Heading to Glastonbury, Reading and Leeds, Isle of Wight, or Latitude this summer? Make sure you're fully prepared with this complete festival packing checklist. From waterproof socks to camping gear, this is your go-to guide for what to bring to a UK music festival in 2025.
Whether you're camping all weekend or just heading to a day festival, having the right gear can make or break your experience. Our ultimate festival essentials list covers everything you’ll need — from camping equipment and clothing to toiletries, food, and smart extras.
Camping Essentials for UK Festivals
Don’t let poor sleep or forgotten gear ruin your weekend. Here’s what to pack for festival camping:
- Tent
- Tent pegs & mallet
- Sleeping bag
- Pillow
- Inflatable mattress or sleeping mat
- Camping chairs
- Torch or head torch
- Portable phone charger or power bank
- Rucksack or large backpack
- Coolbox
- Gazebo or shade cover
- Reusable water bottle
- Ear plugs (for sleeping near loud tents!)
- Eye mask
- Dry bag
- Bin bags (for rubbish & wet clothes)
- Toilet roll
Tip: Pack light, but don’t skip the basics. A good night’s sleep = a better time.
Festival Toiletries & Personal Care Must-Haves
Staying fresh is harder than it sounds at a festival. These are the must-pack items to stay clean and comfortable:
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Mouthwash
- SPF sunscreen
- Aftersun
- Deodorant
- Hand sanitiser
- Tampons, sanitary towels, or period pants
- Insect repellent
- Hayfever tablets
- Plasters
- Basic makeup
- Moisturiser (face + body)
- Wet wipes or biodegradable body wipes
- Hair ties
- Painkillers
- Dry shampoo
Pro tip: Bring a small mirror and travel-size versions of everything.
Festival Food & Snacks
Whether you’re budgeting or just want to avoid food queues, bring snacks that are easy, portable, and energizing:
- Crisps and rice cakes
- Packaged pastries
- Dried fruits like mango or raisins
- Fresh fruit (apples, bananas)
- Granola or energy bars
- Mixed nuts and trail mix
- Alcohol (within campsite rules)
What to Wear to a Festival in the UK
British weather is unpredictable. Pack clothes for both blazing sunshine and surprise rain showers:
- Waterproof socks (a festival game-changer!)
- Waterproof cap or baseball hat
- Warm hoodie for cold nights
- Underwear (more than you think you’ll need)
- Comfortable shorts or skirts
- Waterproof jacket or poncho
- Wide-brim hat for sun protection
- Walking boots or sturdy trainers
- Swimwear (you never know)
Our Festival-Ready Picks
Keep your feet dry no matter the weather. Sealskinz waterproof socks are essential if you want to avoid wet-feet misery. Comfortable, breathable, and wearable with any shoes. The sock of choice this summer
Stay dry while keeping the sun off your face. This waterproof baseball cap is a smart and stylish staple.
Quentin Water-Repellent Hoodie
Stay warm and dry in the evenings with this lightweight, water-repellent hoodie. Perfect for sudden downpours.
A lightweight waterproof jacket that keeps you dry, and won’t weigh you down — ideal for dancing in the rain!
General Festival Checklist
- Tickets (printed or on your phone)
- Photo ID (passport or driving license)
- Railcard or transport passes
- Cards and cash (some places are still cash-only)
- Festival app with timetable
- Festival booklet or map
- Cross-body bag or bum bag for valuables
- Small mirror
- Disposable camera (for fun memories!)
- Notebook and pen
- Ziplock bags (for waterproofing your phone/valuables)
Final Tips
- Pack in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
- Test your tent before you go — trust us.
- Stay hydrated and wear SPF, even if it's cloudy.
Ready to Festival?
Whether you’re headed to Glastonbury, Reading and Leeds, Latitude, or Boardmasters, this festival checklist for 2025 has everything you need to stay dry, stylish, and stress-free. Pack smart and enjoy every moment.
