Now that you're good and excited for your trip, it's important to make sure you've packed everything you need for a successful visit to Indio. Let me emphasize this point: strategic packing for music festivals is CRITICAL. You don't want to miss your favourite band because you're burned to a crisp, do you? See the list below to make sure you win at Coachella-ing.

WHAT TO PACK FOR COACHELLA

1. a cross-body bag

A good crossbody bag is crucial for hands-free partying once you get on the Polo Grounds. Not only are they convenient for stashing all your stuff, the crossbody style is still super trendy and you'll end up using it all summer on Sunday Funday bike gang adventures and with maxi dresses. I like this one by Madewell - it's real leather and won't break the bank.

2. sunscreen that actually absorbs w/o making you look like powder

We've all done it: you slather on a good coat of sunscreen before leaving the house with the intention to apply more midday...and then you forget and have a nose redder than a beer league pitcher. Protect yourself from the ruthless desert sun with these 50 SPF sunscreens. I like the ones from Shiseido - they hydrate and don't leave a chalky film. Bonus: Sephora offers travel sizes, perfect for tossing in your bag.

3. a cute suit

Extremely shocking news: Coachella isn't awesome just for the concert. There's a very healthy chance you're going to be logging some serious time at a pool so come prepared. Our Sandy Savasana Bottoms are colour-blocked in very Palm Springs-apropo hues and provide enough coverage to keep you feeling comfy at a DJ set at the Ace.

4. killer shades

If there's one place that I recommend blowing the budget pre-trip, it's on your sunglasses. Think about it: they're going to show up in every one of your photos! Since you'll be wearing them with every outfit throughout the weekend, they'll need to be versatile. These Stella McCartney shades are in a universally-flattering ecru shade and the oversized teardrop shape is on point without being so outrageous that you'll regret them in a year.

5. a bag that's easy to pack

Sure, you'll be strategic when you're going to Indio...but at the end of a long weekend, the last thing you'll want to do is to struggle packing everything into a too-small duffel. The Everyday Gym Bag is roomy enough to easily stow away a weekend's worth of gear AND fits as carry-on on most airlines.

6. wipes!

There's no way to overstate it: having wipes at Coachella is a GAMECHANGER. They are good for so many things: taking makeup off late at night when you're exhausted, taking a layer of desert grime off your face every few hours, cleaning your hands so you don't have an OCD man-down situation after the bathrooms...the list goes on and on. I like these ones from Sephora - they're cheap, they smell inoffensive and they come in small packs so they fit easily into most bags.

7. bright lipstick

It doesn't matter if you wear a plain tank top and cutoffs or an elaborate outfit - bright lips are always fun and less risky that vibrant eyeliner (yeah, it looks good...but once the temperatures start soaring you risk looking like Ke$ha after a night on the town). I love Casablanca from Nars - it's a great consistency and the colour looks good on everyone, guide's honour.

8. comfy pants for the plane ride home

After an amazing weekend of frivolity in the sun, you are going to be tired...really tired. Do yourself a favour and remember to pack comfy pants for the plane ride home. The Work It Out Track Pant is my new MVP for comfort - plus, they look pretty cute with a pair of Chuck Taylors and are warm enough that once you land back home your legs won't freeze.

Are you going to Coachella on Weekend 1 or 2? What bands are you most excited to see? And what are your must-have items for beating the heat in Indio?

top 10 wanderlust must-haves

When our team hit the Wanderlust yoga festival in Bondville, Vermont, last month they had an amazing time (despite the inclement weather). It was like a sampler pack of yoga styles and music: acro-yoga, vinyasa, chanting and gongs. With plenty more summer still to come and lots more festivals coming too, Paula (our Social Media Specialist) put together her list of essentials to get the most out of upcoming yoga festivals.

1. Wanderlust Rucksack – I was lucky enough to test this backpack before it hit stores.  I loved all of the zipper pockets and the laptop sleeve; plus the built in rain cover came in handy during the unexpected downpours.

2. Skinny Satin Pirouette – I’ve finally found a headband that works for my head; skinny and sticky so it stays in place. We did tons of inversion workshops so this was crucial for keeping my hair out of my face and letting me focus on the pose.

3. The Mat – Cushioned and grippy! After a 12-hour travel day, I was extremely happy I was carrying a comfy mat.

4. Manduka Equa Towel – The towel helped provide a little more cushion over my travel mat when I needed it and soaked up the puddles.

