Pride Month is right around the corner, and everyone’s getting ready for the festivities. No matter how many times you’ve been to different celebrations, it’s always fun. Just make sure you prepare before you leave your house. Here’s a list of some must-haves you should bring with you wherever you go.

1. Reusable Water Bottle/Cup

At first it may sound strange, but think about it: if you’re going to an outdoor event or even an indoor one with lots of people, it’s exciting. You’re going to have a lot of fun and may even lose track of time. You’re going to get thirsty. Just because Starbucks gives out free water doesn’t mean that every place will, and using a water fountain may work temporarily, but you’re going to want more water later. Be sure to bring some kind of water container to keep hydrated – especially if it’s a hot day. There are many popular brands to choose from if you don’t already have one of your own.

2. Pride Shirt

One of the more common items to have during Pride Month is a shirt. There are tons of big-name brands that carry different styles, you could visit some local small businesses, or shop around online. There are so many different choices that there will be something for everyone.

3. Circle of Life Rainbow Studs

These little studs bring everything full circle, making them a great piece of rainbow jewellery to wear to Pride Month events (or any event for that matter).

4. Sunscreen

It’s all fun and games until someone gets a bad burn.

5. Friends

Afterall, the more the merrier!

6. Rainbow Shoes

It may sound unusual, but shoes are a great form of self-expression. Many brands like Dr. Martens, Converse, and Vans have a few options to choose from, but a quick Google search will show you many more designs. Just make sure they’re comfortable – you never know how long you’ll be standing or how far you’ll be walking.

7. Rainbow Ear Climbers

Ear climbers are always a good choice, no matter the event. They add a lot of personality and style to an outfit with minimal effort. These colourful ones are a great choice for anyone looking to stand out from the crowd.

8. Enamel Pins

If you’re more about being subtle or even want to add more to your rainbow ensemble, try some enamel pins. From contemporary to classic, there’s something for everyone.

9. Aspirin/Tylenol

This is more for those who are prone to headaches. Some major events are going to have a lot of noise and lights, so be sure to have something handy if the headaches kick in.

10. Sunglasses

If you’re going to be outside, you should pack a pair of sunglasses just in case. You never know what the weather’s going to be like. Want to get into the spirit of things? Try a rainbow pair, or maybe something a little less orthodox. After all, Pride celebrations should be fun, so get creative.

11. A Hat

Protecting yourself from the sun is no joke. You can wear a regular baseball cap, a bucket hat – whatever you want as long as it covers your head.

12. A Bumpin’ Playlist

Whether you’re driving with your friends, taking the bus solo, or walking to get some fresh air, you’re going to want some pumped up jams for Pride Month. Make a collection of your favourites or find one online – as long as you’re enjoying it, that’s all that matters.

13. A Comfortable Outfit

Now that you have a few ideas about what to wear, just make sure it’s comfortable and appropriate for what you’re doing.

14. A Fan

Folding fans are synonymous with different sub-cultures attending Pride Month, but it’s also a great tool to cool down if it’s too hot outside. You can find elegant ones or some that are specific to Pride Month. Of course, electric fans are still acceptable.

15. Downtime

Pride Month can get chaotic with all the excitement and people. Sometimes all you want to do is relax at home away from the crowds and noise. If that sounds more ideal to you, maybe buy some rainbow reading socks and sit in to watch a movie, or colourful bath bombs to enjoy after celebrating all day.

16. An Umbrella

The weather is unpredictable, despite what meteorologists say. Make sure you’re prepared for rain – it’s rained during Pride events in the past, it could happen again.

17. Rainbow Studs

If this isn’t the most suitable piece of rainbow jewellery to wear to Pride Month activities, we don’t know what is!

18. Ear Plugs

This is more for those with sensitive hearing. If you’re going to be attending events with loud noises, such as parades or shows, you’re going to want to have a pair or two on you.

19. A List of Events

Sometimes it’s easier to visualize and figure out what you want to do by making a list or a timeline of your plans. Consider what events you want to attend, how long you want to be out of the house for, and how much they may cost.

20. Rainbow Necklaces

For those looking for something a little larger, this baguette necklace is a nice addition to your Pride outfit. It’s large enough that it’s clearly visible, but not so big that it’ll weigh you down. If you’re more into delicate peices, there are some nice simple designs like bars or mini rainbows. It all depends on how you want to express yourself during Pride Month.

21. Snacks

As mentioned before, you’re going to have fun, and most likely, you’re going to lose track of time. You’re going to want to eat something, but chances are with so many people in one area, restaurants are going to get crowded – some might charge way too much for what they offer. Bring some snacks to tie yourself over before you can find an ideal place to eat.

22. An Appetite

That said about snacks, there is going to be a huge selection to choose from. Restaurants are going to be open and ready for the rush. Some might even have special meals or deals for the celebrations. If you’re travelling to a different town, why not try some where new?

23. Money

A lot of local businesses are going to be open and selling limited items, and you’re going to want to shop. Not all of them are going to accept electronic forms of payment, and we all know what it’s like trying to use an ATM during a busy event… Save yourself the stress and plan ahead.

24. Rainbow Bar Ear Climber

Again, ear climbers are low-effort but high-fashion accessories. With bar jewellery being a constant in fashion, this piece of rainbow jewellery will never go out of style.

25. A Rainbow Flag

Need we say more?

26. Some Kind of Bag

As mentioned before, you’re going to want to bring some gear with you, and you’re going to want to shop. Instead of carrying everything in your hands or in a heavy purse, bring a backpack/fanny pack/some kind of bag that’s easy to carry around with you.

27. Rainbow Ring

So youève got your necklaces, earrings, and full ensemble – what’s left? Rings, of course!

28. Patience

This one is very important! Depending on what you’re doing, you’re most likely going to end up in a huge crowd of people, possibly all hungry, thirsty, and overheated. Remember that a lot of the people running events are volunteers, and people in the crowd are there for the same reason you are: to have a good time. Don’t sweat it if things don’t work out the way you thought they would, just take it easy and have fun.