🎒 What to Pack (Essentials + Fun Extras)
Basic kit: A sturdy double-skinned tent (the cheap pop-up ones won’t last), a warm sleeping bag, and a sleeping mat or airbed. Add a trusty pillow, earplugs, and an eye mask — essential for when the sun rises or the tent next door is snoring.
Clothing: The British weather changes fast — pack layers. Include a raincoat or poncho, wellies, warm jumpers or hoodies, suncream, sunglasses, and a hat. Avoid flip-flops for long days on your feet.
Toiletries/gear: Bring hand sanitizer, tissues, a torch or headlamp (plus batteries), a power bank, toilet roll, wet wipes, deodorant, and any medication you need.
Fun extras: Fancy dress or costumes, a fold-up chair or mat for relaxing, waterproof bin bags for dry storage, and leave valuables at home.
💸 Budgeting and Managing Money
Set a budget and track your spending. Bring a mix of cash and card, but be aware that ATMs on site may charge. Withdraw cash beforehand and hide most in a safe spot, carrying only what you need each day.
Book travel early to save. Consider volunteering for a free ticket. Pack your own snacks or cook basic meals with a portable stove to avoid overpriced food stalls.
⚠️ Staying Safe (Alcohol, Weather, Crowds, Valuables)
Stay hydrated — aim for 6–8 glasses of water a day. Alternate alcoholic drinks with water. Never leave your drink unattended and be cautious of spiking.
Use suncream and wear a hat. Be ready for rain with waterproof gear. Avoid walking barefoot or in poor footwear. During crowded performances, move with the crowd and stand to the side if feeling overwhelmed. Help people up if they fall and look out for each other.
Only take essential belongings. Keep your phone, wallet, and keys in a zipped pouch or money belt. Use on-site lockers if available.
🍽️ Food & Drink (Prep, On-Site, Hangovers)
Pack snacks like granola bars, nuts, or instant noodles. A reusable metal water bottle is essential — refill stations are free. Budget for one meal a day from food stalls, or share with friends.
Hangovers? Rehydrate with water or electrolytes and eat something nutritious — fruit, eggs, toast. Skip greasy food and opt for a smoothie or porridge instead. Get fresh air and rest when needed.
🏘️ Camping and Sleeping
Pick a dry, elevated pitch and secure your tent properly. Use all the pegs and make sure the tent is double-skinned to avoid condensation. Sleep better with a thick mat, good sleeping bag, and warm clothing.
Earplugs and an eye mask will save you. Add comfort with a foldable chair, tent carpet, or flashlight. Never lock your tent externally — it may prevent emergency access.
🏃 Navigating the Festival Site (Friends, Toilets, Stages)
Download the app or site map in advance and arrange meeting points in case phones die. Choose visible landmarks as backup locations and memorize key areas like stages and first aid.
Learn the paths between your campsite and arena. Don’t cut across fields or climb fences. Wear comfortable shoes and be patient in queues.
Toilets are grim — bring your own tissue and hand sanitizer. Don’t wait until desperate; queues build fast. Be courteous and keep them tidy.
🤝 Festival Etiquette
Be friendly — it’s a shared space. Offer help when needed and follow the rules of the mosh pit: no roughness, and help others up.
Don’t hog space or block views with phones. Take a few clips for social media, then enjoy the moment. Keep noise down late at night in camping areas.
Respect the environment — clean up after yourself and take your rubbish to bins. Don’t damage the grounds. Be kind to stewards; they’re there to help you.
🌈 After the Festival: Recovery Tips
Drink water and electrolytes, eat nutritious meals, and catch up on sleep. A warm bath can ease sore muscles. Sunlight and light walking can fight the post-festival blues.
Reflect with your mates, share photos, and take it easy the next few days. Your memories will carry you until the next big adventure!
Enjoy every moment, stay safe, and remember: the best festival stories come from clever planning and good vibes!
Published on 10 July 2025 by Ben Robinson
