A man has revealed his “treasure hunting” exploits following Reading Festival, claiming it’s an excellent opportunity to snag freebies.

Ethan Overton, who shares content under the handle ethanovertonsq on TikTok, confessed to scouring the muddy fields after the festival wrapped up over the weekend. He discovered that it’s a prime spot for picking up complimentary items.

In a frank video, he reassured viewers not to worry, stating “a lot of people do it”, and went onto state “there’s quite a bit of money to be made in it”. However, he noted that there are certain rules people must adhere to.

Ethan highlighted the importance of respecting boundaries, such as not bothering people in tents, but he claimed it’s acceptable to rummage through items that have obviously been abandoned. He advised: “Personally, I say if you find a phone, or like an expensive electronic device or a wallet – hand it in, don’t be a k***.

“But, if you’re like this guy behind me and you’ve got some air mattresses, help yourself. All in all, I’ll say this is a pretty good thing to do.”

He also questioned why the organisers of Reading and Leeds Festivals don’t allow the public to enter the site after the event comes to a close to claim any unwanted goods. He suggested that items such as sleeping bags and barbecues could be collected and given to charity, considering the volume of materials left behind that otherwise “goes to waste”.

Ethan pointed out that some of the abandoned gear appears almost untouched and could be repurposed. Hence, he recommends checking out the site after the festival concludes, echoing the sentiments of many seasoned festival-goers.

A video revealing the shocking amount of abandoned festival equipment has gone viral, garenering more than 400,000 views. Astounded viewers couldn’t believe the sheer volume of gear left behind after the weekend of partying.

One user reminisced: “My dad was doing this about 20 years ago at Glastonbury every year. Taking all the tents and selling them on eBay.”

Another shared their experience, adding: “We love going field shopping after Glastonbury.” Meanwhile, one suggested a charitable solution, writing: “They should open it up to charities to clean up, and keep and re-sell etc.”

Yet, another cautioned: “Even if it looks like it’s been abandoned, you’re supposed to try and get it back to its owner.”