10 Sensible Things to Bring to Coachella
There are very few things to prepare a first timer for the overwhelming experience that is Coachella. Arriving at the polo grounds for the first time you realize that it isn’t a practical possibility to pop back home for a forgotten item. There is quite a learning curve! From my experiences, there are a few specific items that have served me throughout the day. Here are my 10 sensible things to bring to Coachella.
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Light Layers
A light layer you can cram into the bottom of you (smallish) backpack is imperative. Desert weather is all about extremes. The days are hot and the nights are chilly with a possibility of wind. And when I say wind, I mean desert sandstorm type of wind. [denim shirt – TNA c/o Aritzia – similar here]
Wet/Dry Bag
A wet/dry bag can come in handy during the day when you’re out at pool parties and actually wanna, y’know, partake in the pool aspect of the event. If you don’t have time to go home, you can stuff your wet bathing suit in this bag and it will keep the other contents of your bag dry. [Wet Bag c/o Austin House – similar here]
Inexpensive Sunglasses
A pair of inexpensive sunglasses are key. For some reason, Coachella is the Bermuda Triangle for sunglasses – either they get broken or just inexplicably disappear during the day. Rather than lose your favourite expensive pair, invest in a lower end model. [Well sunglasses c/o EyeBuyDirect]
Reusable Water Bottle
A water bottle might be the most important thing you bring! As long as it’s empty when you arrive to go through security, there are water stations to fill it up. This will save you time (and a lot of money) in the long run. If a large bottle takes up too much space, opt for a foldable or collapsible one to save room. [water bottle –other flat options]
Portable Charger
A portable phone charger or self-charging case are beyond a necessity. Despite service being incredibly spotty at the festival, you will most likely be using your phone to capture every moment. The VIP area has outlets to charge your phone, but GA is another story. Come prepared with your own power supply. You can avoid being disconnected from your digital wallet, maps, and other apps that allow you to navigate the world. [ case c/o Otterbox or ]
Baby Wipes & Tissues
Baby wipes may save your life. They’re a multipurpose star. Use them as a quick way to freshen up after a dust storm or long sweaty day in the sun. They can also be used as toilet paper if you manage to stumble into a port-a-potty without TP. Though bringing along some tissues is advisable too. [baby wipes – ]
Smart Watch
A smart watch is nice to have because you’ll know the time without wasting power looking at your phone. Also, you will be stunned by how many steps you’ve taken at the end of each day. This will be my first year bringing this tracker but I will be sure to share the staggering numbers. [a360 watch – c/o Polar – I’ve moved on to the Samsung Galaxy Watch now.]
Blister Sticks & Band-Aids
A Band-Aid Blister Stick and/or blister bandaids are a must. Despite how comfortable your shoes may be, after walking forever (and I mean FOREVER) the likelihood of developing some blisters is high. While first aid has normal bandaids, blister specific ones will cushion the spot and make it much less painful. The blister stick will help to prevent the blisters. [Blister Stick or Blister Band-Aids]
Ear Plugs!!!!!!
The title deserves MANY exclamation marks!!! A pair of ear plugs is the FIRST thing I pack when attending any sort of music event. Ending each night with ringing in your ears is a nightmare. [ear plugs c/o Austin House – ]
Sunscreen & Lip Balm
The desert is a dry ass place. A multi-purpose balm for dry lips and dry hands always comes in handy. I especially love Glossier’s Balm Dot Com. However, it doesn’t have any SPF. Check out these posts for sunscreen recommendations: a breakdown of the Best Lightweight Sunscreens or my Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin post.
A Few Other Tips
Here are a few additional tips that may serve you well on your Coachella journey. They’ve certainly helped me over the years.
Spotting People of Note
✨ If you see a bunch of flashes, or people walking through the crowd quickly, you’re most likely witnessing a celebrity spotting.
Practical Logistics
✨ Download the Coachella app this way you can select all the bands you want to see and create a schedule for yourself.
✨ It’s super easy to get separated. Always have a designated meeting spot with your group! And make sure the meeting point is not a mobile art installation. Have set times to meet up and check in at the spot throughout the day.
✨ You need to have an ID check everyday to get a wristband for the beer gardens – go first thing when you get there to avoid lines later in the day. ALSO…. the GA beer gardens are conveniently located far away from the main stages so plan your drinks accordingly.
Clothing Considerations
✨ As tempting as it may be, avoid wearing a romper. Unless you really want to be half undressing every trip to the washroom. It’s as miserable as it sounds especially in the context of a port-a-potty. This is not the outfit you’re looking for. Ask me how I know.
✨ Comfortable shoes are an essential – you’re going to put walking MANY miles. This is not an exaggeration.
✨ Backpack > purse. It’s much easier to navigate crowds without your purse getting caught on people.
✨ BRING A HAT! The desert sun is a cruel mistress. Heat exhaustion is REAL. Keep the sun off your face as much as possible.
10 Sensible Things to Bring to Coachella
That concludes my list of 10 sensible things to bring to Coachella if you want to avoid painful time. With that said, feel free to completely disregard this advice and choose chaos instead.
photographs – sandy joe karpetz
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Great list Sandy Joe! I hear you re: comfy shoes. I usually embrace my inner flower child and go barefoot for much of the dancing parts of the festival.