20 things you need to bring to a festival

With summer on the horizon, festival season is in full swing. Whether you're planning a weekend of partying at a music festival or want to enjoy the atmosphere at a food or culture festival for a day, it's important to be well-prepared and bring the right gear. With this handy checklist, you're guaranteed a carefree festival experience! Oh, and don't forget that for all this, you'll also need a suitable festival bag ;-)

1. Tickets
   First and foremost, it's crucial to bring your tickets. Print them out or save them on your smartphone so you always have them handy.
   
   

2. Cash and bank cards
   Make sure you have enough cash with you. Keep in mind that ATMs at festivals often have long queues or can even be empty. Therefore, also bring a bank card, such as a credit card or debit card.
   
   

3. Identification
   A valid ID is mandatory at festivals. So, bring your passport, ID card, or driver's license.
   
   

4. Sunglasses and sunscreen
   Protect yourself from the sun and bring sunglasses and sunscreen. Especially if you're outside for an extended period, it's important to protect your skin well.
   
   

5. Water bottle
   It's important to stay hydrated during a festival. Therefore, bring a reusable water bottle. Many festivals have free water taps where you can refill your bottle.
   
   

6. Comfortable shoes
   At a festival, you often walk long distances and stand a lot. Therefore, wear comfortable shoes, such as sneakers.
   
   

7. Rain jacket or poncho
   In the Netherlands, the weather can change quickly. So, bring a rain jacket or poncho just in case, so you don't unexpectedly get caught in the rain.
   
   

8. Warm clothing
   Even if it's warm during the day, it can cool down significantly in the evening. Therefore, bring a sweater or cardigan for when it gets cold.
   
   

9. Power bank
   You don't want your phone to run out of battery when you want to take photos or meet up with friends. So, bring a power bank so you always have enough power.
   
   

10. Toiletries bag
    Finally, it's useful to bring a toiletries bag with essential items, such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and wet wipes. At many festivals, there are no sanitary facilities nearby, so make sure you are well-prepared.
    
    

11. Earplugs
    At festivals, the sound can sometimes be very loud. Protect your hearing and bring a pair of earplugs. Special festival earplugs are available that dampen the sound but still allow the music to be heard well.
    
    

12. Snacks
    At festivals, there are often plenty of food stalls and food trucks where you can eat well, but it can also be useful to bring some snacks yourself. For example, fruit, muesli bars, or other snacks that keep well and are easy to transport.
    
    

13. Blanket
    A blanket can be useful to sit on if there are no chairs or benches available. Bring a lightweight blanket that is easy to fold.
    
    

14. Lighting
    When it gets dark on the festival grounds, it can be useful to bring a flashlight or headlamp so you don't have to fumble in the dark.
    
    

15. Tent and sleeping gear
    If you plan to stay overnight at the festival grounds, don't forget to bring a tent and sleeping gear. This includes a sleeping bag, air mattress or mat, and pillow. Don't forget to bring a flashlight for when you need to go to the toilet at night.
    
    

16. Clothing and shoes for all weather conditions
    Check the weather forecast beforehand and make sure you bring clothing and shoes suitable for all weather conditions. It can get very muddy on a festival site, so also bring boots or other waterproof shoes.
    
    

17. Trash bags
    Bring a few trash bags to put your waste in. Many festivals have special bins, but it can be useful to have a trash bag of your own handy.
    
    

18. Medical supplies
    If you take medication, make sure you bring enough for the duration of the festival. Also, bring a first-aid kit with plasters, painkillers, and other medical necessities.
    
    

19. Condoms
    Without elaborating too much on this, you all understand very well what these might be needed for ;-)
    
    
    
20. Phone
    And finally, of course, but who still leaves without it, your mobile phone. Always know where your friends are and stay in touch with everyone who isn't at the festival. You want to share everything you experience, don't you?

With this comprehensive checklist, you're all set for a festival! Don't forget to check beforehand which items are and aren't allowed on the festival grounds. And of course, enjoy the music, the atmosphere, and the company!