Festival Camping: Your guide to a simple set-up

Ready for a summer of fun? Whether you’re ringing in the New Year in a crowd of thousands or heading to a festival in the middle of nature, setting up camp shouldn't feel complicated.  

We know what it can be like – a jam-packed boot, hot and bothered mates, and feeling like a human packhorse from car, to campsite, back to car again. By the time you’ve piled all your gear, the music is pumping, and you feel the pull to get out there.  

Let’s make it simple. Because with a little planning, and investing in the right gear, you can spend less time setting up, and more time doing what you love.  

Step 1: Choose your tent 

Festivals have a bad rap for cheap tents that don’t stand up to the test. Be prepared; whether it’s high winds, torrential rain, or hot days, don’t let the weather ruin your experience. Investing in a good tent that is built to last can make all the difference, like the Retreat 40 2 Person Tent. It’s easy to pitch, and has plenty of space, with UV protection to help you stay cool during the day. Store your phone, portable charger, keys, and make up wipes in the inner storage pockets, and clip our Ruru Lantern 200 onto the ceiling hook so you can get ready for bed, whatever time you return.  

Step 2: Set up your chill-out zone 

While most of the action happens at night, setting up a spot to relax with your friends ensures plenty of hazy debriefs to happen during the day over breakfast and lunch. When you’re setting up your tents, position them in a circle to face each other to create a ‘village’ – it helps with privacy, security, and those moments you need to share the wet wipes. Don’t settle for a hard seat on a chilly-bin – set up a swathe of camp chairs instead, like our Roamer Festival Chair, for a central point for people to get together or relax. Position your camp chairs in the middle, and if you can, set up a table or a picnic rug to hold drink bottles, snacks, and sunscreen for easy access and so you can stay hydrated (this Hydroflask keeps your drinks cool for longer, too). Roll up the door and window shades to keep your tent ventilated during the day or while you’re hanging out at camp. 

Step 3: Sleep comfortably in lightweight bedding 

No need to wake up covered in sweat when you’ve chosen a lightweight and compact sleeping bag suitable for hot summer nights. The Camper 4 Sleeping Bag is your best option, designed in a semi-rectangular shape that allows for plenty of foot room at the bottom. Whether you’re sleeping solo, or sharing, an easy zip opening means you can zip it right up for warmth or use it as a blanket for two. Pair it with a self-inflating single mat, and you’ll be able to make your bed in no time without fiddling around with a foot pump. Carry your bedding, tent, chairs, and food in this easy-to-manoeuvre Retreat Trolley, too. If you want the ultimate night’s rest, don’t skimp on a pillow – you’ll be glad you packed it when you wake up comfy in the morning.