5. iPhone – My lifeline. I was tweeting, facebooking, instagramming and checking-in everywhere.

6. Water Bottle – When you’re doing 4-6 hours of yoga every day, staying hydrated was uber-important.  I switched back and forth between H2O and coconut water.

7. Travel Pooch – Anyone I travel with will tell you I’m more than slightly forgetful. I need a bag I can keep close to my body and easily do my keys-phone-passport-wallet check.

8. Vinyasa Scarf –This magical piece acted as my scarf, towel, wrap, pillow, blanket and rain cover. `

9. Dense Foam Block– I actually didn’t bring this with me, but I wish that I had!  Bricks were not supplied in any classes, and when you’re on your 3^rd class of the day, a little extra support would have been greatly appreciated.

10. Moleskin (not pictured) - This was beside my mat all weekend.  With so many amazing instructors at Wanderlust, I was constantly jotting down inspiration and education.  I saw some people using the moleskine app on their iPads instead of notebooks too.

top two nice-to-haves

11. Passport & Rosebud Strawberry Lip Balm – These aren't must-haves, but they're pretty important if you're a Canadian with a lip balm addiction.

upcoming wanderlust yoga festivals

• Wanderlust Chicago - Yoga In The City
• Wanderlust Tahoe - Inspired Gathering
• Wanderlust Santa Monica - Yoga In The City
• Wanderlust Tahoe - Wanderlust CA
• Wanderlust Seattle - Yoga In The City

Image: flickr/yukoners

Ahhh, the sweet scent of summer is upon us! The air is fragrant with flowers, cruiser bike gangs are converging on every corner and weekend missions are being planned with the passion & precision of a NASA launch. One activity that's synonymous with the season is the group camping trip. No matter your style of camping, from a relaxing journey into nature (with canoes, hikes and tents) to a full-on party (complete with BBQs, high-fives and cannonball competitions), there are essential components to take your voyage from lame to ‘best weekend of my LIFE!” status.

miraculously versatile sweater 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

– we all have that one sweater that goes with everything – and you need to be prepared. What happens if your campsite just so happens to sit next to a Dirty Dancing-esque resort and you all decide to crash the party? It’s always smart to have a go-to piece.

one more bikini than you think you’ll need 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

– Okay, so you probably won’t wear it. But swimsuits take negative space in your backpack and you can never have too many options for swimwear. While you’re at it – toss in another pair of undies (pssst, our undies are really awesome, guides honor – no muffin top!!!)

an extra air mattress for the lake 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

– Someone is inevitably going to forget theirs and if you save their day, you’ll enter hero status. To rocket into the camping god stratosphere, bring an inflatable party raft. Sure, it sounds tacky – until you’re having the best afternoon of your life. Schwing!

the perfect beach blanket 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

– Okay friends, be strategic when it comes to picking your blanket, whether it's for sand, grass, or some other miscellaneous surface (hey, I'm not a judge-y camper). Mexican blankets are fabulous; thick enough to not feel sticks and rocks and beautiful enough to add a little boho vibe. Straw mats are also a chic and practical choice. Just don't make one of two classic blanket mistakes: using a too-small towel as your blanket or the ultimate cardinal sin of blanket behavior, bringing your childhood blankie. You might think it's sweet, but lying on your mothball-scented Strawberry Shortcake comforter isn't as cute & ironic as you think.

yoga mat 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

– One of the best ways to soak in the beauty of your camping spot is doing sunrise yoga. Just imagine - gazing out from the familiar home of upward dog at the stunning sight of the sun rising into the sky, followed by a deep, full breath of fresh air. I'm feeling serene just writing this! Bonus: the mat doubles as a comfy seat for you and a friend to sit and eat lunch on! Multitasking is so hot right now.

disposable underwater camera 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

– maybe it’s just me, but underwater photos are still novel and exciting. Plus, you can’t take a billion ‘re-do’ photos with an old-fashioned throwaway, therefore achieving authentic, in-the moment photos - a rarity these days in the world of pose downs and hipster mobile downloads.

playing cards & crib board 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

– You may never need them, but should the weather turn gnarly you’ll be happy you threw these in your bag.

surf rashguard 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

– Going surfing on your vacay? If you’ve been before, you’ll know – a rashguard is a must to prevent, yup, you guessed it, a rash. Is it just me or are we getting smart up in here?

