Key Takeaways

• Not planning your festival schedule in advance. Map out. Which acts you absolutely can’t miss and which stages are most important to help you get through the day and avoid unnecessary chaos!

• To avoid dehydration, bring a water bottle you can refill and plan on taking breaks for sit-down meals.

• Pack light, only bringing what you need, leaving valuables at home or in your hotel to minimize your burden and risk of loss.

• Don’t miss out on checking out the bill’s local Barcelona talent. It’s one of the best opportunities to experience the city’s rich music culture and find new talent!

• Prevent hearing loss with professional grade earplugs, especially at the loudest shows. Share this with your friends and get them to share it too, for a safer festival experience!

• Plan your transportation and device charging needs in advance. Book an Ubigi eSIM data plan for Spain to get a reliable Internet connectivity without roaming charges. You will easily get around Barcelona and stay connected all weekend.

Missing key set times, skipping sunscreen, or grabbing the wrong wristband can can seriously derail your festival trip to Sonar and OffSonar—especially for music lovers chasing that unique music experience.

Barcelona’s unpredictable weather, overwhelming festival traffic, and 24-hour party schedule surprise a lot of people.

Getting the basics right—having cash on hand for drinks, wearing comfy shoes for all that walking, and making sure your phone charger is working—will keep you in the game.

This article outlines the “10 mistakes”, so you can avoid them like Neo escaping bullets.

1. Skipping the festival schedule

Don’t miss out on the essential acts and stages that make Sonar and OffSonar unforgettable. While special guests are still to be announced, here’s a quick guide to the must-see spots and experiences that define the festival’s energy and draw the biggest crowds:

• SonarClub: The go-to stage for headliners and the world’s biggest electronic names.
• SonarHall: Perfect for catching live bands and experimental sets that push musical boundaries.
• OffSonar Day Parties at Poble Espanyol: Experience the world’s top house and techno DJs in a stunning open-air setting.
• Sonar+D: Dive into talks, workshops, and tech showcases that blend music with innovation and creativity.
• Night Stages: Don’t miss the sunrise sets—these late-night performances bring out the wildest energy and are a true festival highlight.

To make the most of your pass, plan your day around these unique locations and prioritize your favorite artists. Don’t stress about catching every single set. Overlapping schedules mean you’ll have to make some choices. Remember, you’ll be on your feet for hours. Take breaks at shaded food courts or chill-out zones just like the locals do.

Printed schedules are handy, but the festival app is your best friend for real-time updates on set changes and surprise guests. Use it to pivot quickly if lines get long or a show runs over. Stay flexible. Sometimes the best moments come from stumbling into a new act or stage you hadn’t planned on seeing. With a bit of strategy and a willingness to adapt, you’ll soak up the best of Sonar and OffSonar, from legendary headliners to unexpected discoveries.

2. Ignoring hydration and nutrition

Ignoring hydration and nutrition is a common mistake that can drain your energy and slow you down at Sonar and OffSonar festivals. These events are about more than music ! They’re about community, shared energy, and a mood that builds throughout the day. But you can’t keep up if you’re running on empty or dehydrated.

Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated without waiting in long lines or searching for vendors. Barcelona’s summer heat can be intense, so drink water regularly (even before you feel thirsty) to prevent headaches, cramps, and fatigue. Often, what feels like hunger is actually your body’s need for hydration.

Choose nutritious food options from festival vendors to keep your energy up. Look for grilled chicken skewers, veggie bowls, or salads with beans and nuts. These provide protein, fiber, and healthy fats, which are much better for sustained energy than fried snacks or candy bars. Starting your day with eggs, Greek yogurt, or whole grain toast can also help keep your metabolism steady and prevent hunger later.

Take regular breaks to eat and drink, so you don’t end up running on fumes. Even a turkey sandwich, a handful of almonds, or an apple can make a big difference in how you feel. Remember, coffee and tea also help with hydration, so your morning cup fits right in.

Prioritizing hydrating foods and balanced meals will help you stay energized and enjoy every moment of the festival.

3. Overpacking unnecessary items

Overpacking is a classic festival mistake that only makes your experience at Sonar and OffSonar slower and more stressful. Carrying extra, unnecessary items means more weight, more hassle, and less freedom to enjoy the music and atmosphere. The key is to strike a balance between comfort, practicality, and style by sticking to a simple, focused packing list.

