Springtime in South Africa comes with a whirlwind of outdoor activities for everyone to soak up the warmth. No matter what you’re into, there’s something for you. With offerings from Rocking the Daisies for the music enthusiasts in the Western Cape to Ficksburg Cherry Festival for some family under the Eastern Cape sun, our nation has it all.
Maxime Bhm/Unsplash
But just as much as the air will be full of life, it will also be full of pollen. If you’re not prepared. You may very well end up sneezing your way through the saxophone crooning at the Joy of Jazz. That’s why I’ve put together your ultimate guide of do’s and don’ts to make it through this season’s adventures stress and snot free.
DO
Plan ahead
Besides being season specific, many of the events in the current festival circuit are extremely popular and tend to fill up quickly. For ticketed events, make sure to book tickets as early as possible to avoid missing out. For ALL events, check the respective pages for schedules, maps and entry requirements to plan your movements accordingly.
Dress for comfort and weather
Don’t let the spring sun fool you. The days may be warm, but the nights are still nippy. Light layers and SPF are your best friends. Comfy shoes are a MUST because it’s a lot easier to reach and surpass the popular 10 000 step goal during outdoor events.
Stay Hydrated
Keep a bottle of water within reach and if you are going into an event where outside food and drinks are allowed, buy a bottle of water that can be refilled if there taps or water fountains on the premises.
*Extra tip for the music festival goers: Keep a sachet or two of electrolytes to keep you hydrated and always dancefloor ready.
Pack Smart
Do not forget your essentials. ID, cash and card (ALWAYS have cash on hand), portable charger, tissues and hand sanitiser.
Be Safe
Many of these popular events attract big crowds and it’s easy to get lost and overwhelmed. Take a look around as soon as you arrive at the event for the info desk, medical aid area and emergency exits. If you are going with a group of friends, make sure that you have a meeting spot to go to if you get separated. In this age of technology, you can even take it a step further and share your location with each other.
Wear a face covering
Between the hundreds of feet kicking up dust and the spring breeze, the cool air is usually full of dust and pollen which means that just breathing could give the sniffles. The best way to avoid any airborne irritation is by wearing a mask, bandana or even scarf that can protect your mouth and nose,
DON’T
Don’t forget Anti-Allergy Medication/Antihistamines
Bring antihistamines if you know you’re sensitive to pollen. It’s true that pollen can affect everyone, but if you know that you are prone to hayfever, don’t sacrifice your health for the sake of fun.
Be careful of food allergens if you have dietary restrictions.
Don’t leave your valuables unattended
Pickpocketing is much in crowds so keep your phone, wallet and keys secure. The best way to ensure the safety of your items is to carry a bag that is in your line of site. A fanny pack or crossbody bag works best.
Don’t overdo it
The quickest way for your festival experience to go wrong is by overdoing anything. Drinking alcohol? Pace yourself. Dancing? Pace yourself. Know your limits. It is always good to have an emergency plan but it’s even better to not put yourself in an emergency situation. Take care of yourself and your friends. Everything in moderation.
Don’t plan return transport last minute
If you have ever attended any big event, you know exactly how crazy it gets when it’s time to leave. Rideshare app prices go through the roof. Getting to a train or bus takes triple the amount of time it usually would, but the schedules don’t change. You do not want to find yourself stranded and travelling at ungodly hours because you did not plan ahead.
Don’t ignore the rules
Look up the festival/event rules BEFORE attending. You may find yourself in tears if you get to security and they tell you to leave your expensive camera behind because you didn’t check what you were and weren’t allowed to bring in.
DO NOT FORGET TO… enjoy yourself!
This guide is here to help you, not to scare you. We are a nation that likes to have fun and it’s the time of year to shake off the winter blues. Don’t let yourself get left behind
Follow us on social media for more travel news, inspiration, and guides. You can also tag us to be featured.
TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
ALSO READ: Blossoms & Beats: Unmissable Spring festivals across South Africa
