​Saving up the cash and heading out to a weekend knowing you’re going to bring back a truckload of memories is simply the best. But contrary to popular belief, festivals have so much more to offer than sleeping off hangovers, dirty tents and getting as loose as humanly possible. In fact, get in early and you’ll probably be able to take part in a calming yoga session or two in order to realign that zen you misplaced somewhere on the dance floor the previous night.

We’ve heard a lot about drug and alcohol taking at festivals recently (here’s how to be safe if you are getting extra lit), but it doesn’t always have to be the approach. So if you decide to be a bit more chill, we’ve teamed up with headspace in our Ultimate Summer Festival Guide to bring you some sneaky tips on making the most out of your next festival appearance.

Get In Early And Explore The Festival Grounds

If you’re a habitual offender of rocking up to the festival arena at 5pm after a long day of drinking, sleeping or just chilling at your camp, then maybe it’s time to switch it up a little. Perhaps have a chill one the night before so you can get up somewhat early to explore the festival during the day. There’s always heaps on offer including things like yoga sessions, games areas and pop-up markets with heaps of thrifty vintage goodies to get your mitts on.

Score A Shady Spot Up On The Hill

Yes, it’s one hell of a rush to be in the middle of it all dancing your little heart out with some (obviously) questionable moves, but sometimes it’s okay to take a step back. Absorb the atmosphere and grab a strategic shady spot up on the hill for not only the perfect view of the stage, but also a spot to people-watch the afternoon away — with friends new and old.

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Get High On Life

Ditch following the crowd and just have your own fun listening to your favourite bands. Remember it’s completely possible to be happy and have an amazing time when you’re more aware of your surroundings. Plus, you’ll be able to remember and treasure the memories instead of waking up groggy and feeling disgusting the next morning.

Discover Fresh New Music

Getting into the festival early in the day also gives you the opportunity to expand your musical horizons. The smaller up and coming bands usually play in the early afternoon, so after an Instagrammable brunch and a cruisy walk down to the festival, get down to the stages to catch a new band or two. You’ve paid (probably a lot) for the festival, so why not make the most of your money? You never know, you might just discover your new favourite band or artist along the way.

Got a big festival planned soon? Maybe you’re heading to something more niche? Whatever the event, you’re now fully equipped to take it at your own pace. Check out headspace’s festivals page for a bunch of sneaky tips on keeping the vibe chill and the good times rollin’.

Images Sources: Groovin’ The Moo