Introduction
Festival season is one of the most exciting times of the year in the UK, bringing together thousands of music lovers, food enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. Whether you’re heading to Glastonbury, Reading, Download, or a local community festival, it’s important to think beyond just the entertainment. Learn more about how Team Medic supports event safety. Your safety, health, and wellbeing should be top priorities to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons.
The festival environment can be unpredictable—crowded spaces, changing weather conditions, and long hours can quickly take a toll on your body and mind. From avoiding heat exhaustion to managing hay fever and staying connected with friends, preparation is key.
In this post, we’ll explain why festival safety matters and provide 8 practical tips to help you stay safe, healthy, and happy throughout the festival season.
What is festival safety and why is it important?
Festival safety refers to the steps and precautions you take to protect your health and wellbeing while attending large public events. These measures help prevent injuries, illnesses, and stressful situations that could otherwise ruin your festival experience.
With thousands gathered in one place, access to medical services may be limited, and unpredictable weather, alcohol consumption, and physical fatigue can present real challenges. Whether you’re a festival newbie or a seasoned attendee, understanding how to keep yourself safe ensures you’ll make the most of every performance and moment.
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Festival health advice: What to pack for a safe festival experience
A successful festival starts with smart packing. Having the right essentials can make a huge difference to your comfort and safety.
Be sure to include:
✅ Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
✅ High-SPF sunscreen to protect against UV rays
✅ Basic first aid kit for minor injuries
✅ Weather-appropriate clothing (think layers and waterproofs)
✅ Portable phone charger to stay connected
✅ Comfortable, sturdy footwear for long days on your feet
For more detailed advice, explore trusted resources like Festival Safe and the Purple Guide, which offer in-depth safety information for festival-goers.
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Festival hydration tips: How to avoid dehydration at summer festivals
Dehydration is one of the most common medical issues at UK festivals, especially during warmer weather. Staying hydrated helps you maintain energy and avoid headaches, dizziness, and fatigue.
Top hydration tips:
💧 Drink water regularly, even if you’re not feeling thirsty.
💧 Use free water refill stations—most festivals provide them.
💧 Eat water-rich snacks like watermelon, cucumber, and oranges.
Visit the NHS Heatwave Safety Advice for further information on staying safe in hot weather.
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Alcohol safety at festivals: drink responsibly and stay safe
For many, a few drinks are part of the fun, but excessive alcohol can lead to dehydration, poor judgement, and risky behaviour.
Stay safe with these tips:
🍻 Set personal drink limits and stick to them.
🍻 Keep your drinks with you at all times—never leave them unattended.
🍻 Alternate between alcoholic drinks and water.
🍻Visit the NHS Alcohol Support page for advice on safer drinking.
Illegal substances pose serious health and legal risks. For honest advice, visit Talk to Frank.
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Sun safety at festivals: Beat the heat and avoid sunburn
British weather may be unpredictable, but when the sun does shine, it can be intense. Sunburn and heat exhaustion are major concerns at open-air festivals.
Protect yourself by:
☀️ Applying high-factor sunscreen every two hours.
☀️ Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses.
☀️ Taking shelter in shaded areas between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
For detailed sun protection advice, read the NHS Sun Safety Guidelines.
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Festival mental health tips: Take care of your wellbeing
Festivals can be physically and emotionally overwhelming, with large crowds, loud environments, and packed schedules. Remember to prioritise your mental health:
🧘 Take regular breaks away from the crowds.
🧘 Find the welfare areas if you’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed.
🧘 Stay connected with friends and talk openly if you’re struggling.
Visit Mind for resources on managing anxiety and stress in busy environments.
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Stay safe at festivals: Stick with friends and have a plan
It’s easy to become separated from your group in large crowds, especially at sprawling festival sites. Make a plan before the event:
📍 Agree on a meeting point in case anyone gets lost.
📍 Keep your phone charged—bring a fully charged power bank.
📍 Locate first aid stations and welfare points as soon as you arrive.
These simple steps can help you stay safe and connected, even if plans change.
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Managing Hay Fever during festival season
If hay fever often disrupts your summer fun, don’t let it ruin your festival plans. Prepare in advance:
🌼 Take antihistamines before the event and bring extras.
🌼 Wear wraparound sunglasses to keep pollen out of your eyes.
🌼 Check the pollen forecast before attending and plan accordingly.
For more helpful advice, visit NHS Dorset’s Festival Guide.
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Be an Eco-Friendly festival goer
Part of the festival spirit is about respecting the environment and your fellow attendees. Play your part by:
🌱 Using reusable cups and water bottles.
🌱 Recycling waste and using designated bins.
🌱 Leaving your campsite as clean as you found it.
Be kind to others—if you see someone struggling, lend a helping hand. A small act of kindness can make a big difference.
Final thoughts: How to stay healthy and safe at UK festivals
Festivals are all about music, community, and unforgettable moments. With a bit of preparation and these essential safety tips, you can ensure your experience is both enjoyable and safe.
So, pack smart, stay hydrated, take care of your mental health, and look out for your friends. Most importantly, embrace the fun and create memories that will last a lifetime. Stay safe, stay healthy—and have the best festival season yet!
For professional medical support at your next event, contact Team Medic today.
Festival safety FAQs
What should I pack for a UK music festival?
For a safe and enjoyable festival experience, pack these essentials:
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Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
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High-SPF sunscreen for sun protection
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Basic first aid kit for minor injuries
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Weather-appropriate clothing and waterproof layers
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Portable phone charger and power bank
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Comfortable, sturdy footwear for walking
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Antihistamines if you suffer from hay fever
Visit Festival Safe for a complete festival packing checklist.
How do I stay hydrated at summer festivals?
Dehydration is a common health issue at summer festivals. Stay safe by:
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Drinking water regularly, even if you’re not thirsty
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Using free water refill stations whenever possible
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Eating water-rich snacks like fruits and salads
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Alternating alcoholic drinks with water to prevent dehydration
For more hydration advice, read the NHS Heatwave Guidelines.
What’s the best way to stay safe while drinking at festivals?
Follow these alcohol safety tips at festivals:
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Know your limits and set a personal drink maximum
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Keep your drinks with you at all times—never leave them unattended
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Alternate alcoholic drinks with water to stay hydrated
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Stay aware of how much you’re consuming throughout the day
For further information, visit the NHS Alcohol Support page.
How can I avoid sunburn at festivals?
Protect your skin and avoid sunburn by:
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Applying high-factor sunscreen (SPF 30+) every two hours
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Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses
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Seeking shade between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
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Staying hydrated to prevent heat exhaustion
Explore the NHS Sun Safety Guidelines for more advice.
How do I manage Hay Fever during festival season?
Don’t let hay fever ruin your festival plans. Prepare by:
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Taking antihistamines before attending and carrying extras
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Wearing wraparound sunglasses to block pollen
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Checking the pollen forecast before the event
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Keeping tissues and allergy relief on hand
Visit NHS Dorset’s Hay Fever Guide for additional tips.
