I finally did it—I went to Coachella for the first time! And let me tell you, it was everything: beautiful sunsets, incredible performances, and yes… plenty of logistical headaches. If you’re planning your first trip, this Coachella survival guide will give you an honest, firsthand look at what to expect, what to bring, where to stay, and how to enjoy the weekend without losing your mind—or your money. I hope this Coachella survival guide will help you navigate whether this is your first or 5th time attending.

Coachella Survival Guide for First Timers

As a first-timer, I made a few mistakes (and a lot of memories). So I put together this Coachella survival guide filled with practical advice, personal tips, and the kind of insight I wish I had before I went. If you’re heading to the desert for the first time, read on for everything from where to stay, what to pack, what to expect, and how to actually enjoy yourself without draining your savings. Let’s get into all the Coachella tips for first-timers that I wish someone had told me before I stepped foot into the desert.

Where to Stay for Coachella: Hotels, Camping & RVs

When it comes to where to stay for Coachella, you have a few solid options—each with its own vibe and price tag. Here are some tips on where to stay and lodging options for your Coachella survival guide.

Hotels & Resorts Near Coachella

If comfort is your priority, staying at a hotel or resort is the way to go. Here are some popular options:

• The Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa – My pick! A gorgeous property and a shuttle stop. Highly recommend booking early.

• La Quinta Resort & Club – A luxurious desert escape with stunning Spanish-style architecture. Very popular with festivalgoers.

• Hyatt Regency Indian Wells – Family-friendly, elegant, and not far from shuttle stops.

• Hotel Paseo – A trendy boutique hotel located on El Paseo Drive in Palm Desert.

• JW Marriott Desert Springs – Massive, lively, and has all the amenities. Great for groups.

• Sands Hotel & Spa – Chic, Instagram-worthy, and a bit quieter. Perfect if you’re looking for something stylish.

Hotels book up quickly and rates skyrocket as the festival approaches, so it’s best to reserve months in advance. Many people book right after the festival ends for the following year.

Airbnb & Vacation Rentals: Great for Groups

If you’re traveling with a crew, Airbnb or Vrbo rentals can actually be more affordable and give you more freedom (and fridge space). Many homes come with pools, outdoor lounges, and space to pre-game or decompress between sets.

Look for rentals in Indio, La Quinta, Palm Desert, or Palm Springs, keeping in mind that some locations may require a bit of a drive to the festival. If you’re not at a shuttle stop, rideshare will be your main option—but again, beware of long waits and steep surge pricing.

Some hosts even offer packages for Coachella weekends, including shuttle access or early check-in. Always check the fine print before booking.

Camping at Coachella: The Full Immersion Experience

If you really want to live and breathe the Coachella experience, camping on-site is the way to go. It’s cheaper, super convenient, and honestly, kind of iconic.

• Car Camping: You drive in and set up your tent next to your car. Spaces are about 10×30 feet. There’s a community feel and you’re close to the action.

• Tent Camping: Same vibe but without the car. Slightly more crowded but still fun.

• Preferred Camping: A more premium camping area with better location and amenities (but still no A/C).

• Lake Eldorado: A glamping upgrade with pre-set tents and beds. Much more comfortable and less work.

If you’re camping, be prepared for heat, dust, and loud neighbors. Bring shade, hydration, and plenty of wipes.

RV Camping: A Middle-Ground Option

Want the flexibility of camping but with a bit more comfort? RV camping might be perfect for you. RV spots are available to book (they sell out fast) and allow you to bring your own power, air conditioning, and beds.

Some people even rent RVs specifically for Coachella and split them between friends to save money. You’ll need a generator and a water plan, but it’s one of the more comfortable and social ways to stay on the festival grounds.

Shuttles, Rideshares & All That Walking

Let’s talk about getting to and from the festival. I stayed at the Westin Rancho Mirage, one of the official shuttle stops, and I’m really glad I did. The hotel was beautiful and a great place to relax between festival days—but the shuttle experience was a bit chaotic.

