50 Festival Essentials: The ultimate festival packing checklist (with free PDF checklist)

So, you’ve copped your festival ticket—excited, or low-key anxious? Let’s face it, diving into the depths of a Jungle Drum and Bass festival can feel like a sensory cocktail.  Maybe you imagine yourself going on all of the side quests, or secretly panicking at the thought of forgetting something crucial, like your phone charger or your favourite bucket hat.

We get it. The thrill is real, but so is the anxiety. “Will I bring too much, too little, or look like a complete noob?” These are legit worries, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned festival-goer. 

Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. This guide isn’t just a list—it’s your ultimate guide to packing everything you need this festival season. 

 

Let’s go!

 

Before you go 

The countdown to your festival adventure is ticking but there are some crucial steps to take that will make sure your festival experience gets off to a good start. This isn’t just ticking boxes; these essential to-dos will set you up for a seamless festival entry and a stress-free beginning to your festival 

Tickets 

Make sure you buy your tickets from an official vendor. Unfortunately, there are a lot of ticket scammers who claim to have tickets to sold-out festivals. In 2023, Action Fraud estimates that £6.7 million was lost to ticket fraud across the UK. They scour popular places where ravers hang out online and profess to have extra tickets. These scammers are getting more and more sophisticated. Some will have very innocent-looking profiles and some will even copy the profiles of someone you know. 

Photo ID 

Bringing your original photo ID to a festival isn’t just important—it’s crucial. Without it, you could be stopped dead in your tracks at the entrance, unable to prove your age or identity, which could bar you from not only entering the festival but also from purchasing drinks, picking up tickets, or accessing age-restricted areas. Plus, in the unfortunate event that you need medical attention or need to deal with security, your ID will ensure that the festival staff can quickly and accurately assist you. It’s your ultimate festival lifeline, so make sure it’s one of the first items you pack!

Research and Planning 

It can be tempting to want to go with the flow and not want to plan but, a little prep can go a long way. Not only will it save you time when you get there but it will also ensure you don’t miss any hidden gems. 

Start by studying the festival lineup and schedule. Knowing who’s playing on what days and which artists overlap can help you craft your perfect festival plan. Are you aiming to catch that once-in-a-lifetime headliner set? Or are you more about discovering underground acts? Pinning down a game plan now means less FOMO later and more time soaking in the vibes.

Additionally, make it a point to download the festival app if available. These apps are gold mines of information and functionality. They often include maps, artist times, updates on any schedule changes, and sometimes even exclusive content like interviews or behind-the-scenes looks. Plus, many apps have features that allow you to customise your schedule and set reminders for shows you don’t want to miss. By leveraging the app, you can stay on top of the game, navigate the grounds like a pro, and ensure you’re exactly where the action is, without missing a drop.

Go to the festival website to understand what the payment options are at the festival. A lot of festivals are cashless. For example, Boomtown requires you to load your spending money onto your wristband before entering the festival. 

Packing essentials

Alright, let’s talk about what you need to pack! Packing for a festival isn’t just throwing clothes into a bag and hoping for the best (some of us had to learn this the hard way). It’s about striking that perfect balance between preparedness and spontaneity. You want everything you need to be comfortable, without feeling like you’ve brought your entire bedroom along for the ride. 

So, let’s ensure you’re loaded with all the must-haves. Ready to pack like a pro? Here are all the must-haves to bring along to boost your festival experience.

Essential Items

  1. Festival Ticket and ID – Keep these on your person at all times.
  2. Cash and Cards – Check what the payment options are for your festival.
  3. Phone – Although arrange meeting points for if you get lost as you might not have great signal.
  4. List of written phone numbers – In case you lose your phone or run out of charge.
  5. Powerbank – Multiple charges for your devices.
  6. Water Bottle – Reusable and insulated to keep drinks cool.
  7. Backpack or Cross-body bag – Lightweight and secure for carrying your items.
  8. Sunscreen and After sun – High SPF to protect from sunburn. 
  9. Hat and Sunglasses – Protection against sun. 
  10. Ear Plugs – Protect your hearing, especially near stage speakers.
  11. Comfortable Footwear – Durable and suitable for mud or heat.
  12. Rain Gear – Wellies, waterproof jacket or poncho for sudden showers.
  13. Warm Clothing – Layers for colder evenings.
  14. Toiletries – Toothbrush, shower gel, toothpaste, deodorant, and toilet paper.
  15. Hand Sanitizer and Wet Wipes – Essential for cleanliness.
  16. Tent, Sleeping Bag, Pillow, Inflatable Mattress and Mat – For those camping.
  17. Flashlight or Headlamp – For navigating the campsite at night.
  18. Disposable Camera – A fun way to capture memories and save phone battery.

Extra Comfort and Convenience

  1. Cooler backpack – For loading up at the campsite and taking down to the festival.
  2. Camping trolley – Saves numerous trips back to the campsite.
  3. Collapsible Chair – Lightweight for comfort at the campsite.
  4. Blanket – For sitting on the ground or extra warmth.
  5. Flag or Balloon – To mark your tent or campsite, making it easy to find.
  6. External Speaker – For private music sessions at the campsite.
  7. Eco-Friendly Glitter – For fun festival looks that are biodegradable.
  8. Reusable Plates and Cutlery – Minimise waste during meals.
  9. Solar Charger – For off-grid charging.
  10. Inflatable Sofa or Hammock – For lounging around the festival site.
  11. Binoculars – To see performances from a distance.
  12. Thermal Flask – For keeping drinks hot or cold.
  13. Extra Tent Locks – For added security while away from the campsite.
  14. Eye Mask – In case you want to have a lie in or cheeky nap during the day 
  15. Journal and Pen – For jotting down memories or new friends’ contact info.
  16. Battery-operated fan – Or manual one. 
  17. Lightweight Towel – Opt for a quick-drying, microfiber towel that won’t weigh down your bag. It’s perfect for drying off after a sudden rain or a visit to a water station.
  18. Toilet alternatives – Shewee have urination devices for people with a vulva. They also have a pocket sized toilet!

Safety 

  1. Medications – Any personal prescriptions, pain relievers and antihistamines.
  2. Basic First Aid Kit – Plasters, antiseptic wipes, bandages, etc.
  3. Condoms – Better to be prepared for when the mood takes you. 
  4. Personal Safety Alarm – For alerting in case of emergencies.
  5. GPS Friends Tracker or App – For those going in a group.
  6. Waterproof Phone Case – To protect against rain or spills.
  7. Glow Sticks or LED Lights – Not only do they add to the fun when the sun goes down, but they also make it easier for friends to spot you in a crowd at night. Plus, they can help illuminate your campsite or tent area.

Wellness

  1. Hydration Packets – Electrolyte powders or tablets to add to water.
  2. Yoga Mat – For stretching or relaxation sessions.
  3. Easy to Prep Meals – Pot noodles, bagels, hot dogs, cereals, canned foods/meals.
  4. Protein Bars and Nuts – Snacks for energy boosts.
  5. Instant Coffee or Tea Bags – For a quick caffeine fix.
  6. Insulated Water Jug – To keep a large quantity of water cold.

Over and above all else stay safe, be kind and have fun! We have put these all into a handy printable checklist for you which you can download here!