8 top tips for staying safe at TRNSMT from ear protection to dealing with crowds

Daily Record

a day ago

TRNSMT kicks off next week, with headliners including 50 Cent and Biffy Clyro.
One of Scotland's most well-loved and biggest festivals, TRNSMT will see some 150,000 music lovers descend on Glasgow Green next weekend. Headlining the event between July 11 and July 13 will be 50 Cent, Biffy Clyro and Snow Patrol.
Other major names on the bill for TRNSMT 2025 include Gracie Abrams, Fontaines D.C. and The Script. Often perceived as a replacement for the long-cancelled iconic festival T in the Park, TRNSMT has become a staple of Scots summers since it began in 2017.
But as the festival approaches, it's important to know how to keep yourself safe in the huge crowds and possible hot weather over the weekend.
With this in mind, expert Nick Higginson, CEO at Phoenix Health & Safety is sharing his top eight tips for staying safe at festivals this summer.
Here is his advice.
1. Be mindful of the crowd
Nick explains: 'To ensure you're safe in a festival crowd, consider standing further back from the stage or to the sides, where the crowd density is usually thinner.
"You should also be aware of the mood of the crowd, if you begin to notice people jostling or moving forward, it might be worth considering moving backwards in the crowd to avoid any potential crowd surges that can have potentially severe consequences.'
2. Wear suitable clothing and footwear
Nick stresses: 'While it's fun to put on colourful and lively outfits, wearing unsupportive shoes like sandals or flip-flops can easily lead to sprained ankles or stepping on something sharp, which could result in the rest of your weekend being a lot less enjoyable."
3. Protect your ears
The cheering crowds and thumping bass of a music festival can do serious damage to your hearing.
Nick adds: 'There's a wide range of hearing protection available, that will defend your ears without sacrificing the festival experience. For example, you can purchase a pair of earbuds that help to filter out the loudest levels of sound.'
While Loops are a popular brand, available on Amazon for £19.95, Debenhams offers a box of 200 foam ear plugs, currently on offer for £34.19.
4. Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun
Nick says: 'Being outdoors in the heat can be physically demanding, especially if you're on your feet dancing. It's important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day, so make sure you have a large reusable bottle to keep refilling and take regular drinking breaks."
While large hard-shell bottles are on the list of forbidden items for TRNSMT, a collapsible bottle 500ml or smaller is allowed.
If you don't already have one, some cheap options are available, such as this one from Amazon, which retails at £9.99.
Alternatively, this Decathlon option from Argos is available for £12. Small bottles of sun cream are also allowed in the festival grounds.
5. Take regular breaks
Nick explains: 'Not getting enough sleep and then spending hours drinking and dancing can be exhausting and can take a toll on your body.
'Try to make time to have regular breaks to rest and recharge - find a shaded place to rest away from direct sunlight, perhaps by sitting at the back of a music tent so you can relax but still enjoy the performances."
6. Be aware of your surroundings
The expert continues: 'Remember to pay attention to your surroundings, and watch where you're walking, particularly when walking around the campsite at night, where hazards will be less obvious.'
7. Arrange meeting points and keep your phone charged
Nick says: 'Get to know your maps and different landmarks around the site. It's a good idea to memorise where you will be able to find important locations such as the nearest medical tent, or help centre in case you need to use their services at any point.
"You should also agree on an easy to find meeting point with your friends in case you get separated and can't get a signal for your phone."
Power banks are also allowed into TRNSMT, so you can ensure your phone has enough juice to contact your friends if you get separated (providing you have phone service).
One top-rated product is the INIU Power Bank, which is 21 per cent off on Amazon, now costing £14.98. For those looking for a brighter portable charger to match a colourful festival outfit, Argos offers this discounted one for £22.39 which comes in black, blue or pink.
8. Understand fire hazards
Nick shares: 'If you're a smoker, make sure you don't drop the end of cigarette buts on the floor as this can set dry grass alight. I would recommend buying a cigarette ash pouch, which you can use to dispose of any cigarettes to prevent litter.
'If you notice the start of a fire, make sure you notice a member of festival staff in hi-vis."
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