The Only Glastonbury Packing List You’ll Need: Everything for a Perfect Fest
So, you got Glastonbury tickets? Congrats! Now to think about what you’re taking with you. Packing for Glastonbury can feel overwhelming. If you’re wondering what to pack for Glastonbury, you’re not alone—this festival requires serious prep. I’ve been through the trial and error, so here’s a guide on what’s actually worth bringing. From essential gear to keep you comfortable, to clever packing hacks, this list has you covered.
What do you need to bring to Glastonbury? First, think about the basics: a sturdy tent, sleeping setup, and layers to handle unpredictable weather. Glastonbury can go from scorching sun to mud bath in a matter of hours, so it’s best to come prepared. Beyond that, there are a few essentials that might not be obvious but will make all the difference (hint: a trolley will save your life).
We’ll also cover festival-specific questions, like can you bring your own alcohol to Glastonbury, and whether you need to bring cash or rely on cards. With the right planning, you’ll be able to enjoy the festival without stressing over what you left behind. Let’s dive into what to pack for Glastonbury and how to get it right. There are a few affiliate links in this blog too, but I’ve made sure to only link through to the things I fully recommend and have used before.
Just want the full list? Keep scrolling to the end to find the full, screenshotable list.
What To Pack For Glastonbury: The Essentials
When you’re figuring out what to pack for Glastonbury, start with the essentials. First on my list? A good-quality trolley. Glastonbury is huge, and unless you’re camping right near the entrance (unlikely), a trolley will save you endless trips back and forth. Trust me—spend a bit more on one that won’t break down on you halfway across Worthy Farm. I load mine up with heavier items like alcohol and my tent, leaving my backpack free for clothes and smaller essentials.
Speaking of tents, invest in one that’s sturdy and weatherproof, ideally with a blackout layer. Glastonbury mornings can be brutally bright if the sun’s out. A sleeping bag and blow-up mattress make a big difference in comfort, and if possible, bring a battery-powered pump to make setup easier. I skip ground mats and go straight for a blow-up bed. Pro tip: thermals are a must at night, even in the middle of summer.
Wondering what size rucksack to bring to Glastonbury? Go for a large backpacking bag to fit your clothes, but bring a smaller bag for day use. Think lightweight and easy to carry, like a foldable tote or compact backpack for drinks, sunscreen, and any merch you pick up. These essentials will help you stay comfortable and prepared for anything Glastonbury throws at you.
Glastonbury Packing List: Essentials
Sturdy Trolley: To transport all your gear from the car to your campsite. I use this one, and it’s been to many a festival with me and not failed me yet.
Large Rucksack or Backpacking Bag: This is the one I use for backpacking and it comes with a smaller backpack you attach to the front.
Weatherproof Tent: I have the EuroHike Avon 3 with blackout technology. This has now been to four or five festivals with me.
Portable Camping Chair: A small, foldable camping chair can be a lifesaver when you need a break from standing all day.
Sleeping Bag: I’m a bit of a Eurohike truther, so fully recommend this one.
Blow-Up Mattress & Battery-Powered Pump: More comfortable than a ground mat and easier to set up with a pump. This is the pump I use.
Head Torch: Essential for nighttime around your tent and perfect for hanging inside as a light. You’ll definitely need a head torch for the drop loos after dark—trust me, don’t risk using your phone as a light in there, or you may just lose it forever!
Pillow: If space is tight, go for a compact inflatable one, but for real comfort, bring a small bed pillow if you can squeeze it in!
Thermals (Top and Bottom): Essential for staying warm at night. I got these ones from Uniqlo.
Waterproof Jacket and Rain Poncho: To stay dry in case of sudden rain showers. If you want to splash out, I love the rain ponchos from Vivi Mari.
Walking Boots or Wellies: I wear Merrell walking shoes and they are the BEST. I’ve had these forever and they’ve been to a million festivals with me.
Reusable Water Bottle (Large & Collapsible): More recommendations on this below.
Power Bank: A portable charger to keep your phone and devices powered all weekend.
