If you’re going to a festival, of course you want to enjoy it to the fullest. That requires good preparation. To make sure you don’t forget anything, we’ve listed all the must-haves for concerts and one-day festivals. Below, you’ll also find a handy festival packing list for multi-day festivals, plus some practical festival tips. This way, you can make the most of the upcoming festival season!
Packing list for concerts and one-day festivals
Ticket
Download your e-tickets before you leave and check whether they can be accessed on your mobile without an internet connection (in case there’s no signal). If you have physical tickets, bring them along and also take photos as a backup.
Identification
At many festivals, you don’t need to show ID at the entrance. But it may be required if you buy alcoholic drinks. Additionally, you are legally obliged to be able to identify yourself at all times.
Debit card and cash
Most festivals now accept card or contactless payments. Still, it’s wise to carry some cash just in case.
Mobile phone
This may go without saying, as we rarely leave the house without our phones. Make sure your phone is fully charged and bring a charger for emergencies.
Hearing protection
Alpine PartyPlug and Alpine PartyPlug Pro earplugs provide protection against hearing damage from loud music, with attenuation of 19 dB and 21 dB respectively. They can be reused around 100 times, lasting through the entire festival season! You can also choose custom festival earplugs, which ensure the best fit, maximum comfort, and adjustable filter levels (18, 23, or 25 dB).
Jacket or sweater
You might not need a jacket or sweater during the day at a summer festival, but in the evening, waiting for a ride or walking back to the station, it’s nice to have something warm.
Water bottle
It’s not always allowed to bring a filled water bottle onto the festival grounds, but usually you can bring an empty bottle to refill. Tip: a foldable water bottle is perfect!
Poncho
A foldable poncho takes up almost no space and ensures you’re prepared for rainy weather. Biodegradable ponchos are also available nowadays.
Sunscreen
Even if the weather isn’t forecasted to be sunny, sunscreen is essential. You need SPF even on cloudy days, especially if you’re outside all day!
Sunglasses
A good (but not too expensive) pair of sunglasses is a must to protect your eyes—and hide dark circles if it gets late.
Bandana
A bandana is the ultimate festival accessory. Loop it through your belt or wear it on your head to prevent sunstroke. It can also cover a fresh tattoo or scrape while in the sun.
Tissues
Tissues are handy not only if there’s no toilet paper, but also for hay fever, spilled ketchup, running mascara, or tears of joy.
Menstrual products
Ladies, bring some with you. Even if you don’t need them, you might help someone else in need.
Hand sanitizer
Handwashing with soap and water isn’t always possible at festivals. A small bottle of hand gel or hygienic wipes works perfectly as an alternative.
Packing list for multi-day festivals
Multi-day festival essentials
- Ticket
- Identification
- Debit card
- Cash
- Mobile phone
- Charger
- Power bank
- Sunscreen
- Protein bars
- Water bottle
- Festival earplugs
Festival camping
- Tent
- Sleeping bag
- Air mattress or mat
- Pillow
- Sleep mask
- Earplugs for sleeping
Personal care
- Toilet paper
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Dry shampoo
- Makeup remover wipes
- Menstrual products
- Insect repellent
- Painkillers
- Mirror
- Tweezers
- Nail clippers
Festival clothing
- Underwear
- Socks
- Shoes (2 pairs recommended)
- Sleepwear
- Tops
- Bottoms
- Sweater or jacket
Other items
- Disposable camera
- Snacks
Practical festival tips
- Always read the festival rules and terms & conditions. These clearly state what is allowed on the festival grounds and/or campsite.
- Trolleys and wheeled suitcases aren’t practical for muddy camping areas. A backpack is much better!
- Even if everything fits in one large backpack or suitcase, bring an extra smaller bag for daytime use. It should be lightweight, comfortable, and preferably hands-free with multiple compartments (crossbody bag or small backpack). Fanny packs also work great!
- Staying hydrated is important, but carrying a heavy water bottle all day isn’t fun. Consider a foldable water bottle that you can refill and easily store when empty.
- When it comes to clothing, layers are key. It’s better to have too many layers and remove one than to have too few!
- Plan your outfits in advance and bundle them in labeled transparent plastic bags. Vacuum bags can also save a lot of space. This way, you won’t have to dig through your bag looking for that one shirt, and your clothes are protected from rain or spills.
