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Attending your first music festival can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. Amid the pulsing energy, vibrant lights, and cacophony of music, there’s a lot to take in and a lot to prepare for. Whether you’re planning to dance all night, camp with friends, or just soak in the atmosphere, a little preparation can make your festival experience unforgettable—in the best way possible. In this guide, we’ll cover indispensable tips for festival newcomers, from packing essentials like baby wipes and sturdy shoes to having a contingency plan in case you get lost. We’ll also touch on the dos and don’ts of festival behavior, including drug use, tent setup, and even spur-of-the-moment relationships. Read on to arm yourself with the knowledge you need to make your first festival not just a weekend to remember, but a safe and enjoyable one. “`
Bring baby wipes to stay clean at a festival
“` Music festivals, especially those that involve camping, can get notoriously messy. From face paint and glitter to dust and mud, it doesn’t take much to go from pristine to grungy. Baby wipes are a lifesaver in this arena. They are compact, convenient, and can be used for more than just cleaning your hands. Use them to freshen up your face, remove makeup, or even give your body a quick wipe-down when showers aren’t accessible. Moreover, baby wipes can be a great tool for a quick refresh in the middle of the day. Many festivals lack adequate shower facilities, especially during peak times. A few swipes with a baby wipe can make you feel human again, boosting both your hygiene and your mood, so you can make the most of your festival experience. “`
If you’re going to do drugs at a music festival, do them right
“` Drug use at music festivals is a reality that isn’t going away. If you choose to partake, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. First and foremost, know your source. Using drugs of unknown origin can be extremely dangerous. If possible, use a drug-testing kit, which is often available at harm reduction tents or may be brought along personally. These kits can help you verify the substance to avoid ingesting something harmful. Equally important is pacing yourself. Music festivals are marathons, not sprints. Stay hydrated, take breaks and remember that mixing substances can amplify risks. Look out for friends and employ the buddy system—if anyone feels unwell, seek medical help immediately. Many festivals have medical tents staffed with professionals who are there to help, not judge. “`
Agree on a meeting place near the festival main stage in case anyone gets properly lost
“` With large crowds and constant movement, it’s easy to get separated from your group, especially as phone signals can be spotty. Before your festival adventure begins, agree on a clear, easy-to-find meeting spot near a significant landmark like the main stage. This will save you from endless wandering and stressing out over lost friends. Additionally, set specific meeting times, so if one member of your group feels like exploring on their own for a while, everyone knows when and where to reconvene. Flexibility is key, but having these fixed points will help maintain a sense of structure amidst the chaos. “`
Bring someone sensible who can set up a festival tent
“` If your festival experience includes camping, proficient tent setup is crucial. Tents can be tricky, especially if you’re new to camping. Bringing along someone who has experience with tents can make all the difference. They can ensure that your tent is properly secured, keeping you dry and safe from the elements. If no one in your group is particularly skilled at setting up tents, consider practicing before you go. Watch tutorial videos, do a few test runs in your backyard, and get comfortable with the setup process. A well-pitched tent is vital for a good night’s sleep, which in turn, ensures you have enough energy for the rest of the festival activities. “`
Think very seriously about whether you want to actually have sex with a stranger at a music festival
“` The euphoric atmosphere of a music festival can make spontaneous decisions, like sex with a stranger, seem more appealing than they might otherwise be. However, it’s important to consider both emotional and physical implications. Ensure mutual consent, and always use protection to safeguard against STDs and unwanted pregnancies. Moreover, the festival environment is not the most private or hygienic, which can make the experience less enjoyable. Take a moment to think it through, weighing the pros and cons. If you’re still on board, make sure you’re in a safe environment, and consider informing a friend where you’ll be. “`
Bring at least £20 for festival food
“` Festival food can be unexpectedly pricey. While £20 might not cover all your meals, it’s a good starting point. From food trucks offering gourmet bites to stalls with quick snacks, the temptation to try everything can drain your wallet quickly. Setting a budget helps ensure you have enough for basic sustenance. Another option is to bring some non-perishable snacks like granola bars, nuts, or dried fruit. These can serve as quick, healthy alternatives to heavier, more expensive festival fare. Balancing between festival offerings and your own stock can help keep hunger at bay without breaking the bank. “`
Bring a solid pair of shoes and lots of clean socks to a festival
“` Your feet will be your main mode of transport at a festival, so taking care of them is paramount. Invest in a durable, comfortable pair of shoes that can withstand mud, rain, and long hours of standing or dancing. Avoid bringing brand-new shoes as they could cause blisters. Equally important are clean socks. Pack more than you think you’ll need, as they can get dirty or wet quickly. Changing into a fresh pair of socks can significantly boost your comfort level and help you avoid foot-related issues like blisters, which can put a damper on your festival fun. “`
Don’t fill up your whole weekend trying to see every festival artist
“` With so many acts and artists jamming into one weekend, it’s tempting to try and see them all. However, running from stage to stage can be exhausting and stressful, detracting from the overall experience. Prioritize your must-see acts and leave room for spontaneous discoveries. Take time to explore the festival grounds, enjoy the atmosphere, and participate in non-musical activities. Sometimes the best experiences come from unexpected moments, like stumbling upon a lesser-known band that ends up being your festival highlight. Balance is key to having a fulfilling and enjoyable festival experience. “`
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| Tips | Details |
|---|---|
| Bring baby wipes to stay clean | Use for face, body, and makeup removal when showers are scarce. |
| Drug Safety | Know your source, use drug-testing kits, and stay hydrated. |
| Meeting Place | Agree on a clear, significant landmark to regroup. |
| Tent Setup | Bring someone experienced or practice beforehand. |
| Festival Hookups | Consider implications, ensure consent, and use protection. |
| Budget for Food | At least £20 for meals, plus bring snacks. |
| Proper Footwear | Comfortable, durable shoes and plenty of clean socks. |
| Artist Schedule | Prioritize must-see acts and leave time for spontaneous discovery. |
“` Navigating your first music festival can be a breeze with the right preparation and mindset. These tips should help ensure a safe, memorable, and enjoyable experience from start to finish. Happy festival-going!
