Pitching More Than Tents: Survey Finds Nearly 40% of Adults Have Banged At A Music Festival

In some semi-gross but also not overly surprising news, a new study has shown that nearly 40% of festivalgoers admitting they’ve gotten down and dirty at a festival - and we don’t mean like last year’s Splendour In the Grass mudfest.

Yep, that’s right. It seems that deflating air mattresses, having your best mate’s tent next to you, or being covered in post-festival grime still isn’t enough to stop some punters from getting busy in the bump 'n' grind department.

According to a new report released by LoveHoney, who surveyed over 2,000 adults to find out how many people have had sex at a festival and how highly they would rate the experience, it seems that the combination of good tunes, good vibes, and a helluva lot of alcohol gets punters in the mood - particularly for men.

“Almost half (47%) of the men we surveyed admitted they’ve gotten down and dirty at a festival, which is 17% more than the ladies surveyed,” the report read.

The intriguing report also noted that the younger crowd are going at it more than older festivalgoers - though our elder ravers are still “getting jiggy”.

“The younger generations are also most likely to give in to their sexual impulses at a festival, with over half (55%) of those aged 18 to 34 having previously done so. That’s not to say festival sex is only for the young though, as 1 in 10 (13%) people aged over 55 are still getting jiggy to the music.”

When asked why punters seem to love festival sex so much, Elisabeth Neumann, Head of User Research at Lovehoney, said. “Festivals are like a big playground for adults. They’re all about having fun, and give people the chance to escape the stress, duties, and rules of everyday life" she explained.

“Festivals promise freedom and are spaces to explore new things and perhaps be a bit more daring. Whether it be with your partner or someone you’ve just met, having sex contributes to this spirit of excitement and adventure.”

So if you’re part of the near-40% of those getting your rocks off at a fezzy, Elisabeth suggests taking in the following info for your own safety:

Bring protection

Just as gumboots and raincoats are essential items at any festival, so too are condoms. Even if the thought of having sex in a tent turns you right off, you never know what could happen.

Make sure you’re prepared should the moment arise, since the likelihood of getting to a shop once you’re through the festival gates is slim. Also, ensure you store your condoms away from heat and humidity, and keep an eye on those expiration dates.

Keep clean

Baby wipes, hand sanitiser, and tissues are staples for any festival backpack, and they can come in very handy should you find yourself in the throws of passion after a few days of not showering.

That being said, good hygiene is key for safe sex, so do try to shower regularly, even if access is limited, and keep those hands washed at all times.

It’s not only personal hygiene you need to keep in mind though: if you’re taking your sex toys with you, it’s essential that you’re making sure you clean them properly with a sex toy cleaner.

Beware of the beer goggles

If you’re planning on having sex, make sure you drink responsibly so you know you’re making the right decision for you and you’re able to give consent.

You also need to be aware of how present your partner is. Check in with them regularly, give them plenty of opportunities to take breaks or stop if they need to, and if you believe they are too drunk to consent to sex, stop immediately.

Consent is key

This is always essential for any sexual encounter, but is especially important at festivals. Be extra careful to check-in, and ask for consent. “Can I kiss you?”, “Do you like that?” or “Is x/y/z okay?” are small questions that can make such a difference.

Location, Location, Location

When it comes to tent size, the bigger the better as far as we are concerned.

No one is going to have good sex in a one-man tent, so the roomier the tent, the more fun there is to be had. But be aware that the walls of a tent are extremely thin.

Respect your neighbours and try to be not too loud - some people might actually want to sleep.

Also, while it could be tempting to jump in a portaloo for a bit more space, please, just don’t - cleanliness is sexy! Plus, with the never-ending queues, you’re bound to have an audience.

Think through the timing

While the thought of being caught might add to the excitement, having sex while your mates are just a sheet of fabric away isn’t going to lead to the mind-blowing sex you’re after.

To avoid crowds, try to sneak away while a popular artist is playing. Make sure you check the schedules, so while everyone else is rushing to the main stage, you can be putting on a performance of your very own.

Choose a good position

Don’t try to be too acrobatic with your positions: stick to the basics and go with what feels comfortable. Missionary and spooning are probably the most discreet, and just try to keep your movements slow and smooth.

If things get a little tricky, let yourself laugh about it. Whether you hit the tent poles or get stuck in a zipper, have a giggle and keep going. There’s no need for embarrassment - it’s a challenging environment for everyone.

Enjoy the moment

Most importantly of all, enjoy the moment. Keep being mindful of safety, hygiene and communication, and then go and have a great time.

Sex at a festival can feel adventurous, exciting and even sometimes intimate since you’re sharing a special moment in this very unique space together.