Festival goers urged to protect possessions

Almost 20 million (39 per cent) of us are planning to go to or have already been to a festival or outdoor event this summer, putting £2.3 billion worth of personal possessions at risk, according to research from Post Office Insurance.

Revellers heading off to concerts and music festivals such as V Festival and Reading, which are coming up over the next couple of weeks, each plan on taking personal items which collectively amount to more than £450. For the 5.3 million people who are planning on camping overnight, this increases to more than £600 per person allowing for the added expense of tents, sleeping bags and other camping essentials.

Over four million (9 per cent) of us have experienced either loss or theft whilst at a festival or outdoor event, and with three quarters of adults (77 per cent) planning to take their Blackberry or mobile phone, two thirds (62 per cent) a digital camera and three out of four (75 per cent) carrying up to £100 in cash, this year could be particularly expensive for anyone losing an item or falling victim to theft.

Those driving to the event should also think about what they leave in their car and where they keep the keys - over a quarter of concert and festival goers have left valuables such as digital cameras and iPods locked up in a car in an attempt to keep them out of sight from thieves. This year 59 per cent plan to carry car keys around with them.

Post Office head of general insurance, Richard Pennant-Jones, said: "Festival-goers a few years ago would have been happy with just a lunchbox, a pair of wellies and a cagoule. But the modern outdoor event rucksack can contain all sorts of pricey gadgets like digital cameras, Blackberrys, mobiles, iPods, and even extravagant picnic paraphernalia - over 350,000 people this year plan to take an expensive rug. This means we are much more at risk from opportunistic thieves and pickpockets, as well the more common event of loss.

"It is easy for people to get caught up in the fun of the festival, which is why they need to try and protect their belongings. The Post Office recommends that people take old items or equipment wherever possible and not be tempted to take expensive items such as designer sunglasses and bags. And they should check their home insurance contents policy to be clear what personal possessions are covered automatically and whether they need to get extra cover.

"These simple steps could save hundreds of pounds in the event of any theft or loss of items."