Between the euphoric sets, unforgettable moments, and potential for epic memories, music festivals should be pure magic. But let’s be real – we’ve all witnessed (or maybe been) that person who turned their festival experience into a cautionary tale. Whether it’s the sunburned warrior who forgot sunscreen exists, or the overpacker struggling with a backpack bigger than their festival spirit, there’s an art to doing festivals right.
Before you head out to your next musical adventure, let’s break down the cardinal sins of festival-going. Consider this your insider’s guide to keeping the vibes high and the regrets low.
12. Get Too Drunk
Look, I get it – the festival vibes are intoxicating enough without adding too much liquid courage. Save yourself from becoming that person who missed their favorite band’s entire set because they were face-down in the medical tent.
11. Assault Someone
The mosh pit isn’t your personal fight club. There’s a beautiful chaos to festival crowds, but keep it friendly – your fellow music lovers aren’t there to star in your personal WWE match.
10. Get Sunburnt
Trust me, looking like a lobster in all your festival photos isn’t the vibe. Plus, nobody wants to be that person wincing every time someone gives them a friendly pat on the back.
9. Lose Track of Your Friends
The “I’ll find you by the big tree” strategy? Been there, failed that. Keep your phone charged and pick actual landmarks for meetups – your future self will thank you.
8. Overpack
Your festival bag isn’t Mary Poppins’ magical purse. Keep it light, keep it right – you’ll be thanking yourself when you’re still dancing at midnight instead of nursing a sore shoulder.
7. Neglect Your Hydration
Water is your best friend at a festival, even more than that cool person you just met at the indie stage. Stay hydrated, stay alive – it’s that simple.
6. Ignore Personal Hygiene
Festival funk is real, folks. A travel-size deodorant and some wet wipes can be the difference between making new friends and making people mysteriously disappear when you approach.
5. Disrespect the Environment
Mother Nature’s hosting this party – don’t trash her house. Pack out what you pack in, and maybe pick up an extra piece of trash or two. Good karma goes a long way.
4. Get Too Close to the Stage Without Ear Protection
Your future self wants to still enjoy music at 80. Protect those ears – tinnitus isn’t the souvenir you want to take home.
3. Disregard Festival Etiquette
Remember the golden rule: Don’t be that guy. You know, the one who thinks everyone wants to hear their commentary during the quiet songs.
2. Try to Overdo It with Stamina
Festivals are marathons, not sprints. Pace yourself – there’s no shame in taking a breather between sets.
1. Ignore the Weather Forecast
The weather app is your crystal ball. Check it, respect it, dress for it. Because nothing says “I regret my life choices” quite like shivering in a soaked band tee or melting in black skinny jeans.
