Home Backline Hire Backline Equipment Stage Management Contact Get Quote
✓
Festival backline checklist • shared kits • fast changeovers
Home / Blog / Festival Backline Checklist

Festival Backline Hire Checklist (UK)

Shared kit policy, changeovers, drum/amp/keys specs, spares, access windows — plus a copy/paste advance email template.

Backline Hire Service → Get a Quote
On this page

1) Set the shared kit policy (first)

If you want fast changeovers, the policy has to be clear. The most common UK approach: festival provides shells + core hardware; artists bring cymbals, snare, kick pedal.

If you’re unsure what to supply, link your full list: Backline Equipment.

2) Standardise the spec

  • Drums: choose one consistent kit size/config for the day
  • Amps: provide “equivalent OK” options where possible
  • Keys: confirm stand type + DI needs (mono/stereo) early

3) Make changeovers painless

  • Agree drum positioning + stage left/right conventions
  • Label everything and keep spares ready
  • If the schedule is tight, consider an on-site tech/stage support

4) Spares that save the day

  • Spare instrument leads, DI, IEC leads, adaptors
  • Drum spares: clutch, felts, springs, key, wingnuts
  • One extra snare stand or hi-hat stand on busy stages

Copy/paste advance email template

Subject: Festival backline hire – advance + quote request (DATE + VENUE) Hi EV-ENTZ, We’re advancing a festival / multi-act show and need backline hire. Event date(s): Venue + postcode: Get-in time / access window(s): Schedule (soundcheck/doors/sets/curfew): Access notes (parking, stairs/lift, distance to stage): Acts + changeovers: - Number of acts: - Shared kit policy (Yes/No/Hybrid): - What artists bring (cymbals/snare/pedals/etc): Backline required: - Drums (sizes/config): - Guitar amps (qty + preference / equivalent OK): - Bass rig (qty + preference + DI needs): - Keys (instrument + stand type + DI mono/stereo): Support needed: - Delivery only / delivery + setup / on-site tech Day-of contact name + phone: Thanks, [NAME]

Need festival backline that runs on time?

Send the checklist above and we’ll come back with options and a clear plan.

Request a Quote →
Backline Hire Stage Management

FAQ

What is a festival shared backline kit?

A standardised set of backline used by multiple acts to keep changeovers fast — often drum shells + core hardware, sometimes amps.

What do artists usually bring?

Commonly cymbals, snare and kick pedal, plus any essential pedals or specialist accessories.

Do I need a backline tech at a festival?

If you have multiple acts and tight changeovers, an on-site tech prevents delays and fixes small issues immediately.