Tips for keeping yourself safe from theft at music festivals

In recent years, the mass popularity of festivals and dance music events across the country has caused the rise of an unfortunate trend that nobody wants to be a victim of, theft.

Whether it’s at a one night event at a local venue or a three day camping festival, it doesn’t matter. There will always be the possibility that some people are not going to these shows for the music or a few drinks and a good time. Some people have the nefarious intent to steal people’s phones, wallets, and other personal items with the intention of selling them.

So, we thought it would be not only helpful but necessary that we advise you on some ways to keep you as well as your friend’s stuff safe. These tips aren’t foolproof, but they should help to make you a difficult target for theft.

Keep track of your belongings

Most would think that this is obvious advice, but we all know how difficult it can be to keep organized both inside and outside a concert. When camping at a festival, try to keep your camp organized. Be sure that when sleeping or leaving camp to enter a venue, valuable personal belongings are stored in your car or on your person.

We all wish we could bring every snack, gadget, and garment we have into a show, but in reality, it can end up hindering a good time more than helping. Try to take in things that you need before things that you want, and try not to over-pack bags and hydro packs. Keep valuables and important items in larger deeper pockets of bags and periodically check that your items are secure.

Be aware of your surroundings

Although it can be difficult at times – especially when moving through large crowds and dancing to your favorite artist – awareness is critical, and knowing who and what is going on around you can save you a lot of trouble. That means keeping your bags and items close at all times, and not leaving them unattended. So be sure to know your surroundings, and always rave responsibly.

Credit: Animaflora PicsStock

Look out for suspicious activity

Certain behaviors can be signs that people or groups may be trying to steal from those around them. In several instances, groups have been seen carrying faraday bags or metallic bags made of materials that block phone and radio signals. People have been caught with these bags containing dozens of cell phones worth tens of thousands of dollars.

Thieves will also try to pickpocket victims while passing through crowds or while dancing. Some things to look out for are people moving oddly past others, groups focusing on other people rather than festivities, or simply people reaching into others’ pockets or backpacks. If you notice someone or a group of people who are doing this, try to inform the nearest staff or security member.

Purchase anti-theft merchandise

You can now choose from a decent selection of anti-theft fanny packs, bags, and even hydration packs like the Lunchbox. There are also other helpful accessories like phone lanyards, pick-pocket-proof clothing, and specialized wallets that can help to keep your personal items personal. These items come with locking mechanisms, zipper covers, and other specialized materials that make theft close to impossible. Purchasing a padlock for your tent’s zipper can also help provide an extra layer of security for your campsite.

Using these easy tips, you and your friends can keep yourselves and others safe from becoming a victim of theft. The best tools we have to make our community better are safety and responsibility. Using these tools together, we can make festivals and clubs a much safer and more enjoyable experience for all.