Rave Packing Checklist for Beginners
Your first UK rave can be an incredible experience, but showing up unprepared could make it stressful. Here’s a quick guide to ensure you’re ready for anything, from unpredictable weather to long festival days:
- Tickets, ID, and Payment: Bring your ticket (printed and digital), event-friendly ID, and a mix of cash and card for payments.
- Weather-Ready Clothing: Pack layers, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy wellies for muddy fields. Avoid delicate fabrics like suede or leather.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated with a refillable bottle (750 ml or more). Many festivals have free refill stations.
- Hygiene Essentials: Wet wipes, hand sanitiser, travel-sized toiletries, and spare toilet paper are must-haves.
- Camping Gear: A blackout tent, sleeping bag, roll mat, and head torch will keep you comfortable.
- Extra Items: Earplugs, a power bank, sun protection, and a bum bag for valuables.
Quick Tip: A lightweight, quick-dry towel like the Dansu rave towel (£29.95) is perfect for staying clean and dry without adding bulk to your bag.
Plan ahead, pack wisely, and you’ll maximise your time enjoying the music and atmosphere.
The ULTIMATE Rave bag essential guide 2023
Must-Have Items for Every Raver
Packing smartly can make or break your UK rave experience. Here’s a rundown of essentials to help you prepare for anything the festival might throw your way.
Tickets, ID, and Payment Methods
First things first - don’t leave home without your festival ticket. Print a backup of your e-ticket or save it to your phone, and keep both copies in separate places to avoid any last-minute disasters.
When it comes to ID, skip your passport or driving licence - muddy fields aren’t their friends. Instead, opt for a Citizen Card or another affordable event-specific ID. For payments, bring a mix: a contactless card for quick transactions and some cash (£10 and £20 notes, plus coins) for smaller purchases. With these sorted, you’ll be ready to take on the festival chaos.
Weather-Appropriate Clothing
UK weather is famously unpredictable, and festivals only add to the challenge. A sunny morning can quickly turn into a downpour by afternoon, so pack for all scenarios.
Think layers. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat at bay, add a comfy t-shirt or vest, and top it off with a lightweight waterproof jacket or poncho. For footwear, trainers are great for dry conditions, but sturdy wellies are non-negotiable when the mud starts to take over.
For warmer weather, stick to breathable fabrics and avoid cotton-heavy outfits that can feel uncomfortable when wet. If it gets chilly, go for covered legs, knee-high boots, and a snug windbreaker. And leave the suede, fur, leather, or heels at home - they’re no match for festival terrain.
Lightweight and Quick-Dry Towel
A Dansu quick-dry microfiber towel is a game-changer for ravers. These towels absorb up to four times their weight in water while being incredibly lightweight - just 45 g compared to the 227–454 g of traditional cotton towels. Plus, they dry about 50% faster, so you won’t be stuck lugging around a damp, heavy towel.
They’re versatile too. Use them to wipe away sweat during intense dance sessions, as a seat on muddy ground, or even as an extra layer if temperatures drop. With their compact size, they’re perfect for festivals with strict bag size rules.
"Quick-dry towels are the sweat-stopping accessory ravers never knew they needed..." - dansu.co.uk
Extra features like a built-in metal grommet make hanging them at your campsite easy, while bold designs inspired by club culture ensure you’ll stand out while staying fresh.
Reusable Water Bottle
Hydration is a must when you’re dancing for hours. Bring a refillable water bottle that’s festival-approved to stay refreshed and save money. Many festivals offer refill stations, though queues can get long at peak times. An insulated bottle with a capacity of at least 750 ml is a solid choice - it’ll keep your drink cool and prevent condensation from soaking your gear.
Other Festival Must-Haves
A few extra items can make your festival experience much smoother.
- Earplugs: Protect your hearing during loud sets and help you grab some sleep in noisy campsites.
- Power bank: A portable charger with at least 10,000 mAh will keep your phone alive for photos, staying in touch, and emergencies. Don’t forget a charging cable and consider a waterproof case.
- Sun protection: Pack SPF 30+ sun cream and sunglasses to guard against UV rays.
- Secure storage: A bum bag or small backpack is ideal for keeping valuables safe. Label your bags with your name and phone number - this simple step has helped countless festival-goers recover lost items.
Finally, check your ticket’s terms and conditions before packing drinks, as many festivals enforce no-glass policies for alcohol. A little prep goes a long way in ensuring your rave experience is unforgettable for all the right reasons.
Personal Care and Hygiene
Staying fresh at a multi-day festival isn’t just about feeling comfortable - it’s also about looking after your health in close quarters with thousands of other people. With limited access to showers, having a solid hygiene routine is essential for your well-being and for those around you.
