What to Bring to a Music Festival: The Ultimate Guide

Music festivals are all about fun, freedom, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re heading to Coachella, Glastonbury, or a local festival, knowing what to bring can make or break your festival adventure. If you’re wondering What to Bring to a Music Festival, you’re in the right place. This guide will cover everything you need, ensuring you’re fully prepared.

The Essentials: What to Bring to a Music Festival

1. Tickets and ID
First things first, don’t forget your tickets and ID. It’s surprisingly easy to leave them behind in the excitement. Whether digital or printed, you’ll need these to enter the festival grounds and access certain areas.
2. Comfortable Clothing
Comfort is key at a music festival. You’ll be walking, standing, and dancing a lot, so dress in layers and choose breathable, weather-appropriate attire.

• T-shirts and Tank Tops: Lightweight and breathable options.
• Shorts and Pants: Comfortable shorts for daytime and pants or leggings for cooler evenings.
• Sweatshirt or Hoodie: For when the temperature drops at night.
• Rain Poncho: Festivals don’t stop for rain, so be prepared with a lightweight, packable poncho.

3. Footwear
Your choice of footwear can make or break your festival experience. Opt for comfortable, sturdy shoes that you can wear all day. Sneakers, ankle boots, and well-worn sandals are good choices. Avoid new shoes that might cause blisters.
4. Hydration and Snacks
Staying hydrated is crucial at music festivals, especially if you’re dancing and spending time in the sun. Bring a reusable water bottle (many festivals have refill stations) and some snacks to keep your energy up between meals. Granola bars, nuts, and dried fruit are excellent options.
5. Sun Protection
Protecting yourself from the sun is vital. Here’s what you need:

• Sunscreen: SPF 30 or higher, and remember to reapply throughout the day.
• Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.
• Hat or Cap: Keep the sun off your face and stay cool.

6. Backpack or Fanny Pack
You’ll need a bag to carry your essentials. A small backpack or fanny pack is perfect for keeping your hands free while securing your belongings. Make sure it has multiple compartments to keep things organized.

Suggested Read: How to Keep Your Fanny Pack from Bouncing – 8 Tips

What to Pack For Camping at a Festival:

If you’re camping at the festival, there are additional items you’ll need to bring. Here’s your checklist:
7. Tent and Camping Gear

• Tent: A sturdy, easy-to-assemble tent.
• Sleeping Bag: Choose one that’s suitable for the expected weather conditions.
• Sleeping Pad or Air Mattress: For added comfort.
• Camping Chair: A foldable chair for relaxing at your campsite.
• Lantern or Flashlight: For navigating the campsite at night.
• Earplugs: Essential for getting some sleep in a noisy environment.

8. Cooking Supplies and Food
If you plan to cook at your campsite, bring the necessary gear:

• Portable Stove and Fuel: For cooking meals.
• Cooler and Ice Packs: To keep your food fresh.
• Reusable Utensils and Plates: For eating and drinking.
• Non-Perishable Food Items: Canned goods, instant noodles, and snacks.

9. Personal Hygiene Items
Staying clean and fresh is possible with the right supplies:

• Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and shampoo.
• Wet Wipes: For a quick refresh when showers aren’t available.
• Hand Sanitizer: For keeping your hands clean.
• Toilet Paper: Just in case the festival runs out.

Festival Tech: Gadgets and Gear

In the digital age, there are some tech items that can enhance your festival experience:
10. Power Bank
A portable power bank is a lifesaver for keeping your phone charged throughout the festival. Make sure it’s fully charged before you leave.
11. Portable Speaker
A small, portable speaker is great for playing music at your campsite or during downtime. Just be considerate of your neighbors.
12. Camera or GoPro
Capture memories with a camera or GoPro. While your phone can take pictures, having a dedicated camera can ensure higher quality photos.
13. Travel Fan
A small, portable travel fan can be a lifesaver on hot days, providing a cool breeze when you need it most. Many travel fans are USB-chargeable or battery-operated, making them convenient and easy to pack.

Safety and First Aid

Safety should always be a priority at festivals. Here’s what to take to a festival to ensure you’re prepared for any situation:
14. First Aid Kit
A basic first aid kit is a must. Include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications you might need.
15. Identification and Emergency Contacts
Keep a list of emergency contacts and any important medical information on you. It’s also a good idea to have a copy of your ID in case you lose the original.
16. Cash and Cards
While many festivals have cashless payment options, it’s wise to bring some cash for emergencies. Small bills are best for vendors that might not have change.
17. Insect Repellent
Don’t let bugs ruin your festival experience. Bring insect repellent to keep mosquitoes and other pests at bay, especially if you’re camping or attending an outdoor festival.

