How to Prepare for J’ouvert

The Night Before

• Lay everything out before you go to sleep

  J’ouvert starts EARLY — like middle-of-the-night early. Have your outfit, shoes, waterproof pouch, sunglasses, wipes and everything else ready so you’re not half asleep trying to find things at 2 a.m.

• Eat something before you leave

  You’re going to be walking, dancing and drinking for hours, so do not head out on an empty stomach.

• Drink water before you go

  Start hydrating before you hit the road, not when you already feel exhausted.

• Sort out your transportation ahead of time

  Do not wait until J’ouvert morning to figure out how you’re getting there or back. Roads can close and pickup areas can get hectic, so have a plan.

What to Wear

• Old clothes you are willing to throw away

  T-shirt, tank, shorts, leggings, bodysuit, cheap set — whatever. If you would be upset if it got permanently stained, leave it at the hotel.

• Old closed-toe sneakers

  Do not wear your good sneakers. You want something comfortable, already broken in, and something you will not care about ruining.

• Cheap sunglasses

  You may start in complete darkness, but once the sun comes up you’ll be happy you have them. Bring a pair you won’t cry over if they disappear.

• Hair tie, scarf, bandana or old cap

  If you do not want paint and powder all through your hair, cover it or put it up.

Prep Your Skin + Hair

• Use baby oil or petroleum jelly

  Put a light layer around your hairline, ears, neck and anywhere paint tends to stick. It can make cleanup much easier afterwards.

• Protect your hairline

  Especially around your edges and behind your ears, because paint loves hiding there.

• Wear sunscreen

  You might leave in the dark and finish in full sun, so put it on before you go.

What to Bring

• Waterproof phone pouch

  This is a must. Keep your phone around your neck or close to your body so it stays dry and you still have your hands free.

• Small waterproof fanny pack or pouch

  Only bring what you really need: ID, hotel key, card, a little cash and maybe lip balm.

• Small towel or rag

  Good for wiping paint, powder, sweat or water away from your face and eyes.

• Hand sanitizer

  Always good to have.

• Baby wipes or body wipes

  You’re going to be glad you packed them.

• Water or electrolytes

  If your band provides drinks, great, but still make sure you’re actually drinking water too.

Pro tipKeep it simple. The less you carry, the better.

Protect Your Stuff

• Leave expensive jewelry at the hotel

  No good earrings, watches, chains, rings or anything else you would be upset about losing.

• Leave your passport at the hotel

  Bring only the ID you actually need.

• Do not bring a designer bag or expensive camera

  J’ouvert is not the time.

Pro tipBasically, if ruining it would ruin your whole morning, do not bring it.

Prep Your Room Before You Leave

Especially if you’re staying in a hotel, do this before you head out.

• Leave garbage bags by the door

  When you get back, take off your dirty clothes and shoes and put them straight into the bags so you’re not getting paint, mud or oil all over the room.

• Put old towels aside

  Do not come back covered in paint and grab the nice white hotel towels. Keep a couple of old towels ready for when you get back.

• Have your shower stuff ready

  Soap, shampoo, conditioner, cleansing oil — whatever you normally use. You’re going to want to get straight in the shower when you come back.

If You’re Getting Into a Car After

• Protect the seats before you leave

  Put down old towels, plastic seat covers or garbage bags. Do this before J’ouvert, because once you’re covered in paint, it’s too late.

• Bring extra garbage bags

  Perfect for your dirty clothes and shoes on the way back.

One Last Thing

Pro tipDo not overthink J’ouvert. Wear old clothes, protect your phone, keep your valuables at the hotel, drink water and be ready to get MESSY. That is literally the whole point.