Aami StadiumFestival Camping in Australia: A Practical Planning Guide
Multi-day festivals are one of the great Australian experiences, but camping at one is a different skill from camping in a national park. You are dealing with crowds, noise, limited water, dust, sun and, quite often, a sudden downpour. A bit of preparation makes the difference between a brilliant weekend and an exhausting one.
Choose a tent and site that suit the conditions
A dome or tunnel tent with a full fly is usually the most practical choice because it handles wind and rain better than a large cabin tent. Take sturdy pegs, plus sand pegs if the ground is soft, and a mallet. A small tarp or gazebo gives you shade, but it must be weighted properly and lowered or taken down if strong wind is forecast.
When you arrive, look for slightly raised ground rather than the bottom of a slope, keep a sensible distance from walkways and other campsites, and note where the water points, toilets and medical tent are. If you are combining the festival with a city stay, a guide to whether Melbourne is a nice place to visit or the best things to do in Sydney can help you plan the rest of the trip.
Pack for heat, dust, rain and cold nights
Australian festival weather can shift from hot afternoons to single-digit nights, sometimes within the same weekend. Pack layers, a warm jumper and a beanie even in summer. Essentials include:
- A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen
- A reusable water bottle and electrolyte sachets
- Earplugs and an eye mask for sleeping
- Wet wipes, hand sanitiser and a quick-dry towel
- A head torch or small lantern
- Gumboots or shoes you do not mind ruining
- A power bank and a waterproof phone pouch
Use a sleeping mat or stretcher rather than sleeping directly on the ground, and keep your sleeping bag dry inside a large plastic bag. A camp chair and a small shade cloth make daytime rest far more comfortable.
Look after your body across a multi-day event
Hydration is the single most important habit. Drink water regularly through the day rather than only when you feel thirsty, and alternate alcoholic drinks with water. Eat proper meals, use shade during the hottest part of the day, and take breaks from the crowd. Sunburn, heat exhaustion and blisters are among the most common problems at festivals, and all are easier to prevent than fix.
Agree on a meeting point with your group in case phone coverage drops out, and write down important phone numbers rather than relying only on your phone battery. If you take regular medication, carry enough for the whole event and keep it somewhere cool.
Money, valuables and leaving no trace
Many festivals are cashless, so link a payment method to your wristband in advance and carry a small amount of backup cash. Leave valuable jewellery at home and use a locker for keys, cards and documents. Take only what you need into the arena each day.
Finally, pack out everything you bring in. Bring sturdy rubbish bags, keep your campsite tidy, and do not leave tents, chairs or gas bottles behind. Most festivals have a leave-no-trace policy, and volunteers should not have to clean up after you.
Frequently asked questions
How much water should I bring to a festival campsite?
Plan on at least three to four litres of drinking water per person per day, plus extra for washing. Refill stations are usually available but queues can be long, so carry a bottle with you at all times.
Is festival camping suitable for families?
Some festivals run dedicated family camping areas with quieter hours and more space. Check the event's rules and facilities before booking, and choose a site close to toilets and water if you are bringing children.
What should I do if a storm hits?
Move away from trees, poles and unsecured structures. Shelter in a vehicle or solid building if one is available, and stay low if you are caught in the open. Once it passes, check your tent and re-secure anything loose.
Frequently asked questions
How much water should I bring to a festival campsite?
Plan on at least three to four litres of drinking water per person per day, plus extra for washing. Refill stations are usually available but queues can be long, so carry a bottle with you at all times.
Is festival camping suitable for families?
Some festivals run dedicated family camping areas with quieter hours and more space. Check the event's rules and facilities before booking, and choose a site close to toilets and water if you are bringing children.
What should I do if a storm hits?
Move away from trees, poles and unsecured structures. Shelter in a vehicle or solid building if one is available, and stay low if you are caught in the open. Once it passes, check your tent and re-secure anything loose.