The Ultimate Festival Packing List

Planning to attend a festival soon? Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned festival-goer, packing the right essentials can make or break your experience. To help you get ready, we’ve put together the ultimate festival packing list that covers all the must-haves, from camping gear to personal care items. Here’s everything you need to know to stay comfortable, safe, and prepared.

Day Bag Essentials #

Your day bag is your lifeline during the festival, keeping all your most-needed items within easy reach. Here’s what you should always have in your bag:

• Antibacterial Wipes and Hand Sanitiser: Keep your hands clean, especially after using porta-loos or eating.
• Baby Wipes: Perfect for freshening up during the day when showers aren’t accessible.
• Earplugs: Protect your ears from loud music and get some rest in noisy campsites.
• Lip Balm: Keep your lips hydrated under the sun and wind.
• Portable Charger + Phone Cable: Ensure your phone stays charged for taking photos, finding friends, and checking set times.
• Anti-Theft Phone Lanyard: Keep your phone safe and accessible.
• Cash, Cards, and ID: Some vendors may not take cards, and you’ll need ID for entry or purchasing drinks.

Hydration and Snacks #

Staying hydrated and having snacks on hand can help you maintain your energy levels and keep going all day long.

• Reusable Water Bottle: Refill stations are usually available at most festivals, so stay hydrated without the plastic waste.
• Snacks (Nuts, Crisps, Energy Bars): Keep a stash of easy-to-eat snacks for those moments when you need a quick energy boost.
• Electrolyte Drinks or Sachets: Help replenish lost electrolytes and stay refreshed in the heat.

Camping Gear #

If you’re camping at the festival, having the right gear can turn a tough experience into a comfortable one. Don’t leave home without these essentials:

• Tent, Pegs, and Mallet: A sturdy tent with all the necessary equipment will keep you sheltered and comfortable.
• Sleeping Bag, Air Mattress + Pump: Get a good night’s sleep with a comfy setup.
• Pillow and Blanket: Extra comfort for those chilly nights.
• Torch or Headlamp: A must-have for finding your way around the campsite in the dark.
• Camping Chair: Perfect for chilling outside your tent or at your campsite.
• Fairy Lights or String Lights: Not just for decoration—these help mark your campsite and add a cosy vibe.
• Portable Cool Box and Reusable Ice Packs: Keep your drinks cool and food fresh.

Clothing #

Packing the right clothing ensures you’re prepared for all weather conditions and can focus on enjoying the music.

• Comfortable Shoes (Boots/Trainers + Flip-Flops for Showers): Supportive footwear is a must for long days on your feet, plus flip-flops for shower runs.
• Socks and Underwear (1 Pair per Day + Extras): Keep your feet and body fresh with plenty of changes.
• Weather-Appropriate Outfits (Shorts, T-Shirts, Hoodie, Tracksuit Bottoms): Dress for the weather, but pack layers for changing conditions.
• Rain Jacket or Waterproof Poncho: Stay dry if the weather takes a turn.
• Warm Layers for Night Time (Jumper, Beanie): Temperatures can drop at night, so pack something warm.
• Hat and Sunglasses: Protect yourself from the sun during the day.
• Swimsuit (if needed): Handy for festivals with water activities or communal showers.

Hygiene and Personal Care #

Maintaining personal hygiene at a festival is key to staying comfortable and feeling good throughout the event.

• Deodorant and Sun Cream: Stay fresh and protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
• Toothbrush, Toothpaste, and Floss: Keep up with your dental hygiene.
• Baby Wipes and Makeup Wipes: Great for quick freshen-ups.
• Shampoo, Conditioner, and Body Wash (Travel Size): Bring along travel-sized toiletries to save space.
• Painkillers (Paracetamol/Ibuprofen) and Any Personal Medications: Be prepared for any aches or pains.
• Sanitary Products (Tampons/Pads): Essential for comfort and hygiene.

Miscellaneous Essentials #

These last few items can make a big difference in your festival experience, ensuring you’re fully prepared for whatever the weekend throws at you.

• Festival Wristband/Ticket: Don’t forget the most important item—your access to all the fun!
• Extra Batteries or Power Banks: Keep your devices powered up throughout the festival.
• Resealable Bags for Rubbish, Wet Clothes, or Snacks: Keep your campsite tidy and organised.
• Bin Bags for Campsite Cleanup: Leave no trace and keep your area clean.
• Small Mirror: Useful for makeup touch-ups or contact lenses.
• Insect Repellent: Avoid annoying bites from bugs and midges.
• Multi-Tool or Scissors: Handy for campsite repairs or quick fixes.
• Towel and Washcloth: For showers or quick freshen-ups.

Gear You Probably Shouldn’t Bring (But Someone Always Does) #

• The Festival Guitar ?
  Nothing says “I’m the campfire hero” like a guitar that’s seen better days. You might not know how to play it, but hey, it makes for a great photo op and a guaranteed way to make (or lose) friends at 3 AM.
• Inflatable Sofa ?️
  Perfect for those who think carrying a whole living room setup across muddy fields is a good idea. Inflatable sofas are the ultimate test of your lung capacity and patience as you watch it deflate, slowly and sadly, throughout the day.
• Blow-Up Hot Tub ?
  For the campers who believe festivals should be more like a luxury spa. It’s all fun and bubbles until you need to fill it with water... or find a plug.
• Giant Animal Onesies ?
  Great for the ‘gram, but not so practical when you’re sweating like you’re in the Sahara or trying to navigate a porta-potty at 2 AM.
• Solar-Powered Disco Ball ✨
  Because every campsite needs a mini rave at all hours of the night. Perfect for keeping the vibes up and your camp neighbors’ annoyance levels even higher.
• Portable Karaoke Machine ?
  For those who feel the main stage isn’t enough. There’s always someone who decides that everyone needs to hear their rendition of Bohemian Rhapsody at breakfast.
• Full-Sized Mirror ?
  For the fashionista who can’t bear the thought of not seeing how festival-chic they look at all times. You do you, but lugging this thing might be the real fashion faux pas.
• The Medieval Banquet Table Set ?
  You came to camp, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a five-course meal fit for royalty. Complete with goblets, candelabras, and a roast turkey (because why not?).
• Life-Size Cardboard Cutout of a Celebrity ?
  Because it’s not a festival without pretending you’re best mates with David Bowie or Beyoncé. Great for camp morale, confusing for everyone else.
• A Full-Scale Tent Fortress ?
  Why settle for a simple tent when you can have a multi-room mansion with separate sleeping, dining, and living areas? Just be prepared for the setup to take longer than the festival itself.

Final Thoughts #

With this packing list, you’ll be fully equipped for a fantastic festival experience. Remember, preparation is key to making the most of your time, so pack smart, stay hydrated, and enjoy every moment. See you in the crowd!