What to pack for a festival

Not only am I a Newborn Photographer in Basingstoke but I am a mum of 2 energetic little girls. I am always on the lookout for new experiences and new ways to keep them entertained.

I’ve always had a soft spot for festivals. Every year, my dad would take us to the Great Dorset Steam Fair for a fun family day out. The lively music, vibrant atmosphere, and the bright lights from the fun fair made it an unforgettable experience. Then in my twenties, I had a blast going to the Download Festival with friends, and I’ve always wanted to share that same sense of freedom with my family.

Our First Family Festival Experience

Last weekend, we packed the newly converted camper van, travelled to what started as a very muddy Lulworth, and went to our First Family Festival; Camp Bestival. At the main arena we were greeted by colourful flags, tents, and canopies, music from stalls as well as stages, the smell of coffee and food, with so much to do it was difficult to choose where to start! From the giant bouncy castle to the enchanting bubble tent, the roller disco, The Fun Fair, the circus play area and so much more. There was something for everyone. 

We had a fabulous time. Unplugged with no WIFI, phone signal or contact with the outside world. A few short days to escape from everyday social norms.  Isla discovered a love for Glitter make-up and colourful hair extensions. Grace discovered her long lost tail and dressed as a fox which she insisted was a wolf all weekend.  I developed a new love for Gok Wan and hubby, well, he just wished there was less walking ha ha!

I’m so glad we had this family experience together!

Are you Heading to a festival with kids this Summer Holidays. Are you wondering what to pack for a festival? To help you make the most of the event, here are five essential items to bring along when attending a festival with your little ones taking into consideration the weird and wonderful weather the Great British Summer Time Brings.

The most important thing to pack for a festival … Comfortable Clothing and Footwear

Ensure that your kids are dressed in comfortable clothes. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for hot days. Don’t forget rain gear in case the weather takes a turn. Comfortable footwear is crucial, there will likely be a lot of walking and standing involved. We walked 17500 steps per day at Camp Bestival.  Isla lived in her welly boots with thick welly socks underneath them but Grace preferred her trainers. Don’t forget Family Dressing up Costumes.  It was fabulous to see so many adults joining in with their kids in matching Dressing up Outfits.  I felt left out not bringing one! Oh and onesies to put the children in for the evening. The temperature dropped quickly in the evenings and if you are camping they will probably wear them to bed anyway.

Ear Protection

Festivals can get loud. Invest in a pair of ear defenders designed for children to ensure their hearing is protected while still allowing them to enjoy the festival.

Sun Protection

Spending hours outdoors means being exposed to the sun’s rays. Pack sunscreen with a high SPF. Hats to shield from direct sunlight. Sunglasses to protect little eyes. Camp Bestival may have started as a mud slide but it was a huge 28 degrees by time we left!

Snacks and Hydration

Kids can work up quite an appetite at festivals and food stalls can be expensive. Take a supply of healthy snacks and plenty of water. We took refillable water bottles with us. There were lots of free refill stations.

Pull along wagon

On the first morning, we realised we had made the mistake of leaving the blankets in the camper van.  We noticed that a lot of people had wagons filled with chairs, blankets, and essential items. Even children sleeping in them at night. We would invest in a pull-along wagon for next time. However, bear in mind, that these will not be easy to pull along in the mud.

Now that you know what to pack for a festival, it’s time to get out there and create some Core Memories!

Not booked your Family Festival Experience for this year and feeling left out.  Camp Bestival Early Bird 2025 tickets have been released! With a Pay Monthly option, I cannot recommend this festival enough.