Additional Comfort Items

To make your festival experience even more enjoyable, consider packing these additional items:
18. Blanket
A lightweight, foldable blanket is perfect for sitting on the ground and taking a break from dancing. It’s also great for keeping warm during cooler evenings.
19. Bin Bags
Keep your campsite clean and tidy by bringing bin bags. Use them to collect trash and recyclables, and leave no trace when you leave the festival.
20. Towel
A quick-dry towel is useful for freshening up, drying off after a rain shower, or cleaning up spills. Choose a compact, microfiber towel that won’t take up much space in your bag.
21. Hammock
If space allows, consider bringing a hammock for ultimate relaxation. It’s perfect for lounging at your campsite and enjoying some downtime.
22. Pillow
A small travel pillow can make a big difference in your comfort, especially if you’re camping. It’s worth bringing one to ensure a good night’s sleep.

Festival Etiquette and Tips

To make the most of your festival experience, follow these tips:
23. Respect Others
Be considerate of your fellow festival-goers. Respect personal space, be mindful of your surroundings, and clean up after yourself.
24. Stay Hydrated and Take Breaks
Dancing and being in the sun all day can be exhausting. Drink plenty of water and take breaks to rest and recharge.
25. Plan Your Schedule
Most festivals have multiple stages and overlapping performances. Plan your schedule in advance to catch your favorite acts and avoid missing out.
26. Keep Your Valuables Safe
Don’t bring expensive items or anything you can’t afford to lose. Use lockable bags and keep your valuables with you at all times.
27. Be Prepared for All Weather
Check the weather forecast before you go and pack accordingly. Bring rain gear, warm layers, and sun protection.

Entertainment and Fun

Music festivals are about more than just music. Here are some fun items to bring to enhance your festival experience:
28. Hula Hoops and Flow Toys
Bring along hula hoops or other flow toys to entertain yourself and others. They’re great for keeping the energy high and engaging with fellow festival-goers.
29. Glow Sticks and LED Accessories
Light up the night with glow sticks, LED accessories, and other light-up gear. They’re fun and add to the festival atmosphere.
30. Playing Cards and Games
When you need a break from the music, having a deck of cards or travel games can provide some entertainment. It’s a great way to make new friends and pass the time.
31. Bubbles
A bubble wand or bubble machine can bring a touch of magic to the festival. It’s a simple, fun way to spread joy and interact with others.
32. Funky Attire
Embrace the festival spirit with fun and funky clothing. Think colorful hats, funny shirts, and quirky jewelry. Expressing yourself through your attire adds to the overall experience.

What Not to Bring to a Music Festival

Knowing what not to bring is just as important as knowing what to pack for a music festival. Here’s a list of items to leave at home:
33. Prohibited Items
Each festival has its own list of prohibited items. Common ones include:

• Glass containers
• Illegal substances
• Weapons of any kind
• Drones
• Pets (unless it’s a pet-friendly festival)

34. Too Much Cash
Only bring what you need. Large amounts of cash can be lost or stolen.
35. Expensive Jewelry
Leave your valuable jewelry at home to avoid loss or theft.
36. Large Bags
Bulky bags can be cumbersome and make it harder to move through crowds. Stick to a small backpack or fanny pack.

Must Read: Are Slant Cross Chest Bags Pickpocket Proof?

Music Festival Packing Tips

Now that you know all the things to bring for a day festival (or overnighter), here are some key packing tips to make the process smoother and ensure you don’t forget anything crucial.

Creating and following a packing list can help you stay organized and ensure you don’t leave any important items behind. Check off items as you pack them to avoid last-minute scrambles.
38. Pack Light
While it’s tempting to bring everything you might possibly need, try to pack light. Only bring the essentials and a few comfort items to avoid carrying heavy bags around all day.
39. Roll Your Clothes
Rolling your clothes instead of folding them can save space and reduce wrinkles. It’s an efficient way to pack and makes it easier to find items in your bag.
40. Use Packing Cubes
Packing cubes are great for organizing your belongings. They keep things neat and make it easier to locate specific items without unpacking your entire bag.
41. Check the Weather
Always check the weather forecast for the festival dates and pack accordingly. This will help you prepare for any weather conditions and ensure you’re comfortable throughout the event.