While the shuttle is technically convenient, it still requires long waits, traffic jams, and walking through dusty paths to get to the entrance. I tried an Uber once, and while it seemed easier on paper, it ended up being more expensive and an even longer walk to the venue. Bottom line: the rideshare drop-off is really far, so comfortable shoes are a must. Despite its flaws, the shuttle still ended up being the better choice overall.

What to Pack for Coachella

I’m a chronic over-packer, but for Coachella, I was grateful for every item I brought. Here’s what you’ll want with you:

• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses – The sun is no joke.

• Portable charger – Your phone will die without one.

• Hydration pack or reusable water bottle – Fill up often at the refill stations.

• Comfortable shoes – Did I mention you’ll walk MILES?

• Bandana or face mask – The dust is real.

• Mini fan or cooling towel – Game-changer during peak heat.

• Crossbody or belt bag – Keep things hands-free and secure.

• Layers – Hot days, cold nights. Bring a sweatshirt or jacket.

Even if you’re not camping, bringing snacks and mini comforts to your hotel or Airbnb can help save time and money throughout the weekend.

Coachella Fashion & Outfits

This is your moment to shine—Coachella fashion is bold, fun, and expressive. Think rhinestones, mesh, fringe, cowboy boots, and crochet everything. That said, function matters just as much as fashion. Outfit ideas include crop tops with flowy pants, colorful two-piece sets, denim shorts and oversized tees, or even breezy maxi skirts with body chains. Don’t forget a statement accessory like tinted sunglasses or a bold hat.

Pro tip: Break in your shoes ahead of time, and bring a backup pair just in case.

What to Wear to Coachella

Let’s be real—Coachella fashion is its own main stage. Whether you’re all about the boho-chic vibe or want to channel something edgier, what you wear is part of the experience. But here’s what I learned from my first time: it’s not just about looking cute—it’s about surviving the sun, dust, and long walks in style and comfort. I couldn’t write a Coachella survival guide without talkin about fashion, so here you go.

Coachella Outfit Ideas for Women

You’ll see everything from fringe and crochet to glitter, body chains, and bold statement pieces. Coachella outfit ideas often lean into playful, bohemian, or retro-inspired looks. Popular choices include:

• Breezy dresses or matching sets for airflow and easy movement

• High-waisted shorts paired with bikini tops, mesh layers, or crop tops

• Jumpsuits or rompers for a one-and-done look

• Cowboy boots, chunky sneakers, or combat boots—avoid sandals unless you’re ready to fight the dust

Don’t forget a crossbody bag or fanny pack to hold your essentials—hands-free is key when dancing and navigating crowds.

I went with an airy satin two-piece set one day, and a denim-and-corset look the next. Comfort was always top of mind, especially because of how much walking was involved—shoutout to my platform sneakers for saving my feet!

Coachella Accessories

Accessories are the best way to level up your look and stay practical. Think:

• Bandanas or scarves (to shield your face from the infamous Coachella dust)

• Sunglasses—go bold, colorful, oversized, or retro

• Wide-brim hats or bucket hats for sun protection

• Body glitter, face gems, and temporary tattoos if you’re feeling extra

Pro tip: Bring a lightweight jacket or cropped hoodie for the evening—it cools down a lot after sunset.

Footwear: Cute and Comfy Is Non-Negotiable

Here’s the deal—there’s a LOT of walking. Between the parking lots, the long distance from the ride share drop-off to the entrance, and moving between stages, you’ll easily hit 20k steps a day. I wore cushioned sneakers all weekend and still felt it.

Whatever you wear, break in your shoes beforehand. This is not the time for new boots or anything that rubs. And leave the heels at home—you’ll thank me later.

