Music Festival Cost: How Much You’ll Really Spend

Thinking about catching the next big gig but worried about the price? You’re not the only one. Festival costs can jump from a simple ticket to a full‑day wallet drain with food, transport and extra fees. This guide breaks down every line item so you can plan a budget that works, not just guess.

Ticket Prices – The Starting Point

Tickets are the biggest upfront cost, but they vary a lot. A three‑day major festival in England usually starts around £150 for a basic entry pass. Smaller regional events can be as low as £50. Early‑bird sales often shave off 10‑20% compared to last‑minute buying, so set a reminder for the first sales window. Also, watch out for “premium” zones – they look fancy but can double the price.

Travel, Food & Extras – The Hidden Spend

Getting there and keeping fed can add another £100‑£200. Trains or coaches from London to a countryside site are around £30‑£60 each way if you book early. Car‑pooling saves both fuel and parking fees, which can be £10‑£20 per day. Inside the festival, food stalls charge a premium – a burger that costs £5 at a local pub might be £12 at the site. Bring some snacks or a refillable water bottle (most festivals allow it) to cut that down.

Don’t forget extras like merch, lockers, or camping gear. A basic campsite spot is usually £30‑£45 for a weekend, but if you want a fenced area with electricity, expect £80 or more. Merchandise is tempting, but a t‑shirt can cost £25‑£35. Set a small “fun” budget – maybe £20‑£30 – and stick to it.

One useful trick: use a budgeting app on your phone. Enter the ticket price, estimated travel, and daily spend limits. When you see the total, you’ll know exactly how many friends you can bring or whether you need to skip a pricey add‑on.

If you’re flexible with dates, look for festivals that run on weekdays. They often have lower ticket prices and cheaper accommodation nearby. Also, keep an eye on discount codes from sponsors or radio contests – they can shave £10‑£20 off the entry fee.

Bottom line: a typical three‑day UK festival costs between £250 and £400 per person when you factor in tickets, travel, food, and camping. Planning ahead, buying early and controlling food spend can bring that number down by a good 20 %.