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Quote: Originally posted by Sceptical Camper on 24/11/2011

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A brief postscript after re-reading this thread.

People reading the advice earlier in the thread might get the impression that camping at festivals is unpleasant and dangerous. It isn't - it can be fantastic fun! But, as the posts point out, it is very different to 'holiday' camping on a conventional campsite and there are things to guard against.

Quote: Originally posted by janespa on 24/11/2011I would seriously consider staying elsewhere and driving in

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That is one option. But it's just not the same. If you camp, you really feel like part of the festival, one among a community. If you drive (or walk) in you are just a day visitor.

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I took my 10 year old son to the Deershed Festival this year and we both had a wonderful time.

* Only take with you what you can risk losing
* Pack light or use a trolley to transport all your gear
* Take plenty of wet wipes
* Wellies are a festival essential as is a rain poncho (no matter what time of year!)
* Keep valuables with you at all times (and only take essentials like money!)
* Earplugs and eye mask will help you get SOME sleep
* Remeber it's only for 1 or 2 nights so you can always catch up on sleep at home
* ENJOY YOURSELF!!

Yes, you will be camped very close to your neighbours and it will be noisy late into the night/early hours so don't go expecting it to be like a normal campsite.

I went with an open mind, received some very helpful advice from fellow forum members (search for previous "festival" threads) and had a fantastic time.
We're going again next year (with some lessons learnt from this year's experience!)

we are there for five nights thats why i was asking so that i know what essentials to risk taking i am just gutted that i cant get in the vip area so i could have the car at the side of the tent for extra security and to charge the lamps for the tent but hey ho.....really looking forward to it and thanks for the advice everyone

We used to go to the big festivals (Reading etc) before kids, but now go to smaller family-friendly festivals.

We haven't come across any problems at the smaller festivals, and they generally have a great atmosphere.

You've had some great tips already, but one I was told (for larger festivals) was to bury your cans of beer under your ground-sheet! Also take plenty of layers (of clothes and bedding) in case it's cold at night.

Quote: Originally posted by griff10553 on 22/11/2011

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Sounds like you should stay at home and be safe !!!

Griff

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