Packing to go camping with kids can feel like a military operation. British weather is unpredictable so even the most organised families can usually be found cramming last minute equipment into every spare corner of their car.
The idea of preparing for a family festival can seem even more daunting than a regular camping trip as there is the added logistic of getting kids and all your kit from the car to your camping spot. Here’s our suggestion on what to bring and what to leave at home, to make your festival experience a success.Your tent – Unless you’re lucky enough to own a camper van or have treated yourselves to a lovely bell tent, tipi or pre-erected tent, you’ll need something to sleep in. Plus sleeping bags, pillows and maybe some extra fleece blankets. It can get surprisingly cold in the middle of the night in May, so bring something warm for everyone to sleep in.
Clothing – Ah, the great British summer! In one weekend we have had heavy rainfall and burning hot sunshine so if past experience is anything to go by, pack waterproofs, wellies, layers, a hat and suncream into your car. It’s always a sensible idea to leave a full set of emergency clothes and spare footwear for everyone in the car should you need them. Your kids will get dirty – we guarantee it!
Dressing up – Thoroughly encouraged. If you can’t dress up at a festival then where can you? Dig out that outfit you’ve never quite been brave enough to wear and embrace your silliest side. Our theme is Insect Circus vs Monsters from the Deep, but anything goes – honestly!
Food & Drink – Sussex is home to some very fine food and drink and many of those local producers will be on site keeping our bellies happy. There is something for everyone and the prices are quite reasonable but you are welcome to bring your own food if you wish. Please see our Food and Drinks page for details on this year’s caterers.
Water Bottle / Cup – Our bars stock a great selection of drinks served in returnable deposit cups but make sure you bring a water bottle to refill at the taps or buy a festival bottle from the Info Tent. Bottled water and plastic straws will not be available – visit our sustainability page. If you pack your own coffee cup for your morning cuppa you’ll save money on the cup levy with our vendors too.
Less – If you bring food or a camping stove to cook meals on please do your best to minimise packaging and waste and do not bring any glass to the festival. Each year we dispose of a huge number of disposable BBQ’s – although these are not banned, please do consider their impact on the environment and ensure they are off the ground. Open fires are not permitted but there is a communal fire near the Woodland Bar.
Pack light… Our single best tip is to pack light. It’s a five-minute walk down from the car park to the main camping field and although you can hire a trolley to assist with camping kit you’ll still have to trek across the campsite at least a little, so having less definitely makes life easier! Remember essentials such as medication. A torch is handy too. If you forget bits and bobs there is always the festival shop which will stock snacks, camping essentials, bread and milk etc.
What not to bring. Finally, please remember, no pets, no sky lanterns or fireworks, no sound systems and no glass. We also strongly discourage the use of glow sticks and other single-use plastic items.