Image: flickr/Eko

ghetto blaster

– The wilderness is one of the few places where being a luddite is still awesome. Get yourself some speakers for your iPod or better yet, a ghetto blaster. You’ll be the de facto party station for the rest of the weekend

new sweet tunes 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

– Sunshine + good tunes = camping nirvana. Bring a ghetto blaster (see above) coupled with great music and you've got a new soundtrack for your life. On that note, see below my favorite songs for mellow summertime hangin'.

"World’s Got A Handle" – Sun Wizard
This might be the new greatest road trip song of all time.

"The Birds" – Serenades
The Swedes do it again – this new Scandinavian group just released an album full of ethereal, catchy beats.

"Young Blood" – The Naked & Famous
This song sounds like skinny-dipping…if that is even possible.

"Pumped Up Kicks" – Foster the People
The hottest track around right now. These dudes sound awesome and look like Jack Johnson’s hot little brothers.

"2 Hearts" – Digitalism
Check out this new song from the most underrated posse out of Australia. Warning: not for the casual camping trip.

"Lizstomania" – Edwin Van Cleef (featuring Jane Hurley)
This clever cover of Phoenix’s monster hit will have you basking in the late afternoon sunshine, praying for the moment to never end.

"Towers" – Bon Iver
Just when you thought it couldn’t be done…Bon Iver goes and releases an even better album. Perfect for late night marshmallow roasts and friendships.

Alright, now pack up the car and get out there! I’ll be the one with the burned veggie dog humming Bob Seger.

There's nothing like a hot yoga class.

If you've been, you know what we're talking about. It seems a little intimidating but it's the perfect choice for beginners and experts alike. We paneled our experts on your behalf and asked our guests on Facebook. Here are some must-knows for the sweaty and rejuvenating experience ahead. (Many yogis had similar suggestions so we know they're good. We expect you may have a few tips of your own to add.)

your gear

"Wear tighter fitting, breathable clothing. Baggy clothes will get heavy and uncomfortable. Guys , go shirtless." – Matt, Joe, Colin and Niamh

"Wear a headband. If you don’t need to worry about brushing the hair out of your eyes, you can focus more on your poses." - Carolyn

"Take your mat, a towel, and water. You’re going to sweat it out, so replenishing your fluids is important. If you’re a heavy sweater, bring two towels – one for your mat and one for you. Sound like a lot of baggage? Most studios provide mats and water for a small fee." – Sarah-Kate

before class

"Hydrate well in advance. I find that I feel the best when I've had plenty of water the day before I hit the studio. - Andrea

"Rinse your hair and face. No one wants goopy hair product (or make-up) running down their face. - Joe

"Eat a snack an hour before class and keep yourself hydrated. A piece of fruit can help keep your energy up during class without weighing you down and drinking plenty of water beforehand can prevent that gurgly feeling in your stomach during the class." – Carolyn, Joe, and Lina

"Take a buddy. You’ll be more motivated to go and have more fun during class if you have a friend there to support you." - Margaret

during class

"Position yourself near the door. It tends to be a little cooler." - Joe

"Breathe deeply. Deeper breathing equals stronger poses."  - Matt

"Try not to fidget. It's easy to get distracted but your class will be way more rewarding if you focus on your breathing and not that sweat bead tickling its way down your neck." - Margaret and Elissa

"Listen to your body– it will tell you what it needs. It's normal to feel a little dizzy. Anytime you start to get the spins (or feel a wave of nausea), lie down on your mat." – Jenna and Lina

"Go easy. A hot class is similar to a marathon - it's a big endeavour and you'll want to pace yourself." - Sarah-Kate

after class

"Give yourself time after class to enjoy your much-deserved shower. Nothing is better after a hot class than a lukewarm shower with Dr. Bronner's peppermint soap. It's the ultimate in refreshment." - Elissa

"Refuel. Everyone has their post-class ritual. Mine is coconut water. It replenishes fluids and electrolytes." - Alana

Thank you Pat for the great outtakes from the shoot!

tips from our guests

Sibina recommends taking small sips of water instead of big gulps. She adds Emergen-C to her water to get her vitamins and electrolytes without the added sugar.

Alexandra reminds everyone that classes are often taught at mixed levels so it’s important to not expect yourself to do advanced postures right off the bat. “It took me a while of feeling less capable until I had this realization. Love it!”

