The ultimate family festival packing list

Music and mud are always a good combination when it comes to blowing off steam with the family – but only when you’re properly prepared. If you’ve ever been to a festival and forgotten the wet wipes, you’ll know what we’re talking about. So, if you’re planning a weekend of fun, music and nature, this festival packing list will help you make sure you have all the essentials.

Festival list: let’s start with the basics

If you’re camping, your tent will become your new sweet home, and sleep is precious (especially at festivals), so it has to be comfy. Here is everything you need on your festival equipment checklist:

Backpacks. Opt for backpacks rather than trolleys. They are easier to carry around, won’t get stuck in the mud, and will leave your arms free to keep hold of the kids. Also, they’re full of pockets so you can keep an extra pack of tissues or snacks at hand.

Tent. If you’re bringing your own tent, choose one with compartments so that you can each have your own space and ideally one that is lined and reliably waterproof. Don’t forget to pack extra poles, ropes and pegs to pitch it to the ground. There are always a few tent peg casualties thanks to hard ground and over-enthusiastic hammering.

Sleeping bags. Or inflatable mats if you can fit them in your tent. These should make your sleep more comfortable and less chilly.

Folding camping chairs. Never underestimate the luxury of sitting on a camping chair away from the mud at a festival. Bonus points if it has a drinks holder.

Checklist for a festival: the essentials

Now that you have packed your basic equipment, it’s time to add the essentials to your festival checklist.

Loo roll. Whether you’ll have access to a public bathroom or just a portable loo, it’s always best to be prepared. Pack a couple of rolls of Cushelle toilet paper for a real creature comfort – it’s soft and strong, which means it’ll serve a multitude of camping needs.

First aid kit. Plasters, bandages, paracetamol and insect bite lotion – all you need in case of minor accidents during festival activities.

Toiletries. Anything you and your kids would need on a daily basis, like portable toothbrushes and toothpaste, sunscreen and travel size shampoo and conditioner. Don’t forget to add sanitary pads and makeup remover to your festival list for women.

Kids’ checklist: festival essentials

Travelling to a festival with small kids for the first time? This family festival checklist will have you all set.

Nappies. Pack these according to your child’s age. For older kids, a potty will save you from daunting trips to the toilets in the middle of the night.

Extra clothes. Almost nothing will stop kids from getting super mucky or having their face painted at a festival. Bring a few extra changes of clothes to make sure they always have something dry and clean to wear.

A permanent marker. Family festivals are big events and every parent’s worst fear is their child getting lost in the crowd. Write your telephone number on their festival wristband with a permanent marker to make it easier to be reunited if you do get separated.

Now that you know all the essentials for your festival equipment checklist, book your tickets, put on your wellies and get ready for plenty of family fun!