Festival Essentials: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing and Packing Your Festival Bag

Heading to a music festival can be an exhilarating experience, but having the right bag can make or break your adventure. This comprehensive guide will help you select the perfect festival bag and pack it efficiently for maximum enjoyment.

Choosing the Ideal Festival Bag

When choosing the ideal festival bag, consider the following tips:

• Size matters: Opt for a larger bag to fit more essentials. A capacity of 42-86 litres is recommended for weekend festivals1. However, balance this with your ability to carry it comfortably.
  
  
• Prioritise comfort: Look for bags with padded, adjustable straps to distribute weight evenly and prevent shoulder strain. This is crucial for long hours of wear.
  
  
• Security features: Choose a bag with secure closures and hidden pockets to protect your valuables from potential theft. Some bags come with built-in locks for added security
  
  
• Durability: Select a bag made from sturdy materials that can withstand rough handling and unpredictable weather conditions.
  
  
• Ease of access: Consider bags with easily accessible external pockets for items you need frequently, like festival tickets or your phone.
  
  
• Style and personality: Don't be afraid to choose a bag that reflects your personal style and adds a trendy touch to your festival outfit.
  
  
• Versatility: Backpacks are popular for their hands-free convenience and ability to carry more items. Alternatively, fanny packs or crossbody bags are great for keeping essentials close while dancing.
  
  
• Weight: Opt for lightweight bags to avoid carrying unnecessary weight during long walks to and from campsites
  
  
• Weather resistance: Consider water-resistant or waterproof options to protect your belongings from unexpected rain.
  
  
• Compartments: Look for bags with multiple compartments to help organize your items efficiently

Remember, the ideal bag depends on your specific needs and the type of festival you're attending. Whether you're camping or just visiting for the day will influence your choice of bag size and style.

Popular Festival Bag Types

Several popular types of festival bags cater to different needs and preferences and we have provided some further information on the different festival bag types below.

• Crossbody bags and messenger bags: These are highly favoured for their hands-free convenience and security. They come in various styles, including bum bag/waist bag designs and regular shoulder bags worn across the body.
  
  
• Backpacks: Festival backpacks are versatile and can range from small to large sizes. They're ideal for carrying more items comfortably, with some offering waterproof features
  
  
• Bum bags: Also known as fanny packs, these are compact, secure, and keep essentials close to your body. They're perfect for those who prefer to travel light.
  
  
• Music Themed bags:  Quirky and unique festival bags that come in all shapes and sizes, radio shaped, guitar shaped bags.

• Mini Bags: These trendy options are suitable for carrying just the essentials while adding style to your festival look.
  
  
• Clear Bags: Transparent bags are becoming increasingly popular due to security requirements at some festivals. They allow for quick inspection while still being functional.
  
  
• Waterproof Bags: Many festival-goers opt for water-resistant or waterproof options to protect their belongings from unexpected weather
  
  
• Drawstring Bags: These are lightweight and easy to carry, often preferred for their simplicity and ability to expand.

Lets take a look at the some of those different types of festival bags below.

Bum Bags

Here is a selection of bum bags - click the image to be taken the product page for more information.

Classic Black Bum Bag

Pink Neon Bum Bag

Green Sequin Bum Bag

Bum Bags, are excellent accessories for festivals due to their practicality, convenience, and security features.

Here's why they're considered great for festival-goers

Hands-Free Convenience

Bum Bags allow you to enjoy the festival experience without worrying about carrying a bag. This hands-free design is perfect for dancing, taking photos, or simply enjoying the moment. You can move freely through crowds, hop on and off rides, and fully immerse yourself in the festival atmosphere

Easy Access to Essentials

With multiple compartments and pockets, bum bags provide quick and easy access to your belongings.  You can easily reach for your phone, wallet, sunglasses, or other essentials without having to dig through a larger bag.

Security

Bum bags are typically worn on the front or side of the body, making it difficult for pickpockets to access your belongings undetected. This added security allows you to focus on enjoying the festival without constantly worrying about your valuables.

Compliance with Bag Policies

Many festivals have strict bag policies, and bum bags often meet the size restrictions set by event organisers. For example, Coachella allows small bags and bum bags that are 12" x 6" x 12" or smaller, making them an ideal choice for festival-goers

Versatility and Style

Bum bags come in various designs, colours, and materials, allowing you to find one that complements your festival outfit. They've evolved from basic utility items to fashion statements, making them suitable for both practical use and style.

By combining functionality, security, and style, bum bags have become an essential accessory for festival-goers, enhancing the overall experience while keeping personal items safe and easily accessible.

For more inspirations check out our bum bag collection 

Music Themed and mini bags:  

Radio Shaped Bag for Festival

Drawstring Bags

An example of drawstring bags for a festival are these sequin bags that come in various colours.    Sequin drawstring bags are excellent for festivals, offering both style and practicality. These bags are popular festival accessories due to their eye-catching appearance and functional design. The shimmering sequins add a fun, festive touch to any outfit, making them perfect for the vibrant atmosphere of music festivals

Gold Sequin Drawstring Festival Bag

Multi-Coloured Sequin Drawstring Festival Bag

Silver Sequin Bag Drawstring Festival Bag

Green Sequin Drawstring Festival Bag

Features and Benefits of sequin festival bags

• Versatility: Sequin drawstring bags can be used as PE bags for school or as funky festival bags, showcasing their adaptability
• Portability: The drawstring design allows for easy carrying and quick access to your belongings
• Durability: Many sequin bags are designed to withstand the rigors of festival environments
• Variety: Available in multiple colors like gold, silver, and rainbow, allowing you to match your bag to your festival outfit

Practical Uses of festival bags

• Storing essentials like water bottles, sunscreen, and small personal items
• Keeping valuables close to your body in crowded festival spaces
• Doubling as a fashion statement piece to complement your festival attire

When choosing a festival bag, consider factors such as size restrictions, comfort, security features, and the specific needs of the event you're attending. Many festival-goers prefer bags that are hands-free, lightweight, and have multiple compartments for easy organization

For diverse range of festival bags - check out our festival bag collection

Essential Items to Pack

Now that you've chosen your bag, here's what to pack:

• Personal Care
• Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
• Hand sanitiser and wet wipes
• Toilet paper or tissues
• Deodorant and dry shampoo
• Cooling towel for hot days
• Hydration and Nutrition
• Reusable water bottle (clear plastic for security checks)
• Electrolyte tablets or powder
• Snacks like energy bars or nuts

Comfort and Safety

• Earplugs (high-fidelity ones preserve sound quality)
• Portable fan/charger combo
• Rain poncho or light jacket
• Sunglasses and hat
• Electronics
• Portable charger and cables
• Cash and cards (in a secure wallet)
• Phone (consider a waterproof case)

Packing Tips

Use packing cubes to organise your items and save space

• Pack outfits in separate bags to easily find what you need each day
  
  
• Keep frequently used items in easily accessible pockets
  
  
• Consider the festival's specific rules and prohibited items when packing

By following this guide, you'll be well-prepared for an unforgettable festival experience. Remember, the key is to pack smart, stay comfortable, and focus on enjoying the music and atmosphere.

For a greater packing checklist check out Toast and Tonics festival packing list.

For all of your festival essentials and festival outfits check out www.toastandtonic.co.uk