Kristina’s words really resonated. “Keep your focus inward and remember yoga is about personal growth and not trying to do the pose the same way your neighbor can. You may never touch your toes but you may get closer and know that is enough.”

Jen recommends getting in the room at least five minutes early to get used to breathing in the heat and humidity.

Rachel says to leave your ego at the door. “Be compassionate with yourself and don’t try to be a hero.”

And finally, our favourite tip from Gus.

“Definitely put a towel under your back. I made the mistake of not having a towel in my sweaty hot yoga class and the suction of my lower back and the mat created a super loud and natural sounding fart noise. I'm known as the farter now in class I'm sure. ha ha.”

want more?

• Learn more about yoga in general on our Yoga 101 page.
• Check out our latest hot yoga offerings for women. We've got all
• Join the coconut water discussion. The blog's got people talking.
• Get all our guests' tips from our Facebook post.

If you're sitting on the fence, just go to a class! (Do one thing each day that scares you, right?)  You'll leave feeling challenged and energized. Who doesn't need that?

Not pictured: your finish line smile and endorphin rush

If you're mixing athleticism with travel and doing a destination race, we've thought of everything you need. We raced around the office and polled the marathoners on site. Here's your checklist for the road ahead.

for the journey

A duffel bag or backpack Pack light in something with functional pockets for all your gear.

Passport and plane tickets A must! Don't forget. We repeat - don't forget.

Breakfast Only if you have a routine to stick to.

Reading material We love magazine apps! (Did you know the Runner's World app is free?)

A comfortable, breathable travel outfit Wear layers to keep your cool when the temperatures change.

for the race

Shoes Not new ones - your old faithfuls. Use the ones you've been training in.

Athletic socks Again, pack what you've been training in.

Two or three race outfits The weather could misbehave so be prepared. Whatever you do, remember this: Now is not the time to break in that great new gear.

Hydration How you choose to hydrate is your call. Pack a belt or a hand-held bottle or simply rely on those friendly water station volunteers.

Fuel You won't make that goal time if your energy tank runs too low. All our running bottoms have pockets for gels so you can carry fuel hands free.

Disposable layers Keep muscles warm before the starting line and wear layers you don't mind parting with. Typically once the race begins, volunteers collect them and donate them to charity.

Race belt Spare your running gear and pin your bib to a race belt.

Lubrication Say no to chafing! Put it anywhere there's a risk of getting seriously uncomfortable. (May I personally suggest you put some between your thighs? If you're shaped like me, you'll thank me.)

Tunes, comfortable headphones & a charger Music will be your lifeline. Make sure your player is charged and ready to rock. (Don't forget an adapter if you're travelling far, far away.)

Enough tunes to keep you motivated You don't want to hit that last leg of the race and realize all you've got left is your bedtime playlist. We suggest the following...

Extra hair elastics Before you pack some, see if you've got an extra one on a zipper pull. Our designers may already have you covered.

Deodorant If there was ever a time to need it, it will be when you're sweating buckets at the finish line.

Sunscreen Make sure it's sweatproof.

A credit or debit card If nothing else, you'll deserve a cab ride to your hotel room.

A running hat Our accessories designer suggests a colorful one so your cheering squad can pick you out in the pack.

Sunglasses You don't want to be squinting the whole way.

A heart rate monitor Our Community Relations Manager Tracy suggests the Garmin 110.

A big smile for your finish line photo shoot.

The ultimate souvenir: an imported marathon bib (Thanks for the photo, Jen!)

after the race

Your "I-love-my-body" kit Think stretch cords, foam rollers, tennis balls, pain relievers, band-aids and epsom salts. They will love you back.

A yoga mat We dare you to do more than savasana after the marathon.

A cozy post-race outfit Whatever you choose, make sure it includes slippers. Fuzzy ones.

A celebratory outfit Commemorate in style but keep in mind your feet may not be up for stilettos.

Compression socks to keep your muscles comfortable for the plane ride home.

before you get packing

• Still looking for a destination race? We've listed our favourite marathons.
• Looking to break in some running gear before the race? See our latest offerings for men and women.
• Need something to pack in? We've got functional bags to get you there, yoga mat and all.
• Get inspired by Jen's story She blogged about her NYC Marathon experience.

We suggest making packing part of the event. Print this list, pour a nice glass of wine and rest assured knowing you've got it all together in advance. (Ok, maybe not a realistic pursuit but as long as you can get it done with half an hour to spare, you're golden.)