#15 Ways to Make the Most of a Music Festival

Summer is here and that means getting your groove on at some of the country’s top music festivals. Music lovers everywhere will be flocking to these festivals and whether you’re a festival veteran or a newbie – here are some clever ways to make your experience the most pleasurable:

#1 The Tent

So, you’ve spend a sizeable chunk on tickets but don’t be tempted to go cheap on your accommodation. Your comfort can make or break a festival so invest in a decent tent. This is your home from home and can always be used for other camping trips. Make sure it has good ventilation and is big enough for you and your stuff. You wouldn’t want to find that a cheap tent is not water or wind proof in the middle of the night!

#2 The Bandana

This isn’t about fashion, it’s about being practical – but hey if it looks cool too, then great! If it gets hot and dusty or there’s grass seeds flying about then placing a bandana over your mouth and nose could save you a lot of irritation when you’re trying to have fun. Keep your skin out of the harsh glare of the sun too by wearing it on your head.

#3 The Game Plan

Know exactly which bands you want to see before you get there to make the experience run a lot smoother. Check out the lesser acts as well as the headliners. Having a plan means you won’t miss the all-important stuff you want to see by getting caught up elsewhere. It doesn’t have to be a military operation but a little thought goes a long way when there’s so much to see that it can all get a bit overwhelming.

#4 The Attire

Yes, you want to look amazing but heels are probably not the best idea. Loose, comfortable clothing that can keep you cool and some layers for after-dark are advisable. Shoes you are comfortable in will be the most important aspect as there’ll be a lot of walking and dancing. Nobody wants blisters or a sprained ankle on day one! Remember, if it rains – it could get muddy very quickly.

#5 The Position

Where you choose to pitch your tent will have a big impact on the enjoyability factor. Pitch it at the bottom of slope and you could wake up to find your sleeping bag in 2 inches of rain water! Too close to a walkway and you’ll get no peace as people trample right past your tent. You might want to be close to the action but you should keep some distance as when it’s time to grab some zzz’s, your tent will be vibrating from the bass!

#6 The Budget

Don’t blow all your money on living like royalty for the first day. Set yourself a daily budget and try to stick to it. Include budgeting for essential items like food and drink which can be pricey at festivals. Set yourself a little aside if you really want to buy merchandise but don’t take it out of your daily living budget.

#7 The Other Stuff

Many people just focus on the music and headlining acts at big festivals but if you have the chance, try to discover some of the non-music events on offer. Festivals have heaps of activities from literature readings, poetry, dance companies, comedians, plays and many other attractions. Try to soak up as much of the unique and diverse atmosphere as you can.

#8 The Community

Making friends with those in the tents next to yours is a great idea for several reasons. Firstly, you might make friends for life – who knows what amazing relationships could be forged? Secondly, the whole festival atmosphere is so much better when people are talking, laughing and sharing beers (in case you run out!). Thirdly, if you need to grab some food or a toilet break then you have someone to keep an eye on your stuff!

#9 The Sensible Stuff

Remember to stay hydrated. You can get so swept up in the moment, the music and dancing that it’s easy to forget to keep your energy and hydration levels constantly topped up. A weekend festival is physically gruelling, especially in the heat so keep your fluid and sugar levels up and if you’re not sleeping much at night then be sure to take naps in the afternoon. Go easy on the alcohol too as this dehydrates.

#10 The Load Lightener

Savvy festival-goers will know that the only way to carry all your equipment is to take a wagon or cart. Why put it all on your back when you can push it instead? Make life easier, more fun and a whole lot less sweaty. A car camping pass will cost more but the convenience of having somewhere to store your gear is well worth the money too.

#11 The Hygiene

Life will be a lot more comfortable and sweeter smelling if you remember to pack items like hand sanitizer, wet wipes and dry shampoo. You won’t always be in a position to have a wash so hand sanitizer is a great way to stay clean in less than rather unsanitary environments.

#12 The Meet-up Point

In such a crowded place, with thousands of people milling around, it’s easy to become separated from your buddies. Agree on a contingency plan ahead of time by choosing a recognisable place or landmark to meet up should you get split up.

#13 The Hacks

One top tip of festival veterans is to eat late. The later you go to food vendors, the cheaper your food might be as discounts are offered on food that they would otherwise have to throw away. The best time to try is right after the music has stopped playing for the night.

#14 The Sun

Don’t underestimate the power of the sun. Getting bad sunburn on day one will ruin your experience so be sure to cover yourself with a high factor sun lotion and wear a hat!

#15 The Clean-Up

Be responsible and respect the countryside by making sure you pick up after yourself. Picking up some trash will inspire others to do the same so remember to foster a good festival-goer attitude and watch the positivity spread!