It's that time of year to hit the festival grounds of the Northern Hemisphere. Many people will be travelling overseas for festivals such as Glastonbury, Burning Man, Tomorrowland, Roskilde, Sziget, and more.
It’s easy to get swept up in the festival environment and be distracted by the stages, events and people around you. But while having the time of your life, it's important to know how to keep you and your belongings safe.
Party safely
Don't push yourself or your mates to drink past your limits. You'll be more likely to make poor decisions if you've had too much to drink.
If you plan on drinking, think about getting an unopened bottle or canned drink. This can help limit what could be added to your drink unknowingly.
Know the signs and symptoms of drink spiking. If you think you or your friend’s drink has been spiked, get to safety and get medical assistance if needed. they need it. Find a map or know beforehand where the medical tent is.
Have a time and place to meet up with your friends if you get separated. There's nothing worse than not being able to find your friends among thousands of people. Phone reception could be unreliable with so many people in the same area. Make your plans before you get to the festival grounds.
Read our advice on partying safely.
Personal safety and security
Be smart about what valuables you take with you to the festival. Keep your wits about you and your belongings out of easy reach. Thieves are looking for distracted people and for items that are easily accessible.
Also be aware of your surrounds and know where the exit points are in case of an emergency or potential crowd crush.
Read our advice on theft and going overseas for a major event.
Research your destination
Research the local laws where you’re going. Understand the entry rules and your visa conditions. Know the rules around drug and alcohol consumption, including the legal drinking age. The laws may be different and the consequences harsher than in Australia. If you break the law, you could be arrested or jailed.
Terrorism
Terrorism remains a threat across the world including in Europe and the USA. Terrorists use different methods of attack, targeting foreign tourists and locals. Crowded places like festivals can be targets for terrorism.
Check the advice for your destination and decide if you feel safe travelling. While you're away and at the festival, be alert and report anything suspicious. If something does happen, follow the advice of local authorities and monitor the media for updates.
Read our advice on terrorism.
Before you go
- Read the travel advice for your destination before travelling. Find out if there are any safety or health risks you need to be aware of.
- Subscribe to get travel advice updates while you're away. And follow us on X, Instagram and Facebook.
- Always take out travel insurance. Read the fine print to ensure it covers you. The CHOICE travel insurance buying guide has advice on buying the right insurance.