Festivals are a celebration of music, community, and unforgettable moments. But let’s face it — festival porta-potties are a necessary reality that everyone must face. With limited restroom facilities and large crowds, using a porta-potty during a festival can quickly become a challenge if you’re not prepared. To help you navigate this less-than-glamorous part of the festival experience, this blog offers a survival guide on how to tackle festival porta-potties with ease, confidence, and a few handy tricks.
Surviving festival porta-potties requires a strategic approach: come prepared with a personal hygiene kit, master contactless techniques like hovering, and use smart timing and location tips to find cleaner facilities. Here’s how you can make the best of it.
Preparation and Essential Supplies
Never assume the porta-potty will be stocked; bring your own “survival kit” to ensure a clean and comfortable experience. Here’s what to pack in your festival bathroom kit:
Toilet Paper/Tissues: Always carry a travel-sized pack of tissues or a compact roll of toilet paper. Porta-potties can run out of supplies quickly, and you don’t want to be caught without it.
Hand Sanitizer and Wipes: Pack alcohol-based hand sanitizer and wet wipes for thorough cleaning, both before and after use. These are crucial for maintaining hygiene in a place where water and soap may not be available.
Smell Defense: A bandana over your nose with a dab of essential oil or a small travel-sized air freshener can help mitigate odors in the less-than-ideal conditions. It’s a simple trick that can make a big difference when you’re stuck in line.
Lighting: A small flashlight or a headlamp is essential, especially at night. Many porta-potties lack interior lighting, making it hard to navigate, especially if you’re visiting during late hours.
Portable Urinals: Products like a reusable silicone pee funnel (e.g., a “She Wee”) allow women to urinate while standing, avoiding seat contact entirely. This handy tool is especially useful during busy festivals when time is limited.
Smart Strategy and Technique
Planning your bathroom breaks and using clever techniques can significantly improve the experience. Here are some strategies that will help you manage your restroom trips:
Timing is Everything: The best times to visit the porta-potties are early in the morning, right after they’ve been cleaned, or during a headlining set you don’t mind missing. Avoid peak times immediately after major performances or during meal breaks when the lines tend to be the longest.
Location, Location, Location: The porta-potties closest to the main stages or high-traffic areas tend to be the busiest and dirtiest. Scout for units on the outskirts or those tucked away in less crowded spots. They’re often cleaner, more private, and quicker to get to.
Master the Squat/Hover: Avoid sitting directly on the seat, as it’s usually less than pristine. Master the art of hovering by using the horizontal handles on the inside of the door for balance — it’s a good arm workout! You can also line the seat with toilet paper to create a protective barrier.
Practice Good Etiquette: Be fast, don’t cut in line, and always close the lid when you’re done. This helps contain odors and keeps the unit as clean as possible for the next person. Keep things moving and courteous to make the experience better for everyone.
Health and Safety Tips
Festival life is all about balance — enjoy the music and fun while staying safe and healthy. Here are some health tips that will help you make the most of your festival experience:
Stay Hydrated Wisely: Drink water consistently to stay hydrated, but avoid chugging large amounts at once. Drinking too much too quickly can lead to an urgent need to go, making it harder to find an available restroom in time.
Protect Your Gear: If you’re carrying a hydration pack, be sure to secure the mouthpiece by tucking it into the bag or holding it in your mouth. This prevents it from swinging freely and touching any unsanitary surfaces inside the restroom.
Use the Buddy System: Going to the porta-potty at night can feel a little more daunting, especially if the festival grounds are dark. Having a friend with you can provide moral support, help hold your belongings, and enhance your safety in dimly lit areas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
1. What should I do if the porta-potty is out of toilet paper?
It’s a good idea to carry your own travel-sized roll of toilet paper or tissues. If you forget, try to catch the attention of someone nearby who can assist, or head to a nearby restroom facility to check for supplies.
2. Are there any tricks to avoid porta-potty odor?
Bring a bandana or face mask and apply a small amount of essential oil for a better breathing experience. You can also carry a small air freshener to spritz after use.
3. How can I avoid long lines for the restroom?
Timing is key! Try to visit the bathrooms during off-peak hours, such as early in the morning or during headliner sets. Also, choose units located away from high-traffic areas, as they tend to be less crowded.
4. How can I stay sanitary while using a porta-potty?
Bring along hand sanitizer and wet wipes for thorough cleaning. Use the hover technique to avoid sitting directly on the seat, and always wash your hands thoroughly after exiting.
Conclusion
While festival porta-potties are an inevitable part of outdoor events, with a little preparation and the right strategy, you can make the experience more comfortable and less stressful. Pack your hygiene kit, time your visits wisely, and use smart techniques to avoid long lines and messy situations. Remember, the key to surviving festival porta-potties is all about staying prepared and maintaining a good attitude — because the festival is all about fun, and nothing should stand in the way of that!