Sunscreen & Hat: For protection from sun exposure during the day.
Snacks & Energy Bars: Great for a quick energy boost without leaving your tent. More on this below.
What To Pack For Glastonbury: Other Essentials
When planning what to pack for Glastonbury, don’t overlook the other basics: cash, ID, and water. First, how much cash should you take to Glastonbury? The good news is most vendors take card payments, so you don’t need wads of cash. However, it’s wise to bring some as backup, especially for smaller food stalls or emergencies. If you budget around £30–£50 per day for food, drinks, and essentials, you should be sorted.
Now, about ID: Do you need to bring it? It’s a good idea. ID might be required at certain entry points or if you’re buying alcohol, and it’s always helpful in case of emergencies. Just pop it in a secure spot in your bag or purse so it’s on hand if needed.
As for staying hydrated, Glastonbury doesn’t allow single-use plastic water bottles, so bring a reusable one. I recommend a large stainless steel bottle for keeping at your tent (keep your water super cool!) and a collapsible one for on-the-go. Water refill stations are scattered around, but queues can get long, especially in the morning. A carabiner clip on your bag for the bottle can make carrying whatever bottle you bring a bit more convenient.
Glastonbury Packing List: Other Essentials
Cash: Bring some cash as backup in case certain vendors don’t accept cards (although very rare).
ID: Keep a form of ID on hand for buying alcohol, entry verification, or emergencies.
Reusable Water Bottle: Bring a large stainless steel water bottle for your tent (helps keep water cool). Pack a collapsible water bottle for on-the-go hydration.
Carabiner Clip: Handy for attaching your water bottle to your bag for easy access.
Portable Water Filtration (Optional): If you prefer filtered water, a portable filter bottle or cap can be useful.
What Bags Do People Bring To Glastonbury?
When deciding what to pack for Glastonbury, the bag you bring is almost as important as what’s inside it. You’ll need a large, sturdy backpack or rucksack to hold your clothes and essentials. A typical backpacking bag works well—it’s big enough for your gear but still manageable to carry across the vast festival grounds. Make sure it’s comfortable to wear, with good shoulder padding and a hip strap to balance the weight.
For day-to-day exploring, bring a smaller, lightweight bag. My top choice is a compact, foldable tote or a mini backpack, like the ones from Uniqlo or Baggu. These bags are easy to carry around and can hold essentials like drinks, sunscreen, and any festival merch you pick up. If you’re wondering, what bags do people take to Glastonbury?—these are the tried-and-true options that keep things practical without weighing you down.
Another tip is to bring a small fold-up tote for extra storage. It’s perfect for carrying extra drinks or anything you buy, and when you don’t need it, it folds away neatly. Also, consider a crossbody or fanny pack for personal items like your phone, ID, and cash. This keeps valuables close and secure while you’re in the crowd.
Lastly, don’t forget to waterproof your bags! Use zip-lock bags for electronics or items that need extra protection, and line your rucksack with a garbage bag to keep everything dry if the weather takes a turn. When it comes to what size rucksack you need for Glastonbury, aim for something spacious but manageable. After all, you’ll be carrying it around quite a bit, and comfort is key.
Glastonbury Packing List: Bags
Large Backpack or Rucksack: A sturdy, backpacking-style bag with good shoulder padding and a hip strap for balance. This will carry your main essentials (clothes, toiletries, etc.).
Compact Day Bag: A small, lightweight bag (like a mini backpack or tote) for daily essentials, such as drinks, sunscreen, and merch.
Crossbody or Bum Bag: For keeping valuables (phone, ID, cash) secure and close to you while navigating the crowd. I personally recommend the Uniqlo cross body bags and, in the same vein but bigger, Baggu bags.
Waterproofing Supplies: Zip-lock bags for electronics and valuables, plus a garbage bag to line your main rucksack in case of rain. I recommend Seep for biodegradable bin bags.
