How to survive (and even thrive) at a music festival this summer

Summer’s musical merrymaking is kicking off, and with it the promise of mellow days, wild nights and everything in between. Whether you’re popping into London’s American Express presents BST Festival, where British Airways is an official partner, for the afternoon or going for the full hedonistic countryside experience, a bit of prep goes a long way. Here’s how to make the most of those magical vibes, whatever your festival tolerance level.

Packing basics

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Nothing says ‘festival newbie’ like dragging a heavy case across an unsuspecting field. Start with the basics – namely, a lightweight and waterproof backpack to haul your survival kit. This should include wet wipes (you can leave your usual hygiene standards at the gate), a refillable water bottle, ear plugs and a bum pack or cross-body bag to stash any valuables and medication in. Don’t forget toiletry essentials (SPF, sanitary items and that all-important deodorant), but leave those impractical jumpsuits at home. (Two words: Portaloo floors.) Clothes with pockets are an essential. Multi-taskers are your best friends: a cotton sarong, for example, can serve as a dress, scarf, modesty screen or emergency towel.

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Half the fun of a festival is in dressing up. Plan outfits carefully, storing each day’s clothes and accessories in a packing cube (or large sandwich bags, if you’re on a budget) to save you rooting around in a cramped tent. Stick-on rhinestones add a bit of drama without the faff of makeup-removal or glitter getting everywhere. (Men, this applies to you, too.) Pack some dry shampoo for those third-day greasy locks, and a sheet mask as a cooling, depuffing morning-after treat.

Camping comfortably

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Channel your inner scout by arriving early and taking your time finding a good pitching spot. Stay within comfortable walking distance – but not too close – to loos, showers, food trucks and sound stages. An elevated spot will minimise any risks of waking up ankle deep in a bog after a downpour. If you value your sanity, don’t, whatever you do, set up on a slope. Pop-up tents are very easy to set up, but make sure you practise folding them away before you set off, as abandoning your tent when you leave is an absolute no-no.

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If you’re not meant for an uncomfortable life, most festivals now cater for more upscale tastes with spacious shepherd huts, bell tents and other tipis. These come with extra perks, from private bars to concierge services and blissful hot showers. If you can’t quite justify the expense of a real mattress and fresh bedlinen, book in for a mid-festival spa experience instead: a sauna session or soak in a wood-fired hot tub can undo any of the weekend’s excesses, plus you’ll also get access to the much nicer showering facilities.

Eating and drinking

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If the first rule of festivals is pacing yourself, the second one should be to stay fed and hydrated, as sleep deprivation, hunger pangs and headaches make for a killer combo. Pack plenty of dried fruit, nuts and protein bars to stave off energy crashes. Consider a handy Kelly Kettle for brews without the queues (or emergency pot noodles), but make sure to check the festival’s fire safety policy first. Pro tip: carry a tube of rehydration tablets and toss one into a bottle of water as soon as you wake up (your sweaty future self will thank you). Oh, and bring an extra bag for rubbish. No one wants to deal with leftover cereal bar wrappers strewn across the campsite, thank you very much.

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While Michelin has yet to award stars to festival stalls, revellers now expect a lot more than limp hot dogs and burned burgers. Feasting is part and parcel of the experience, with up-and-coming chefs rubbing shoulders with the likes of Angela Hartnett or Tom Kerridge in a bid to show off their culinary credentials. It’s worth setting a budget aside for gourmet adventures – just make sure you book ahead and keep your payment bracelet topped up. Don’t swerve the branded drinks stalls, either: they often put on fun activities to attract punters. Pimm’s croquet, anyone?

Navigating the crowds

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When the noise and crowds get overwhelming, don’t hesitate to duck out for a quiet moment and find a peaceful corner to recharge in. Worried about losing your group? It’s inevitable at some point, but it doesn’t have to be a disaster. Set clear meeting points, such as near a distinctive food truck or by a giant art installation, and make sure everyone knows when to check in and regroup. A power bank for your phone is vital, especially at night. The built-in torch will get you safely back to your campsite in one piece.

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Most large-scale music festivals now have an app featuring set times, site maps, live updates and more, so download it at home while you still have good Wi-Fi coverage. It’s no excuse to keep your eyes glued to your phone, however. Once you've acclimated to the chaos, embrace the crowd’s energy, make new festival friends or simply get swept up in the euphoric buzz. For an elevated experience, check out the VIP packages with better views, fewer crowded bars and plush seating.

Enjoying the music

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You’re here for the music, and the key to surviving entire days of non-stop tunes is to accept that you won’t see all the acts you signed up for. When it comes to footwear – remember what Mum always said: sensible, non-slip footwear is a must, as all that walking between arenas can take its toll. And don’t forget to protect your ears, either. Festivals can be loud, so invest in good-quality earplugs. If you’re into multiple genres, try not to over-schedule yourself – give yourself time to relax between sets.

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Once you’ve got your bearings, dive deep into the musical experience. A festival is all about discovery, so let yourself be surprised by under-the-radar acts or something far outside your comfort zone (anything involving a ‘hoedown’ gets our vote). Don’t feel pressured to be at the front for every show. Sometimes the back of the crowd offers a better, more immersive perspective on the performance. Bring an instant or film camera to capture the moment without the temptation of screen distractions. Most importantly, let the music move you. Dance, sing, make memories and get lost in the electrifying atmosphere.

British Airways returns as an official partner of American Express presents BST Festival 2025 this June and July