What to Bring to a Rave (and What to Leave at Home)

The best nights are the ones where you forget about everything except the music. That’s much easier if you sorted the practical stuff before you left the house.

The checklist

• Photo ID: passport, driving licence or a PASS card. Many UK venues scan IDs at the door and won’t let you in without one, whatever your age.
• Your ticket, downloaded to your phone, in case the signal drops inside.
• Phone with battery, and a small power bank if your venue allows it.
• Bank card and a little cash: most bars are card-only now, but cloakrooms and taxis sometimes aren’t.
• Earplugs, ideally filtered ones for music. More on this in protecting your ears.
• A light layer for the queue and the way home.
• A plan to get home: Night Tube, night bus, a taxi app or a friend who’s staying sober.

Nice to have

• Lip balm and a small pack of tissues.
• A reusable bottle, if the venue lets you refill it.
• Any medication you need, in its original packaging.

What to leave at home

• Big bags: they slow down the search at the door and the cloakroom.
• Valuables you don’t need.
• Glass, aerosols and anything sharp: banned almost everywhere.
• Anything illegal. Searches are common and some venues use sniffer dogs.

Look after yourself and others

• Drink water regularly, and eat before you go out.
• Agree a meeting point with your mates in case you lose each other.
• If someone isn’t well, tell the venue staff or welfare team. Most UK clubs have trained staff for exactly that.

Going for the first time? Read Techno for beginners and what to wear, then pick your night in our UK techno listings.

FAQs

Do I need ID for a rave in the UK?

Almost always. Most venues require photo ID at the door, even if you look older than 18.

Can I bring a bag to a rave?

Usually a small one. Big bags may be refused or need the cloakroom. Check the event page.

Should I bring earplugs to a techno night?

Yes. Filtered earplugs cut the volume without spoiling the sound.