Glastonbury Festival is one of the world’s most famous music events. Every June, thousands of people gather in Somerset, England, for five days of music, art, and camping. If you’re planning to attend, you need to know how much camping at Glastonbury really costs.
It’s not just about the ticket price. There are many extra expenses—some obvious, others easy to miss. This guide breaks down all the costs, from the ticket to camping gear, so you can budget confidently and avoid surprises.
Glastonbury Ticket Price And What It Includes
The starting point for camping at Glastonbury is the festival ticket. For 2024, the standard ticket price is £355 plus a £5 booking fee. This ticket gives you:
- Entry to the festival for all five days
- Access to the main campsites (general camping)
- Use of basic toilets and water points
But it does not include parking, campervan spots, or any special camping upgrades. Tickets sell out fast, usually within minutes. You must register in advance to buy one.
Additional Ticket Costs
Some costs are easy to overlook:
- Coach Packages: If you buy a ticket with a coach package (transport from major UK cities), you pay about £450–£500. This includes both your ticket and round-trip coach travel.
- Parking Pass: If you drive, parking is £55 for cars and £120 for campervans. This is per vehicle, not per person.
Types Of Camping At Glastonbury
There are several ways to camp at Glastonbury, each with different costs. Here’s how they compare:
| Camping Type | Extra Cost | Included Facilities | Popular With |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Camping | £0 | Basic toilets, water points | Most attendees |
| Family Camping | £0 | Quieter area, basic facilities | Families |
| Campervan Field | £120 | Space for vehicle, water points | Groups, families |
| Glamping (Pre-pitched tents) | £600–£3,000 | Luxury tents, showers, toilets | Those seeking comfort |
| Accessible Camping | £0 | Accessible facilities | Disabled attendees |
General Camping
Most festival-goers use the general campsites. These are included with your ticket, so there’s no extra charge. You bring your own tent and camping gear. Facilities are basic—expect portable toilets, some water taps, and no showers.
Campervan And Caravans
If you want to camp in a campervan or caravan, you need a special pass (£120). This allows you to park in a dedicated area. You must bring your own vehicle and sleeping setup. These fields fill up quickly, and you must buy the pass when you buy your ticket.
Glamping Options
For those who don’t want to rough it, glamping is available. Glastonbury has several luxury camping providers (like Worthy View, Tangerine Fields). Prices range from £600 for a basic pre-pitched tent to £3,000+ for luxury yurts or cabins. Glamping includes:
- Pre-pitched tents or cabins
- Beds and bedding
- Access to showers and clean toilets
- Security and reception staff
This is much more expensive but offers comfort and convenience.
Essential Camping Gear And Costs
Even if you choose general camping, you need to bring your own gear. Many first-timers underestimate these costs. Here’s what you need:
- Tent: £50–£150 for a reliable waterproof tent. Cheap tents can fail in bad weather.
- Sleeping Bag: £20–£70. Nights can be cold.
- Camping Mat or Air Mattress: £15–£40. Makes sleeping more comfortable.
- Camping Chair: £10–£30. Useful for relaxing.
- Cooking Equipment: Most people bring a small gas stove (£20–£40), cookware (£10–£30), and utensils.
- Water Bottle: £5–£15. Essential for refilling at water points.
- Rain Gear: Waterproof jacket (£30–£80) and boots (£20–£60). The weather is unpredictable.
- Backpack: £20–£60. For carrying items from the car or coach.
- Torch or Headlamp: £10–£20. Campsites get very dark at night.
- Toiletries & Hygiene: Wet wipes, toilet paper, hand sanitizer (£10–£20).
If you need to buy everything new, expect to spend £200–£500. Many festival-goers borrow gear or buy used to save money.
Pro Tip
Don’t forget power banks for your phone (£20–£40). Charging points are rare and often crowded.
Food And Drink Expenses
Glastonbury allows you to bring your own food and drink. However, most people buy meals from festival vendors. Prices are higher than usual.
- Breakfast: £5–£10
- Lunch: £8–£15
- Dinner: £10–£20
- Coffee/Tea: £3–£5
- Alcoholic Drinks: £6–£8 per pint
If you eat from stalls three times a day, you’ll spend £70–£120 daily. Over five days, that’s £350–£600. You can save by bringing snacks or cooking at your campsite.
