Before the festival, agree on clear boundaries, a simple plan, and consent: what they might take, no impulsive mixing or redosing, a code word for time out, preferred stages and triggers to avoid, and your authority to end the night if safety is at risk. Share locations for exits, first aid, chill spaces, and a meet point. Arrange sober transport there and back.
On site, stay fully sober and calm. Choose spots at the edge of crowds and away from subwoofers and heavy strobes. Carry water with electrolytes, snacks, layers for sun and cold, earplugs, a small blanket, a charged phone, and a power bank. Take regular breaks to cool down and reorient, and avoid crush points.
Support with simple, steady communication: slow breathing together, naming a few things you can see and hear, consented reassurance, and moving to quieter areas when needed. If there are red flags like extreme agitation, collapse, severe overheating, chest pain, seizures, or unsafe behavior, go straight to festival medics or security and share what you observe.
Keep expectations realistic: you are a grounded companion, not a clinician, and safety beats the schedule. For a concise overview of roles, boundaries, and when to escalate while being hired as a tripsitter, see this tripsitter hire Q&A. Stay safe and enjoy the music.