If you’ve ever spent time in the city during peak season, you know that Chicago summertime events hit different. From neighborhood street fests and food truck rallies to massive events like Lollapalooza and the Taste of Chicago, there’s always something happening. As someone who lives here I’ve learned that how well you prep can make or break your day.
Whether you’re a local or one of the many women traveling to Chicago for a girls’ trip, solo adventure, or long weekend getaway, the best way to enjoy the city without overspending is to be prepared. This is especially true if you’re embracing budget travel—which, let’s be honest, is most of us these days.
Here are 8 must-pack accessories that keep me feeling cool, safe, and stress-free when I’m hitting the city’s summer events:
1. Spray-On Sunscreen: Quick, Easy Protection
Why You Need It: Let’s be real—sunburn in festival photos? Not cute. Even worse is dealing with irritated skin when you still have hours left to party.
What I Pack: Spray-on sunscreen is my go-to. It’s quick, mess-free, and easy to reapply whether you’re wearing makeup or not. Plus, it’s way more convenient than rubbing in thick lotion when you’re standing in a crowd.
Other options: Bar or powder sunscreen for touch-ups and travel-friendly use.
2. Collapsible Water Bottle: Stay Hydrated Without Bulk
Why You Need It: It’s easy to get dehydrated hopping between food stands, music stages, and dancing in the sun. Buying bottled water at every stop adds up fast.
What I Pack: A lightweight, foldable water bottle that takes up almost no space when empty. This is especially clutch if you’re doing budget travel and trying to avoid extra spending.
Pro Tip: Most festivals and city parks have public refill stations—use them!
3. Cheap Sunglasses You Don’t Have to Baby
Why You Need It: Crowds, dancing, and sun = you need eye protection. But there’s no need to risk your designer pair.
What I Pack: Affordable sunglasses that still look cute. I keep a backup pair in my bag so I’m never caught squinting or missing the vibe.
Bonus: No more awkward glare in your Instagram shots!
4. Fanny Pack or Crossbody Bag: For Safety & Convenience
Why You Need It: Big bags weigh you down and make you a target in crowded areas.
What I Pack: A fanny pack or small crossbody that I wear across the front of my body. It keeps essentials—ID, cash, cards, phone—secure and within reach.
Safety Tip: In any congested area, I always keep one hand on the zipper and avoid letting my bag hang behind me.
5. Anti-Chafing Balm: Because Chub Rub Is Not the Vibe
Why You Need It: If you’ve ever walked more than a few blocks in a dress or shorts and felt the burn, you already know.
What I Pack: A simple anti-chafing balm that glides on quickly and lasts for hours. Don’t let friction keep you from walking that food lineup or dancing in front of the stage.
This one is especially helpful for women traveling to Chicago who are packing light but still want to feel confident and comfortable while exploring.
6. Cooling Towel or Mini Fan: Instant Relief on Hot Days
Why You Need It: Humidity and heat hit differently when you’re shoulder-to-shoulder with thousands of people.
What I Pack: A reusable cooling towel that I can drape around my neck or a portable mini fan to create airflow when the sun won’t let up.
Great for: Families, solo travelers, and anyone who doesn’t want to sweat through their cute outfit.
7. Portable Phone Charger: Because Battery Anxiety Is Real
Why You Need It: You need your phone—for tickets, photos, rideshares, and group texts.
What I Pack: A slim power bank and short charging cord. It fits in my small bag and saves me from being stuck with 5% battery and no clue where my friends went.
Especially important during longer Chicago summertime events that last from morning to night.
8. Foldable Blanket or Towel: Your Seat, Shade, or Spill Saver
Why You Need It: You’ll thank yourself when you want to sit and the only options are hot pavement or damp grass.
What I Pack: A compact towel or blanket that rolls up tightly. It doubles as a picnic setup, seat cushion, or even makeshift shade when the sun is blazing.
Bonus: It’s great for spontaneous lakefront hangs or fireworks nights.
Final Thoughts: Build Your Festival Survival Kit
When it comes to enjoying Chicago summertime events, being over-prepared is always better than being caught off guard. These 8 accessories have saved me from sunburn, dehydration, theft, and discomfort more times than I can count. Whether you’re a seasoned local or one of the many women traveling to Chicago for an unforgettable summer, packing smart means you get to focus on fun—not fixing problems on the fly.
And if you’re all about budget travel, these items help you avoid unnecessary costs like overpriced bottled water, replacing lost sunglasses, or grabbing last-minute festival supplies.
What’s in Your Summer Festival Bag?
These are my personal must-haves—but what about you? What do you never leave home without when hitting up summer events in Chicago?
Let me know in the comments or shoot me a message on Instagram @imjazminmarie. I’d love to hear what makes your summer festival lineup easier, breezier, and more enjoyable.
