The Ultimate Guide to Camping at a Music Festival

Camping at a music festival can be one of the most unforgettable experiences of your life. Whether you're there for the beats, the community, or the chance to disconnect under the stars, doing it right makes all the difference. From packing the right gear to navigating the campground like a pro, this guide covers everything you need to know. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned camper, these tips will ensure your weekend goes smoothly—so you can focus on the music, the vibe, and maybe even the sunrise after an epic set.

Festival camping combines the thrill of live music with the freedom of the great outdoors. That’s why events like Bonnaroo and Coachella continue to attract thousands who pitch tents or roll in with RVs. But before you head out, make sure you’re truly ready with the info below.

Essential Camping Gear

Packing smart for a music festival is crucial. You’re not just surviving the wild; you’re surviving the wild with thousands of other people, music playing all day and night, and unpredictable weather. Here’s your ultimate gear checklist:

Shelter & Sleeping Essentials

• Tent (with rainfly): Always assume it might rain. Even if the forecast says sunshine, bring that rainfly.

• Tent footprint or tarp: Keeps the bottom of your tent dry and protected.

• Sleeping bag: Choose one suited for the climate—lightweight for hot areas, insulated for cooler nights.

• Sleeping pad or inflatable mattress: Don’t underestimate how hard the ground can be.

Camping Utilities

• Headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries): Navigating a sea of tents at night without light is a nightmare.

• Portable phone charger or solar bank

• Trash bags: Essential for keeping your campsite clean and respectful.

• Duct tape and zip ties: Great for repairs on the fly—tents, chairs, even shoes.

• Folding chairs or camp stools

Personal Gear

• Reusable water bottle or hydration pack

• Sunscreen and bug spray

• Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable wipes, hand sanitizer, deodorant, etc.

• Earplugs: Save your hearing at night and during shows.

Many gear-specific blogs, like REI’s camping checklist, go even deeper into the details, so be sure to cross-check based on your specific festival.

How to Set Up the Perfect Festival Campsite

Once you arrive and claim your camping space, setting it up correctly will make or break your weekend.

Picking the Right Spot

• Avoid low ground: Water pools here when it rains.

• Stay near landmarks: A recognizable flag or nearby tower can help you find your way home at night.

• Mind the neighbors: Avoid overly rowdy camps if you need rest, or join them if that’s your vibe.

Creating a Comfortable Space

• Use a pop-up canopy or shade tarp: These are lifesavers in hot or rainy weather.

• Mark your territory: Use flags, lights, or tapes so your campsite is easy to find.

• Organize zones: Set up a sleeping area, a communal hangout space, and a small area for cooking/eating.

Lighting Tips

Bring string lights or solar-powered lanterns to give your space ambiance and safety. Not only will your camp look magical at night, but you’ll avoid tripping over guy lines or coolers.

Food, Water & Staying Comfortable

Nutrition might not be your first thought when heading into a weekend of music and dancing, but it matters more than you think.

Staying Hydrated

Dehydration is one of the most common festival downers. Always have water on hand. Some festivals offer free water refill stations—take advantage of them frequently.

What to Eat

Easy & Portable Foods

• Granola bars

• Trail mix

• Fruit (apples, oranges, bananas)

• Jerky

• Canned goods with a pop-top

Cook-at-Camp Foods

• Pre-made sandwiches

• Instant noodles or pasta (bring a camping stove)

• Breakfast burritos wrapped in foil (heat over a campfire or stove)

Many festivals now cater to diverse diets, so it’s also easy to explore vendors on-site. Still, prepping your own food helps save money and gives you more energy throughout the day.

Beat the Elements

• Bring a cooler with ice to store perishables or just to cool off drinks.

• Bring extra socks and underwear—you’ll thank yourself later.

• Keep your clothing layered—nights can be surprisingly cold even in summer.

Festival Camping Etiquette

Sharing space with thousands of strangers can be magical—or miserable—depending on how you handle yourself. A few etiquette rules go a long way toward making the experience better for everyone.

Respect the Space and the People

• Clean up after yourself. Always.

• Don’t touch or enter someone else’s tent or campsite uninvited.

• Keep the volume at your camp reasonable during quiet hours.

• Offer help—whether someone’s tent is flying away or they just need a spare battery.

Vibe Responsibly: Smoke and Vape Zones

Some festivals offer designated smoking or vape friendly zones, while others restrict it entirely. If you're using products like a disposable vape or e-cigarette, stay aware of where you’re allowed to vape. It’s not just about the rules—it’s also about keeping the environment comfortable for everyone.

For instance, Electric Forest’s official site outlines its rules clearly and encourages a “leave no trace” policy, which includes proper disposal of smoking and vaping waste.

Final Tips for a Smooth Camping Experience

Arrive Early

Getting to the festival grounds early gives you the best chance at picking a good campsite, setting up before dark, and getting the lay of the land.

Be Weather-Wise

Always bring:

• Rain gear

• Extra tarps

• A weather-proof container for your electronics

Don’t assume it’ll be sunny just because it’s summer. Storms can roll in fast and turn a good time into a muddy mess if you’re unprepared.

Make Friends (But Set Boundaries)

Festival culture thrives on community. Say hi to your neighbors, offer to help them pitch their tent, or share a snack. That said, respect your own space and know when to retreat for rest.

Keep Essentials on You

At all times, have:

• ID

• Festival wristband

• Phone

• Cash

• Small snacks or electrolyte packets

A small daypack or fanny pack works great.

Why Festival Camping is Worth It

Camping at a music festival isn’t just about sleeping outdoors—it’s about immersing yourself in the full energy of the event. The convenience of walking from your tent to a stage in minutes, the shared energy of late-night jam sessions around campfires, and the peace of waking up with the sun and your favorite band’s soundcheck are unbeatable.

When you’re prepared, you can enjoy every second of it—from the thrill of the opening set to the joy of crashing in your tent after a long day.

As you plan your next festival weekend, keep this guide in your back pocket. Whether you’re heading to Lollapalooza, Firefly, or an off-grid indie event, being ready means you’ll enjoy it more—and help others do the same. And hey, if you're bringing a vape, keep it respectful, portable, and within the rules of the festival space.

For more outdoor festival survival tips, check out this comprehensive guide by Outside Online, and get ready for a weekend you’ll never forget.