FAQs Index

Podpads

Bellepads

Beaupads

Luxpads

Bunkpads

Octopads

Pricing

Location

Deposit

General

Payment Options


FAQ's

The 'podpad'

What is a 'podpad'?

How many people can live in a ‘podpad’?e 'podpad' is designed to accommodate two adults comfortably on either a double or twin beds. In exceptional circumstances, we can accommodate a family of three wher there is a child under teenage years. Please talk to us in advance as we may be able to recommend a different configuration of beds in such an instance.

How big is a podpad?

The ‘podpad’ is small but perfectly formed @ 8'x6' (2.4m x 1.8m)
              

What is inside a podpad?

They have a wooden floor with fitted carpet. They have raised beds either twins or a double with mattress to suit and creating useful storage space underneath for boots, bags etc.

There is a shelf running the full width of the ‘podpad’, three coloured windows with curtains, a mirror, light and a 12V socket. There is a nightlatch (YALE-type) lock on the door.
 

We do not supply as standard any bedding, sleeping bags, pillows etc. Similarly personal hygiene items and weather precautions are up to you – suncream/umbrellas?

What is outside a ‘podpad’?

Usually - green grass and your own personal space. You can leave the door open and watch the world go by without having your neighbours sitting in your porch or tripping over guy-ropes to and from your home. We aim to create a chilled and safe vibe by putting out large low level tables where you can relax and meet new mates.
 

Do the podpads have power?

The ‘podpads’ are solar powered via the iconic solar panel/sunflowers, that supply 12volts electricity via a car dashboard type socket. This can be used for low usage items such as charging mobiles, laptops, ipods but, please no kettles, hairdryers/straighteners please. Please bring your car dashboard "cigarette lighter" socket mobile phone charger. Please note that iPhones use more electricity than other mobile phones so if the iPhone won't charge in the podpad it can be charged in reception.

We will usually have standard 240V power sockets at reception for emergency/medical use.
 

Do the podpads have lighting inside?

Yes they have a light fitted as standard. This is a 12 volt x 8 watt strip light.

We suggest that you bring a torch for general use outside and around the area at night.
 

Are the ‘podpads’ dry inside?

We have experienced some incredibly harsh weather conditions over the past few years and the ‘podpads’ have survived it all – see Glasto ’05; all of Summer ’07; Bestival ’08. Hand built from 18mm weatherproof plywood, they have a upvc ridge cap fitted to the top of the roof. There is also guttering between terraced units to take the rainwater away from the sides.
 

Are the ‘podpads’ soundproof?

Accepting that there is always a degree of outside noise at a Festival, the ‘podpad’ has to be a lot quieter than a nylon/canvas tent. They are not soundproofed but are quite effective in keeping the peace when resting inside.
Are the ‘podpads’ warm/cool inside?

One of the great advantages of the ‘podpad’ is that they are certainly cooler than a tent in the day time. Often by 9am in a tent the interior is already “hot and sweaty” almost making you have to get up before you want to. Also it is still dark after sunrise in a ‘podpad’ until you decide to get up.

The prospect of an afternoon nap in a nylon tent on a sunny day is unthinkable with the heat inside. However, the ‘podpad’ with its wooden structure stays cool.

That said when it is cold at night the 'podpads' will also be cold so you will need to bring warm sleeping bags etc to keep you cosy in the British summer.
 

Are the ‘podpads’ secure?

Certainly more secure than a tent! The ‘podpads’ are set up in their own area – sometimes with other bespoke accommodation on offer – which itself is usually wristbanded access with Festival Security on the entrance. There is also a community feel with an unofficial Neighbourhood Watch in place.

Add to this each ‘podpad’ has a lock on the door and you hold the key (don’t lose it!).

However, remember, you are always at a Festival and general commonsense and warnings apply to leaving cash and valuables unattended.
 

The ‘bellepad’

What is a ‘bellepad’?


How big is a ‘bellepad’?

The ‘bellepad’ is 4mts (13’) diameter and ~ 2.5mts (8’) high in the middle

How many people can live in a bellepad’?

We recommend a maximum of four adults sharing or, talk to us if you have a family of more than four, including children
                         

What is inside a bellepad?

They come with a heavy duty protective pvc groundsheet and carpet.

We supply with 4 x inflated airbeds as standard
 

We do not supply as standard any bedding, sleeping bags, pillows etc. Similarly personal hygiene items and weather precautions are up to you – suncream/umbrellas?



Do the ‘bellepads’ have power?

The ‘bellepads’ do not have power to them

We will usually have standard 240V power sockets at reception for emergency/medical use.
 

Do the ‘bellepads’ have lighting inside?

No, there is no light supplied with the ‘bellepad’. Please no candles/nightlights in the ‘bellepad’

We suggest that you bring a lantern or a torch for general use outside and around the area at night.
 

Are the ‘bellepads’ dry inside?

We have recently invested in new strong pvc groundsheets with upwalls to protect the floor inside.

The ‘bellepads’ are built around a central pole and are closed at the top so that rain cannot get in thro’ the roof. The canvas is weatherproof and you will stay dry. Please be aware that the door/entrance is a part of the side of the structure, facing up to the sky and, so must be kept properly closed during rainy times.

