Whether you’re heading to your first festival to work with us or as a customer, you’re bound to have the best time – as long as you’re properly prepared!

The last thing you want is to set up camp only to realise you’ve left that all important item back at home.

But deciding exactly what you need to pack can be a daunting experience…

So, to give you a steer in the right direction, we’ve compiled a list of 13 camping essentials you need to make sure your eventure is a complete success!

1. Tent

This is a bit of a given because you’ll need somewhere to sleep, right? For this reason, a tent is an absolute must have and it is well worth spending a little more money on one. A cheap tent can often spell disaster – after all, we cannot rely on the weather in the UK and there is nothing worse than spending a night in a leaking tent!

Be aware that manufacturers tend to be a little optimistic when it comes to how many people can fit comfortably in their tents. A single person may want to buy a two-man tent for extra space to get changed or to store luggage, for example.

2. Sleeping Bag

A sleeping bag is another item you don’t want to scrimp on or you may end up shivering from the cold as you try to fall to sleep. When deciding on a sleeping bag, look at the temperature rating. Generally, this rating tells you what the low limit of the bag is - which is not necessarily the same as a comfort rating. However be mindful that even at the height of summer, the temperature may drop considerably at night.

3. Pillow

You’ll also want something comfy to rest your head on as you drift off to sleep. Either bring a pillow from home or buy an inflatable one. There are many cheap and cheerful options on the market if you choose to opt for the latter – and it sure does beat sleeping on a rolled up piece of clothing!

4. Camping Mattress (or Sleeping Mat)

Much like a sleeping bag, a camping mattress is essential for a good night’s sleep. They do two things: provide insulation as well as cushioning between you and the ground. It’s up to you which you choose, either a bed-style air mattress (just don’t forget the pump) or sleeping mat, of which there are two types. We recommend getting an inflatable one for that extra bit of comfort.

5. Head Torch

A head torch is helpful for those late night trips to the toilet. They can also be used to navigate your way around your campsite in the dark and also leave your hands free to get on with other tasks at the same time. Remember to check whether yours needs batteries as these will also need to be packed for your adventure. Don’t forget spares either!

6. Lighting

Similar to a head torch, but camp lighting is also important to consider. Something like a small lantern may be useful to hang inside your tent at night to save using your phone torch and wasting that all-important charge. Although not a necessity, something like fairy lights can also be fun and add a little campsite ambiance - solar powered ones are perfect for this!

7. Camping Chair

Nothing ruins an evening around your campsite like having to sit on the cold/wet ground or a lumpy rock. Be the envy of those who forgot with your comfy camping chair at hand. The ones with cup holders double up as useful phone charging stations as well.

8. Blankets

These are in addition to your sleeping bag and especially important because, as mentioned, you can never predict the weather in the UK and temperatures often drop when the sun goes down. Blankets are great for wrapping up warm while outside with friends or adding over your sleeping bag if you get chilly while trying to sleep.

9. Bin Bags

It’s always a good idea to keep a tidy campsite and to clear up after yourself. However, bin bags are not only useful for rubbish but also come in handy as a floor liner for muddy shoes and will save you traipsing dirt into the sleeping quarters of your tent. Don’t forget to divide out your recycling - and take it home if there’s not dedicated recycling on site!

10. Water Jug + Refillable Bottle

Having a refillable water jug at your campsite is so convenient. Fill it up and you have readily available water for filling your reusable bottles or even brushing your teeth right. It’ll save you plenty of time and means you don’t have to spend the evening walking back and forth to the communal water spot.

11. Eco-Friendly Body Wipes

They may not be the first thing that come to mind but a good body wipe can make all the difference to your camping trip. Especially when the showers are cold or there’s a big queue! Looking for something eco-friendly is also a bonus as, after all, we all have to be kind to our planet.

12. Power bank (Portable Charger)

Don’t leave home without including a portable power bank (or two!) in your camping list. Your phone dying is the last thing you need (especially when you need it to check in on Liveforce!) and paying to charge your phone can often be pricey. Power banks can also be used for other items that charge using a USB. Even better, buy a solar powered charger so you know that it will never die on you!

13. Sun Screen

Last but not least - and yes, we all know we cannot rely on the weather. However, if the sun does choose to shine you’ll be thankful of sun screen. Camping or festivals often mean we’re outside for much of the day and nobody wants to get burnt or, even worse, sun stroke. We also recommend good headwear such as a cap if you’re particularly susceptible to sunshine.

13 Ultimate Camping Essentials You Need To Pack