Research from Halifax Insurance suggests festival attendees take on average £268 worth of items to festivals, up £81 from last year, with almost 1 in 3 (31%) carrying over £300 worth of belongings.

The poll of 2,000 UK adults found smartphones now rank as the second most popular item carried at festivals after purses and wallets, yet more than a quarter of those surveyed admitted they have no insurance cover for their items and almost a third (29%) don’t know whether their valuables are protected outside of the home.

According to the latest Halifax Insurance Digital Home report, over a quarter (28%) of UK adults own digital devices worth between £1,000 and £2,000.

Martyn Foulds, senior claims manager at Halifax Insurance, said: “Large crowds at concerts and festivals can be a haven for pick pockets, as people are in a relaxed atmosphere and may have their guard down. It’s easy to underestimate the risks, but it’s important people check they are adequately insured for belongings outside the home to avoid putting a dampener on any festivities.”

Halifax Insurance top tips for festival goers:

• Take pictures of each valuable item being taken and store on a device that won’t be travelling with you. Keep receipts as proof of purchase can help speed up your claim
• Avoid leaving valuables in unattended tents and cars
• Ensure you bring only necessary cash and store close on your person
• Only take necessary items and consider what you can share with friends
• Consider leaving your smartphone at home and substituting with an old pay-as-you go mobile instead, which won’t be as attractive to thieves and won’t matter as much  if lost
• If you do have to take a smartphone, make sure it is insured and backed up
• Take a small bag with zipped openings that can be worn on your person
• Store valuable belongings in the bottom of your sleeping bag when going to sleep
• Use designated lock-up areas if provided
• Immediately report anything lost or stolen to the police and ask for a crime reference number as your insurer will require this if you need to claim.

Heading to a festival this summer? Check out our ultimate money-saving festival guide here.