Heading to a music festival this summer? Make sure you don’t get caught out. Follow our handy music festival survival guide below to double-check you are prepared for the long but exciting weekend ahead of you!
Preparation and Packing
Essential Items
- Tickets and ID: Ensure you have your festival ticket, ID, and any parking passes safely packed. Keep a digital copy on your phone and a printed version.
- Cash and Cards: Carry a mix of cash and cards. Some vendors might be cash-only, while others might accept cards. Or make sure to set up your cards on Android/Apple Pay if you’re worried about taking your cards with you.
- Portable Charger: Invest in a high-capacity portable charger. Festivals often drain phone batteries quickly due to constant picture-taking and usage of the festival app.
- Water Bottle: Bring a reusable water bottle with a clip to attach to your bag. Hydration stations are common, and this saves money and reduces waste.
- Sun Protection: Pack high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses with UV protection, and consider a bandana for neck protection.
- Comfortable Clothing: Wear breathable, weather-appropriate clothes. Bring layers for cool evenings and pack a light rain jacket or poncho.
- Sturdy Footwear: Wear broken-in, comfortable shoes or boots suitable for walking and standing all day. Waterproof options are a bonus.
- First Aid Kit: Include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, painkillers, allergy medication, and any personal medication in a small kit.
- Earplugs: Protect your hearing, especially if you plan to be near the front of the stage. High-fidelity earplugs maintain sound quality.
- Snacks: Pack energy bars, nuts, dried fruits, and other non-perishable snacks. These are crucial if you get hungry between meals or need a quick energy boost.
Optional but Helpful Items
- Rain Gear: A poncho or waterproof jacket can be a lifesaver in unpredictable weather, especially in the UK.
- Blanket or Tarp: Useful for sitting or resting on the ground during breaks.
- Backpack or Fanny Pack: Choose a comfortable, secure bag for carrying your essentials.
- Toilet Paper: Festivals often run out, so having your own stash can be very handy.
- Hand Sanitiser: Essential for maintaining hygiene when handwashing facilities are limited.
- Wet Wipes: Great for freshening up and cleaning hands.
- Reusable Cutlery: Environmentally friendly and useful for food stalls that might not provide utensils.
Navigating the Festival Grounds
Arrival and Set-Up
- Arrive Early: Get to the festival early to avoid long lines and secure a good camping or parking spot.
- Mark Your Territory: Use flags, lights, or unique markers to easily identify your campsite or car.
- Learn the Layout: Familiarise yourself with the festival map, noting the locations of stages, toilets, water stations, food vendors, and first aid tents.
Scheduling and Events
- Plan Your Schedule: Prioritise must-see acts but remain flexible for spontaneous discoveries.
- Download the Festival App: If available, use it for real-time updates, setlists, and notifications.
- Meet-Up Points: Designate specific times and places to meet friends in case you get separated. Choose easily recognisable landmarks.
Health and Hygiene
Hydration and Nutrition
- Drink Plenty of Water: Aim for at least 8 cups a day, more if it’s hot or you’re drinking alcohol.
- Balanced Diet: Eat regular meals with a mix of proteins, carbs, and vegetables. Visit a variety of food stalls to keep your diet balanced.
- Limit Alcohol and Caffeine: Both can dehydrate you. Alternate alcoholic drinks with water and don’t overdo the caffeine.
Personal Hygiene
- Hand Washing: Always wash your hands before eating. Use hand sanitiser when water isn’t available.
- Use Sanitiser: Regularly sanitise your hands, especially after using toilets and before eating.
- Stay Clean: Use wet wipes for a quick refresh. Change clothes regularly to feel fresh and avoid infections.
Surviving the Toilets
Preparation
- Scope Out Clean Toilets: Early in the day or just after they’ve been cleaned, check out the cleanest festival toilets.
- Carry Supplies: Always have toilet paper, hand sanitiser, and wet wipes in your bag.
Usage Tips
- Avoid Peak Times: Early morning or late night are usually less busy.
- Be Quick and Efficient: Limit time to reduce exposure to germs and ensure others can use the facilities.
- Hover if Necessary: If the toilet is particularly unsanitary, consider hovering rather than sitting directly on the seat.
- Hand Hygiene: Use hand sanitiser after touching any surfaces. Wash hands thoroughly if possible.
Staying Safe
Personal Safety
- Stay Aware: Keep an eye on your surroundings and be mindful of personal space.
- Stick with Friends: There’s safety in numbers. Move around in groups, especially at night.
- Know Emergency Exits: Familiarise yourself with the festival’s emergency procedures and exits. Identify the nearest first aid points.
Belongings
- Keep Valuables Safe: Use a money belt or secure pocket for essentials. Avoid carrying too much cash.
- Lock Your Tent: If camping, use a small lock to secure your tent when you’re not there. Don’t leave valuables unattended.
Enjoying the Experience
Engage with the Community
- Be Friendly: Festivals are a great place to meet new people. Be open and friendly.
- Respect Others: Be mindful of space, noise levels, and personal boundaries.
Capture Memories
- Take Photos: Document your experience, but don’t spend the entire time on your phone.
- Enjoy the Moment: Put your phone away periodically and fully immerse yourself in the music and atmosphere.
Dealing with Exhaustion
- Rest: Don’t overexert yourself. Take regular breaks and get enough sleep.
- Cool Down: Find shade or a cool spot if you feel overheated. Wet a bandana with cold water and wear it around your neck.
Emergency Situations
- Know First Aid Locations: Familiarise yourself with the location of medical tents and first aid stations.
- Seek Help Immediately: If you or someone else feels unwell, seek help right away. Don’t hesitate to approach festival staff or security.
Post-Festival Recovery
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water after the festival to rehydrate.
- Rest: Give yourself time to recover. Take it easy for a day or two.
- Clean Up: Thoroughly shower and wash your belongings. Check for ticks if you’ve been in grassy areas.
- Reflect and Share: Share your experiences and memories with friends. Reflect on what went well and what you could do differently next time.
Conclusion
Attending a music festival can be one of the most exhilarating experiences, but it’s essential to be well-prepared to ensure it remains enjoyable and safe. By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be equipped to handle the challenges and fully immerse yourself in the festival atmosphere. Stay hydrated, stay safe, and most importantly, have fun!
