What to eat at Summer Festivals?!

It's the summer festival season again in the UK and I am going to the Donwload festival this weekend but am worried about eating healthily and staying within my calorie allowance (1600-1800) as the food usually on offer there is burger vans, fried chicken & chips, pizza etc..

Does anyone have any tips on what food/snacks I can take with me.  I have already thought about apples, small bags of nuts and protein bars but that's about it!

Can you treat yourself to something there? Once an awhile having something that is not as healthy as usual is ok. It is part of enjoying. I know in the US there are even healthier choices at places like this. You may be surprised to be able to find a healthier sandwich even or if not treat yourself to a slice of pizza. Then try to eat healthier through the day.

When we go to festivals in my area of the U.S. I like to walk down the road (since it's usually held right in town) to a gas (petrol ) station. They usually have a cooler section with pre-made salads and sandwiches. They're also much less money.

By the way, you could also take homemade popcorn.

I'm not sure if they have this at festivals in the UK, but you could always get grilled corn on the cob. Definitely one of my favorite fair foods. I know that's not a snack to take with you, but if its there, why not?

I always take a big water bottle with me. I find that the sugary drinks get me in more trouble than the food. Have fun! :)

Last year i went for the veggie curry places (there should be one), it might still end up being high cal but there are good nutrients in the usual saag / lentil / chick-pea stuff and you're on your feet all day jumping about so the extra energy isn't a bad thing nessercarily, better than a burger anyway. Any of the vegetarian stuff is more likely to have some healthful food in it plus as much as I love beef the meat from a burger van never appeals to me.

I usually go for the candied or caramel apples!  There not so good for you but they take a while to eat and are very filling.  I also carry a small container of munchies in my bag...usually some dry fiber one or special K protein.  Just in case I get a munch attack.

Suggestions to pack: Oatcakes, Ricecakes, hummus, salsa, popcorn, mini cereal multipacks, pick out healthier ones, fruits, ready made smoothies! All pretty good snack options. After that, for more substantial meals, I think just make the best choice you can, add in extra exercise before you go and after and have fun while your there!!

Thanks everyone!  I got back yesterday and managaed to maintain my weight after 3 days of camping, sunshine and rock music!!  I took fruit and nuts, rice cakes for breakfast in the mornings and was careful with my choices for the rest of the day with things like grilled chicken wraps, diet soft drinks and falaffels.

More importantly I had a fabulous time!!