Festival season is upon us, and for many, that means spending hours on end listening to live music, dancing with friends, and enjoying the great outdoors. However, one aspect of festivals that often gets overlooked is the festival toilets. Whether you’re a seasoned festival-goer or a first-timer, dealing with the inevitable nature calls at a festival can be a daunting task. Fear not, as we’ve got you covered with tips and tricks to help you navigate the world of festival toilets.
First things first, let’s talk about the types of festival toilets you’ll encounter. The most common option is the portable or temporary toilet. These are the infamous plastic cubicles that line the festival grounds, often equipped with hand sanitizer and toilet paper. While these toilets may not be the most pleasant to use, they are a necessary evil at any festival. It’s always a good idea to carry your own toilet paper, as these toilets can run out quickly, especially as the day goes on.
Another option you might come across is the composting toilet. These eco-friendly toilets use little to no water, instead relying on natural processes to break down waste. Composting toilets are often found at more environmentally conscious festivals and can be a more sustainable option for your festival adventures.
Next, let’s talk about some strategies for making your festival toilet experience more bearable. One key tip is to scope out the toilets early on and find the cleanest ones. As the day goes on and more people use the facilities, they can quickly become dirty and unpleasant. By finding a clean toilet early on, you’ll save yourself from some less-than-ideal bathroom experiences later in the day.
Another important strategy is to stay hydrated, but be mindful of when and where you’re drinking water. festival toilets can often have long lines, especially after popular sets or at peak times. By drinking water strategically, you can avoid the dreaded long wait for a toilet when you really need to go. Additionally, consider bringing a reusable water bottle to cut down on waste and keep yourself hydrated throughout the day.
While using festival toilets may not be the most glamorous part of festival life, it’s important to remember that everyone at the festival is in the same boat. Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with your fellow festival-goers while waiting in line for the toilet. You never know, you might make some new friends or even discover some hidden gem artists to check out later in the day.
Now, let’s address the age-old question: should you hover or sit on festival toilets? While hovering might seem like the cleaner option, it can actually lead to a messier and more unsanitary situation. Instead, opt to sit on the toilet seat and use a seat cover if available, or line the seat with toilet paper. This way, you can avoid any unpleasant surprises and leave the toilet in better condition for the next person.
Lastly, let’s talk about a few essential items to bring with you to the festival toilets. In addition to toilet paper, consider packing hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and a small flashlight. Hand sanitizer will keep your hands clean after using the facilities, while wet wipes can help you freshen up throughout the day. A small flashlight can come in handy if you find yourself using the toilets after dark, as many festivals have limited lighting in the bathroom areas.