FESTIVAL SURVIVAL TIPS

Live music events are a top opportunity to hang out with mates and watch great bands. Here are our top tips from those in the know

1 Keep your mobile fully charged Forget the charger – invest in a battery powered one (and pack extra batteries) to keep your phone charged. At some point you’ll probably get separated from your mates, have to take a selfie or photo, or call home, so you won’t want to be without your lifeline.

2 Leave valuables at home Leave the RayBans and credit cards safely behind. Only take stuff that you don’t mind getting dirty, damaged or lost.

3 Be sensible Sorry to be boring, but whilst violence at festivals is unusual, you could get injured while crowd-surfing or moshing. Move away from any rough behaviour that gives you an ‘uh-oh’ feeling. You don’t want an A&E visit ruining your day.

4 Buy earplugs

It seems mad to pay loads to go to a live music event just to use earplugs, but standing right next to crazyloud speakers will hurt your ears over time.

5 Split your money

ATMs are hard to find (and usually charge costly fees), so you’ll need to carry cash. Split it between your wallet and day bag, and keep both on you or within your sight at all times –never leave cash or valuables in your tent when you’re not there. Take a debit card for any emergencies.

6

Stay hydrated

Pack a refillable water bottle, so you can fill up cheaply and easily throughout the day – this is especially important in hot weather.

7 Keep alert

Always keep your wits about you, particularly if you’re drinking. Make sure you tell your mates if you are going off.

PLANNING AHEAD – TOP SURVIVAL KIT

■ Portable phone charger

Plus extra batteries

■ Day pack Use it to carry the stuff that won’t safely fit into pockets

■ Sunglasses and sun cream They’ll help protect you from the sun’s damaging UV rays

■ Water bottle Go a bottle that can easily filter tap water on the go

■ Toilet paper

Don’t go without enough – you’ve been warned!

Drug Testing

At some events, organisers allow you to anonymously drop off a sample of a drug and then return a few hours later to find out what’s in it and how strong it is. If you are going to use illegal drugs, acknowledge that they will make you vulnerable. If unsure, always say no.