Soft-sided coolers vs hard coolers: Soft wins for festivals — lighter, easier to carry, and fits size limits.

Hard coolers are heavy, awkward in crowds, and take up too much space. Soft coolers chill just as well with ice packs, are easy to sling over a shoulder or shove in a backpack, and usually hold enough for two or three people. Check the festival’s specific rules, but the cooler itself should be soft and light for minimal hassle.