✅ Essentials Checklist
- Tent (one size bigger than you think — a 2-man is a 1-man)
- Sleeping bag rated to 0°C
- Roll mat or inflatable sleeping pad
- Waterproof jacket — non-negotiable
- Wellies
- Power bank (large capacity)
- Festival bum bag for daily essentials
- Photo ID
- Tickets — digital and screenshot backup
- Ear plugs and eye mask
- Small padlock for tent zip
- Reusable water bottle
- Head torch
- Bin bags (wet clothes, rubbish, tent tidying)
- Dry shampoo
- Wet wipes
- Hand sanitiser
- Cash
👕 Clothing Checklist
- Wellies — always
- Waterproof jacket
- Warm layers for night (fleece or hoodie)
- 3 full outfits — no more, no less
- Festival outfit(s) — express yourself
- Comfortable trainers for drier days
- Warm socks × 5 pairs
- Sunglasses and sun hat
- Sunscreen SPF50
⭐ Nice to Have
- Camping chair
- Waterproof picnic blanket
- Small camping stove for morning coffee
- Foldable festival trolley for kit transport
- Gazebo for your campsite area
- Packable day bag
- Polaroid camera
Frequently Asked Questions
What tent size should I take to a UK festival?
Always go one size up. A 2-person tent is realistically for one person once you factor in a bag, boots, and a damp coat. A 3–4 person tunnel tent is the sweet spot for a couple. Avoid pop-up tents for multi-day festivals — they don't survive serious wind and are a nightmare to repack.
Can I bring alcohol to UK festivals?
Most camping festivals allow a personal amount of alcohol (no glass). Day tickets usually prohibit alcohol in. Always check the specific festival's rules before packing — they vary significantly and change year to year.
What is the most commonly forgotten festival item?
Ear plugs and a good padlock. Ear plugs mean you can actually sleep. A padlock means your tent zip can't be silently opened. After those two, it's a phone charger cable — most festivals have charging points but everyone forgets their lead.