Start with the essentials: a small crossbody bag, sunscreen, a refillable water bottle, and a portable charger. Opt for travel-size toiletries or buy them at your destination to save space and avoid messy leaks. Making a list of must-haves before you pack helps you avoid the “just in case” trap and ensures you only bring what you’ll actually use.

When it comes to clothing, prioritize variety, versatility, and layering. Neutral colors like black, white, and tan mix and match easily, allowing you to pack less. Only bring a backup outfit for special occasions—one or two extras are usually enough, especially with Barcelona’s warm, predictable summer weather. Lay out everything you think you need, then cut it in half.

Leave expensive or niche gear at home. Costly sunglasses, high-end headphones, or fancy cameras are easy to lose or damage in crowded festival settings. Packing light and sticking to items you wouldn’t mind losing gives you peace of mind and makes moving between shows or accommodations much easier.

Remember, overpacked bags can also mean hefty airline baggage fees. By packing smart and light, you’ll save money, move freely, and focus on what really matters: enjoying the festival.

4. Missing out on local artists

Missing out on local artists means skipping the true soul of Barcelona’s nightlife and festival scene. To make your Sonar or OffSonar experience unforgettable, take some time to discover the city’s homegrown talent before you arrive. While these festivals are known for big-name global acts, their real magic often lies in the local artists they showcase. Many of whom are on the brink of international recognition.

Check out festival lineups online and follow local music blogs to spot emerging artists you might otherwise overlook. Smaller stages and side events, especially those leading up to the main festival, are where you’ll find tomorrow’s stars and unique sounds you won’t hear anywhere else.

At Sonar, hidden rooms pulse with local DJs spinning infectious techno and hosting underground collaborations that keep the party alive into the early hours. OffSonar’s afterparties in intimate venues deliver some of the most intense and memorable live shows, exploring everything from techno and house to Catalan pop.

Venturing beyond the main festival grounds opens up even more of Barcelona’s vibrant music culture. The city is home to about 20 music clubs with live performances every night of the year. During civic celebrations like the Festa Major de Gracia in August, entire neighborhoods come alive with street parties, local bands, and creative displays.

In June, the Fête de la Musique and summer solstice bring open-air concerts that celebrate Spanish culture and traditions. Don’t just stick to the main acts—explore, get off the beaten path, and let local artists surprise you. These experiences are what truly set Barcelona’s festival scene apart.

5. Neglecting ear protection

If not, drop back in the crowd or move to a quieter area. Even if only for one or two songs, you’re giving your ears a chance to refresh! Taking frequent breaks away from the main stage area allows your hearing to reset after those blaring speakers delivering nonstop immersive beats.

If you are experiencing ringing or muffled hearing, stop right there! If these symptoms persist beyond 24 hours post-festival, seeking the advice of an audiologist is a prudent step.

Get your friends and family members to do the same. The more individuals who wear ear protection, the more it creates an environment where people care for one another, including tourists and seasoned fest-goers alike.

Simple safe habits such as this help ensure you and others can continue enjoying festivals for years to come without any concerns. Protecting your hearing enhances your potential enjoyment—so the music stays a joy, not a regret.

6. Arriving late to performances

Providing other information in advance, such as venue layout, helps lower stress levels. It just makes it easier to sail right through from one stage to the next! Both “Sonar and OffSonar festival” take advantage of various venues throughout Barcelona.

Like Sonar by Day and Sonar by Night, these two worlds are miles apart! OffSonar events are held in some unusual locations such as Poble Espanyol with its maze-like streets and many different entrances. Visit any of the site maps found in the official festival app or website before you set foot outside!

That way, you’ll have more time to enjoy the music instead of spending all that time wandering around—because when that standout event or unexpected debut performance happens, you’ll want to be there for the full moment.

Setting alarms directly on your phone’s calendar or with any reminder app helps you stay oriented toward start times. Create alerts for the artists you’re hoping to catch, and particularly if you’re looking to hop around to multiple venues.

Sonar+D talks, food stalls, or waiting in line for a drink will easily make you lose track of time. Reminders help ensure that you arrive on time instead of coming in during the middle of the first act or just as the encore finishes—because missing a potential blissful experience on a personal level could mean missing the real party.