Are the ‘bellepads’ secure?

The ‘bellepads’ are set up in their own area – sometimes with other bespoke accommodation on offer – which itself is usually wristbanded access with Festival Security on the entrance. There is also a community feel with an unofficial Neighbourhood Watch in place.

However, remember, you are always at a Festival and general commonsense and warnings apply to leaving cash and valuables unattended.

What is a 'beaupad'?

The beaupad is a bellepad in painted festival colours and has 4 campbeds that are raised off the ground instead of the airbeds.


What is a 'luxpad' and a 'bunkpad'?

A lockable plywood structure, with solid floor and covering it comes with hand built beds, having slatted bases and foam mattresses to suit. Furnished with shelves, waste bin and coat hooks, this charming scaled up version of the traditional ‘podpad’ offers 50% more floor space and increased head-height. The 'luxpad' and ‘bunkpad’ come with 240v electrics, suitable lighting and spare 3 pin sockets for your use. Please note bedding is not included.

A Luxpad is for 2 people and a bunkpad is for 4 people in bunkbeds.

Are the ‘luxpads’ and 'bunkpads' secure?

Certainly more secure than a tent! The ‘podpads’ are set up in their own area – sometimes with other bespoke accommodation on offer – which itself is usually wristbanded access with Festival Security on the entrance. There is also a community feel with an unofficial Neighbourhood Watch in place.

Add to this each ‘luxpad’ and 'bunkpad' has a lock on the door and you hold the key (don’t lose it!).

However, remember, you are always at a Festival and general commonsense and warnings apply to leaving cash and valuables unattended.

 

What is an 'octopad'?

A fabulous spacious structure with solid floor and walls, lockable door and 9’ high canvas roof fitted over tipi style poles. With 16’ across the level floor area, the ‘octopad’ comes furnished with drawers, tables, waste bin, 4 hand built beds with slatted bases and foam mattresses to suit. The ‘octopad’ comes with 240v electrics, suitable lighting and spare 3 pin sockets for your use.


Each 'octopad' is lockable and you hold the key.

Please note bedding is not included.


Pricing and Terms & Conditions

Do the prices include VAT?

Yes. All quoted and Book Now Prices are inclusive of VAT at the current UK rate
 

How long is the Hire Period for?

Generally, the accommodation hire period coincides with the Festival Campsite Opening Times. Sometimes, this is 4 nights from Thursday to Monday, sometimes 3 nights.
However, please be aware that we request that all guests leave and return keys by 10:00 on the Monday (as, we have a busy day ahead and need to clear site by teatime!!)
 

How many people is the price for?

‘podpad’ hire is for up to 2 people.

'luxpad' hire is for up to 2 people

'bunkpad' hire is for up to 4 people
‘bellepad’ and 'beaupad' hire is for up to 4 people
'octopad' hire is for 4 people,

There is some flexibility for babies and toddlers.

Does the price include Festival Tickets?

No, festival tickets must be purchased thro’ official Festival Ticket Outlets.
Please ensure that all guests staying with Podpads have Festival tickets and the required weekend camping/area passes as stated on the Festival website.
 

Why is there a Deposit and how do I get it back?

The deposit – usually @ £25 per unit – is to cover any loss, damage incurred during the hire period.
PLEASE be sure that you report to reception and return key to staff before leaving site.
We reserve the right to hold back a £10 key-cutting charge for lost/unreturned keys.
We aim to carry all returned deposit cheques ready to collect from reception when you sign out.
Alternatively, we will hold uncollected cheques for 3 months if claimed after the event.
 

What are the Terms and Conditions?

Whilst we try to avoid the boring & heavy side of life, we have these T&C’s to protect both parties – us (the supplier) and you (the customer). Please read them here and on our book now page and, fully understand prior to booking.

The Location/Setting


Do the ‘podpads’ have a special location?

Yes, we always try to procure an area which is unique to ‘podpads’ and this is often shared with other bespoke accommodation on offer eg tipis, yurts.
This area available to us will vary between Festival sites.

What is outside a ‘podpad’?

Usually - green grass and your own personal space. You can leave the door open and watch the world go by without having your neighbours sitting in your porch.

Is the ‘podpads’ area safe and secure?

We always try to procure an area which is defined either by natural boundaries such as a separate field or an area fenced off from the general public access.
We always ask for a 24/7 security presence from the Festival Organiser and we have our own wristbands for accessing the area.
The areas where we set up are only occupied by other paying guests and so, like-minded people will tend to “look out for one another” within the area.
Again, the level of security will vary between Festival sites.
As always, remember, you are at a Festival and general commonsense and warnings apply to leaving cash and valuables unattended.
 

How do I find ‘podpads’ on our arrival?

We try and give you as much arrival detail and helpful info in a guests’ email which we send out one week before the Festival. Please add info@podpads.com to your contacts so that our emails get through to you and don't go into your spam folder. This will include as much detail as we have to share with you. We will include a site map, preferred car parking, reception opening times and contact numbers etc. If you do not receive this email please check your spam folder before emailing us for information.
We will have a large Multi-coloured gazebo with our name on it at the entrance to the field/area and there you can book in, have a drink and collect the key to your ‘podpad’.
 

