You’ve got your ticket, planned your festival wardrobe, and the car is packed with everything but the kitchen sink. The excitement is building as you pull into the festival site, ready for a weekend of music and memories. But amid the buzz, there’s one last, crucial task: abandoning your trusty vehicle in a field for several days. While you’re off enjoying the main stage, your car becomes a sitting duck, so a few simple precautions are essential for peace of mind.
Before you even leave home, the single most important step is ensuring your car is properly insured. A comprehensive policy from a provider like Carinsuranceplus is your ultimate safety net, protecting you from theft, damage, and unforeseen mishaps. With that sorted, you can focus on the practical steps to keep your car safe and sound while you party.
1. Clear Out the Clutter
It sounds obvious, but leaving valuables on display is an open invitation to thieves. Laptops, sat-navs, wallets, and even loose change can make your car a target. Before you head to the campsite, do a full sweep and take everything of value with you or leave it at home. Don’t forget to check the glove box and other compartments.
2. Choose Your Spot Wisely
Festival car parks can be vast and chaotic. If you have a choice, try to park in a well-lit area, near a path, or within sight of a security cabin or CCTV tower. A spot that is easily visible is less appealing to potential thieves. Also, consider the terrain—parking at the bottom of a slope in a notoriously muddy festival could leave you stuck when it’s time to go home.
3. Lock Up and Double-Check
In the rush to get your wristband and set up your tent, it’s easy to forget the basics. Always lock your car and ensure all windows are fully closed. Take a moment to walk around the vehicle and physically check each door handle. It’s a simple two-second job that could save you a world of hassle.
4. Don’t Hide a Spare Key
The old trick of leaving a spare key in a magnetic box under the wheel arch is well-known to thieves. If you lose your primary key, it’s far better to rely on a friend having a spare or your breakdown provider than to gift-wrap your car for a criminal. Keep all keys on your person at all times.
5. Use Physical Deterrents
Visible security measures can make a huge difference. A classic steering wheel lock or a flashing LED alarm light suggests that your car is not an easy target and may persuade a thief to move on to a less-protected vehicle.
6. Remember Where You Parked
After a long weekend, one sea of muddy cars can look very much like another. When you first park up, take a photo of your location, noting the row or any nearby landmarks. Dropping a pin on a map app on your phone is also a great way to ensure you can find your way back easily.
7. Prep for a Muddy Exit
Many a festival-goer has returned to their car only to find it submerged in mud. If rain is forecast, try to park on higher ground. It can also be wise to pack a tow rope and a set of old mats or pieces of carpet to put under your wheels for extra traction if you get stuck.
8. Check What Your Insurance Covers
Your car isn’t just at risk of theft; accidental damage is common, from a stray football to a scrape from a neighbouring car. Before you go, review your insurance policy to understand what you’re covered for. Does it include windscreen repair or personal belongings cover? Knowing this in advance helps you enjoy the festival without any nagging worries.