The Ultimate Festival Essentials Guide for the Season
Festival season is back, Ireland - and whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned muddy veteran, the right gear can make or break your weekend. From spontaneous showers to late-night dancing and early morning camping chaos, preparation is everything. That’s where Decathlon comes in.
We’ve put together a practical guide covering all the essentials you’ll need - from camping basics to comfort-enhancing extras. Read on, pack smart, and let nothing get in the way of a great time.
Shelter First : The Right Tent Makes All the Difference
When it comes to festival camping, your tent is more than just a place to sleep - it’s your refuge from rain, your changing room, your meeting point, and occasionally your only dry spot for miles.
If you're looking for speed and simplicity, the Quechua 2 Seconds Easy Tent is hard to beat. Designed for hassle-free setup, it lets you spend more time enjoying the music and less time fumbling with poles. Plus, with a waterproof rating suited for Irish weather, you won’t have to worry if the clouds roll in.
For those on a tighter budget - or looking to share with friends - the MH100 3 Person Tent in Grey is a brilliant alternative. At just €41, it’s spacious enough for three people (or two with extra gear), offers solid protection from wind and rain, and packs down easily for transport. It’s a reliable, no-fuss option that gets the job done without stretching your wallet.
To make sure you sleep comfortably, don’t settle for a thin roll mat. The Mattress Air Basic 70 is lightweight, quick to inflate, and provides just the right amount of cushioning after a long day on your feet. Travelling as a duo or trio? It's also available in 120cm and 140cm widths - perfect for couples or friends sharing a tent. Pair it with a compact sleeping bag like the Arpenaz 20° and a comfort pillow for a restful night, no matter how late the party goes.
Stay Dry, Keep Dancing : The Festival Waterproofs You’ll Rely On
Let’s face it - you’re not going to outsmart Irish weather. But with the right waterproofs, you can dance straight through it.
The Poncho FORCLAZ MT 50 is a festival essential : light enough to pack in your day bag, yet sturdy enough to keep you dry during a full-on downpour. It folds into its own pocket, making it ideal for space-saving. For colder nights, layering is key - and the Forclaz Fleece MH100 provides cosy warmth without bulk. It’s breathable, quick-drying, and perfect for everything from queueing for food to watching the sunrise by your tent.
Layer smart: waterproof outer, warm inner, and breathable base layers - that’s the golden trio for surviving Irish festival conditions.
Food, Drink & Hygiene : The Underrated Comforts
Being able to cook a hot meal or make a morning coffee at your campsite can feel like a small luxury. Decathlon’s cooking gear is compact, lightweight, and easy to use - ideal for festivals.
Our range of camping cooksets includes compact kits for one, two, or more people, with pots, pans, and utensils designed to nest together. Whether you’re after something simple for tea and porridge or planning full meals at the campsite, there’s a set to match your needs and your group size.
To keep your food and drinks fresh, the 25-litre Fresh Cooler box 500 is a game changer. It fits comfortably in most tents, keeps essentials cool for 15 hours, and is perfect for snacks, water, or cold cans to share with friends.
Don’t forget the little things : biodegradable wipes, a microfibre towel, a roll of toilet paper in a ziplock bag, and plenty of hand sanitiser go a long way in keeping you feeling fresh and functional.
Food, Drink & Hygiene : The Underrated Comforts
Being able to cook a hot meal or make a morning coffee at your campsite can feel like a small luxury. Decathlon’s cooking gear is compact, lightweight, and easy to use - ideal for festivals.
Our range of camping cooksets includes compact kits for one, two, or more people, with pots, pans, and utensils designed to nest together. Whether you’re after something simple for tea and porridge or planning full meals at the campsite, there’s a set to match your needs and your group size.
To keep your food and drinks fresh, the 25-litre Fresh Cooler box 500 is a game changer. It fits comfortably in most tents, keeps essentials cool for 15 hours, and is perfect for snacks, water, or cold cans to share with friends.
Don’t forget the little things : biodegradable wipes, a microfibre towel, a roll of toilet paper in a ziplock bag, and plenty of hand sanitiser go a long way in keeping you feeling fresh and functional.
Smart Packing : Bags, Lights & Power
Your daypack is your lifeline during the festival - it holds everything from sunscreen to snacks to your phone. That’s why it’s worth investing in a bag that’s spacious, comfortable, and designed for the outdoors.
The NH500 23L Escape Roll Top Backpack is a strong contender. It features multiple compartments to keep your gear organised, and its roll-top design makes it easy to adjust for space while staying compact enough for treks between stages and your campsite.
For valuables and essentials you want close at all times - like your phone, tickets or bank card - consider adding the Discreet Travel Trekking Bum Bag. It’s lightweight, secure, and designed to sit comfortably under your clothing, with RFID protection for peace of mind.
Navigating back to your tent in the dark? A reliable light source is non-negotiable. The Camping Lamp BL100 is compact, easy to hang inside your tent or carry around camp, and provides up to 26 hours of soft, reliable lighting - just what you need for late-night toilet runs or sorting your gear after sunset.
And speaking of charging - a USB Power Bank with Handwarmer Function is a clever multitasker. It keeps your phone going through the weekend and takes the edge off chilly evenings.
Add Some Comfort : Sit, Chill, and Enjoy the Moment
Festival life isn’t all high energy. In between sets, you'll want somewhere dry, comfortable, and clean to rest, snack, or simply take in the vibes.
Start with the Folding Camping Chair - compact, easy to carry, and surprisingly comfy for a simple design. It’s ideal for relaxing at the campsite with friends or claiming a spot in front of the stage without standing for hours.
Pair it with the Comfort Picnic Blanket (170 x 140 cm), which doubles as a cosy spot to lie down or a handy surface for food and drinks. Add a small shelter or pop-up parasol if the sun’s out, and you’ve created your own mini oasis amid the festival madness.
Accessory Add-Ons: Don’t Leave These Behind
These aren’t always the first things people pack, but they’re often the ones most missed:
- Earplugs and an eye mask - for a decent sleep when the music never really stops.
- Reusable water bottle - staying hydrated is essential.
- Sunscreen and insect repellent - the unglamorous lifesavers.
- Bin bags - not just for rubbish, but for muddy boots or makeshift ponchos.
Ready to Pack Like a Pro?
Don’t leave it to the last minute. Whether you’re dancing in a downpour or relaxing under the stars, having the right gear means you can focus on what really matters - enjoying the moment.
Shop online at Decathlon.ie or visit your local store to get everything you need for festival season.
We’ve even put together ready-to-go bundles packed with essentials - tailored to solo campers, duos, and groups - so you can gear up quickly.
Need more information? Our team is available to answer all your questions, Monday to Friday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Festival season is unpredictable. Your gear shouldn’t be. Skip the stress, pack the basics, and let the weekend take care of the rest.
Get ready to rough it in style !
