The Ultimate Festival Essentials Checklist

Heading to a festival and worried you might forget something important? Our ultimate festival checklist has you covered. From festival essentials to must-have camping gear, this guide will help you pack everything you need for a stress-free and unforgettable festival experience.

Top 10 festival must-haves | Festival camping gear | Festival clothing checklist | Health and personal care essentials

Top 10 festival must-haves

1. Travel bag, suitcase or trolley

A good travel bag or suitcase is a must! You’ll need something durable, spacious, waterproof and preferably lightweight. Rob Ganley, Editor-in-Chief of Camping & Caravanning magazine, said, “Before you even leave the house, think about what you’ll be carrying in with you on the way into the festival. Either a large backpack or folding trolley with all-terrain wheels will see you right”. 

Remember: You may be lugging your suitcase or travel bag for a while across bumpy or uneven fields before you get to your spot to pitch up. For this reason, make sure your bag is comfortable and easy to carry. We don't want you injuring yourself before the festivities begin.

2. ID and tickets

It's so easy to misplace or forget to bring your ID and tickets. Make sure you have digital and printed copies of all necessary documents, and that they’re in an easy-to-reach place. You can even print extras, just in case.

3. Cash and cards

I know what you’re thinking, who pays with cash anymore? It’s usually much easier to pull out your phone and pay with Apple Pay or reach for your card. Although using cash has become increasingly rare, it’s still worth bringing some with you for emergencies or if some vendors only accept cash. At some festivals, card machines are available but may charge a fee.

4. Phone, charger and battery pack

Although we hardly leave home without it, a phone is essential at a festival. You can use it to contact others, post on social media, and, if you’re lost, use your phone's GPS and torch.

Remember to bring a charger and a fully charged battery pack! Your phone’s pretty useless if it’s dead, so a battery pack will be handy.

5. Waist bag

Keep your important belongings safe and with you at all times by carrying a waist bag or bum bag. These are great for storing cards, money, your phone, ID, tickets and more.

6. Reusable water bottle

Stay hydrated on your festival trip with a reusable water bottle. We highly recommend purchasing a thermal bottle, which keeps drinks hot or cold for longer. This is perfect for festivals throughout the year and in your general day-to-day life.

7. SPF

Protect your skin from UV rays with a good SPF. You’ll be spending hours outdoors, and the last thing you’ll want is to suffer from sunburn. You can purchase different types of SPFs, from kid-friendly roll-on bottles to invisible mists that you can spritz throughout the day.

8. Snacks

A must for all moments. Snacks are needed if you’re feeling peckish on the road trip to the festival, while waiting in line or after baking in the sun. Make sure you pack a variety of healthy and unhealthy snacks.

9. Wet wipes and hand sanitiser

Wet wipes and hand sanitiser are lifesavers at festivals. Whether you’re cleaning your hands before eating, freshening up after a long day, or dealing with muddy conditions, they’ll quickly become one of the most-used items in your bag.

10. Rain poncho or lightweight waterproof

Festival weather can be unpredictable, especially in the UK. A compact rain poncho or lightweight waterproof jacket can keep you dry without taking up much space in your bag.

It’s far better to have one and not need it than to stand in the rain for hours without protection.

Festival camping gear

Tent

Depending on which festival you're attending, you may need a tent. A durable, sturdy, spacious festival tent that’s easy to pitch and has blackout features is perfect for every festival. To find one that’s right for you, check out the best festival tents and see what you need to look out for before purchasing a festival tent and the best tents in the market.

Bedding

For a comfy night's sleep, you’ll need the right bedding. Make sure you pack the following:

• Camping mat
• Sleeping bag
• Fluffy pillows
• Duvet
• Duvet covers or sheets

Camping chair

Having a comfy place to sit and relax, read a book, or socialise with fellow campers is always nice. That’s why a foldable camping chair is a useful addition to your festival checklist. If you’ve got some room, you can even pack a small table where you can eat, cook, play games and more. 

Torch

You’ll need to navigate your way around the fields at night without tripping over or stepping on anything. To do this, you’ll need a bright torch and extra batteries. Click here to check out more camping light options.

Bin bags

Avoid leaving a mess behind and keep your tent tidy by using bin bags to dispose of rubbish. They're also really useful if you need to carry things in the rain.

Cooler bag

This will keep your drinks and snacks cool throughout the day.

For more camping essentials, check out our extensive camping checklist.

Festival clothing checklist

Waterproof shoes

The UK weather is incredibly unpredictable. Even if you're going to a festival in the peak of summer, you may need to pack your wellies. You’ll also need sensible walking boots or trainers, as you could be on your feet for a while.

Waterproof clothing

You’ll definitely need a waterproof jacket, a poncho, and warm clothing when attending a UK festival. If the weather switches up, you’ll be prepared. Keep a set of dry clothes in a waterproof bag so, when you get back to your tent, you can dry off and put on some fresh clothes, keeping you cosy and comfortable.

Other clothing items

Here is a list of clothes you may need:

• Hat and sunglasses
• Gloves
• Plenty of spare socks, underwear, boxers, and bras
• Swimsuit
• Everyday outfits (this will depend on how many days you’re at the festival and your style)
• Pyjamas or lounge wear
• Accessories or jewellery, including a lot of hair ties
• Sliders or flip flops for inside your tent

Although it may be hot during the day, the nights will be chillier. Make sure you pack the following:

• Jumper
• Extra-thick socks
• Joggers or leggings

Health and personal care essentials

Toiletries

Here is a list of toiletries you may need:

• Soap
• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Hand sanitiser
• Biodegradable wipes
• Hairbrush
• Dry shampoo
• Hair products
• Makeup
• Aftersun
• Sanitary products
• Toilet roll
• Glasses/contacts and solution

Towels

It’s worth carrying more than one towel. You’ll need a large towel for drying yourself off and a smaller hand towel.

Medication and health documents

If you take medication or vitamins, don't forget to pack them. You can place them in a pill box for easy storage and access. Also, bring painkillers or antihistamine tablets, just in case.

If you have any allergies or medical documents that should always be on your person, make a copy of them and bring it with you.

Insect repellant

Stay protected and avoid mosquito bites and other creepy crawlies with insect repellant.

Earplugs and eye mask

If you want a few hours of extra sleep in the morning, bring a pair of earplugs and an eye mask to block out any sound and light. That way, you’ll be refreshed for the day ahead.

Now that you’ve got everything, we hope you enjoy your festival. For more holiday inspiration, check out our advice page.