THON weekend is finally here and everyone is prepared for a long yet fun 46 hours. It’s going to be a busy weekend with less sleep than normal, so you’re going to want to come equipped with everything you’ll need to stay awake, energized, and make the most out of your time in the BJC. We compiled a list of what to bring and what not to bring in your bags to avoid being sent home after waiting in line outside or making the trek.

What to pack:

1. A drawstring bag/fanny pack: In order to keep all your belongings in one convenient place while also being able to dance and have fun, fanny packs are a must. But don’t worry you won’t be alone.
2. Empty, reusable water bottle: It’s important to stay hydrated through the many hours of standing and dancing, and you’ll want a water bottle that you can fill up multiple times throughout the weekend.
3. A portable phone charger: Over a span of 46 hours, you’ll want your phone to take pictures with your friends to document the memory of the best weekend at Penn State, especially since you’re not allowed to charge your phones in the outlets in the BJC.
4. Tennis ball: So much standing leads to sore feet, and packing a tennis ball is light and will help your feet in the long run.
5. Deodorant: Everyone is packed together in the BJC, and after hours of moving around and possibly wearing the same shirt, your neighbor will thank you. Which brings us to…
6. A change of clothes/socks/shoes: Bringing an extra shirt or two will help you feel clean and refreshed throughout the weekend, and changing your shoes will help relieve your feet from all of the standing. Slippers are also good to stick in your bag for extra comfort when you need it.
7. Small water guns and other toys: To play with the kids, of course!
8. Student ID: This will allow you to purchase food and drinks with LionCash and meal points.
9. Colorful accessories: THON weekend is all about having fun and showing your support for the kids, so consider wearing crazy hats, tutus, and neon shirts.
10. Toothbrush/ toothpaste: Or at least, a pack of gum. You can only go so many hours without practicing proper hygiene, and again, your neighbor will thank you.

What to leave at home:

1. Food and drinks: The BJC is not allowing anyone to bring their own snacks and drinks into THON this year, so make sure to come prepared with money and an empty water bottle to purchase snacks when you get there.
2. Backpacks: They are also not allowing backpacks or duffle bags into the BJC this year, so make sure to have your drawstring bag and fanny pack in hand.
3. Energy drinks/ your coffee mug: It’s a good idea to cut down on your caffeine during the weeks leading up to THON so you’re not relying on it to get you through the weekend. It’s better to stay hydrated with water rather than pounding down multiple cups of coffee which will only dehydrate you. With chemical stimulants come crashes, and the last thing you want  when you’re with the kids is a headache from caffeine withdrawal.
4. Alcohol: This goes without saying, but this is not the time nor the place for alcohol. Showing up drunk to THON is not FTK, and you will most likely be thrown out anyway.
5. Music and headphones: The BJC bumps to an upbeat playlist all weekend long, so you won’t need your personal headphones to keep you motivated.
6. Non-supportive shoes: If you wear flip flops during THON weekend, you’ll be kicking yourself later.
7. Stadium seat cushions: You will not be sitting anytime during THON, so these will not be necessary.
8. Pillow and blanket: Nor will you be sleeping while you’re in the BJC, so don’t plan on getting comfortable in the stands.
9. Heavy winter jacket: A lot of things get lost or stepped on in the stands, so we advise against bringing your Northface winter coat to THON. The BJC gets exceptionally warm anyway, so shorts and a tank top are more appropriate attire.
10. Anything less than a smile: This is not the time to have a bad attitude or complain about the exhaustion, so remind yourself why you’re participating in THON. FTK.