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!