Your Essential Festival Preparation Guide

Preparing for a festival this year? Don’t panic – from practicalities to planet-friendly tips, iBestTravel has you covered. To ensure you’ve accounted for wading in mud, hangovers, and entertaining little ones, we’ve put together a guide to festival necessities you’re going to want to bring to this year’s music festival season, regardless of the weather or your budget.

Get your backpack and festival trolley ready; this is what you need to pull together.

1. To Camp or Not to Camp?

First off, read what not to take with you on the festival’s website – this can include items such as aerosols or gazebo tents. If you’re camping, it’s wise to leave behind that expensive tent if you’re expecting lots of partying around your pitch. Remember, whatever your tent size, double the number of people it suggests it accommodates; you’ll always need more space to hold extra luggage compared to going hiking.

Many festivals offer glamping upgrades, so take note of what the festival provides. You may be able to arrive and relax. Additionally, check the available amenities on-site, such as hot-water showers, to determine what you need to take with you.

2. Only Bring the Bare Necessities

After you’ve confirmed your festival ticket, ID, cash, and debit card, pack solar chargers so you can charge on the go. This approach can help you avoid the lines and ensure you don’t miss your favorite band or lose track of your friends.

• Always take a mallet if camping.
• Use folded clothes as a pillow (a pillowcase is recommended).
• Invest in a comfortable day bag and fold-up camping chairs.
• If taking an airbed, bring a battery-powered pump to save energy.
• Stock up on reusable tote bags for carrying extras like merchandise or food.

Don’t forget those items you think you won’t need but probably will: gaffer tape (it fixes everything), a lighter, head torch, clothes pegs, ear plugs, and an eye mask. Ensure you bring enough cash, too, and store some in various places, such as a hidden money holder for emergencies.

3. Food and Drink on a Budget

Festival food can quickly become expensive. To mitigate costs, pack cooking supplies like a small saucepan, spatula, cutlery, plates, bowls, multi-tools, and waste bags. While most festival sites are not keen on gas or spirit stoves, multi-fuel or solid gas options may be permissible.

For food, bring long-lasting vegetables like broccoli, kale, potatoes, tinned goods, and non-perishable items like dried fruit and nuts. Consider eco-friendly choices: use reusable cups if applicable and take bamboo utensils to reduce waste.

4. Prepare for Any Weather

Festival weather can be unpredictable; hence, the most crucial thing to do is to double up on clothing. Sarongs or bandanas can become skirts or bags, while swimwear can transform into shorts or underwear.

If attending colder festivals, pack thermals, thick socks, gloves, and insulated mats. Be ready for various weather conditions, including sandstorms or heavy rain, by having dust masks or waterproof covers.

5. Keep It Clean

While preparing to get messy is common, maintaining hygiene is essential. A minimal wash kit should include hand sanitizer, compostable wipes, and toilet paper. To avoid travel-sized purchases, fill reusable, eco-friendly containers with your soap and other essentials.

Don’t forget sunscreen and hair ties, and for women, consider reusable menstruation cups as a sustainable alternative to disposable ones.

6. Festivals with Kids

Traveling with children? Pack essentials like Calpol, portable toilets, poncho towels, and child-size ear protection. Ensure kids have items for entertainment, such as glowsticks, disposable cameras, or mini binoculars.

Consider gear like toddler carriers, folding camping stools, and portable cushioned beds to enhance comfort for younger ones. Ensure a good night’s sleep with quality sleeping bags and comfortable ear defenders.

7. Share and Share Alike

At festivals, the number of people around offers a great opportunity to share resources. Coordinate with friends to divide responsibilities and reduce the likelihood of overpacking similar items. Don’t hesitate to ask nearby festival-goers for assistance with items like camping chairs or coolers.

8. Dress Ups and Games

Stand out at your campsite by displaying unique flags or lights for easy identification at night. Lightweight items like printed leggings, fun headbands, and face paint can enhance your festival spirit. Bring compact games to enjoy during downtime, creating a sense of community and fun!

This guide offers a comprehensive look at preparing for festivals, helping you maximize enjoyment and efficiency in your experience!