Festival season is upon us. The sun is out, the air is warm, and you can feel the excitement in the air. Whether you're a seasoned festival veteran or this will be your first time attending one, we've got some tips that apply to both.
This isn't about which festival to go to next – that's for you lot to decide. This is about how you can make sure that your experience is a positive one from start to finish.
We've got all sorts of recommendations, but first, let's make sure that you're prepared for the main stage! Here are some tips to help you breeze through this year's festival season.
Slather on the sunscreen
This one is pretty obvious. While you're swaying (or moshing) in the crowd, the last thing you want is to end up with a sunburn. Not only will it hurt, but you'll also be at a greater risk of developing skin cancer if you're not in the habit of wearing sunscreen.
You may think that you're ok in the shade, but you won't be able to protect yourself with it. Check out your local pharmacy for advice on the most effective sunscreen for maximum protection from both UVA and UVB rays. Get yourself a bottle of good sunscreen and reapply at least every two hours. Don't forget the back of your neck and the sides of your arms!
Wear a comfortable hat
Even if the few days leading up to your festival don't feel like it's been scorching hot, the heat and humidity will come down on you quickly once you get closer to said festival and the sun starts shining in earnest. Keep yourself further protected from the sun's rays by wearing a hat.
We recommend either a baseball cap (go wild with your design choice) or a brimmed hat, because the worst thing you can do is get sunburned on your forehead. You'll also be able to shade your face from the afternoon sun, reducing the risk of skin cancer if you've been dancing outside all day.
Bring comfortable shoes
If you're planning to wear flip-flops or sandals, make sure that they're broken in. You should also pack at least two pairs of shoes. And make sure they are comfortable because you'll be on your feet all day. If your shoes are uncomfortable, you will be less likely to dance the night away and might take the first chance to get out of the festival for a bit. You don't want this to happen.
Be prepared with medical and emergency information
Just in case something goes wrong (and, let's face it, there's always something), there's no need to worry if you're prepared. Don't forget to bring along your emergency contact phone number and a digital copy of your medical information if you have allergies, etc. This will help ensure that medical services can be reached as quickly and safely as possible.
Don't forget to let someone know where you're staying, too. You'll be able to rest easier knowing that you have a clear map of the area and a way of reaching you if there's an emergency.
Pack light
You don't want to be running around trying to scramble to repack all the unnecessary junk you brought with you. Don't even get us started on the fact you'll have to lug it throughout the muddy campsite on the way home! Make sure that you bring only the essentials with you and don't over pack because, as always, less is more.
As you're going to be walking around during the day, keep your bag or pockets as light as possible. We recommend taking a small crossbody bag to free up your hands for dancing or other important things like sampling all the food trucks - always appreciated at festivals.
Don't forget the essentials
Other than your tent, sleeping bag, etc. (duh!) don't forget to bring toiletries with you in your backpack to help stave off the festival-induced funk. Things like bin bags, baby wipes, dry shampoo, sun cream, and plasters are multifunctional as well as handy in a flash.
You can always stock up on products when you're walking around at the festival, but it'll be nice to have them in your bag if you need one. Think of it as extra insurance against any unforeseen circumstances.
To wrap it all up
All these things are super important, but there are a few more things you should remember too. Always pay attention to your surroundings and avoid dangerous situations. We can't stress this enough: be careful and look after yourself.
Keep hydrated no matter what - it could just be a long hot summer day or it could be something that goes beyond the festival gates. Try to keep a bottle of water in your bag as well as a pack of energy drinks/caffeine-free energy drinks in your backpack.
Lastly, by all means, get your phone out to capture the memories, but don't let it distract you from the experience. Above all, have fun!
