Top tips for taking children to festivals

Summer festivals aren’t just for grown-ups anymore. More families are choosing child-friendly events to keep little ones entertained during the school holidays.

Of course, crowds and long days can feel daunting when you have babies or toddlers in tow. But at Milton, we’re here to help you every step of the way with tips to ensure your family can enjoy the festival comfortably.

Plan ahead effectively

The best family festivals are the ones planned with children in mind. Look for events with kid-friendly areas, as these will include change spaces and quiet play areas, which are a game-changer when travelling with a baby. Some festivals even have buggy-friendly paths and free child entry, so it’s worth putting some time into finding the best options for your family.

A trolley or sturdy buggy can be a lifesaver for tired toddlers or sleepy babies at festivals. You can continue to enjoy the festival while your baby is sleeping comfortably. Typically, festivals allow families to bring baby and kids’ gear, but you still want to check ahead what you’re allowed to bring on site.

Stay energised and hydrated

Festivals can mean long days with lots of walking and dancing. While babies and younger children may not be spending as much time on their feet as parents, it doesn’t mean they can’t get tired. Pack plenty of easy snacks like fruit, rice cakes or sandwiches that little hands can grab on the go. For extended stays, it’s always a good idea to bring a cool box with you.

For babies, it’s essential to stick as much as possible to their feed routine, even if you are at a festival.

Another important and life-changing tip for festivalgoers is to bring refillable bottles for water as you can keep them topped up at water stations. For babies and younger children, if you want to be on the safer side, bottled water is a better option. Remember that if the weather is hot, babies and toddlers can get dehydrated quickly, so you want to make sure they are drinking enough to replenish their fluids.

For little ones, frozen juice boxes or small cartons can double as cool packs and refreshing treats when the sun is shining too.

Sterilising on the move

When you’re away from home, keeping bottles, cups and feeding equipment clean is just as important as it is in your own kitchen. Festivals don’t always have easy access to sinks or hot water, but that’s where the cold water sterilising method comes in.

You can bring a solo travel steriliser and anti-bacterial tablets, and only use cold water, for quick and fuss-free bottle cleaning in your tent or camper. You can also use the same method to clean a dummy on the go, so you don’t have to worry about your baby’s dummy getting dirty at the festival site.

Hygiene hacks for mud and mess

Muddy fields, sticky ice creams and messy mealtimes are all part of the fun, but keeping hands and surfaces clean will help everyone stay healthy. A pack of antibacterial surface wipes is ideal for wiping down picnic spots, highchairs or tables before you sit down to eat.

All weather packing recommendations

Festivals are famous for sunshine and showers all in one day, so be ready for both. Pack lightweight raincoats or ponchos, wellies for muddy fields and sun hats for when the clouds clear. A warm blanket is handy for shady naps or wrapping up when the temperature drops in the evening.

No matter what the weather does, always plan for proper sterilisation so feeding equipment stays safe and clean wherever you are. A little planning goes a long way when it comes to family festivals. With the right kit, you can keep your children comfortable, clean and happy from the first song to the last snack.

Milton has been helping families stay stress-free for over 100 years with trusted products that are perfect for days out. Shop our hygiene and sterilising range today and enjoy every moment of your next adventure together.

Shop the Milton range at Woolworths, Coles, Chemist Warehouse, BIG W, Baby Bunting, IGA and other major supermarkets.