What times can I arrive/depart?

Opening times for our Reception will be listed in the Arrivals info email sent out one week prior to the Festival. You will be given onsite contact numbers to call if you anticipate arriving outside these Opening Times or if your journey gets delayed.

Your accommodation will be ready for you at the same times as Festival main Campsites open.
However, your access to the Festival site may be limited by the rules and regulations of the Festival itself.
This will vary from Festival to Festival. Leaving time is up to you. Our reception hours will fit in with most popular times, however, if you choose to leave site at 3.30 on Monday morning, do not expect a big send-off.
We will, however, leave a key drop-off point clearly accessible and, we can always forward your deposit cheque on to you.

General questions on ‘podpad’ living


Where will ‘podpads’ be setting up this season?

All confirmed festivals and events for will be listed on our FESTIVALS page
 

When & how can I book ‘podpads’ accommodation?

You can link to the secure booking page via the BOOK NOW link.
Alternatively via the FESTIVALS link above and then by specific Festival – Book Now
Occasionally, ‘podpads’ must be booked through the Festival Organisers – usually via a Ticketing Agency and this will be accessible via the FESTIVALS link. When this is the case – all dealings are direct with the Organisers and, the Festival takes responsibility for all pre-arrival contact. However, we will usually have a  ‘podpads’ crew to look after you onsite and we will never avoid your questions in the meantime.
 

What if I cannot book via the links above?

Inability to book online by the above methods will mean either ‘podpads’ are not yet available or we are fully booked already. The explanation will be given in the FESTIVALS link above. Should the case be that we are not yet taking bookings – please CONTACT US with your details and we will put you on our mailing list and update you on the day of release.
 

What if I have booked paid and then I wish to cancel?

To view our cancellation policy, go to our Terms & Conditions pages – click here
 

What if I have friends who have booked a ‘podpad’ – can we be next to them?

Yes, that is no problem – just email us with their names and booking reference and we will put you next door. Similarly, we have had instances where ex partners have booked independently and they have wanted to be as far away as possible. We aim to please.
 

What if I have friends camping - can they camp next to us?

No. The ‘podpads’ area is a no-go nylon zone.
Quite simply, you and your neighbours are paying for the exclusivity and services that come with the area If we were to allow others in, this would lead to a reduction in one’s ‘personal space’ and an overloading on the facilities and services. It is quite likely that with a bit of careful planning and a site map, your friends can find a place in Public Camping quite near to where we are set up.
 

What if I have friends elsewhere on site - can they visit us?

We will use our discretion and, this will depend on who is on duty/security. The general policy is a NO for the same reasons as above. One or two visiting / just taking a look inside is one thing – however, six or seven friends coming in armed with sound-systems, towels, shampoo and shower gel is quite another!

Do you have any Payment Plans?

Podpads doesn't have an automated payment plan on the website but are willing to help on an individual basis. In special cases we can raise a manual invoice/request for payment on a 50%/50% basis.

How it works: You email us requesting accommodation at a specific festival, quoting your preferred accommodation type, unit price as per our website and, give us full details of your name, address, email, mobile number.

We will raise and forward a VAT invoice/request for payment with ref.no. and send it to you by email (You will need to print this off and keep it safe). You can then pay by 2 BACs payments or 2 cheques.

payment 1 @ 50% of the total PLUS £25 returnable deposit.

payment 2 @ 50% of the total, dated last day of the month prior to the month immediately before the festival. e.g. IOW is in June so, post dated cheque/2nd payment would be dated 30th April.

*Only once this cheque/first payment has been received, will we reserve/allocate your accommodation and so, the Payment Plan system is only available on a "whilst stocks last basis". That's "whilst stocks last" at time of the first cheque/payment clearing. If we haven't received payment within seven days we will assume you have changed your mind.

PLEASE send both cheques/set up both BACS payments at the time of booking to avoid disappointment and, reduce our having to chase payments

Please be aware that if either of these cheques/BACS are not paid on time, cancelled or refused by the bank - we will not be able to refund any monies paid already. 

Medical conditions that require electricity

For guests that require electricty for re-charging medical equipment etc then we are always happy to help in reception where we have 240V electricity. Reception is  usually open for a few hours in the morning and afternoon. If you require a reliable supply of electricity on demand then we cannot guarentee that electricity will be available 24/7.

Is the Electricity in the accommodation suitable for guests that need help with breathing at night?

Please remember that a festival by its very nature is a city in a field that wasn't there last week and won't be there next week. All electricity on site is supplied by generators which are notoriously unreliable. Although the engineers will attempt to keep the supply running at some point they will run out of diesel etc. Therefore if a guests suffers from a medical condition that requires a reliable supply of electricity such as with help with breathing at night then our accommodation is not suitable.



What if I still have a question?

You can contact us through the contact us page or why not add "Podpads at Festivals" as a friend on Facebook.