Expert shares 'crucial' things you need to pack for a festival
Glastonbury Festival is just around the corner, and it's just one of the many summer festivals that music fans are looking forward to this season. From world-class performances to delicious food, there's always lots to look forward to at the popular events. However, the lead-up to festivals is often less enviable, as packing is a common cause of stress.
Thankfully, Max Wilson, storage expert and co-founder of Pocket Storage, has shared what he calls the ultimate packing checklist. Max also revealed storage hacks to save space before and after the event.
Sharing advice, Max said: "The key here is layers and versatility. You need to be ready for sunshine, showers, and chilly evenings, sometimes all in the same day. Here's an essential list of what you should bring to a UK festival."
It's no surprise that he recommends packing a waterproof jacket and trousers. He also says you'll want to take a waterproof tent and waterproof liners.
"Ensure your tent is genuinely waterproof with a good hydrostatic head rating (ideally 2000mm or higher). Check seams are sealed," the expert suggested. "Use dry bags or heavy-duty bin liners inside your backpack and tent to protect clothing, electronics, and sleeping bags, even if your main bag gets wet."
As for the rest of your clothes, he said: "Layering is your friend. It's essential for managing the unpredictable British weather, which could give you one day of blistering sun, the next non-stop downpour."
Max recommends taking thermal tops and leggings, fleeces or hoodies and breathable tops with a mix of short and long sleeves. He also shared footwear tips.
The expert said: "Thinking through your footwear is another non-negotiable." While he advised against overpacking, he said to make sure you take Wellington boots, sturdy trainers, and flip-flops or sandals.
Max claimed wellies are "an absolute must for UK festivals" as "fields can turn into mud baths in minutes." Meanwhile, trainers are comfortable for walking around the festival site. "Bring a spare pair in case one gets soaked," he suggested. Then the flip-flops are "for wearing around your campsite on dry days and in communal showers."
He also recommended three must-have items for bedtime. As festival-goers will expect, you'll need a sleeping bag. "Choose one appropriate for the expected nighttime temperatures (check the tog rating or comfort range). It can get surprisingly cold at night," Max shared.
Next, packing an inflatable pillow could "make a big difference to your sleep quality," and a sleeping mat or air mattress that "provides insulation from the cold ground and adds comfort." Max added: "A self-inflating mat is a good compromise between comfort and portability.'
He also shared a packing list. The expert said: "Space at your campsite can be limited, especially if you don't have an earlybird set-up ticket, so knowing what's essential is crucial."
Festival packing list
What to take
Tickets
ID and money/card
Phone and portable charger
Tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat
Waterproof jacket and trousers
Wellies and comfortable walking shoes
Basic toiletries
Medication (if required) and a first aid kit
Reusable water bottle
Head torch or small flashlight
Bin bags
Extras
These are items Max said it would be nice to have.
Camp chairs or a blanket
Small cooking stove and utensils
Cool box and ice packs
Games or entertainment
Costume or fun accessories
Sun shelter/gazebo
Earplugs
Eye mask
Packing before the festival
Max says:
Group similar items together (e.g., clothing, toiletries, camping gear)
Use packing cubes or zip-lock bags within your main bags to keep things organised and compressed. Label everything clearly
Create a checklist of everything you're packing. This helps ensure you don't forget anything and makes repacking easier
Check the forecast in the days leading up to the festival and adjust your packing accordingly. Have waterproof covers readily accessible
Clearing up after the festival
Max says:
Bring a large, sealable bag (like a heavy-duty bin liner) for wet, muddy clothes and gear to keep them separate from clean items
Once home, unpack everything immediately and air out your tent, sleeping bag, and any damp clothing thoroughly to prevent mildew
Wash all clothing and consider reproofing your waterproof gear according to the manufacturer's instructions to maintain its effectiveness
Store your clean and dry festival gear in a cool, dry place. Consider using breathable storage bags for sleeping bags and tents rather than airtight plastic containers.
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