Festival Camping Checklist

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Festival Camping Checklist

Whether it’s your first festival or you’re a seasoned camper, being prepared can make all the difference. From staying dry to getting a good night’s sleep, the right festival camping essentials help you enjoy the weekend without the stress. Below you’ll find a complete festival camping checklist to make sure you don’t forget a thing.

Must haves

Below is the camping accessories and gear you’ll need no matter the weather, line-up or location:

  • Tent (with pegs and groundsheet)
  • Sleeping bag
  • Roll mat or air bed
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Festival ticket and ID
  • Phone and portable charger
  • Waterproofs / poncho
  • Suncream

Camping essentials

Comfort is key when you’re spending multiple days under canvas. These festival camping essentials help you stay rested and ready for the next act:

  • Camping chair
  • Pillow or inflatable headrest
  • Eye mask and ear plugs
  • Torch or headlamp
  • Tent repair kit / duct tape
  • Bin bags
  • Toilet roll / tissues
  • Basic first aid kit

Nice to haves

These camping furniture extras aren’t critical, but they’ll definitely upgrade your weekend:

  • Folding table
  • Blanket or picnic rug
  • Windbreaker
  • Power bank
  • Tent carpet or footprint
  • Flag or tent marker to spot your tent

Toiletries, health & beauty

Staying fresh at a festival can be a challenge - pack smart with these hygiene heroes:

  • Wet wipes / biodegradable body wipes
  • Dry shampoo
  • Toothbrush & toothpaste
  • Deodorant
  • Hand sanitiser
  • Painkillers and plasters
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Towel (preferably microfibre)

Eating, drinking & cooking gear

Eating well doesn’t have to mean long queues. Pack cooking essentials these if you’re bringing your own food and drink:

  • Cool box
  • Reusable cutlery and plates
  • Camping stove & gas
  • Lighter or matches
  • Instant meals / noodles / snacks
  • Tea, coffee and mugs
  • Bottled water or water carrier
  • Reusable cups (many festivals require them)

Clothing & footwear

Pack for all weather and plan to layer. As we all know, UK festivals are famously unpredictable:

  • Waterproof jacket
  • Wellies or waterproof boots
  • Comfy trainers
  • Spare socks & underwear
  • Sunglasses and sunhat
  • Warm hoodie or fleece
  • Light layers for daytime
  • Small day bag or bum bag

Electronics

While you’ll want to disconnect and enjoy the moment, a few gadgets can help keep you safe, connected and festival-ready:

  • Portable phone charger
  • LED lantern / lights for your tent
  • Bluetooth speaker
  • Headphones
  • Basic plug adapter (if there's a charging station)