Packing
Pride Parade Packing List
The complete Pride parade packing list. Sunscreen, water, comfortable shoes, phone charger, and everything else you need for a full day at Pride.
A good packing list is the difference between an amazing Pride experience and a miserable one. Whether you're going for the day or the full weekend, here's everything you need to bring.
Day-of essentials
These are non-negotiable items for parade day:
- Water bottle (refillable) — you'll be in the sun for hours
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+) — apply before you leave, reapply every 2 hours
- Comfortable shoes — broken-in sneakers or supportive sandals
- Phone + portable charger — your phone will die from photos and navigation
- ID — for bars, venues, and age-restricted areas
- Cash ($20-40) — some vendors are cash-only; ATMs will have lines
- Crossbody bag or fanny pack — keeps hands free, harder to pickpocket than a backpack
- Sunglasses and hat — sun protection you'll actually enjoy wearing
Nice to have
- Portable fan or misting bottle — a lifesaver in hot cities
- Snacks — granola bars, trail mix, or fruit. Festival food lines can be long
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes — portable restrooms are common at festivals
- Earplugs — if you're sensitive to loud music and crowd noise
- Small first-aid items — bandaids, ibuprofen, antihistamine
- Light rain jacket — check the forecast, but be prepared
For the weekend
If you're making a full Pride weekend trip:
- Two parade-ready outfits — one for the parade, one for the festival or night out
- Going-out clothes — for nightlife, drag shows, and dinners
- Comfortable walking shoes (a second pair) — rotate to prevent blisters
- Layers — mornings and evenings can be cooler than you expect
- Toiletries + medications — don't forget prescriptions
- Swimsuit — if your city has beach or pool events (Miami, San Diego, Palm Springs)
What to leave at home
- Valuables — leave expensive jewelry and watches at the hotel
- Large backpacks — awkward in dense crowds and some venues don't allow them
- Umbrellas — they block views; use a rain jacket instead
- Glass bottles — most festival grounds prohibit them
Related guides
- What to Wear — outfit ideas for the parade
- Pride on a Budget — saving money on your Pride trip
- Hotel Tips — booking the right place to stay
Frequently asked
What should I bring to a Pride parade?
Essentials: water bottle, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, phone charger, ID, cash, and a small crossbody bag. Optional: rainbow accessories, portable fan, snacks, and a light rain jacket.
Do I need to bring water to Pride?
Yes — bring a refillable water bottle. You'll be standing in the sun for hours and hydration is critical. Some events have water stations, but don't rely on it.
Should I bring cash to Pride?
Yes, bring some cash ($20-40). Some vendors, food trucks, and bars at the festival may be cash-only. ATMs near the event will have long lines.
Plan your Pride trip
Find the city guide, event schedule, and packing list for your destination.