Festival Season is Here: How to Save Hundreds on Your Summer Fun

As the festival season approaches, many of us are excited to indulge in brilliant live music and electric atmospheres. However, with the cost-of-living crisis, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to afford the luxury of attending these events. In fact, a whopping 81% of UK adults have revealed they won’t be attending a weekend music festival this year, with 65% citing that festivals are becoming too expensive.

But fear not, thrifty music lovers! With some savvy tips and tricks, you can save hundreds on your summer fun. From comparing prices to packing smart, we’ve got you covered.

Compare Prices Many of us associate music festivals with big names such as Glastonbury and Wireless. However, ticket prices for better-known festivals are generally more expensive than they are for smaller, more intimate events. Consider exploring alternative festivals that offer similar experiences at a lower cost.

Festival-goers enjoying the atmosphere

Volunteer for Free Entry Of course, you’ll need to graft for the privilege, but volunteering at festivals is a fab opportunity to soak up the vibes while enjoying the music first-hand. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also get to experience the festival from a different perspective.

Thrifty Transport You’ve picked your festival, booked your tickets (exciting!), now all you’ve got to do is plan your route. Consider carpooling or using public transport to get to the festival. Not only will you save money on fuel and parking, but you’ll also reduce your carbon footprint.

Pack Smart Who remembers that scene in Bridget Jones’ Baby, where she rocks up to Glastonbury in a glamourous all-white outfit, only to fall headfirst in the mud five minutes later? Let that be your friendly reminder to leave the expensive clobber at home. Pack comfortable, practical clothing and shoes that can withstand the mud and rain.

Food for Thought In 2023, it was reported that festivalgoers were being charged a staggering £8 for a small portion of fries at Glastonbury. Combat the often eye-watering prices of festival grub by taking your own food. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also ensure you’re eating healthy, nutritious food that will keep you energized throughout the festival.

Holiday Hacks But it’s not just festivals where you can save money. When planning your summer holiday, consider the following tips to avoid being scammed and save a pretty penny.

Passport Rules When it comes to passport regulations, staying informed is key. Ensure your passport has at least six months remaining before you plan to travel. If your passport has less than six months left or is older than ten years, some countries might not let you in.

Rebooking Consider cancelling and rebooking your hotels or car hire if you find them cheaper than when you initially booked. However, be cautious of any hidden fees or penalties.

Car Hire Car hire companies might try to extract more money from holidaymakers by offering optional extras and high insurance cover. Purchase standalone insurance before even setting foot in the rental car, potentially saving up to £25 for each day of rental.

Health Insurance Lastly, ensure you have access to a European or Global Health Insurance Card (EHIC/GHIC) to avoid hefty medical bills while travelling abroad. Regrettably, scams are common when trying to obtain these cards at the last minute, so be sure to secure one well in advance.

By following these simple tips, you can save hundreds on your summer fun and enjoy the festival season without breaking the bank.