The Ultimate Country Jam Checklist

Country Jam has always been one of the biggest events in Grand Junction, Colorado. I've had the opportunity to go, every year, for at least 15 years. You learn what to bring, and what to remember, so here is my Ultimate Country Jam Checklist to help you make sure you're prepared.

Bring (and Drink) Lots of Water

This is obviously the absolute most important thing, you’re going to be in the sun constantly, and you don’t want to get sun stroke, trust me. So, find out how much water you’re allowed to bring with you, and bring that much. Also, another great tip is if you can make yourself consumer two gallons of water within the twenty four hours before the concert, that will help you immensely.

Bring (and pack) a Backpack

This is pretty straight forward. You’re going to need to bring a lot of things with you, and you need something to keep them in.

Bring (and use) lots of Sunscreen

The Colorado Sun can be intense and unforgiving, especially in Western Colorado, it’s a desert! I would suggest a spray on sunscreen, because it’s easy to reapply, and you know it wont miss any areas. You can find these at any of the local grocery stores, or even most gas stations. Either way, don’t be stupid, make sure you buy, and bring, plenty of sunscreen.

Bring Collapsable Chairs

Look for foldable/collapsable chairs at somewhere like Wal Mart or City Market (if they come with a should bag, even better!). You’re not going to want to stand all day, for four days straight, especially in the heat. The easier your chairs are to carry, the better for you, because you will be carrying other items as well.

Bring Blankets

I know it’s hot out, but you aren’t using these to cover up for heat. These can be used on the ground as a place to sit, or in the right circumstance, these could be used as a source of shade. Never underestimate the usefulness of a blanket at an outdoor concert.

Wear As Little Clothing As Possible

I know this sounds like I’m making a Country Jam joke, but I’m really not. You’re going to be hot, really really hot, and you need to keep yourself as cool as possible. So, don’t be ridiculous, but wear shorts instead of pants, wear a tank instead of long sleeve. Pretty common sense, but then again every year people don’t bring enough water…so let’s not pretend like this doesn’t need to be talked about.

Bring Cheap Sunglasses

They don’t have to be your favorite expensive pair of Ray Bans, you just need sunglasses. Local gas stations sell Pugs and other cheap brands, for around $10. You don’t want to sun burn your eyes, because yes it does happen, and yes it hurts, really bad. So snag yourself a cheap pair of sunglasses that you don’t have to fret over if they get lost or broken (because you probably will be doing a good amount of drinking, and playing, and things happen).

Bring a Plastic Rain Poncho (in case it rains)

This is a scenario that I’ve found myself in at Country Jam before…out of nowhere comes a rainstorm. And I’m sitting there, with no where to go, in a tank top and shorts and sandals, miserable. Plastic ponchos can be purchased from the outdoors section at Wal Mart, or similar stores. Keep them in your backpack that you remembered to bring.

Bring Your Own Hand Sanitizer

There are thousands of people in attendance at Country Jam, and you can’t count on every single one to have good hygiene. What happens if they run out of sanitizer outside of the porta potty? Either way, it’s just a smart idea to keep hand sanitizer in your backpack when you go to Country Jam.

Bring Your Driver’s License

This one is pretty straight forward. You need your ID, keep it secret, keep it safe.

Have A Designated Driver Ready

This one is huge, like really, really huge. If you’re going to be drinking, have a backup plan that involves a sober driver. The local Grand Junction Authorities swarm Country Jam like flies, and you don’t need a ticket, or worse, to hurt someone or yourself.

Bring Extra Cash

You never know when you'll need it, so best to have it prepared. Again, keep it secret, keep it safe.

You're out in the middle of nowhere, in the Grand Junction Desert. You'll be surrounded by thousands of people, and you're paying good money to be there, so having to drive into town during the concert would be a bummer. Pack like you're going to Disneyland for the day, because it's much better to be prepared for Country Jam, than not, trust me.