Trying to figure out what to bring to THON is similar to packing for a glorified middle school sleepover. In a world without sleep, where fanny packs and tutus are all the rage and it’s completely appropriate to start a squirt gun war with your neighbor, the fans in the stands need to prepare for just about anything. We compiled a list of basic THON needs so that you won’t be saying, “Oh, I wish I had remembered to bring ____” throughout the weekend.

Drawstring Bag/Fanny Pack

Although the BJC does not allow large bags, backpacks, totes, or coolers inside the arena during THON weekend, individuals are encouraged to sport bedazzled fanny packs or drawstring bags to carry around necessities. Students often get creative with their bags, and why not go all out and celebrate the one weekend of the year when fanny packs are cool?

Small Snack

Although spectators are not allowed to bring containers of food to THON, anything that fits in your drawstring bag is fair game. Bring small snack bags to keep yourself energized while in the stands.

Portable Phone Charger

If you don’t post a THON Instagram, are you even FTK? While you and thousands of other people try to share your THON social media love, your phone’s battery will drain quicker than usual as it battles for the limited service available in the BJC. In order to get amazing pictures and videos to post, you’re going to need to keep that phone charged. Because we’re not allowed to use BJC outlets, bringing a portable charger is the way to go.

Tennis Balls

After standing for an excessive amount of time at all hours of the day, you’re finally going to realize how much your feet feel the weight of your body. In order to massage them without sitting down in the stands, many students roll tennis balls with their feet. They work wonders and can help alleviate some of your pain.

Change of Socks/Shoes

Despite the below-zero temperatures outside, the BJC gets hot. Shorts and t-shirts are the norm during THON. Unsurprisingly, the heat and the amount of time spent in the same pair of shoes result in sweaty feet. Nothing is worse than standing for hours in damp socks, so changing your foot gear is an easy way to feel refreshed.

Deodorant

Like we said, the BJC is a sauna during THON weekend. Help yourself and your neighbors and wear deodorant.

Refillable Water Bottle

Buying food and drinks from concession stands will cost you more meal points than you can afford. However, from 11 p.m. to 4 a.m. on Friday and Saturday, no opened beverages will be allowed into the building. Students are allowed to fill their water bottles at fountains around the arena, so bring an empty bottle to keep hydrated.

Toothbrush/Toothpaste

During a weekend where many are lacking showers, brushing your teeth is a way to maintain some semblance of hygiene. Brushing your teeth will make you feel cleaner, and will help keep track of passing days in a weekend where time doesn’t seem to exist.

Small Squirt Gun

At THON, you’ll find a lot of college students channeling their inner childlike behavior as they run around in capes and play with toys. Squirt guns are the staple THON toy. Water guns are a fun way to wake up your buddy in the stands or interact with some of the Four Diamonds children. Limit your usage of water guns to things you would find at a dollar store (and no Super Soakers allowed!).

GoPro/Selfie Stick

THON is every GoPro owner’s dream. The colorful arena lends itself to awesome video opportunities, with people and events that deserve to be documented. Keep your eyes open and your camera at the ready to capture great videos like this and this.

Though there are many things you may want to consider bringing with you to THON, these few items cover the bases. Most importantly, just have fun! Bring along the things that you know will keep you clean, active, and having a great time.