Tips from teens who’ve been there, done that, and remembered to bring the biodegradable glitter.
There’s nothing quite like your first festival - the excitement of live music, friends, glitter (everywhere), and that unbeatable feeling of summer freedom. But for most teens, it’s also a bit of a learning curve. From dodging the icky loos to figuring out how on earth to put up a tent, festivals can be brilliant and baffling all at once. So, we asked real teens who’ve been there (and survived to tell the tale) for their best tips. Whether you’re camping for the first time or just wondering how many hair plaits is too many (spoiler: you can never have too many), here’s your guide to feeling prepped, protected and properly cool.
CAMPING LIKE A PRO
First rule of festivals: your tent is your home. So treat it kindly.
- Practice pitching before you go – sounds obvious, but in the middle of a busy field with dodgy WiFi and zero instructions, you’ll thank yourself.
- Pack a mallet – the ground can be rock-hard, and bent pegs = no sleep
- Go early – better camping spots, shorter queues, and less stress.
- Tie a scarf or flag to your tent – so you can actually find it again after dark.
- VIP camping? Worth it if you can afford it – it’s quieter, cleaner and closer to the good stuff.
- Clip-on light, eye mask, earplugs – yes, you’re at a festival, but you need to see in your tent and sleep still matters (a bit).
- Bin bags – for rubbish, muddy clothes or emergency ponchos. Trust us.
- Packing cubes or Ziploc bags – organise outfits and keep your stuff dry-ish.
- Bring something to read – downtime happens. Particularly at festivals like Boardmasters, where little happens during the day.
STAYING CLEAN(ISH)
Festivals aren’t famous for their hygiene. But there are ways to stay fresh without a five-star bathroom:
Shower smart – go early or ask staff when queues are lowest. Flip-flops are non-negotiable.
Wet wipes are lifesavers - especially biodegradable ones. Use them for body, glitter, muddy legs… everything.
Hair hack – tie it back, or plait it. You’ll keep it tangle-free and hide any greasiness.
Take minis of your favourite products - like our Clean Team Shampoo & Body Wash – a brilliant two-in-one. Smells great, and it’s unisex.
Face Mist – spritz our Hydrating Face Mist when you’re hot, tired, or just want to feel vaguely alive.
Body Sprays – freshen up your body, your clothes, and even your shoes with our Multi-Talented Body Spray. Perfect for when the queue for the shower is a mile long.
SPF every day, rain or shine – Pick a mineral one, like our Sun Squad Sensitive Skin SPF30 and make sure to wash it off before bed.
Toilet essentials – hand sanitiser, packs of tissues (easier than loo roll), and nerves of steel.
Quick-dry towel – like Dock & Bay. Lightweight, compact, dries fast.
THE KIT YOU’LL THANK YOURSELF FOR
Packing light is the dream, but forgetting something essential is a nightmare. Here’s what makes the cut:
- Portable charger – because your phone will die at 4% just as your favourite artist walks on.
- Portable WiFi or temporary SIM – festivals can be signal black holes.
- Reusable water bottle – collapsible ones with a clip are the easiest to carry.
- Mini first aid kit – plasters, painkillers, our Super Balm (always) and Arnica Balm
- Flip-flops/sliders – for showers, campsite hangs, or emergency blisters.
- Reusable cutlery if you’re bringing snacks – or just to feel smug and sustainable.
- Don’t forget snacks – breakfast bars, dried fruit and nuts plus sweets for the late-night queue munchies.
WHAT TO WEAR (AND WHY IT MATTERS)
Festival fashion = fun, but think practical too.
Bum bag > handbag – perfect for tissues, sanitiser, phone, charger and sweets.
Pack layers – it’s boiling by day and freezing by night.
Think about footwear – waterproof or quick-dry shoes are your best friends. Comfy, not precious.
No glass allowed – decant any liquids or perfumes into plastic bottles.
Biodegradable glitter only – sparkle responsibly. We love Festival Glitter
Cleansing Lotion – our festival-friendly, mini Gentle Cleansing Lotion takes off glitter without water or rubbing.
STAYING SAFE & HAVING FUN
The main thing: have the best time ever, and look after yourself and your friends.
- Stick with your group – or buddy up if you’re splitting off.
- Agree on a meeting point – it will save your life when the crowd goes feral.
- Remember what your friends are wearing – spotting them becomes 10x easier.
- Use What3Words – for your tent, your friends, the good toilets.
- Festival staff are there to help – don’t be shy to ask.
- Keep valuables on you, not in your tent – or better, don’t bring anything too precious.
- Give everyone a job – tent boss, snack holder, water carrier. Share the load.
- Have a parent or adult nearby if possible – just in case...
Festivals are loud, muddy, magical – and so much fun when you’re ready for them. Remember: plan smart, pack light, and always keep tissues and hand sanitiser within reach. Whether you’re dancing till midnight, surviving your first night in a tent, or just trying to find your friends in a sea of bucket hats, you’ve got this. And if in doubt? A spritz of face mist, a swipe of SPF, and a snack in your bum bag will get you through. See you down the front!