Essentials for Your Hygiene Kit
When showers aren’t an option, your hygiene kit should focus on quick and effective solutions. Biodegradable wet wipes are a lifesaver for a quick refresh, perfect for cleaning your face, hands, and body throughout the day. Keep hand sanitiser handy too - it’s a must before eating or after braving the festival toilets.
Make sure to pack a travel-sized toothbrush, toothpaste, and a strong deodorant that can handle long hours of dancing. Don’t overlook spare toilet paper - festival loos are notorious for running out. For intimate care, bring specialised soap and wipes to stay fresh in crowded conditions. Adding a versatile item to your kit, like a multi-use towel, can also help keep your hygiene routine simple and effective.
The Dansu Rave Towel: Practical and Stylish
The Dansu rave towel is a game-changer for festival hygiene. Not only does it keep you fresh during those high-energy dance sessions, but it’s also incredibly practical for drying off after using communal sinks or wiping away sweat. At £29.95, it’s a handy addition that’ll serve you well across multiple festivals. Its compact size saves space in your bag, and the bold, club-inspired design ensures you’ll look great while staying fresh.
Extra Care Items to Consider
For hair care, dry shampoo is your best friend when you can’t wash your hair.
Bring enough underwear and socks for each day - clean undergarments go a long way in helping you feel fresh. If you plan on using communal showers, don’t forget flip-flops or shower shoes to protect your feet from infections.
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Camping Gear for Festival Comfort
Setting up a well-organised campsite can make all the difference during a festival. With the right gear, you’ll have a cosy retreat to recharge after long days of dancing, exploring, and soaking in the vibe. A good setup means better sleep, easier living, and more energy for the music.
Basic Camping Equipment
Your tent is your home away from home, so it’s worth getting one that’s dependable. A blackout tent is a great choice - it keeps the morning sun out, letting you sleep in even after the sunrise. To maximise comfort, opt for a tent that’s slightly larger than your group size; this extra space can be a lifesaver.
Make sure to test your tent at least once before the festival, so you’re not fumbling with it in the dark. Nights can get surprisingly cold in the UK, even during summer, so pack a sleeping bag that’s rated for local temperatures. Pair it with a roll mat or an inflatable mattress to cushion against the hard ground, and don’t forget a pillow for added comfort.
For navigating the campsite at night, a head torch is a must - it keeps your hands free and your path lit. A camping mallet is another handy addition for securing your tent properly, especially if the ground is tough.
Once you’ve got the basics sorted, a few thoughtful extras can make your campsite feel like a home away from home.
Comfort and Convenience
A few small additions can make a big difference to your camping experience. A foldable camping chair is perfect for relaxing at your site. If you’re short on space, a picnic rug can create a communal area for you and your friends to gather.
To make your tent easy to find in a sea of identical setups, mark it with a flag or bright colours. Brightly coloured guy ropes are another smart choice - they’ll help prevent trips and stumbles at night.
For keeping your sleeping area clean, consider a separate pop-up tent for storing wet or muddy clothes. A compact camping stove and kettle are also fantastic for brewing hot drinks or preparing simple meals, giving you a bit of independence from festival food queues.
Dansu Towel for Campsite Use
The Dansu towel, already a festival favourite for personal care, is just as handy around your campsite. Its built-in metal grommet lets you hang it off the ground, keeping it clean and within reach - ideal for your tent or communal shower area.
You can use it for drying off after washing, wiping down camping chairs, or even as a quick seat cover. Thanks to its compact design, it packs flat and takes up minimal space in your gear. At just £29.95, it’s a practical addition that’ll serve you well at multiple festivals. Plus, its bold, rave-inspired design ensures it stands out, making it easy to spot and less likely to get mixed up with your friends’ belongings.
Packing and Organisation Tips
Once you've sorted your essential gear, packing smartly can make all the difference between a chaotic festival experience and one that's smooth and enjoyable. With a bit of planning, you’ll spend less time rummaging through your stuff and more time soaking up the festival vibes - all while keeping your belongings safe in the hustle and bustle.
Smart Packing Methods
Packing cubes are a game-changer for keeping your bag organised and making the most of your space. These handy zippered compartments let you divide your items - clean clothes in one, dirty clothes in another, and maybe a separate cube for underwear and socks. You can even plan ahead by dedicating specific cubes to daywear, sleepwear, or accessories.
When it comes to clothing, go for lightweight, multipurpose items. Think of a hoodie that doubles as a pillow or leggings that can work for both daytime and evening looks. Sticking to two or three main colours makes mixing and matching outfits a breeze, so you’ll always have something that works without overpacking.
