15 Music Festival Dos And Don’ts

Whether you’re pitching up for a whole weekend of festival antics or you’re just jetting in for the day, check out the following dos and don’ts and get ready for a summer to remember…

Do embrace festival trends, but don’t neglect the essentials. Pack a waterproof jacket and your favourite sunnies. Since you’ll be spending most of your time bouncing around in a field, you can’t go wrong with a pair of comfy trainers. Plus, you’ll be glad you left those flip-flops at home when you’re wading through squelching mud or a tiptoeing your way to a portaloo at 3am.

Don’t forget to take sun protection and a hat – chances are #lobster isn’t the look or the hashtag you’re going for on Instagram. Speaking of smartphones, a portable, battery-powered phone charger will be a little life-saver, pick one up if you’re planning to take lots of photos. 

Do take cash (not cards) and be sure to keep small amounts of notes hidden in different places – if that tenner goes astray, you’ll still have the rest of your stash to fall back on.

Don’t take valuables.  Things are going to get messy. Best leave your iPad and that stack of gold bars at home.

Don’t forget your hand sanitiser, wet wipes, deodorant and dry shampoo. Unlimited access to running water is never a given on festival sites.

Do go all out on the organisational front. Pack your own supply of toilet paper, preferably in a zip-lock bag to ensure it stays dry.

Don’t forget where you pitched your tent. Bring a customised flag or mascot so you can spot your tent from a mile away if you have to.

Do a few basic checks on your tent before you leave home. Make sure it’s sturdy enough to withstand all kinds of weather and roomy enough to fit everyone inside comfortably.

Don’t try to be everywhere at once.  Schedules are bound to clash at some point so a bit of forward planning will most definitely pay off. Pick out a few of the acts that you REALLY want to see and make sure you get to their sets in good time.

Do make time to go for a wander. There’s a lot to be said for checking out random fields and smaller stages – see the next big thing before anyone has heard of them at home.

Do drink plenty of water and stay hydrated throughout the day. Copious amounts of alcohol doesn’t count.

Don’t overdo it on the booze, especially on the first day of the festival. You don’t want to waste the best part of the weekend nursing a massive hangover.

Do make sure all of your phones are charged and agree on a meeting point or landmark if one of you goes AWOL on the way back from the burrito stand.

Don’t be afraid to make new festival friends. At the campsite, remember to show consideration for the tents around you – be a good neighbour.

Don’t forget your ticket. Not only will security turn you away at the gates, but you’re NEVER going to live that story down.

Do tag your European festival pics #ryanairstories for a chance to appear on our Instagram feed! 

- Fiona Hilliard