Number 2–unpredictable weather–can't be stressed enough.
Just pack like you are prepared for just about any weather.
After living in Daytona for seven years, attending the Rolex 24 every year since, and sleeping there three separate times–one time on purpose and two others because I was too excited to leave–I’ve learned some things. Here are five mistakes that most first-time Rolex 24 campers make.
When you secure your spot at the Rolex 24, keep in mind that campsites are first come, first served. So just like Black Friday in the early 2000s, you'll want to get there early to pick the best location.
When choosing your campsite, there are a few things to consider: the bathrooms, the track and the trams. Many first-time campers think the best spot is close to the bathrooms or the track to have round-the-clock coverage, but here are some things to think about.
It’s 4 a.m., and every campsite in a 200-foot vicinity has been partying since 10 a.m. the previous day. All of a sudden, the Busch Light, Fireball and Smirnoff finally catch up with them. Now you’ve got people stumbling to the bathroom at all hours around you and even through your campsite.
Add the sounds of the engines roaring by at over 100 mph to the mix, and sleep will be nonexistent.
The next morning, you decide to go back to the infield only to realize the tram pickup location is halfway across the Speedway. After a night with no sleep, that walk is not very friendly, trust me. Same goes for the end of a long day: You don’t want to walk across Timbuktu just to get to your campsite.
Instead, find a spot that’s nicely in the middle–far enough from the bathrooms that it’s a bit of a walk but you won’t have to worry about surprise guests, and far enough from the edge of the track that the cars sound more like a soft droning. Also aim to be close enough to the trams that your feet won’t hate you at the end of the day.
Florida natives know that the weather can change without warning, and the Rolex 24 weekend is no exception. With this in mind, pack clothes for multiple types of weather , even if it is only for two days.
The forecast calling for 70° and sunny? Pack a hoodie, sweatpants and a rain jacket just in case. Oh, and extra socks–wet socks are no one’s friends.
I’ve seen people shivering or baking in the Florida sun too many times because their weather app didn’t warn them about the 180° weather shift.
Also remember that Florida nights, especially in January, can become unbearable as low temperatures pair with high wind and sometimes rain. It’s better to have extra blankets on hand than turn into a race fan popsicle in your tent.
While grabbing a bite at a food truck or the food stands may seem convenient, every other race fan in attendance will probably be thinking the same thing.
No one wants to walk and take a tram just to wait in a 40-person queue and pay $15 for a hamburger.
Save yourself the wait by bringing a cooler with various snacks and sandwich ingredients. Better yet, if you're able, bring a small grill too and make that hamburger from the comfort of your campsite.
After all, late-night snacks paired with a late-night race just hits the spot.
With that being said, do not wait to buy ice until race day. Some 90% of stores and gas stations around the Rolex will be sold out. If you can, grab and store ice as early as possible. Ice packs are also a good alternative.
For some campsites, infield parking is available, making setup and takedown easy. However, if you are not able to bring your vehicle, lugging all your equipment is not ideal.
While packing, ask yourself this one question: How many times will I actually use this during the race?
If the answer isn’t more than once or twice, chances are you don’t really need it.
On top of that, leave valuables where they belong–at home.
You won’t be at your campsite every second of the race. So, if there is something that you wouldn’t want to leave unattended or walk around with, don’t bring it.
When camping at the Rolex 24, you have to remember this one very important thing: You are not the only person there.
Now, I don’t mean don’t have fun, but blasting music at 4 in the morning or yelling at the top of your lungs? That is the quickest way to have your fellow campers calling security to come talk to you.
Camping at the Rolex 24 is a great way to meet new people, share cool stories and bond with people over your love of motorsports. So, make sure to be kind, respectful and, of course, have fun.
Number 2–unpredictable weather–can't be stressed enough.
Just pack like you are prepared for just about any weather.
Colin Wood said:Number 2–unpredictable weather–can't be stressed enough.
Just pack like you are prepared for just about any weather.
Hurricane or blizzard? Yes. Well, if it snows in Daytona, the apocalypse is near.
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