The Punch List—6 Days Out

The almighty weekend is almost here, and you gotta gotta gotta do your shopping! No perishables yet, unless you plan to pre-cook and freeze some things. You should have a shopping list by today. Refer back to Eddie Z's meal plan strategy series from a few weeks back to get some ideas.

Is your vehicle due for an oil change? Git 'r done!

You should be picking out clothes. Remember, if you don't bring rain gear, it will rain. 

The Punch List—7 days out

So, you have non-perishables, the water bottles are in the freezer, and you requested refills of your meds. You probably even have a shopping list. So what are you missing? PROPANE!

And yes, you have to connect a tank to your stove and check for leaks, and make sure it works. Don't be that wook who has to cook on his neighbor's stove all weekend. 

SAFETY FIRST: It's not just propane. If you're bringing a grill, you also must bring a fire extinguisher valid for 2015 and with the needle in the green. Cooking with fire is serious business. 

The Punch List—8 days out

Remember that water you bought? It's time to freeze a bunch of it. Freeze enough so you have enough for a double layer on the bottom of each cooler. That's what you're going to put in the bottom of your cooler. That layer of ice is what's going to keep your stuff cold all weekend. All the rest of your beverages should now be in the refrigerator so you can pack them cold. Speaking of beverages, did you get some sports drinks like Gatorade? That will save your ass on a hot summer day, and will quickly revive any one around your camp site who's getting wobbly from the heat. Stock up!

That's all the packing for today. Now what about your prescription medications? Do you need a refill? Tomorrow we'll talk about OTC remedies and other preparations. Until then, happy trails!

The Punch List—9 days away

We're nine days away, and preparations are underway for many Vibe Tribers. There may be many more who are not prepared, and if you fall into this category, keep reading.

By today, you should have:

• Verified that you have tickets and know where they are
• Taken out your camping gear checked to see what (if anything) needs repair. This gives you through the weekend to repair or purchase items. For example, if you have a leaking air mattress or need to seal your tent seams, this is the time to take note and get supplies. 
  
• Checked your vehicle to make sure it is safe and legal. This includes wipers, lights, tire pressure, and fluids. You should also have an emergency kit and your license, registration & insurance current. Breaking down and/or getting pulled over on your way to a festival is not recommended. 
• Made a shopping list and started your non-perishable shopping (water, soda, beer, batteries, paper products, and utensils). Pro tip: chill those liquids in the refrigerator now; warm beverages will melt your ice that much faster. 
• Made 20 gallons of rum punch. (OK, this probably only applies to Camp Velcro, but if it's your tradition too, get to work.)

We'll check back on your progress tomorrow, and have another list for you. In the meantime ... GET PACKING—IT'S VIBES TIME!!!