Surviving EDC Las Vegas: Tips From a Veteran Raver

All are welcome at EDC Las Vegas, but it can be challenging to make it out in one piece. Save these tips so you can rave to the grave!

As a 40-year-old raver immersed in the scene for far over a decade, I’ve done my fair share of partying. If you’re an elder millennial like me or older — and this is your very first EDM massive — then stick around because I’d love to share some tips to help make the best out of your experience at EDC Las Vegas this year.

It’s important to note that we all have different body types, and stamina is personal. My suggestions are based solely on how I’ve felt after previous editions of EDC and how I’ve adjusted in recent years.

First and foremost, pack smart.

The Las Vegas Motor Speedway boasts a large footprint, so plan to walk plenty of miles each night. However, you don’t want to be weighed down by a full backpack.

All you need are the festival essentials, which include your phone, ID and credit/debit card, electrolytes, gum, chapstick, earplugs, hand sanitizer, an empty bottle for water refills, a chilly towel, and a small long-sleeve shirt for the temperature drop. That’s it! Trust me, everything else is just filler and your shoulders and back will thank you.

If you want to travel with more, then opt for a locker and go hands-free. If you need something else on-site, EDC likely has you covered with a vast array of products at their general store and merch booth.

Treat your body with kindness and avoid burnout.

Partying from dusk to dawn in the desert is no easy feat, even as a young raver. Once you feel your body start to ache (not hours later), it’s essential to take an extended break, hydrate with electrolytes, and grab a solid meal (one chicken finger doesn’t cut it anymore).

The music will be waiting for you once you find your second wind. If it doesn’t come, don’t force it. There’s always tomorrow, and you want to be in tip-top shape to groove (or headbang).

Photo Credit: Insomniac Events

If you can and are willing to, rave sober.

I have to regularly remind myself about the diabolical hangover that often follows a three-day festival bender. When I was 20 it was easy to shake, but at double the age, forget it. So, I’m passing the “heads up” on to you.

Even if you normally have a high tolerance, the fatigue and dehydration you’ll experience here will likely compound the comedown in the desert. So, put down the alcohol and replace it with the natural high you’ll get from witnessing incredible DJs at one of the best festivals on the planet. I promise it’s worth it.

Comfort is key on the dancefloor.

Nothing is quite as frustrating as getting stuck in a sea of people with little to no room to dance. When I was young, it was fun to be inside the action, but these days, I find myself opting for the safety and comfort of the outskirts.

Sometimes, this requires shifting around to avoid the walkway, but once you find the right pocket, your night will go from stressful to satisfying. Not to mention the incredible views of the lasers and lights!

If you’re up for an adventure, you may be lucky to find a hole front-left or front-right, depending on the stage size and crowd entry location (But keep that secret between me and you). Or, if you’re braver than me, ignore that and grab a spot at the rail. Your fest, your fun!

Link up with elder ravers who share commonality and community.

If you don’t already have a group you vibe with, all it takes is a hello and a get-to-know-you conversation off the dancefloor. Ultimately, you’ll meet people who share similar life experiences with you, and just like that, you’re building a rave family that matches your speed.

Not only that, but you’ll learn how to survive from the seasoned best while learning rave history along the way!

Armin van Buuren and The Rave Mamas (April & Darlene) at EDC 2023

If you’re not camping, leave before the last set.

At the end of the EDC Las Vegas marathon, we need a brain and body recharge in the comfort of our hotel bed. But, one of the biggest energy-suckers you’ll run into is the commute back to the Strip from the Las Vegas Motor Speedway.

If you choose to dance until sunup, expect multiple hours on the road or sometimes even in the parking lot. To avoid this, leave a set or two ahead of the last. You’d be amazed at how much time this cuts off the drive.

But, I suggest staying for at least one sunrise because the crowd shares a special sense of comradery after conquering the night. Sunday into Monday is always the best choice because you don’t have to worry about conserving energy at that point.

Most importantly, don’t let anyone steal your shine!

It’s not cool, but it happens. A new generation of ravers rolls in, and some will vocalize that we’re not supposed to be here anymore. But, the reality is, all are welcome here. No matter how old you are, having fun should always be a priority, so let the naysayers in one ear and out the other.

It’s also our responsibility to lead by example and practice PLUR (peace, love, unity, and respect) every time we hit the dancefloor!

Welcome to EDC Las Vegas. Now go live your best life under The Electric Sky!