7. Failing to explore off-site events

Skipping off-site events during Sonar or OffSonar means missing out on some of the most unforgettable moments the festival weekend has to offer. These events bring you closer to Barcelona’s vibrant energy, local talent, and creative spirit. It gives you so much more than just the main festival lineups.

To make the most of your experience, prepare a shortlist of off-site activities and parties. Look out for rooftop DJ sets, pool parties, and boat gatherings along the Port Olímpic. These pop up frequently and are often promoted on social media or local event sites. By keeping an eye out, you’ll never miss a spontaneous rave, a daytime gathering, or an intimate set that could become the highlight of your trip.

Planning ahead pays off. Set aside time to visit nearby bars or music venues hosting after-parties, like secret sets at Macarena Club or superstar DJ nights at Pacha and Razzmatazz. These venues are just a short cab or rideshare away from the main festival grounds, making it easy to hop between events and catch surprise performances from Barcelona’s underground scene.

Exploring different neighborhoods like El Raval and Poblenou will lead you to off-the-beaten-path venues buzzing with creativity and local flavor. Warehouse parties and cozy clubs in these districts are where locals go for a truly unique festival vibe.

Take a stroll down Carrer dels Tallers to discover hidden spaces pulsing with everything from techno to house. Refuel at a late-night tapas bar between events. Not only does it keep your energy up, but it also lets you savor the authentic taste of Barcelona. By embracing off-site events, you’ll unlock a richer, more memorable festival adventure.

8. Disregarding transportation options

Overlooking transportation options can quickly turn your Sonar or OffSonar festival experience into chaos. Barcelona’s metro and bus systems run late, but they fill up fast, especially after major sets when crowds surge through the city. To avoid confusion and long waits, plan your route ahead of time by checking public transit schedules and routes.

The official TMB website and app offer real-time updates for trains and buses, including special late-night service during festival weekends. The L3 metro line and several NitBus routes are especially popular with festival-goers, so knowing which ones connect to your hotel or afterparty spots can save you a lot of time and hassle.

Investing in a Hola Barcelona Travel Card is a smart move. It gives you unlimited rides for two to five days, so you won’t need to buy separate tickets every time or queue at busy ticket machines. This is especially useful if you’re heading to offsite events like those at Poble Espanyol. Your pass will pay for itself quickly.

Barcelona is also a great city for walking or biking, thanks to wide sidewalks and the Bicing bike-share system used by thousands of locals. If you prefer these options, you’ll find it easy to get around.

Always have a plan for getting home, as late-night trains and buses can be packed with festival crowds. Taxis and rideshares like Free Now or Uber are available, but expect possible wait times or surge pricing. Check the schedule for the last metro or bus, and consider arranging pickups away from the busiest areas to avoid the worst of the crowds. Planning your transport in advance ensures a smoother, more enjoyable festival experience.

9. Traveling Without an Ubigi Data Plan

Avoid the hassle of exorbitant roaming charges from your regular carrier by opting for Ubigi’s eSIM data plan, ensuring seamless connectivity throughout Spain. Whether you’re coordinating with friends at Sonar or navigating Barcelona’s vibrant streets, Ubigi keeps you connected.

You could pick among the following options :

• One-Off Data Plans: Ideal for short stays, these prepaid plans offer various data allowances to suit your needs. Pick between a 3GB data plan or a 10GB data plan if you are a solo traveler. If you plan to travel with friends, pick a 25GB data plan or 50GB data plan and share the data via tethering.
• Regional Data Plans: If your travels extend beyond Spain, Ubigi’s “Europe” and “Europe Extended” plans provide coverage across multiple European countries, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity. You will be able to pick between 3GB data plan, 10GB data plan, 25GB data plan or 50GB data plan
• Unlimited Data Plans: For heavy data users, Ubigi offers unlimited data plans with a fair usage policy, allowing you to stream, share, and stay online without worries.

It’s incredibly easy to get started. Download the Ubigi app before you land in Barcelona. Select a data plan that best matches your travel needs, and follow the app’s instructions to install your eSIM!

