We all love a festival; the live music, the dancing and the chance to spend quality time with friends. Whether this is your first time experiencing the magic of a festival or you’re a regular festival-goer, it’s important to know how to keep yourself safe. This not only means protecting your physical health but also maintaining your sexual health at festivals. 

To help you have the best time possible this Summer, we’ve created a handy festival safety tip guide that will keep you safe from any potential dangers. Find out what to expect from a festival, 5 safety tips to help ensure your safety and find out how to protect your sexual health at festivals.

What to expect at a festival?

Going to your first ever festival can be an overwhelming experience; the queues, the crowds, the drunk and giddy people and let’s not even talk about the toilets. However, this is all part of the festival experience and it won't take you long to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere.

Most festivals have the following facilities on site that you can have access too;

Information Points: These are available to help you with any questions, provide maps and give you schedules for events. 

Public Toilets: Essential facilities are usually located throughout the festival grounds. Make sure to bring your own tissues, wet wipes and hand sanitiser just in case. 

Water Stations: It’s important to stay hydrated at festivals, so water stations are typically scattered throughout the grounds. Don’t forget your refillable bottle!

Medical Teams: On hand to provide medical assistance if needed. 

Bars and Food stations: Scattered around the festival grounds, offering a variety of food and drink options to keep you energised. 

Welfare Team: Most festivals have a welfare team who provide support if you need them. 

Festival Essentials Stands: These can include festival related items, like hats, glitter, camping gear and other festival-related essentials. 

Showers: While some festivals provide showers, it’s a good idea to come prepared with alternatives like wet wipes in case showers are not available. 

Sexual health advice: You may see professionals handing out condoms to promote sexual health at festivals. However, make sure you also come prepared with a stock of your favourite condom. 

There is usually a lot of walking around festivals, so come prepared with comfortable footwear and be prepared to sit down and take lots of breaks to rest and recharge.

5 Festival Safety Tips

Festival Safety Tip 1: Stay hydrated

Festivals can be hot and tiring, so keep sipping water all day, even if you’re not thirsty to avoid dehydration. Carry a refillable water bottle with you and take advantage of the water stations set up around the festival grounds. 

Festival Safety Tip 2: Plan a meeting spot

Festivals can be crowded and chaotic, so it’s easy to lose track of your friends. Before heading into the festival, pick a clear meeting spot where you can all find each other if you get separated. It could be a big stage, a food stall or at the information point. Make sure everyone knows the spot and agree on times to check in. 

Festival Safety Tip 3: Take care of your belongings 

Keep your valuables safe and out of sight. It’s a good idea to use a money belt, fanny pack or crossbody bag that’s close to your body. Don’t bring too much cash or extra items you don’t need and stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places. 

Festival Safety Tip 4: Be sexually prepared

Whether or not you plan on being sexually active during the festival, it’s important to stay sexually safe and maintain your sexual health at festivals. Whilst some festivals might give out free condoms, it’s not a good idea to rely solely on this so it’s important to bring your own supplies. Condoms are the only method that protects against both sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancies. From flavoured condoms to different sensations to our fun glow in the dark varieties… there’s plenty of options to choose from that are perfect for the festival vibe.

Festival Safety Tip 5: Keep your drink covered

Drink spiking can happen quickly, especially when people are distracted and having fun. To protect yourself at festivals, ensure your drink is always covered and avoid accepting drinks from strangers or individuals you don’t trust. Tell a friend immediately if you suspect your drink has been spiked and seek help straight away. 

How do I protect my sexual health at festivals?

Protecting your sexual health at festivals is extremely important. Always carry your own supply of condoms to protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections or unintended pregnancy. Be clear with any potential sexual partners about what you’re comfortable with and your boundaries, and ensure you both consent. Avoid using drugs or drinking too much because they can impair your judgement and lead to risky behaviours.

If you do decide to engage in sexual activity, find a safe and private location and avoid unfamiliar places to reduce the risk of harm.  Always tell your friends where you're going for added safety. It’s also a good idea to get tested for sexually transmitted infections before and after going to festivals to maintain your sexual health.  

By following these precautions, you can enjoy a fun and safe festival experience while prioritising your well-being.