Avoid Disaster! The Ultimate List of What to Bring to a Music Festival

Women at festival camping site being happy with her arms in air

You won’t forget your favorite artists, but you might find yourself at the festival campsite without something crucial from home. What to bring to a music festival? This ultimate packing list ensures you have everything you need for a music festival.

Table of Contents

Festival Essentials

Don't Forget the Basics

To immerse yourself fully in the festival vibe, you must come prepared with the essentials. Here’s what you need to bring:

  • Bank card and cash – There’s always that one food truck that only takes cash.
  • Sunglasses – Trust me, squinting through a set is no fun.
  • Strap for your sunglasses – Because losing your favourite pair in the mosh pit is a real heartbreak.
  • Tokens that are still in the tent – Save those from last year? Bring them!
  • Power bank for your phone – You don’t want to be that friend with the dead phone.
  • Lip balm – Dry lips can ruin your vibe.
  • Chewing gum – Fresh breath is always a good idea.
  • Lighter – Even if you don’t smoke, someone will thank you.
  • Noise-cancelling earplugs – Protect your ears and enjoy the music.
  • Poncho (optional) – It’s not fun being soaked.
  • Something warm for when it cools down later – Nights can get chilly.
  • Booklet with the schedule – Or just save it on your phone.
  • Bottle cap – For the water bottles you get at the bar without a cap.
  • Sunscreen – Sunburns are a festival no-no.
  • Closed shoes (and waterproof ones in case of rain) – Your feet will thank you.
  • Hip/crossbody bag – Keep your hands free for dancing.
 

Bonus Tip: Learn your friend(s)’ phone number by heart. You never know when it might come in handy.

Campsite Must-Haves

Comfort Is Key

Many festival-goers overlook their campsite setup, but having all the essentials can significantly enhance your experience and provide extra hours of sleep. Don’t overlook these items for your music festival campsite:

  • Cart to transport everything – Depends on how many people you’re going with; bringing one alone is a bit luxurious.
  • Party tent – Great for shade and socializing.
  • Air mattress and pump – Or just take a self-inflating air mattress, saves effort.
  • Fitted sheet – Seriously, a soft fitted sheet is key.
  • Tent (and stakes are also handy) – Don’t forget to check it before you leave.
  • Tarp for under the tent – Especially if it rains.
  • LED light for in the tent (or on your head, if you’re shameless) – You’ll be grateful when nature calls in the middle of the night.
  • Clothesline + clothespins – For those who do laundry at festivals (rare, but it happens).
  • Sleeping bag and (inflatable) pillow – Comfort is everything.
  • Blanket to lie on – For lounging during the day.
  • Folding chair – Your back will thank you.
  • Night lamp/flashlight for finding the toilets in the tent jungle – Essential.
  • Cooler box – Keep your drinks and snacks fresh.
  • Speaker – For campsite jams.
  • Earplugs – For when you actually want to sleep.
  • Sleep mask – If you’re sensitive to light.
  • Broom – To sweep the tent clean.
  • Duct tape/zip ties – Something always breaks at a festival.
  • Toiletry bag – With everything that belongs in a toiletry bag: deodorant, brush/comb, toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, body wash, body lotion/coconut oil, razor, contact lens solution, dry shampoo, hair ties.
  • Makeup – For the festival looks.
  • Baby wipes – Useful for everything.
  • Stef Stuntpiloot, playing cards or other games (a small chess board, for example) – For downtime.
  • Audio cable – Just in case.
  • Polaroid camera + sufficient polaroids – Capture the memories.

Stylish & Practical Clothing

Dress to Impress (And Stay Comfortable)

Naturally, you’re attending festivals to enjoy incredible artists, but looking good for the ‘gram is part of the fun too. Here’s what you should pack for a music festival:

  • Enough outfits – Definitely.
  • Jogging pants to live in when you’re back at the tent – Comfort first.
  • And a hoodie – For the same reason.
  • Underwear and socks – Make sure they’re clean and you have enough.
  • Swimwear – Always be ready to swim.
  • Slippers – Easy for the campsite.
  • Towels – For showers and swimming.

Mishap Prevention Kit

Be Prepared for Anything

Festival visits can be unpredictable, so it’s wise to be prepared for mishaps. Below is a list of essentials to include in your festival packing list:

  • Paracetamol/Ibuprofen – For headaches and aches.
  • Mosquito spray – Those bites are no joke.
  • Toilet paper – Trust me, bring your own.
  • Band-aids – For blisters and cuts.
  • Birth control pills – If you need them.
  • Condoms – Better safe than sorry.

Food & Drinks

Stay Fuelled and Hydrated

Preparing food and drink for a multi-day festival is essential for sustaining your energy. Here are the must-bring items for a music festival:

  • Enough sachets of Indigo – For those early mornings and late nights.
  • Bottles of water – No glass, stay hydrated.
  • Sandwiches and raisin buns – Easy snacks.
  • Snack bars – For quick energy.
  • Eggs – Breakfast of champions.
  • Pancake mix – A campsite favourite.
  • Packets of instant noodles for in-between – Or just noodles!
  • Any other snacks you crave – Bring your favourites.
  • Camping stove – Essential for cooking.
  • Tea towels – For cleanup.
  • Cutlery and plates – Reusable is best.
  • Garbage bags – Keep your campsite clean.
  • Corkscrew – For the wine lovers.
  • Oil and/or butter – For cooking.
  • Pepper and salt – For seasoning.
  • Pans – One cooking pan and one frying pan, so you can prepare everything.
  • Tub + brush + dish soap – For washing up.
  • Collapsible jerrycan – So you always have water.

Don't Forget

The Basics Matter

Lastly, here are some basics to pack not just for a music festival, but for any extended time away from home:

  • ID or driver’s license – Better leave your passport at home.
  • Change for a locker – Handy for storing valuables.
  • If necessary: spare car key – Nothing worse than being stuck with a car and no key. Make sure to leave another key at home.
  • Phone charger – Essential.

 

That’s about it. Now you just need to think about your outfits. Have fun though!

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