How to survive summer festivals as a chronically ill baddie

I love summer. I love feeling the sun on my face, eating ice blocks, being able to go out in one layer of clothing (the hideous sensory experience of wearing multiple layers... I could live without it), the days being long and feeling full of possibility. My body, unfortunately, is not such a big fan.

POTS causes my temperature regulation to go all out of whack, and my summer hayfever kicks in, and often my fatigue is worse when it's hot. The worst thing I could possibly do is stand and jump around in the sun for 8 to 10 hours — but I do have tickets to Laneway, so...

My fellow chronically ill mates and I started brainstorming our festival survival hacks weeks (even months) before Laneway, as if we're going into battle. As much as we want to see Lucy Dacus crooning on the big stage, the idea of a massive crash the next day is less appealing. These are the top five things (plus one bonus tip) I'm going to do to try and enjoy my Laneway, without major consequences.

1. Bring electrolytes and snacks 

According to the Laneway website, you're allowed to bring in electrolytes in their original (sealed) packaging. Score! You can bring in your own food if you have a medical reason to do so, but you have to submit an Accessibility Request Form beforehand. 

2. Wear cool, loose clothing

Of course we want to look good for the photos we'll inevitably take during the day, but even more importantly, the clothes need to be comfortable and airy. I'm going to wear one of my favourite warm weather outfits, with my keffiyeh bandana to keep the sun off my scalp. Sensory-friendly clothing only! If I can source one, I'll bring a mini fan too — you can get ones that plug into your phone, but be wary of running down your phone battery too quickly.

3. Sit down

The mosh is not worth it for me. Find a seat and stay seated most of the day. I know this sounds boring, but I will be parking up on the hill at the back of the field and watching the bands from there — this way I can reserve as much of my energy as possible, and hopefully avoid a crash the next day. Laneway's website says you can even bring a seat with you, but you have to submit an Accessibility Request Form beforehand. 

4. Bring emergency meds and pain relief

For me this will include my TENS machine, pain medication, and any other meds that I might need on the day. Festivals can be quite strict about bringing in pills, so you'll need to have them in their original packaging and with your named prescription label on them. 

5. Bring earplugs and make use of the chill zones

I never go anywhere without my trusty Loop earplugs (not sponsored, I just love them). Being able to reduce the noise is helpful because I'm less likely to get anxious or overwhelmed (which in turn uses up energy). Most festivals have some kind of relaxed space away from the music — I'll be locating Laneway's one when they release the map, and memorising the route there so I can drop in when I need it. 

Bonus: Advocate for yourself

Perhaps more important than any other piece of advice, you need to advocate for yourself and your needs on the day. If your friends are non-disabled, make sure they understand your limits and what support you might need, and don't be afraid to speak up if you get too tired or need help with something. Also don't be afraid to contact the festival beforehand with any requests that will help you to have a better day. I often feel disabled imposter syndrome because I've become more disabled over time, and haven't really built up that skill of advocating for my own access needs. 

This Laneway, I will be as loud and proud and annoying as I need to be to make sure I have a comfortable day. If that looks like sitting down and eating my home-packed snacks, so be it! Make your festival experience work for you.