How to hit up music festivals on the cheap
From snagging cheap digs and early-bird tickets to scoring thrifty festival threads and staying cool in the Aussie heat, we'll show you how to party on a budget. So, grab your mates, read our tips and hit your favourite music fest.
Get early bird tickets
Don't wait until the last minute – many festivals have early bird specials or pre-sales that are significantly discounted. Subscribe to their newsletters and follow them on social media so you can be the first to know when they release them. This is one of the best ways to save money on music festival tickets.
Work at your favourite festival
Working a shift at your favourite festival is a great way to score free entry. Many festivals rely on volunteers to scan tickets, hand out freebies (more on that later) and clean up, and you probably won’t have to work the entire day. Check out their websites and apply early to the most popular music festivals, like Splendour in the Grass, or you might miss out.
Win tickets
Wait, you can win free music festival tickets? You heard it right. Radio stations and festival sponsors often host competitions to giveaway tickets and sometimes even an all-expenses-paid trip! So check their websites and social media accounts once the festival is announced, and enter competition. You’ve got to be in it to win it.
Take a road trip
If you're going to a music festival that's out of state, try travelling there by bus or train. An interstate return flight could easily set you back big bucks that you could be spending on festival merch. Coach services like Greyhound have routes connecting New South Wales, Canberra, Queensland, Victoria and South Australia.
Another great way to save is to drive with a few friends for a fun road trip across the country. Just pump your festival playlist on the way to start the party early.
Stay in budget accommodations
When you're hitting up a music fest, crashing in hostels is the savvy move. It frees up cash for the important stuff – like rocking out with your friends and grabbing those must-have festival treats. Plus, you might meet other like-minded music fans, and you can keep the good vibes rolling without splashing the cash. It’s also cleaner and sometimes cheaper than camping – especially if you don’t already own camping gear and utensils.
YHA Bonus: Check out which of our properties are near your favourite festivals.
BYO food
Image: Visit Victoria
Staying in hostels means you can use the communal kitchen to make breakfast and even pack lunch everyday, if the festival allows outside food. Otherwise bring something simple – energy bars, nuts or crackers can help stretch your budget further, and you won’t have to drink on an empty stomach. It's a great way to cut costs.
Look out for freebies
From merch to drinks to VIP passes, festival vendors and sponsors frequently offer freebies and surprises for festival-goers on the day. Keep an eye on the venue signage and check social media every few hours to see what’s on offer. Who knows, you might even score a last-minute meet-and-greet with your favourite international artist!
Bring cash
Yes, there will be ATMs onsite, but they are likely to charge you a withdrawal fee. Why pay to access your own money? Hit the ATM before you enter the venue and save that money for drinks. This will also help you set a budget for the day so you don’t come home with credit card debt.
Bring a portable phone charger
Some festivals charge a fee to recharge electronics, so bringing your own portable phone charger can save you bucks. It will also ensure you stay charged up for all those festival selfies and electronic music moments.
Don't risk missing the epic New Year's Eve countdown or your favourite international artists' sets – keep your phone powered and festival-ready, whether you're in the heart of a bustling city or at an open-air event in rural Australia.
Buy your festival outfit at a thrift store
Image: Tourism NSW
Dress the part and save money by shopping for festival outfits at thrift stores. Whether it’s vintage vibes or a unique look, thrift stores can be a treasure trove for festival fashionistas. Plus, embracing sustainable fashion adds an extra dose of cool to your festival look, and you’ll have more funds to spend on the day.
BYO water bottle
Keep cool and hydrated by bringing your own water bottle to the festival. It's not just a huge money-saver; it's a lifesaver when you're dancing under the scorching sun. Opt for a collapsible bottle for easy storage and stay refreshed all day long without missing a beat on the dance floor.
Stay healthy
Don’t forget to slather on the sunscreen and stay hydrated throughout the day to avoid getting heatstroke — a trip to the hospital can be expensive! Take breaks in the shade and eat nutritious snacks to keep your energy up. Look after yourself and your crew, because staying healthy means more time enjoying the festival fun.
Make the most of your ticket
Image: Tourism NSW
Once you get there, be present, take it all in and enjoy the moment. Watch the show live, not through the screen of your phone! Put the phone down for a minute so you can soak up every moment that will surely make your ticket worth every dollar.
Updated by K. Hastings
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