Your Ultimate Coachella Survival Guide - Especially for First Timers
is right around the corner, and the annual festival is, hands down, the most anticipated music event of the year. The 2025 lineup is stacked— T-Pain, and more. If you're a seasoned festival-goer, you already know what’s up: 72 hours of dirt, fluctuating temps, endless walking, couples fighting, sunburns, tears, and pure, chaotic fun. If it’s your first time heading into the desert, don’t stress—I’ve got your back with all the tips you’ll actually need.
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Coachella fashion is whatever you want it to be. Forget what influencers wore last year. If it feels good and looks like you, wear it.
BUT. Pack for nighttime. It gets cold. Unless you have “other ways” to stay warm, you’re going to wish you had brought a blanket, beanie, or hoodie. If you’re worried about ruining the look, toss leggings or a long sleeve in your bag for later. Otherwise, you’ll end up dropping $$$ on a last-minute Coachella sweater that you’ll wear once and forget about.
You will be walking a lot. Like, 20,000+ steps a day. Your shoes need to keep up.
If you’re wearing new boots, day one of Coachella is not the time to break them in. Wear them around the house for a week beforehand, and make sure they can handle the long haul. Cute and comfy exists—find them.
- Keep your stuff secure. People are still stealing phones. Fanny packs, crossbodies, backpacks—whatever works, just make sure it closes and stays close to you.
Seriously, take 15 minutes to look at the festival map. Learn where the water stations, bathrooms, charging areas, and main stages are. It’ll save you time and stress once you’re in the thick of it, especially when you’re trying to beat the crowd between sets.
Don’t Overpack Your Bag
Keep it light! You’re carrying it all day. Pack essentials—like your charger, water bottle, sunscreen, and sweater—but don’t weigh yourself down with stuff you might need. You won’t.
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