Summer in Scotland and across the UK means one thing for many young people – festival season. Whether you’re heading to a dreamy woodland rave like Kelburn Garden Party, bouncing to beats at TRNSMT, or chilling with your pals at Belladrum, festivals are all about the music, the vibe, and the memories. But let’s keep it real – while festivals are fun, they can also get messy fast if you’re not looking after yourself and your crew.
Let Someone Know Where You’re Going
Before you grab your bucket hat, battery packs and pack your tent, make sure someone knows your plan. Tell a family member, friend or flatmate which festival you’re heading to, who you’re going with, and when you’re due back. It might seem like overkill, but it’s better to be safe than sorry if anything unexpected comes up.
Know Who to Ask for Help
Every festival has a team of legends working behind the scenes to keep you safe. From security to first aid to welfare stewards, there’s always someone available 24/7 to help if you’re feeling unwell, overwhelmed or just need someone to talk to. Don’t be shy – they’re there for you.
Protect Your Ears – You’ll Thank Us Later
Festivals = loud music. That thumping bass might feel great now, but your ears are fragile little things. Long-term exposure to loud music can cause permanent hearing damage. Solution? Get yourself a decent pair of earplugs – you can grab some at most welfare tents or online. You’ll still enjoy the music, just minus the ringing ears. JADE and Biffy Clyo never sounded so good!
Eat, Hydrate, Rest, Repeat
Yes, we know you want to see every act on the line-up and dance till sunrise. But you’re not a robot – you’ve got to look after your body.
- Drink water – especially if it’s sunny (rare, but it happens!)
- Eat proper meals – chips and donuts don’t count all weekend
- Take breaks – rest your feet and your brain. Even just chilling at the campsite for an hour can make a huge difference.
Think of a festival like a marathon, not a sprint.
Say No to Drugs
We’re going to be straight with you: festivals are not safe places to try drugs. Even if you’ve taken something before, the combination of heat, crowds, and intense excitement can mess with your body in unpredictable ways. Not to mention, you’ve no clue what’s actually in that pill or powder.
Festival organisers take this seriously – people and bags are searched for a reason. They’re not being buzzkills, they’re trying to stop people from getting seriously hurt (or worse).
Pack Smart – Not Heavy
You don’t need to bring your whole bedroom, but there are some must-haves you shouldn’t leave behind. Here’s your basic festival survival kit:
- Sun cream
- Wellies and waterproofs (yes, even if it’s “meant to be sunny”)
- Midge spray and a net (Scotland – enough said)
- Toothbrush and clean undies
- Water bottle (refill stations are usually everywhere)
- Sturdy tent and sleeping bag
- A physical copy of a few emergency numbers
- A full change of clothes and money for food or emergencies
Basically, be the person in your group everyone thanks later.
Don’t Break In – It’s Just Not Worth It
Didn’t manage to grab a ticket? We get it, FOMO is real (fear of missing out). But do not try to sneak into a festival. Not only is it illegal (the offence is called Aggravated Trespass), but you’ll also be putting yourself in serious danger.
Festival sites are often on farms – think electric fences, barbed wire, live animals, tractors… and that’s before you get to people potentially carrying knives, fake vapes or drugs. Nope, it’s just not worth it.
Want to go next year? Set a reminder to buy a ticket early or keep an eye out for official resale platforms. Always buy from trusted websites – there are so many scams floating around social media.
Look After Each Other
Finally – festivals are always better when you’ve got your friends around. Stick together, keep an eye on anyone who’s had a bit too much fun, and never leave someone behind at a stage or campsite alone. Having a great time is important, but making sure everyone gets home safe? That’s the real festival win.
For more tips and info, check out:
See you in the fields – and stay safe out there!