Clothes & Footwear For Glastonbury
Choosing what to pack for Glastonbury means being prepared for unpredictable weather and long days. During the day, if it’s hot, go for lightweight, breathable clothing to stay cool. But Glastonbury is known for quickly shifting from sunny to stormy, so pack layers you can easily add or remove. In the evenings, what to wear at night at Glastonbury is key to staying comfortable—think warm layers, like thermals or a cozy jumper. Even in summer, nights can get surprisingly cold, and you don’t want to be shivering in your tent.
When it comes to footwear, comfort is non-negotiable. Glastonbury’s sheer size means a lot of walking, and sometimes mud. A good pair of walking boots or sturdy wellies are essential to handle the uneven, muddy paths. If you prefer to keep it simple, Teva sandals work well for getting around your tent or on dry days. Just don’t rely on regular trainers alone; your feet won’t thank you after a full day of trekking across the festival grounds.
Since Glastonbury weather can be unpredictable, pack waterproofs regardless of the forecast. A rain jacket or poncho and waterproof bucket hat will be lifesavers if the skies open up. Also, bring plenty of clean socks—you’ll want to swap to fresh pairs if any get soaked. Keep some clothes stored in a waterproof bag to make sure they stay dry.
When considering what to pack for Glastonbury, plan for everything from sunny afternoons to chilly, muddy nights. This clothing setup will help you stay comfortable no matter what Glasto throws at you.
Glastonbury Packing List: Clothes & Footwear
Lightweight, Breathable Daywear: Tops and bottoms that are comfortable and suitable for warm weather.
Nighttime Layers: Thermals (top and bottom) to keep warm during cold nights. A warm jumper or hoodie to layer up as temperatures drop.
Waterproof Jacket or Poncho: A quality rain jacket or poncho for sudden downpours.
Waterproof Bucket Hat: Keeps rain off your face and adds an extra layer of protection.
Comfortable Walking Boots: Essential for navigating the festival grounds. They’re sturdy and keep your feet comfortable all day. Merrell are my favourite brand and I have these ones, which have lasted years of festival use.
Wellies: Durable wellies to handle the mud. A Glastonbury must-have if the weather takes a wet turn. Hunter are a solid choice for wellies (and if you want to channel your inner Alexa Chung or Kate Moss), but Joules and Barbour also do good sturdy ones for those muddy days.
Teva Sandals (or Similar): Ideal for dry days and walking around the campsite; lightweight and comfortable.
Plenty of Clean, Dry Socks: Extra pairs to change into if your feet get wet. Keep a few pairs stored in a waterproof bag.
Waterproof Storage Bag for Clothes: Store some clothes in a waterproof bag to ensure you always have something dry.
Health & Beauty Essentials For Glastonbury
Glasto is a full-on experience, so be prepared for everything from sun exposure to long days without showers.
First, sunscreen is a must. Go for a high SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen, and remember to reapply regularly. Pair it with a good lip balm to keep your lips hydrated, especially if it’s windy. When it comes to staying fresh, biodegradable wet wipes are a lifesaver for a quick cleanup, and for the drop loos, which don’t have toilet paper. (Trust me, these get disgusting, so good luck!). For a quick refresh, pack some face wipes and deodorant, along with hand sanitizer to stay clean on the go. Dry shampoo is also our hair’s best friend when showers aren’t an option.
Finally, bring a few essentials for recovery: aftersun lotion in case you catch too much sun, rehydration tablets to help keep you going, and pain relief tablets for those next-day aches. Trust me, a few blister plasters are also worth packing; you’ll be grateful if your feet start acting up.
These items may seem small, but they’ll keep you comfortable and ready for anything Glasto throws at you!
Glastonbury Packing List: Health & Beauty
Sunscreen (Broad-Spectrum, High SPF): Essential for sun protection. Reapply often to stay safe in the Glasto sun.
Lip Balm: A moisturizing lip balm to keep lips hydrated, especially if it gets windy or dry.
Hand Sanitizer: Keep your hands clean on the go, especially when facilities are limited.