Comparison: Eating Out Vs. Self-catering
| Food Option | Estimated Cost (5 Days) | Effort Needed | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Festival Food Stalls | £350–£600 | None | Convenient, variety | Expensive |
| Self-Catering | £50–£100 | High | Cheap, healthy | Heavy to carry, limited choices |
Alcohol And Drinks
You can bring your own alcohol, but glass bottles are banned. Many buy drinks on-site, which adds up quickly. For heavy drinkers, alcohol costs can rival the ticket price.
Extra Costs Many People Forget
Some camping costs are easy to miss. Here are two overlooked expenses:
- Locker Rental: Secure lockers are available (£10–£20 per day). They’re useful for valuables and phone charging.
- Showers: There are few showers for general campers. Some pay £10–£15 for access to private showers in glamping areas.
Medical And Safety Supplies
Minor injuries and illness are common at festivals. Bring a first aid kit (£5–£15) and basic medicine. Buying these on-site can be expensive.
Waste And Environmental Costs
Leaving your tent or gear behind is common, but it damages the environment. Glastonbury encourages you to take everything home. If you want to recycle your tent on-site, some companies charge a small fee (£5–£10).
Total Camping Cost Breakdown
To help you plan, here’s a typical budget for camping at Glastonbury for one person, using general camping:
| Item | Cost (£) |
|---|---|
| Festival Ticket | 355 |
| Booking Fee | 5 |
| Parking (if driving) | 55 |
| Camping Gear (tent, sleeping bag, etc.) | 250 |
| Food & Drink (mix of self-catering and stalls) | 300 |
| Other (lockers, showers, power bank) | 40 |
| Total (without glamping) | 1005 |
| Glamping Upgrade (if chosen) | 600–3000 |
Your costs will be lower if you share gear or cook your own food. They’ll be much higher with glamping or luxury extras.
Ways To Save Money At Glastonbury
Camping at Glastonbury doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some smart ways to cut costs:
- Share Gear: Go with friends and split tents, stoves, and other equipment.
- Buy Used Gear: Many people sell barely-used festival tents online.
- Bring Your Own Food: Pack easy-to-cook meals and snacks.
- Volunteer: Volunteers get free tickets and camping but must work shifts.
- Look for Early Bird Deals: Some glamping providers offer discounts for early bookings.
- Carpool: Split parking and fuel costs with other attendees.
- Pack Light: Only bring what you really need. Heavy bags mean expensive taxis or long walks.
Non-obvious Insights For First-time Campers
- Camp Early for Best Spots: Arrive early, before the crowds, to claim a flat, dry camping area. Late arrivals often end up on slopes or muddy patches.
- Bring Earplugs: Campsites are noisy all night. Earplugs (£5) can help you sleep.
- Budget for Unexpected Expenses: Prices inside the festival change year to year. Always keep £50–£100 for emergencies or extra comfort.
Is Glastonbury Camping Worth The Cost?
For many people, camping at Glastonbury is part of the festival magic. It’s a unique experience—music, community, and adventure. But it’s not cheap. Expect to spend at least £1,000 for a basic trip, and much more if you want comfort.
Planning ahead and budgeting carefully will help you enjoy every moment without stress.
If you want more details about the festival’s official policies and camping options, visit the Glastonbury Festival official site.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does A Glamping Tent Cost At Glastonbury?
Glamping tents start at around £600 for basic setups and can go up to £3,000 for luxury options like yurts or cabins. Prices depend on size, location, and included amenities.
Can I Camp For Free At Glastonbury?
Your festival ticket includes access to general camping areas at no extra charge. However, you must bring your own tent and gear. Parking, campervan passes, and glamping cost extra.
Are Showers Available In The General Campsites?
Most general campsites have very limited or no showers. Some private showers are available in glamping areas for a fee (£10–£15). Many people use wet wipes or portable wash kits.
Can I Bring My Own Food And Drink?
Yes, you can bring food and drink, but glass bottles are banned. Many people cook simple meals at their campsite to save money, but food stalls are also available if you prefer convenience.
What Is The Cheapest Way To Camp At Glastonbury?
The cheapest option is general camping with your own gear, sharing equipment with friends, and cooking your own meals. Avoid glamping, buy used tents, and carpool to reduce costs.
Camping at Glastonbury is an unforgettable experience, but the costs add up fast. With careful planning and smart choices, you can enjoy the festival without overspending. Remember, the memories are worth every penny if you prepare well.
