There are certain things that are a given at music festivals: you will encounter a horrendously smelly toilet, your wellies will be brought into action and a dodgy burger van normally makes an appearance at some point.

But we reckon that festivals and all the great music that goes with them are worth remembering, so we’ve got some tips to help you and your mates have a summer that you’ll never forget!

Chill out

The excitement of getting to a festival and seeing your favourite bands can end up leaving your drinking out of control. The best way to avoid any terrible hangovers and missing your favourite band is to pace yourself and try not to exceed your daily limits (That’s 3-4 units for men and 2-3 units for women).

It’s a good idea to try and give your body a rest for at least one of the days and if you think ‘hair of the dog’ will save you from a hangover, think again. Continuing to drink so that you avoid the pain from the day before will only delay your hangover. 
 
Stick together

It’s easy to get lost when you’re in a massive crowd in the middle of a field. It can be dangerous to be left alone at a festival, especially if you’ve had a few too many drinks. The best thing to do before you leave your camp is to arrange a meeting point and a set of times to check in with each other in case you get separated.

You can try and use your mobile phone but don’t rely on it as reception can often be weak and only larger festivals tend to have recharging points.

Sup some water between beers

Whether you’re out in a field dancing all day or not, you should be aiming to drink between two and three litres of water a day. Staying hydrated is even more important when you’re at a festival and supping water between alcoholic drinks will make a massive difference to how you feel.

It’s a good idea to take a camping bottle with you and fill it up each time you pass a drinking water tap; bottled water can be very expensive at festivals so make use of the free facilities!

Eat and be merry

Making sure that you pack plenty of food will save you a fortune, as festival food can be pretty pricey. Filling your stomach at the camp and drinking plenty of vitamin-packed juices should keep any hellish hangovers at bay by soaking up any alcohol and replenishing lost salt and minerals.  

The drugs don’t work

Feeling out of control in a field full of strangers can be a scary experience. Alcohol, illegal drugs and the ‘legal highs’ that are available at many festivals can all leave you out of control and vulnerable. Sticking within your daily limits (3-4 units for men and 2-3 units for women) of alcohol and avoiding any drugs will help you to stay in control and have a great time.