Summer is in full swing and you know what that means - festivals like Laneway, WOMADelaide and the Australian Open's AO LIVE musical line-up are ready and waiting for you and your friends to enjoy.
If you’ve never been to a summer music festival before, you might not know what to expect. No stress - we’re here to help!
Here’s our ultimate guide to surviving your first summer music festival in Australia.
Prepare, prepare, prepare
Festival survival starts well before you enter the gates! Check the festival website for set times, maps and banned items so you’re not caught out at the entrance. Screenshot important info - phone reception can be unreliable when thousands of people are posting all at once.
Plan your day realistically. We know you want to see every single act, but Aussie festivals run for 10-12 hours in the full sun - you might not make it to the headliners! Pick your must-see artists, then schedule breaks for food, rest and water. If you’re going with friends, set clear meeting points and times in case someone gets lost (which happens more than you’d think).
Dress for the weather
Australia’s summer heat is no joke. Lightweight, breathable clothing will keep you far more comfortable than heavy or tight outfits. Sun protection is essential: don’t forget to slip, slop, slap! Wear SPF 50+ sunscreen (and reapply throughout the day), a hat and sunglasses.
Even more important is footwear - you’ll be standing, dancing and walking for hours, often on grass or uneven ground. Save your feet and your back by wearing closed-toe shoes or well-worn sneakers. Leave your brand new shoes at home unless you want feet full of blisters!
Stay hydrated
Staying hydrated is one of the most important festival rules. Many Australian festivals offer free water refill stations, so make sure to bring an empty reusable bottle. Drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty, and especially if you’re drinking alcohol.
Food queues can be long and expensive, so eat a solid meal before you arrive and snack throughout the day. If permitted, bring things like protein bars or trail mix. Pace yourself - it’s a marathon, not a sprint.
Take care of your ears (and your body!)
Live music is loud, and being around speakers for hours can damage your hearing. Reusable earplugs are cheap, discreet and can actually improve sound quality by reducing distortion. Your future self will thank you.
Take breaks when you need them. Sit in the shade during acts you’re not fussed about seeing, stretch your legs and don’t ignore signs of heat exhaustion like dizziness or nausea. If you’re feeling unwell, visit the medical tent - they’re there to help.
Stick together and look out for your mates
Festivals are more fun (and safer) when everyone looks after each other. Keep an eye on your friends, especially in the heat or if you’re drinking alcohol. Make sure everyone has enough phone battery and knows how to get home safely.
If someone feels unsafe, unwell or overwhelmed, take it seriously. Australian festivals usually have trained staff and welfare teams, so don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it.
Respect the festival and the people around you
Having good manners at a festival goes a long way. Be mindful in crowds, clean up after yourself, and respect personal space. Australia’s festival scene prides itself on being friendly and inclusive, so be kind to one another!
With a little bit of preparation and care for yourself and your friends, your first Aussie summer festival is sure to be unforgettable. Plan ahead, stay sun safe and have fun!
