My first festival was an experience to say the least. Every festival is, to some degree, but the first is always the most so. If you’ve not been there and done that, it’s difficult to know how to prepare. Don’t worry – as I once had to reassure someone – there will be somewhere to clean your teeth.

All you really need for a brilliant festival is a tent, a stylish pair of wellies, loo roll and some bin bags. Bin bags being one of those miscellaneous essentials that you’re never quite sure why you packed, but are always glad that you did.

Allow for all weather conditions, too – a poncho and some sun cream are always good bets. Baby wipes and dry shampoo can replace showers. Never pack an inflatable pillow; I can guarantee (from experience) that you’ll only ended buying a “proper” one at a sky-high price. And never, ever over-estimate your fire-lighting skills, because Bear Grylls makes that shit look way too easy.

It’s also always worth bearing in mind that no disaster is insurmountable; to put things in perspective, it’s only four days. Four days in a field staffed with volunteers, medics and stallholders selling anything and everything you could possibly have forgotten.

Keep an open mind, too, because you never know what’s going to happen. Knowing might spoil the fun – any good festival involves at least one “what the hell just happened?” moment. By Monday morning you’ll be fit for nothing but a long shower and an even longer sleep, but re-joining the real world will be nothing short of anti-climactic.

Words: EMMA DAVIES

Pic: Reds On Tour