfest Bag, My 21 Must Have’s

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Heading to the Ottawa Bluesfest and unsure of what you should be bringing? What to pack in your Ottawa Bluesfest Bag is something I might be an expert on. 

Honestly I have been attending the festival since 2007 and I volunteered backstage for almost ten years,  I have been through inclement weather, heat waves, frigid temperatures and yes even a stage collapse. Calling myself an expert is not far off being a statement of fact, how is that for a confident statement.

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Bag rules at Ottawa Bluesfest

Like every sporting event, concert and major function around the world the rules are a-changing folks.  I hate the fact we have to see these types of changes but I will not complain too much, safety is important. 

The Ottawa Bluesfest has changed their bag rules but its not that complicated. No bag over 12 x 12 x 6, and that my folks is standard for most sporting events.  Clear plastic makes it easier and I expect this might be their next step.  Luckily for me I have a clear plastic bag that meets the test.

Small backpacks are allowed but this is very subjective. I watched some turned away I thought were ok and vice-versa.  Be safe stick to small or you will be checking your bag, for a price.  Diaper bags and medical provision bags are allowed but all will be searched regardless.

What to pack in your Ottawa Bluesfest Bag

And seriously to make life so much easier, I have gathered everything together in one great list.

Small snacks are allowed but again I have watched people loss snacks so be smart. Stick with a few sealed treats for the kids.  Water bottles if sealed or a re-fillable are ok.

Most of the yes and no rules have stayed the same over the years but take five minutes and check the rules before you leave.  Why get hassled right?  One tip make sure your bring your mirrorless camera or one with a non removable lens, they are strict on those rules.

What I pack and why

My clear  bag was packed with everything I thought I might need without going too crazy.  Most are practical items to take you through all the various weather issues.

It seems like a lot, a list of 21 and I know you are thinking do you really need all that.  Well with the exception of the poncho they all fit easily in the bottom of the bag, are light weight and I am always confident I am prepared.

1. a small folding umbrella, for rain and also offers sun protection in the middle of a field ( but always put the umbrella down during a show, don’t be that person.
2. two clear rain ponchos in case of inclement weather
3. Poncho, Kent got his Raiders poncho as a gift but this is perfect as a blanket to sit on or as a coverup if it gets cold
4. refillable water bottle, mine is a gift from the City of Philly, thanks for the love XOXO
5. my camera
6. my Iphone and charger and remote
7. Portable extra charger just in case, although there are now charging stations woohoo
8. Gum, lots of crowds and beer breath is icky right?
9. Small sunscreen, who needs a burn, not me
10. chapstick with spf, who wants sore lips
11. my Burts Bees lip colour, ok totally unnecessary cuz i have chapstick, but hello vanity
12. extra hair elastics,
13. folding brush, just in case
14. eye drops because I have dry eyes
15. tylenol, sun, alcohol all can create headaches and being prepared means you enjoy the show
16. bandanna, use to wipe sweat or wet it for your neck if too hot and they take up no room at all.
17. wet wipes because you never know what might happen
18. small wallet, only take your id, one credit card and your bank card. You do not need every card you own. Remember the Festival is cashless.
19. business cards well I am a blogger so I never travel without.
20. car keys, house keys ( secured safely)
21. Hat on my head because I never leave home without it ( or sunglasses if you prefer

Final Tip

Notice what is not on the list? 

A chair.  Although chairs are allowed they can be a pain to carry. I am still a fan if you want a chair bring it but please note the new rules, they are not allowed near the stage anymore.

I use to take a chair and very much appreciated it but if you do have one, during the show stand up and have fun.  It makes for a way better experience for the artists and yourself. As an update there are now Chair sections, and as I have gotten older I truly appreciate this option.

Bring a chair or a small blanket, stay comfortable in between your scheduled shows.

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