Festival tote bag resting on a blanket with the festival grounds in the background.

The Best Bags for Festivals & Concerts? Why Tote Bags Win

Why Tote Bags Are the Perfect Festival Companion 🎶

Are tote bags good for festivals and concerts? If you've ever wondered what bag to take to your next music event, you're not alone. Choosing the right bag can make or break your festival experience. Tote bags aren’t just a good option—they’re one of the best choices for festivals and concerts. Here’s why.

1. Spacious and Practical 🎒

One of the biggest challenges at festivals is carrying your essentials without feeling weighed down. Tote bags are ideal because they’re:

  • Roomy enough for your water bottle, sunscreen, snacks, and portable charger.
  • Lightweight when empty, so you’re not adding unnecessary weight.
  • Easy to pack away when not in use.

Whether you're at Glastonbury or a local gig, a tote bag lets you carry your stuff without fuss. You can browse our tote bag collection to find one that suits your festival style.

2. Quick and Easy Access ✋

You don’t want to be fumbling with zips while balancing your festival burger and drink. Tote bags offer:

  • Open-top design for fast access.
  • Simple structure so you can find things quickly.
  • No fiddly compartments to slow you down.

When you're navigating crowds or switching between stages, this makes a big difference.

🎵 Looking for a festival-ready tote? Browse our festival-ready tote bags collection of unique, handcrafted designs.

Couple at a festival, with the woman carrying a colorful tote bag.

3. Comfortable to Carry 💃

At a festival or concert, you’re on your feet all day. The last thing you want is a bag that digs into your shoulder or feels awkward. Tote bags are:

  • Soft and flexible, moving with you as you dance.
  • Often equipped with broad shoulder straps that distribute weight evenly.
  • Easy to sling over one shoulder or carry by hand.

Your focus should be on the music—not adjusting an uncomfortable bag.

4. Festival-Friendly Features 🎤

Tote bags might seem simple, but that’s exactly what makes them so effective at festivals. They’re:

  • Big enough to carry merchandise, a rain poncho, or even a light jacket.
  • Simple enough to get through concert security checks quickly (especially if you're not required to have a clear bag).
  • Flexible enough to roll up and stash away when not needed.

If you want to keep smaller items like earplugs, lip balm, or snacks organised inside your tote, our zipper pouch collection is perfect for the job.

Pro Tip: Always check the venue’s bag policy. Some concerts may require clear bags, but for festivals, tote bags are usually accepted. For example, the Reading Festival's official guidelines state that attendees are limited to one A4-sized bag per person when entering the arena. There are no specific size restrictions for bags in the campsite areas, but all bags may be subject to search upon entry.

5. How to Pack Your Tote Bag for a Festival 🎯

Here’s how to make the most of your tote bag at a festival or concert:

Essentials to Pack:

  • Tickets and ID
  • Mobile phone + portable charger
  • Small wallet or cardholder
  • Water bottle
  • Sunscreen
  • Lightweight rain poncho
  • Sunglasses

Packing Tips:

  • Use smaller pouches inside your tote to keep things organised.
  • Keep valuables near the top for easy access.
  • Don’t overpack—you’ll be carrying it all day!

Tote Bag Pros and Cons 📝

Pros Cons
Lightweight and easy to carry Open top design isn’t the most secure
Roomy enough for essentials No specific compartments
Comfortable straps May not be allowed in all concert arenas
Quick access to contents Less protection from rain
Folds away easily when not needed Can get heavy if overpacked

Frequently Asked Questions ❓

Can I take a tote bag into a concert arena?

It depends on the venue. Some arenas limit bag size or require clear bags. Always check the event's bag policy in advance. For example, Reading Festival limits bags to A4 size inside the arena.

Are tote bags better than backpacks for festivals?

Tote bags are usually more convenient because they’re easier to access and quicker to check at security. However, if you need to carry heavier items, a backpack may be more comfortable.

What’s the best way to keep valuables safe in a tote bag?

Use smaller zipped pouches inside your tote to keep items like your phone, wallet, and tickets secure and organised. Our zipper pouch collection is ideal for this.

Can I take a clear tote bag to a concert?

Many concerts and arenas require clear bags for security reasons. A clear tote bag may be the best option if the venue has strict bag policies. Always check before you go.

What size tote bag is best for a festival?

A medium-sized tote that comfortably holds your essentials without being too bulky is ideal. If you're entering an arena, check specific size restrictions—some, like Reading Festival, limit bags to A4 size.

Final Thoughts: Are Tote Bags Good for Festivals and Concerts? ✅

Absolutely. Tote bags are practical, lightweight, and easy to carry, making them the perfect choice for festivals and concerts. They give you enough space for all your essentials without weighing you down or making security checks stressful.

Next Steps:

If you're looking for a tote bag that's sturdy, stylish, and festival-ready, check out our full tote bag collection. You’ll find unique designs that look great and are built to last through every gig and grassy dance floor.


This blog post is for informational purposes only. Always check the latest guidelines and policies for the event you’re attending, as bag restrictions may vary.

 

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