With Ubigi, you get access to blazing fast mobile data seamlessly without having to change your SIM card. No surprises: pricing is always clear and transparent. No more fumbling with kiosks at the airport or trying to find a last-minute SIM card shop.

Focus on enjoying the festival and exploring the city, knowing you’re always connected!

10. Forgetting to charge devices

Don’t let a dead battery ruin your Sonar or OffSonar festival experience. Forgetting to charge your devices can mean missing out on music recommendations, losing your rideshare pickup, or being unable to reconnect with friends. Establishing a simple charging routine ensures your phone, camera, and wireless earbuds are always ready.

Charge your devices overnight and give them a quick top-up during breakfast for a full day’s use. To keep your battery healthy, avoid letting it drain completely. Try to keep it between 20% and 80% when possible, and give it a full charge about once a month. Constantly running your battery down to 0% can shorten its lifespan.

A portable charger is a festival essential, especially when outlets are scarce and crowds are everywhere. A compact power bank lets you recharge on the go, so you’re never caught without power. Plug in while waiting in line or during a long set, but remember to remove your phone case to prevent overheating during charging.

Charging via laptop is much slower than using a wall socket or power bank, and usually doesn’t support fast charging. Take advantage of charging stations at festival venues or in official partner lounges around Barcelona. Use breaks or meal times to top up your battery.

Avoid using your phone while it’s charging, as this puts extra stress on the battery. Consider downloading a reputable battery health app to monitor performance and keep your device running smoothly. As the night goes on and the parties ramp up, a fully charged phone is your best tool for staying connected and making the most of every moment.

Conclusion

As you already know, “Sonar and OffSonar festival” mean crazy days and crazier nights in beautiful Barcelona. The city is alive and crackling with creative energy, and the music just goes on and on. It’s a vibrant week filled with great crowds, stunning city views, and the kind of ambience only Barcelona can offer.

But don’t let poor planning ruin it—there are at least “10 mistakes” that festivalgoers often make, especially if it’s your first time. From overpacking to missing local acts, these are “mistakes to avoid” if you want a stress-free and unforgettable week.

Avoid fatigue by having your schedule on hand, getting plenty of hydration, and bringing the right gear. Don’t miss the local acts—championing artists from the region gives you an authentic taste of Barcelona! After all, the freshest sounds are often made by the people who live there. Pack your earplugs, arrive early to the sets, and sample a few of the off-sonar parties for a new perspective.

Avoid the anxiety by planning your trips and charging your devices. With a good strategy and low expectations, you enjoy the most of each performance and block.

Looking to improve your festival game even more? Send this to your squad and have one of the best experiences of your life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I miss a set at Sonar or OffSonar?

Keep an eye on the official app or schedule for last-minute additions. You’ll notice that many artists have several sets throughout the festival or at venues right beside each other. Keep your schedule nimble to make time for surprise sets or regional acts you didn’t know you’d be obsessed with.

Is tap water safe to drink in Barcelona during the festivals?

So you don’t have to worry during the festivals, yes, tap water in Barcelona is safe to drink. Yet the taste of tap water drives many festival-goers to buy bottled water instead. Definitely bring a refillable water bottle to save money and avoid lugging around heavy bottles of water.

How do I get around between Sonar and OffSonar venues?

Getting around Barcelona has a fantastic metro, buses, and taxis. Figure out how you’re getting around in advance. Keep in mind ride-sharing apps for your late-night return, since public transport doesn’t operate much past midnight.

Why is ear protection important at music festivals?

You don’t have to be a musician to develop hearing damage from high sound levels. If you want to enjoy music safely at a festival without leaving with ringing ears or permanent hearing loss, bring quality earplugs.

Can I bring a backpack to Sonar and OffSonar festivals?

Small backpacks or bags are typically permitted, but always verify the festival’s specific bag policy. Make sure you pack only the essentials so you can zip around easily and skip the long bag check lines at the entrance.

What’s the best way to stay connected at the festivals?

Download a good data plan such as Ubigi before you get there. That way, you don’t have to stress about finding Wi-Fi while you’re trying to check maps, schedules, and stay connected with your friends at all the festival.

Are there food options for special diets at the festivals?

Are there food options for special diets at the festivals. Review the festival map to see where food vendors will be and plan your meals in advance to prevent waiting in lengthy lines.