Enjoying the Festival

While preparing for the festival is important, don’t forget to have fun and immerse yourself in the experience. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your time at the festival:
42. Make New Friends
Festivals are a great place to meet new people who share your love for music. Be open to making new friends and enjoy the sense of community that comes with being surrounded by fellow festival-goers.
43. Explore Different Stages
Many festivals have multiple stages with different genres of music. Take the time to explore all the stages and discover new artists and sounds.
44. Capture Memories
Take lots of photos and videos to capture the memories of your festival experience. Don’t forget to enjoy the moment and not just view it through your phone screen.
45. Stay Safe
Keep your belongings secure, stay hydrated, and look out for your friends. Festivals can be crowded and chaotic, so it’s important to stay safe and take care of yourself and others.

Packing List Summary

Here’s a quick recap of what to bring to a music festival, broken down into categories for easy reference:
Essentials

• Tickets
• ID
• Comfortable clothing (T-shirts, tank tops, shorts, pants, sweatshirt, rain poncho)
• Footwear (comfortable shoes)
• Hydration (reusable water bottle)
• Snacks (granola bars, nuts, dried fruit)
• Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat)
• Backpack or fanny pack

Camping Gear

• Tent
• Sleeping bag
• Sleeping pad or air mattress
• Camping chair
• Lantern or flashlight
• Earplugs

Cooking Supplies

• Portable stove and fuel
• Cooler and ice packs
• Reusable utensils and plates
• Non-perishable food items

Personal Hygiene

• Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo)
• Wet wipes
• Hand sanitizer
• Toilet paper

Tech Gadgets

• Power bank
• Portable speaker
• Camera or GoPro
• Travel fan

Safety and Comfort

• First aid kit
• Emergency contacts
• Cash and cards
• Insect repellent

Additional Items

• Blanket
• Bin bags
• Towel
• Hammock
• Pillow

Entertainment

• Hula hoops and flow toys
• Glow sticks and LED accessories
• Playing cards and games
• Bubbles
• Funky attire

Suggested Read: Is a Fanny Pack and Backpack Overkill for a Festival?

FAQ Section

What do I need to bring to a festival?
Essential items include tickets, ID, comfortable clothing, footwear, hydration and snacks, sun protection, and a small backpack or fanny pack. If you’re camping, you’ll need camping gear, cooking supplies, and personal hygiene items.

What is needed for a music festival?
In addition to the essentials, bring a power bank, portable speaker, camera, first aid kit, cash, and cards. Plan for weather conditions and be mindful of festival rules and etiquette.

What bag to bring to music festival?
A small backpack or fanny pack is ideal for carrying your essentials. Look for one with multiple compartments to keep things organized and secure.

How much money should you take to a music festival?
Bring enough money to cover food, drinks, and any merchandise you want to buy. It’s also wise to have some cash for emergencies, but don’t carry large amounts.

Can I wear jeans to a festival?
Yes, you can wear jeans to a festival. Just make sure they are comfortable and suitable for the weather. Consider bringing an alternative outfit for warmer or cooler temperatures.

Should you bring cash to a festival?
Yes, bring some cash for vendors that don’t accept cards and for emergencies. However, don’t carry large amounts.

How do I prepare for my first festival?
Research the festival, pack your essentials, plan your schedule, and be prepared for all weather conditions. Stay hydrated, wear comfortable clothing, and keep an open mind to fully enjoy the experience.

Do you need ID to go to a festival?
Yes, you’ll need a valid ID for entry, especially if the festival has age restrictions or serves alcohol.

Do they check bags at festivals?
Yes, most festivals have security checks at the entrance, so be prepared for your bag to be inspected.

What does it take to put on a festival?
Organizing a festival involves planning, securing permits, booking artists, arranging logistics, ensuring safety measures, and providing amenities for attendees. It’s a complex process that requires coordination and attention to detail.

Conclusion

Preparing for a music festival can be a fun and exciting part of the experience. By knowing what to bring to a music festival and packing the right essentials, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable time. From comfortable clothing and hydration to camping gear and safety items, this comprehensive guide has you covered. So pack your bags, get ready to dance, and enjoy the festival vibes!

I hope this guide helps you prepare for your next music festival. If you have any further questions or need additional assistance, feel free to ask!