Biodegradable Wet Wipes: Perfect for quick clean-ups. Choose biodegradable ones to stay eco-friendly.
Dry Shampoo: A lifesaver when shower access is limited, for keeping hair fresh.
Hair Ties and Clips: Handy for keeping your hair out of your face during long festival days.
Face Wipes: Quick and convenient for freshening up your face when you’re on the move.
Deodorant: To stay fresh and comfortable throughout the festival.
Insect Repellent: Protect yourself from pesky bugs, especially at night or near the fields.
Aftersun Lotion: Soothes and hydrates your skin if you get too much sun.
Rehydration Tablets: Perfect for restoring electrolytes and staying hydrated on long, hot days.
Pain Relief Tablets: For any aches, pains, or headaches after a full day of festival fun.
Blister Plasters: Protect your feet from blisters, especially after hours of walking.
What Food To Bring To Glastonbury
When thinking about what to pack for Glastonbury, your food choices can make or break the experience.
What food to bring to Glastonbury? If you’re bringing a camping stove, you have options like noodle pots, eggs, and other easy-cook items. But if you’re going stove-free, stick to non-perishables and keep them in a food bag. You can try to keep things cold by grabbing ice from the on-site Co-op, but be warned: it melts fast. (I learned this the hard way after a too-warm falafel almost made me sick!)
Here are some solid food ideas to keep you fueled:
Non-Perishables: Think energy bars, nuts, dried fruit, chocolate, and crisps. They’re convenient and keep well.
Quick Meals: Bread rolls, cheese, cold cuts, and tins of beans or tuna make easy meals.
If you’re cooking, bring a compact stove, enough fuel, and basic utensils. Don’t forget a sturdy water bottle for drinking and cooking. Also, be prepared to carry any packaging or waste back with you—Glasto is all about leaving no trace. Packing smart, especially with food, helps you avoid long food queues and overspending. And remember: keep hydrated and check any food restrictions before packing.
Glastonbury Packing List: Food
Energy Bars: Quick, nutritious, and easy to carry.
Nuts and Seeds: Healthy and filling for long days.
Dried Fruit: A sweet, natural energy boost.
Chocolate: Comfort food, perfect for late nights.
Crisps and Crackers: Salty, crunchy, and satisfying.
OPTIONAL Camp Stove: Compact and portable for campsite cooking. Don’t forget fuel and utensils if you opt to bring a stove.
Other Nice To Haves At Glastonbury
Beyond the essentials, there are a few “nice-to-have” items that can make your Glastonbury experience even better. These aren’t must-haves, but trust me—they’re the little things that make a difference.
Fairy Lights or Tent Lantern: Fairy lights or a battery-powered lantern make it easy to find your tent in the dark and add a cozy vibe to your campsite. Just make sure they’re battery-operated or solar powered (and bring spare batteries).
Solar-Powered Phone Charger: Keeping your phone charged is key, but power banks can run out fast. A solar charger helps you stay connected without relying on charging stations.
Portable Fan: If it’s a hot weekend, a small handheld fan can make a big difference, especially when you’re packed in tight at the stages.
Eye Mask and Earplugs: Light and noise are part of the festival experience, but if you want a good night’s sleep, an eye mask and earplugs will help you catch a few extra hours.
Reusable Cup with Clip: Many stalls offer discounts if you bring your own cup. A reusable one with a clip lets you attach it to your bag, so you’re always ready.
Solar Shower or Camping Shower Bag: Ideal for a quick rinse by your tent when public showers are limited. Bring a swimsuit if you do.
Can You Bring Alcohol And Vapes?
If you’re wondering what to pack for Glastonbury when it comes to alcohol, the good news is, yes, you can bring your own alcohol to Glastonbury—just stick to the rules. Alcohol is allowed, but only for personal use, and glass is strictly banned. So, if you’re bringing spirits, decant them into plastic bottles. Cans of beer, cider, or premixed drinks are perfect for easy packing and drinking on the go.
