Boardmasters 2025: Festival-Goers Could Lose or Damage Phones Worth Over £5.9 Million

As Boardmasters 2025 kicks off this week in Newquay, festival-goers are being warned to take extra care of their phones — or risk joining the thousands expected to lose or damage theirs during the five-day event.

Nearly 13,000 Phones at Risk

According to new research from Compare and Recycle, around 1 in 9 people attending music festivals have previously had their mobile phone either lost or stolen. Another 11% reported damaging their phones at similar events. With Boardmasters drawing an estimated 58,000 attendees this year, those stats suggest around 12,760 people could find themselves phoneless by the end of the weekend.

The projected cost? A staggering £5,944,373. That’s based on the average cost to replace or repair a phone, which Compare and Recycle says is £465.86.

How to Keep Your Phone Safe

Antonia Hristov, Head of Marketing at Compare and Recycle, is urging festival-goers to protect their devices before heading to the coast. She’s shared some practical advice to help prevent becoming part of that £5.9 million figure.

1. Tighten Your Phone’s Security Settings

For iPhone users, a simple way to enhance security is by disabling Control Centre access from the lock screen. This stops thieves from putting the device in Airplane mode, which would block tracking via Find My iPhone. Go to Face ID & Passcode in settings and switch off access to the Control Centre when locked.

Those using iOS 17.3 or later can also activate Stolen Device Protection, which adds another layer of security if someone gets hold of your passcode. Switching to an eSIM can also help keep the phone online and trackable.

Android users are advised to enable Theft Detection Lock, turn on Find My Device, block notifications from the lock screen, and use two-factor biometric re-authentication for banking apps and setting changes.

2. Don’t Pocket It

Avoid keeping your phone in your back pocket. Crowded events like Boardmasters make it easy for devices to fall or be taken without anyone noticing. Antonia suggests using a phone leash, lanyard or running belt that can be hidden under clothing.

3. Get Insurance Cover

Even the most cautious festival-goer can have a mishap. Whether it’s a muddy puddle or a cracked screen in a crowd, insurance could save the day. While there’s no specific festival insurance, general mobile phone insurance could protect you from both theft and accidental damage.

4. Leave the Smartphone at Home

Many opt for a ‘dumb phone’ during festivals — such as the classic Nokia 3310 — as a safer alternative. This way, if a device is lost or stolen, it’s no great financial loss, and less likely to be targeted.

With Boardmasters running from Wednesday 6th to Sunday 10th August, the advice comes just in time for those packing their bags and planning their outfits.