There are some golden rules of packing when it comes to festivals, tickets, gumboots, a selection of outrageous outfits - tick, but what about the not-so-standard things that will make your festival stay go from good to epic. Hindsight is a funny thing; we have all been there, sitting on a broken camp chair, staring into the abyss of day three, wishing we had brought that one thing if only we had known! It is a learning curve, but it only takes a bit of preparation and experience to quickly become a festival pro. Speaking to friends and avid festival-goers, we learned a few hot tricks; from camping supplies to the best hangover remedies, we have created the ultimate list of extras worth the space in your backpack. 

First of all, when committing to a camping festival, investing in the right gear is a game-changer. Although it may be tempting to opt for the cheapest tent in the shop, trust us when we say it is not so fun fixing metal poles in the middle of the night, plus a good quality set-up will last you for years to come. The same goes for a sleeping bag; there are some awesome four-season bags that will keep you snug in winter but cool during the summer. A blow-up air mattress will also save you from sleeping on the ground; find one with a battery-charged pump to take all the hard work out of building your temporary bedroom. Extra blankets and pillows are never a bad idea; put effort into making sure you are comfortable - a good night's sleep will leave you rising fresh and ready for the antics of the coming day. 

As the sun rises on the festival's first day, be ready to roll with a camping gas stove and coffee percolator. You will thank yourself when sipping on a hot cup of joe from the comfort of your own campsite. Our Tea & Coffee Hamper will have all your hot beverage needs covered. Try to use tin mugs, plates and bamboo cutlery to avoid any breakages plus, they are eco-friendly. A refillable metal water bottle will be your on-the-go hydration station both day and night, and packing some electrolyte tablets is a good way to stave off any potentially sore heads. Remember to rinse your bottle regularly to stop bacteria and keep your water fresh. Biodegradable dish soap and wipes are another hygiene must and will ensure you don’t leave a trace when you pack up to go. 

If you are regularly searching for an adventure at the weekend and camping isn't solely dedicated to the odd festival, then there are a few items that will really pimp up your set-up. A decent solar shower is not hard to come by nowadays, nor are they expensive at all. This will save you queuing up for a festival hose down and keep you and your friends clean, no matter how much mud there is! A simple shade awning will be a lifesaver during the summer festivals and protect you from any unexpected weather in the colder months. Lastly, a headlamp will guide you home when you have had enough dancing and are ready for bed. With all of these, you are ready to go and will be a truly happy camper!