The A-List for SXSW 2018

At Austin Fit, we pride ourselves on being original, well-researched, and above all, fun. The A-List is a curated list of our team's favorite products and tips based on personal experience or expert advice. This month features a list of our favorite gear for SXSW. 

Douchebags™ The Scholar Backpack $139
douchebags.com
Some of the best things really do come from Europe—including this incredible multipurpose backpack made by award winning Swedish gear brand, Douchebags. Founded by Olympic freeski legend, Jon Olsson, and Norwegian product designer, Truls Brataas, The Scholar is a great basic bag stripped of excessive ties and zippers, complete with a simplistic and smart style for the busy traveler. We recommend this bag for SXSW because it’s nicer looking than the average carryall, and its adjustable buckle straps allow you to carry more while looking like you’re carrying less. Great for simply taking from panel to panel, or for packing all your needs throughout the day—including workout gear when you decide to take a break from networking and interacting! 

SPIbelt® Luxe $35 
spibelt.com
The Luxe is the perfect SPIbelt to take with you everywhere you go during SXSW—complete with a headphone port large enough to hold your phone, wallet, and all the business cards you’ll be collecting throughout the week. The best part? The high gloss metallic buckle creates a fashion-forward look and goes with anything from your gym gear to your evening wear. 

Outdoor Voices Weekender Hoodie for Men $100 or Outdoor Voices Catch Me If You Can Hoodie for Women $85 
outdoorvoices.com and Outdoor Voices, West 6th 
Just as Outdoor Voices says on their website, these sweatshirts feel like you’re wearing a cloud. The monochrome color options make for a great staple item throughout SXSW. Pair with jeans and a nice jacket for a more dressed-up look, or go athleisure by pairing it with your full workout gear. Either way, know you’ll be comfortable and glad you brought it with you for those cold panel rooms and the unpredictable Austin weather! 

Erin Condren Deluxe Monthly Planner (from $30) & Hardbound Notebooks (from $15) 
erincondren.com and Erin Condren Flagship Store, Domain Northside 
It’s the perfect time of year to get organized, especially when it comes to planning out your SXSW week. We recommend searching through the online SXSW schedule and creating a custom schedule for yourself in the Deluxe Monthly Planner. You can also keep notes and tips that you learn throughout the event in one of her beautiful hardbound notebooks! They make organization fun and sleek. 

Anker PowerCore II 20000 Portable Charger $50  
anker.com
At SXSW, you’ll likely want to stay connected. Keep your phone charged up with the Anker PowerCore portable charger. Rated number one on TechRadar.com, this portable charger has enough capacity to keep your iPhone running for a week! 

ProSip™ Water Filter Bottle & Straw $30
propurusa.com
Staying hydrated during multi-day events like SXSW is a must for sustainable immunity and fun! This innovative water bottle filter transforms the nastiest bar or water fountain water into fresh and pure H20! Fill this up in between events (and cocktails) and keep it in your pack throughout the week. 

By Lilla Accessories
bylilla.com 
Want to put your hair back after a long day at SXSW but you left your grungy hair ties at home so as not to ruin your style? Now, there’s no need because your hair ties can double as sexy accessories! By Lilla has an extensive line that will cover any look. 

BANGS Shoes
bangsshoes.com
For shoes that are comfortable and stylish, it doesn’t get better than BANGS high tops. With plenty of options for men and women, you really can’t go wrong—especially since you’re feet won’t be screaming after days of walking around the festival.