A major home insurance provider has warned festival goers of the risks of not having home insurance cover.

The insurer revealed that festival-goers are putting £2.3 billion worth of possessions at risk this summer by taking valuable items like digital cameras and mobile phones to music shows.

Around 20 million people in the UK have been or are planning to go to a music gathering such as Reading or V Festival this summer.

Statistics from the group show that on average, people take items that collectively amount to more than £450 each, while for the 5.3 million people who camp overnight, this total jumps to nearly £600 with the costs of tent gear and sleeping bags increasing the price.

Figures show that around 77% of people will take a mobile phone, while 75% of music lovers will be carrying up to £100 of cash with them.

As a result the insurer is urging festival lovers to check their home cover policy to make sure everything they take is covered, especially as 9% of people have experienced loss or theft at a gig.

Commenting on the risks, Richard Pennant-Jones, head of general insurance at the insurer, 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.”

Making the right step in wellies

Worryingly, many festive goers thought their belongings would be covered by their motor policy. 68% of festival goers believe that their valuables will be covered by their car insurance if left in the car during the festival. However, only 62% of car insurance policies will cover contents of vehicles up to just £100. This will cover the cost of a cheap mobile phone but that's about it.

Therefore, Mr Pennant-Jones noted that with a few easy steps and precautions, people could save hundreds of pounds in the event of loss or theft. He stated: “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.

“[We] recommend 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,” he added.

Insurers pointed out that home insurance policies will not cover items left in an unlocked tent or indeed, the tent itself, which needs to be covered by a bespoke policy. Items may be covered if the tent has a lockable door but you have to confirm this with your insurer.

Tent security is vital, especially as music shows are a prime target for thieves and festival crime has increased by 50%.