Max HeyraudElectric Picnic 2025 opens its doors today. Here’s your ultimate guide to what to pack and how to take care of yourself over the festival weekend.
Shelter & Sleep
A Good Tent
A strong, water-resistant tent is non-negotiable. With rain and wind almost guaranteed, invest in one that can handle the weather. Halfords usually has a solid selection, but don’t leave it too late. And remember—take your tent home with you. Abandoned tents are one of the biggest sources of festival waste.
A Warm Sleeping Bag
September nights get cold, so that old sleeping bag from when you were 13 won’t cut it. Pick up a cosy one—something in the €25–30 range should do the job. Argos usually has good options, and this isn’t something you want to skimp on.
Pillow or Pillowcase
For extra comfort, bring a pillow. If space is tight, just bring a pillowcase and stuff it with clothes for a DIY pillow.
Camping Chair
An underrated essential. Perfect for sitting around with mates and avoiding damp ground. You’ll be glad you brought one.
Gadgets & Power
Battery Pack
Avoid the queues (and fees) for charging your phone. A decent battery pack will keep you connected when you need to find your friends. Some even double up as torches, which is a bonus. You’ll find plenty in Tesco, Penneys, and most electronic shops.
Food & Drink
Cans
Stock up properly—three days is a long stretch, and you don’t want to be that person mooching cans on Saturday because you finished your stash Friday night. Remember: no glass is allowed. Stick to cans or plastic bottles, and pace yourself. Festivals are a marathon, not a sprint.
Snacks
Pack some easy-to-carry, non-perishable snacks (crisps, cereal bars, instant noodles). You’ll thank yourself when the queues are massive or you wake up starving.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated! Bring a refillable bottle—you can top up at water stations for free. Saves money and cuts down on plastic waste.
Clothes & Comfort
Socks & Underwear
Bring more than you think you’ll need. Wet weather and muddy grounds mean you’ll go through them faster than expected. Don’t end up paying €5 for a dodgy pair of novelty socks on-site.
Layers
Bring a mix of clothes: t-shirts for the day, hoodies/jumpers for the night, and a warm jacket. Irish weather can switch in minutes.
Wellies
If there’s rain in the forecast (spoiler: there usually is), wellies are essential. Penneys is your best bet for a cheap pair.
Hygiene
Baby Wipes & Towels
When showers are scarce, baby wipes become priceless. By Sunday, they’ll be worth more than gold. Bring plenty, plus a towel or two for good measure.
Earplugs
Protect your ears and give yourself a chance at a decent night’s sleep. Multipacks are available in pharmacies and music shops.
Toiletries
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Dry shampoo
- Moisturiser or hand sanitiser
- Lip balm
- Sun cream
Minding Yourself
Festivals are about having fun, but looking after yourself means you’ll actually enjoy the full weekend instead of burning out early.
- Stay hydrated: Alternate drinks with water, and refill your bottle often.
- Eat properly: Don’t just live on cans—snacks and a hot meal each day will keep your energy up.
- Rest when you can: Even a short kip in the afternoon can recharge you.
- Look after your mates: Stick together, share your location, and check in on each other.
- Know your limits: Drink at your own pace and be mindful of how you’re feeling.
- Mind your ears: Prolonged loud music can do damage, so wear earplugs at gigs.
Handy Extras
- Torch
- Speaker
- Bumbag or tote bag (keep valuables close)
- Hip flask
- Plastic bags or zip-lock bags (for rubbish or wet gear)
- Gazebo (perfect for group hangouts)
- Cash (not everywhere takes cards)
