But ultimately, after really going in at the deep end with Glastonbury, a five-day camping experience, in a field, with only long drop toilets and water stations, there was absolutely nothing to worry about and fingers crossed - I'll be back next year!
However, I did do a couple of things to make the overall experience easier and have less to worry about. Here are my seven tips which will help you have a good time:
- I pre-cut all of my bags - you don't want to take scissors with you in case they get confiscated. Plus, cutting your bag to size if you've had a leak, in the middle of the night, pitch black, in a tent with no running water is not the perfect scenario to cut your bag…
- Order some extra-large bags - so you have a bit more room overnight. I used these all day long so I didn't have to worry if there was a queue for the toilet and wouldn't have to get up and empty in the middle of the night (I ordered some from Dansac)
- I also ordered some plastic bags which had silicone beads in - these are designed for anyone to use, e.g. on a long car journey or camping, you're meant to wee in them and then the silicone beads turn the liquid into a solid. You can then just throw the bag away. Theory here being you could just empty your bag into the beads in an emergency. I didn't end up using these, but I will be using them in the future if I ever get caught short.
- Make yourself up a little bag with all your essentials (adhesive remover, dry wipes, disposable bag, ileostomy pouch) - then just take these with a bottle of water and some loo roll to the nearest toilet to change your bag.
- Try to get disabled access if you can - you are entitled to it!
- Long drops are disgusting - try and use the compost loos if you can. They're much nicer, smell less and are generally much cleaner. Plus, they make compost which is useful.
- Have a fab time and enjoy it! Make sure you drink loadssss of water!