10 Festival Camping Hacks That Will Save Your Weekend

Camping at a music festival isn’t just about having a place to sleep — it’s part of the whole experience. You wake up to the sound of soundchecks, dance until sunrise, and share memories with people you’ve just met. But let’s be honest: camping can also be chaotic. Here are 10 smart tips to help you stay comfy, prepared, and ready for anything:

1. Bring your own shower setup: After hours of dancing and sweating in the sun, a quick rinse will feel like heaven. Some festivals offer coin showers, but not all do. A solar shower is lightweight, easy to pack, and a game-changer when you need to freshen up.

2. Don’t forget somewhere to sit: Standing for hours sounds fine in theory — until your legs start to protest. Pack a small camping chair or a large blanket so you have a chill spot to relax between sets.

3. Sunscreen is not optional: Nothing ruins a festival like a brutal sunburn. Even if the weather seems mild, bring (and use) sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. If your campsite has no shade, consider a canopy or tarp to protect yourself from the midday heat.

4. Plan your food strategy: Festival food trucks are great — but also expensive. If you're on a budget, bring a camp stove and easy meals like instant noodles or freeze-dried food. No stove? Go for high-energy snacks like trail mix, nut butter, granola bars, or fruit.

5. Hydrate like a pro: Water is your best friend. Carry a reusable water bottle and, if you can, bring your own water supply for your campsite. Even if the festival provides drinking water, you’ll be glad to have extra — especially for late-night hydration or cooking.

6. Prioritize your sleep: Yes, festivals are about partying. But trust us — a few hours of decent sleep make all the difference. Pack earplugs to block out noise, and if possible, upgrade from a thin sleeping mat to an inflatable mattress for max comfort.

7. Portable charger = lifesaver: Your phone battery won’t survive the weekend — especially if you’re filming everything or posting updates. Portable power banks are essential. Charging stations can be crowded or cost extra, so bring your own power source to stay connected.

8. Pack light & smart: You might have to walk a long way with your gear, so pack only what you really need. Go for compact, multi-use items and test how much you can carry in one go.

9. Be ready for any weather: Rain can turn a festival into a giant mud bath. If the forecast looks rough, bring a rain jacket, waterproof boots, extra clothes, and a stash of baby wipes to clean up the mess.

10. Know what NOT to bring: Before you pack, check the festival’s website for restricted items. Don’t risk having gear confiscated. Also: don’t bring valuables unless you have a solid way to keep them safe. Better to keep it simple and stress-free.

Bonus Tip: Need more space without setting up another tent? Try adding a porch awning or tarp to your setup. Throw a mat underneath to create a ‘no-dirt’ zone for shoes, or set up some chairs and enjoy the breeze without getting wet when it rains.