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What to Take

The Indispensable Festival Guide

Saturday 7th December 2002

Bearing in mind that a long walk from your car park or from the bus drop off points is unavoidable we would recommend that you travel reasonably light. Most of the festivals have plenty of markets and traders who are keen to supply all sorts of goodies to the festival goers stuck on site for at least 2 days but not surprisingly the prices in the festivals are going to higher than in the real world. Having said that here is a list of what we consider to be necessary items that everyone should take with them:

	Tent - the bigger the better (especially if it's wet). The most popular fairly economical are 2/3 man dome tents, however the range of tents/canvas arrangements you will see on site is amazing but many would cause distress to any boy scouts amongst you. (see separate Security Guide for camping advice).
	Sleeping Bag - nothing too fancy is necessary, a 2 seasons one usually does the job.
	Torch - a must to avoid the killer guy ropes.
	Penknife - for opening cans and bottles, etc.
	Loo Roll - oh yes … you don't want to have to trudge for half an hour to get one.
	Matches/Lighter - for those late night fires or Camberwell Carrots.
	Water Container - fill it up from the taps and it could save you a long queue in the morning. There are some collapsible containers with taps that are cheap and perfect.
	Sun Block/Lotion - never believe the weather forecasts and bring some. 3 days with little shelter can test even the darkest skins.
	Rain Proof Anorak - never believe the forecasts and bring one (many use black bin liners with holes cut out).
	Hefty Boots/Trainers - you'll be on your feet a lot so those flip flops will lose their appeal.
	One Complete Change of Clothing - a reminder for those of us who have had to pull on soaking wet clothes in the morning ... not pleasant.
	Toiletries - soap, deodorant, toothbrush and toothpaste and a small towel. (Girls should consult Butterfly's Festival Glamour Guide for more in depth advice on toiletries etc).
	Medication - inhalers, hayfever pills etc. If you might need them then don't forget them.
	Money - 'fraid to say you'll need some. There are often cash machines on site at the bigger events, but usually accompanied by huge queues. Remember to keep enough to get home.
	Condoms - you never know your luck. (that's you too girls!!)
Optionals
	Gas Cooker - good for that in-tent morning cup of tea.
	Pot Noodles - if you have a cooker then these can make a change from burgers etc. (however the food at many festivals can be surprisingly good with plenty of variety). Very light to carry!
	Wellies - if you haven't got a decent pair of water proof boots then wellies are a must even if you end up leaving them in the car.
	Ghetto-blaster - for the nights around the fire and for the footy commentary (Glasto).
	Booze - for some good, if light hearted, advice on this and other important things have a look at Pete & Stu's lads guide to festivals.
	Mattresses - more than 2 days on the ground and a blow-up mattress or a mat becomes compelling.
	Others - everything from plasters and headache pills to Rizlas are available on site but if you've got room and are that thoughtful then take them.