What To Pack For Coachella

Coachella is a fun-filled weekend, so you want to make sure you have everything you need when you arrive, otherwise you’ll pay a fortune for extras once inside. Here’s what to pack for Coachella.

Backpack Or Fanny Pack

Fashion is fierce at this coveted music festival, but you are going to need a place to stash your stuff once inside. While a crossbody bag might be more your style, after a long day of dancing it will pull and cause strain. So, find a cute backpack or fanny pack—or both. Fanny packs are a great hands-free place for your ID, cash and phone and your backpack can stash the rest of the items mentioned below. Also, keep in mind that you can reserve a locker.

Weather Essentials

Shade is limited so you don’t want to get burned. This means that you need a quality non-aerosol sunscreen and SPF lip protection. Be sure to pack at least one pair of sunglasses. Even if hats aren’t typically your thing, you’ll need one for Coachella. Same goes for bandanas that you can use to tie around your face when it’s dusty, or to wet and wrap around your neck when you get hot. There are free water refill stations inside so bring an empty steel or plastic water bottle or a Bota bag with you—glass is not allowed. Last but not least, bring a poncho in case it rains, an extra top or full outfit change, and a layering item or two as it can really cool down at night.

Comfort Essentials

You want to look cute, but you’ll be on your feet a lot so be sure to wear comfortable shoes, maybe even stash an extra pair in your backpack. Bring a towel or blanket you can sit on. Do not bring drugs inside, but you can bring essential prescriptions. The only anti-inflammatories allowed in are Excedrin, Tylenol, and Advil. Just make sure your anti-inflammatory or prescriptions are in their original bottle. Do not attempt to bring marijuana or CBD inside, but keep it at your hotel or Airbnb to soothe your sore muscles at the end of the day.

Hand sanitizer or body wipes are a must. Cell phone reception is spotty and there is nowhere to charge your phone, so bring a portable charger with you. It’s also a good idea to wear a watch in case your phone dies. The music can be loud, so a few pair of earplugs is a good idea. You can’t bring food inside, but you can bring gum and breath mints. Toiletries are allowed if you want to shower so bring a small travel-sized kit with body wash, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, makeup, comb or brush, and a small travel towel. If you plan to shower bring a change of clothes.

What To Pack In The Trunk Of Your Car

If you are camping or will be driving and parking in one of the lots, you can stock your trunk with food and drinks. Be sure to buy a cooler and pack protein snacks, sandwich essentials, fresh fruit, and beverages. This way you can pop back to your car to eat and drink which can save you a ton of money, and also provide some healthier food options. Camping chairs aren’t allowed in Coachella but keep one or two in your car so you can sit at your trunk and eat and drink. Also, keep a change of clothes or layering items in your car.

Last but not least, if you plan on buying Coachella swag purchase it on the first day before it runs out. Happy Coachella!

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