The weather at last year's Way Out West was a challenge even for the prepared. During the headlining act Håkan Hellström's record-breaking performance, the sky opened up with a force that penetrated rain jackets.
The 2024 edition offers something more to consider for those who want to counter the weather gods' plans: the police's ban on bags. No bag-like objects - not even empty ones - are allowed. However, the police approve of cloth bags purchased within the area.
We have fully complied with their regulations, this is not something we have chosen ourselves. I understand if it can be perceived as illogical, which we also notice in our social media, says Filip Hiltmann at the organizer Luger.
Boots - the new bag
In connection with the new rules, festival fashion has changed - but fashion expert Emily Dahl also sees a larger trend beyond the ban. Visitors are leaving the stripped-down Coachella aesthetic and showing off in VIP areas, opting for functionality and actually going to listen to the music.
This is a result of the 2000s being back in style and a whole new generation discovering the fashion and music that was trend-setting during the 90s and 00s, when festivals were really big, she says.
Certain new clothing tricks are, however, directly linked to the absence of bags. During Taylor Swift's Sweden performances, visitors used cowboy boots and biker boots to store items.
There, you can stash band-aids, pain relievers, and electrolyte drinks. In a viral video from The Eras Tour, two American girls had a collapsible hairbrush - there was such extreme "loot" in those boot shafts, says Emily Dahl.
"Heading for a new audience record"
The cargo pants with many pockets have become a popular garment, often paired with carabiner hooks. The Leif GW Persson-inspired hunting vest is a hit, as are football jerseys that protect against sun and heat. Social media users are teaching each other how to tie headscarves and shawls to increase storage possibilities.
Working with the weather and not against it is the key to a successful Way Out West. You should plan your outfit around your rubber boots and rain jacket rather than the other way around, says Emily Dahl.
The bag ban, however, does not seem to deter the festival enthusiasts. According to Luger, tickets have sold better now compared to the same time last year.
We cannot disclose any numbers, but we are heading for a new audience record for the third year in a row, says Filip Hiltmann.
Way Out West takes place in Slottsskogen, Gothenburg, on August 8-10. Among the headliners are Fred Again, PJ Harvey, Pulp, and Benjamin Ingrosso.
The festival is characterized by the police's bag ban - no bag-like objects are allowed on the premises. However, there will be lockers available for rent on site. Sanitary products, sunscreen, and soap will be distributed for free on the premises.
