Face any music festival successfully thanks to this “survival” guide. Music festivals are an extraordinary experience but, since so many things happen at the same time, you will miss incredible moments if you are not prepared. From the basics to camping like a professional, we’ll teach you 20 secrets to make the most of your stay at a festival. Prepare to sing and dance without worrying about anything else.

Here at POYO you can be aware of any upcoming events thanks to our map so you do not have to lose any possibility of having an excellent time having fun with your friends.

Now, lets begin with our secret tips to help you enjoy this time.

The basics

1. Have a plan. Make sure you know all the information about the artists you want to see. Most festivals give information in advance about who acts, in addition to the schedules. Print it or save it on your mobile phone. If you are going to camp, reserve part of the afternoon to rest.
2. Do not run out of battery. There are people who like to ‘disconnect’, even running out of battery, but mobile phones are perfect for taking pictures, recording videos and keeping track of schedules. Also, it may be the only way to find your friends, so bring an extra battery. Will you camp at night? A lamp is essential, either to go to the bathroom or to find your tent.
3. Find a meeting area in case you run out of battery on your mobile phone. Choose a good site, that is not crowded.
4. Hydrate and do not run out of energy. Music, dance, happiness, you can end up exhausted, both mentally and physically. Stay hydrated, take a 10-minute nap when you can and have a can of an energy drink or a bottle of soda with you.
5. Take care and protect your skin. There is nothing worse than getting sun burns due to the lack of protection. Wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. If it is very hot it will not be enough to give you just one application, so keep the bottle close by and ask a friend of yours to help you pouring some more sunscreen on those spots you think are covered but are not.
6. Read the small print of the information about the festival. Be clear about what is allowed and what is not allowed. Each place has its rules and it would be a shame having to return back home because you bring something valuable you thought was accepted in the place but really was not.

The next level

7. Watch your ears. Take more than a couple of earplugs. Avoid the cheap ones. Quality ones will protect your health and even improve the sound. You will hear everything and you will not lose the basses. For the night use some wax.
8. Cool down. Keep refreshing wipes, dry shampoo and water close by. It will help you feel good to continue the party.
9. Get ready in case it rains. Take a pair of extra socks and good shoes. If you know that water is going to fall, do not forget a raincoat and a bag to protect your mobile phone. That way you’ll be ready to enjoy the mud.
10. Bring some candy. Chewing gum, candy, lighters, some LED flashlight, waving a flag, receiving a gift from a new friend you made during the festival are some of the things that makes festivals special, and may even mean the beginning of a new friendship.
11. Try something new. Festivals give you the opportunity to be yourself or, if you want, a completely different person. Change your name, go in disguise, look for a new personality for the festival.
12. Take your doll. People like to bring some memorable dolls as companions, for example, actors from the 80s, like Tom Berenger, Nick Nolte or Rutger Hauer. Take into account the weight and height, because you will take it from one place to another throughout the day (and night). Some festivals are already forbidden.
13. Think of an escape plan. You do not have to think about your departure when you have not even arrived, but there is nothing worse than waiting for hours to get on the road when everything is over. Plan ahead Park as close to the exit as possible. That may mean leaving the car far from the entrance, but you’ll appreciate it when you return home.

For those who camp

14. Bring the right type of backpack. Choose one of quality, one that protects your things from unexpected conditions.
15. Sleep well. It does not have to be in a sleeping bag. Currently there are other methods, such as special foam pieces that are rolled and some more examples. There are ‘portable beds’ that even keep you separated from the ground. If it’s spring or autumn do not stop wearing an extra blanket.
16. Clean the area. In summer everything is dry and dusty. Dry grass can also bother. Keep your mouth and nose protected. Use a handkerchief
17. Ice water. Use bottles of ice water. Throw them away as you use them.

18. First aid kit. It is good to carry one, even with the essentials. You can even leave the case at home. They should not miss bandages, aspirin, insect repellent and antiseptics.
19. Plastic bags. It is a very practical element that serves almost everything. You can use them for garbage, to protect your feet from the water or even use them as boots.
20. American tape. MacGyver was ahead of his time and showed us that American tape has many uses. It is very likely that you need it, so take a roll. You will not regret.

Visit our website to keep updated regarding any events that you may not know about. You will find a couple of great options to spend a good time!