My top tips for ladies attending festivals this Summer

I recently went to Wireless Festival in London for 3 days. By the end of the weekend, I was covered in bruises, had completely lost my voice and felt half dead; but I’d do it all again in a heartbeat.
Festival season is something I look forward to all year, however there are definitely some tips I’ve picked up over the years on how to have the most fun possible and to look after yourself, particularly as a young woman.
So, here are my top tips for any girlies going to festivals this summer, so you can have the best experience possible.

1. Make sure your outfit is practical 

A sad reality of my wardrobe is a lot of my pieces, although may look amazing, are completely impractical. A mini skirt that rides up after too much movement or a top that if I’m not careful could result in a nip-slip, is unlikely to holdup at a festival.
Festivals are often one of the most extreme environments where you’re likely to be squished in crowds and jumping around; the last thing you want when singing your heart out to your favourite artist is to be worrying about flashing.
The weather is also a very important factor to bear in mind, as although in normal conditions it may not be that warm, in the crowds it will probably be a different story.
I love wearing skirts, so for me skorts were an absolute game changer, as it meant I didn’t get too hot wearing trousers, but I could still jump around without the thought I’d be flashing anyone. I also like taking a small mesh coverup usually as during the day I can tie it around my waist and when walking back in the evening it kept me fairly warm.

2. Go with people who you love and trust 

Festivals can be tiring, overwhelming and sometimes dangerous, so I believe (particularly as a woman) it’s so important to go with people who have your back. You’re going to likely have to wait around and queue a lot, so it’s so much more enjoyable when you go with people who you genuinely have a good time with.

Planning out with your mates what acts you want to see and when you can have breaks in-between is a good idea. This way, you’re able to have toilet/ food and drink breaks, which for me is a necessity as being on my feet for hours at a time isn’t going to be as enjoyable.
If you do start to feel dehydrated, anxious or unwell at any point, it’s so comforting knowing you’re surrounded by people who will priortise you, rather than staying in the crowds.

3. Bum bags are a must 

Bum bags are always the best bet in my opinion for carrying your things around, as they’re small and you don’t have hold onto it like you would with other bags.
It’s always a good idea to try it on before buying to make sure it fits comfortably around your waist or across your body, and you can see yourself being able to dance comfortably with it on.
Also, minimising the amount you take with you is a good shout so you’re not lugging loads around with you (and also means you’re less likely to come back with things lost).
My personal essentials would have to be my phone, tickets, lip products and tissues (due to the lack of any in the female portaloos).

4. Take photos early on and don’t expect your makeup to last  

One of my favourite parts about festivals is the excuse to cover my face with gems, glitter and anything completely over the top. However, the reality of this lasting longer than a few hours in festival conditions is unlikely; so, if you want cute photos where your makeup isn’t half smudged off, I’d definitely try taking them early on.
The hot and sweaty conditions of festivals unfortunately make it very unlikely that you’ll look as flawless at the end of the day as you did at the beginning, so try to not be dissapointed if so.

5. Check in on your mates

As I said before, festivals can be one of the best expereiences; but for some they could easily be the worst if things don’t go to plan. It’s more than likely going to be hot and uncomfortable at times and it’s super important to make sure you and your friends are all okay.
I always try to bring in an empty water bottle which I can refill throughout the day, that way I’m not having to keep on buying overpriced water at the festival. Even though it may be annoying to hold, if it’s a warm day I think it’s so worth bringing water into the crowds for you and your friends to share, as keeping hydrated makes the whole experience so much more enjoyable and means you can dance for way longer.
It’s no secret that drink and drugs aren’t at all uncommon at festivals, so it's even more important to make sure you non sober friends are feeling okay and are keeping hydrated; and if you’re feeling unwell or are concerned for someone at any point it’s always best to .