Layering is key for unpredictable festival weather. Pack lightweight, quick-drying layers made from breathable fabrics. These will keep you comfortable, whether you're caught in a sudden downpour or dancing under the sun.
To protect your belongings from spills or rain, use bin bags or resealable plastic bags. Wrap electronics, important documents, or spare clothes securely - this can save you from a soggy disaster if a shampoo bottle bursts or water seeps into your tent.
Once everything is packed, it’s time to think about keeping it all safe.
Security Tips
Security at festivals is no joke. In 2022 alone, nearly £5 million worth of valuables were reported lost or stolen at Glastonbury Festival. Taking a few precautions can help you avoid becoming part of that statistic.
Keep your essentials - like your phone, wallet, and cash - in secure, zipped pockets or a front-facing bum bag or money belt. Avoid back pockets altogether, as they’re easy targets for pickpockets.
Spread your cash around. Keep some in your bag, some in a front pocket, and maybe even a small stash in your shoe. This way, if something does go missing, you won’t lose everything. If possible, bring an older mobile phone instead of your latest smartphone to reduce the risk of losing something expensive.
For added protection, register valuable items on Immobilise.com or mark them with a UV pen. This can help prove ownership and increase your chances of recovery if they’re stolen. It’s also wise to save emergency contacts on paper - just in case your phone dies or disappears.
At your campsite, use lockable bags or pouches and secure your tent with a small lock. While sleeping, keep valuable items at the bottom of your sleeping bag. A messy-looking tent can also deter thieves by giving the impression there’s nothing worth taking. For extra peace of mind, change your phone’s lock screen to display a friend’s contact number, so it’s easier to retrieve if lost. Lastly, familiarise yourself with the venue layout, including the lost and found area, to quickly track down misplaced items.
Coordinate with Friends
Teamwork makes everything easier at a festival. Coordinate with your friends to share the load - whether that’s splitting up who brings what or keeping an eye on each other’s tents. Befriending your neighbouring campers also adds an extra layer of security and builds a sense of community, which is a big part of the festival experience.
And don’t forget to use a tent finder app to save yourself the hassle of wandering aimlessly in search of your campsite after a long day.
Conclusion
Being well-prepared and packing the right essentials can make all the difference in staying comfortable, refreshed, and ready to enjoy every moment of your first rave or festival experience.
Big festivals can be physically demanding - you might end up walking as much as 10 miles in a single night and dealing with sound levels that can exceed 115 decibels. Having the right gear isn’t just about convenience; it’s about ensuring both your comfort and safety throughout the event.
One item that stands out for festival-goers is the Dansu rave towel. Its quick-dry and compact design make it a must-have, helping you stay fresh and energised no matter how intense the night gets. Designed to keep up with your active lifestyle, it’s the perfect addition to your festival kit.
FAQs
How can I keep my valuables safe at a festival?
Keeping your belongings secure at a festival is key to enjoying the event without unnecessary stress. Consider using lockable bags or pouches and wear them in a way that keeps them close, such as a money belt or a crossbody bag positioned at the front. Never leave your items unattended, and take advantage of lockers or secure storage facilities provided by the festival whenever possible.
It’s also smart to spread out your valuables. Don’t keep all your cash, cards, or essentials in one spot. For instance, you could tuck small amounts of money into different pockets or compartments. With a little planning and awareness, you can focus on the fun without constantly worrying about your belongings.
What should I pack to handle the unpredictable UK weather at a rave?
The weather in the UK is famously unpredictable, so it's always smart to be ready for anything. A lightweight waterproof jacket or a rain poncho can be a lifesaver when those sudden showers roll in. Pair that with sturdy, quick-drying shoes, and you'll be set to tackle muddy paths or wet streets without a second thought.
Make sure to stay hydrated and pack some sunscreen - you never know when those rare but beautiful sunny spells might surprise you. Adding a Dansu quick-dry rave towel to your bag is a clever move too. It’s compact, versatile, and perfect for drying off after rain or sweat, keeping you fresh no matter the weather.
Why should I bring a quick-dry towel like the Dansu rave towel to a festival?
A quick-dry towel, like the Dansu rave towel, is an essential item for festivals. It dries twice as fast as a regular towel, keeping you comfortable and fresh during those sweaty moments on the dance floor or under the blazing summer sun. Plus, its lightweight and compact design means it won’t take up much space in your bag, leaving room for other festival must-haves.
Dansu rave towels are inspired by dance music culture, blending practicality with style. Whether you're cooling off after hours of dancing or freshening up between sets, this towel is a handy and stylish addition to your festival gear.