And can you take vapes into Glastonbury? Reusable vapes are fine, but disposables are officially banned. That said, enforcement can be hit or miss, with random bag checks here and there. If vaping is a must, bring a reusable vape to avoid any hassle at the gate. And if you’re in a pinch, some vendors on-site offer replacements.
Keep it simple, follow the guidelines, and you’ll be set for a hassle-free festival.
What Is Not Allowed At Glastonbury?
When deciding what to pack for Glastonbury, keep in mind there are a few things you’ll want to leave at home. First up: glass. This means no glass bottles, jars, or even makeup mirrors. They’re strict about it, so if you’re bringing alcohol, make sure it’s in plastic or metal containers to avoid losing it at the gate.
Fireworks, flares, and big sound systems? All banned too—so keep things simple. And while a gazebo might sound like a great idea for extra hangout space and shade, Glastonbury doesn’t allow them to make room for everyone’s tents.
Finally, steer clear of non-biodegradable stuff like regular glitter and wet wipes. Glastonbury’s big on sustainability, so opt for biodegradable versions to stay eco-friendly.
Stick to the essentials, skip the banned items, and you’ll get through the gates hassle-free.
What To Pack For Glastonbury: Final Thoughts
Packing for Glastonbury might seem intense, but trust me, a bit of preparation goes a long way. When deciding what to pack for Glastonbury, it’s all about balancing essentials with comfort items that make the festival easier and more enjoyable. You’ll be grateful for every carefully chosen item when you’re trekking across fields, braving the drop loos, or just needing a moment to recharge back at your tent. Keep it practical, stick to what you know you’ll use, and don’t overload yourself with extras. Remember, Glastonbury is all about the experience, not the baggage! Get your essentials sorted, stay organized, and focus on soaking up everything the festival has to offer. With the right gear, a sense of adventure, and a little luck, you’ll be fully ready to make incredible Glasto memories. See you on the farm!
Full Glastonbury Packing List
All linked out where I can and ready to go!
Essentials
Sturdy Trolley
Large Rucksack or Backpacking Bag
Weatherproof Tent (with blackout fabric if possible)
Portable Camping Chair
Sleeping Bag (warm, waterproof)
Blow-Up Mattress & Battery-Powered Pump
Head Torch
Pillow (camping or small bed pillow)
Thermals (Top and Bottom)
Small Backpack or Foldable Tote for Day Use
Waterproof Jacket or Poncho
Walking Boots
Wellies
Reusable Water Bottle (Large & Collapsible)
Power Bank
Sunscreen & Hat
Snacks & Energy Bars
Other Essentials
Cash
ID
Carabiner Clip for Water Bottle
Portable Water Filtration (Optional)
Bags
Crossbody or Bum Bag
Waterproofing Supplies (zip-lock bags, bin bags)
Clothes & Footwear
Lightweight Daywear
Nighttime Layers
Waterproof Bucket Hat
Sandals
Plenty of Clean, Dry Socks
Waterproof Storage Bag for Clothes
Health & Beauty
Sunscreen (Broad-Spectrum, High SPF)
Lip Balm
Hand Sanitizer
Biodegradable Wet Wipes
Dry Shampoo
Hair Ties and Clips
Face Wipes
Deodorant
Insect Repellent
Aftersun Lotion
Rehydration Tablets
Pain Relief Tablets
Blister Plasters
Food
Energy Bars
Nuts and Seeds
Dried Fruit
Chocolate
Crisps and Crackers
OPTIONAL Camp Stove (fuel and utensils if bringing)
Nice-to-Haves
Fairy Lights or Tent Lantern
Solar-Powered Phone Charger
Portable Fan
Eye Mask and Earplugs
Reusable Cup with Clip
Solar Shower or Camping Shower Bag
Alcohol & Vaping
Alcohol in Plastic Bottles or Cans
Reusable Vape (disposables are banned)
Not Allowed
Glass (bottles, jars, mirrors)
Fireworks, Flares
Large Sound Systems
Gazebos
Non-Biodegradable Glitter
Non-Biodegradable Wet Wipes
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