Coachella Fashion Trends to Watch

Some trends that stood out this year:

• Sheer and mesh everything – layered over swimwear or bralettes

• Western flair – cowboy boots, hats, fringe jackets

• ’90s and Y2K nostalgia – think rhinestones, butterfly clips, and neon

• Matching sets and cutouts – sleek, breathable, and made for Insta

• Sustainable fashion – more people are rocking thrifted and upcycled pieces

Whether you’re going full glam or keeping it casual, the best Coachella fashion is whatever makes you feel confident, cool, and comfortable in the desert heat.

Coachella Weekend 1 vs. Weekend 2

I attended Weekend 1, and it definitely lived up to the hype. The energy was high, the influencers were out in full force, and there were surprise performances every night. Weekend 2 tends to be slightly less crowded, with fewer celebrities but more chill vibes and true music fans. The weather can also vary between weekends, so check the forecast before you decide. For this Coachella survival guide, I’m sharing what I’ve heard about both weekends. Although I did love attending the first weekend, I do think it would be fun to experience the chiller vibes of weekend 2 next time.

Weekend 1: The Premiere Experience

Weekend 1 is often considered the “official” weekend for Coachella. It’s when the festival is at its peak excitement and buzz. Artists typically give their best performances (and sometimes debut new material), and there’s an undeniable energy in the air. Because Weekend 1 kicks off the festival season, expect the lines, crowds, and anticipation to be at their highest.

• Pros:

  • More exclusive, with a sense of “firsts”

  • Celebrities and influencers flock to Weekend 1, so you might spot some famous faces

  • Everything feels fresh and new—perfect for social media content

• Cons:

  • Bigger crowds and longer wait times

  • Higher prices for accommodations and rentals due to the rush of festival-goers

  • Traffic can be more hectic, especially with the rush to get to the venue

Weekend 2: The Laid-Back Vibe

If you want the Coachella experience but without the insane crowds and a bit more freedom, Weekend 2 might be for you. While the festival lineup is identical to Weekend 1, many people describe Weekend 2 as a more relaxed experience. You’ll still get the incredible performances and vibes, but there’s less of the frantic rush.

• Pros:

  • Smaller crowds, especially on Friday and Saturday

  • Accommodation and rental prices are generally more affordable

  • Slightly less chaotic, and easier to navigate the festival grounds

• Cons:

  • Missing out on that initial Coachella hype

  • Some people say the performances feel a little less “fresh” compared to Weekend 1

  • Some festival-goers prefer the celebrity-packed scene of Weekend 1

Coachella Tickets: GA, VIP, and Artist Passes Explained

When it comes to Coachella tickets, you’ve got three main options: General Admission (GA), VIP, and Artist Passes. Here’s everything you need to know to choose the best one for your experience.

General Admission (GA): The Classic Coachella Pass

General Admission is the basic festival pass that gives you access to all the stages, food vendors, art installations, and general festival amenities. It’s a great choice for first-timers or anyone looking to experience Coachella in its rawest form.

• Pros:

  • Most affordable option

  • Gives you full access to the festival grounds and all performances

  • You’ll still have an amazing time (trust me, you’ll be too busy dancing to care about anything else)

• Cons:

  • The GA areas are packed, and you’ll need to get to the stages early if you want a good spot

  • No premium amenities, so expect long lines for food, drinks, and bathrooms

VIP Pass: The Luxe Coachella Experience

If you’re looking for a more elevated festival experience, VIP might be the way to go. The VIP pass comes with some major perks, from exclusive viewing areas to premium amenities.

• Pros:

  • Exclusive VIP lounges, shaded areas, and bathrooms with shorter lines

  • Access to VIP-only bars and food vendors

  • VIP viewing areas for the main stage (a much better view without the massive crowds)

  • Special VIP wristbands for easy access to premium areas

• Cons:

  • It’s a lot more expensive than GA—so it’s a splurge

  • The VIP experience can sometimes feel a little too segregated for some festival-goers (you’ll miss the general festival vibe)

Artist Pass: The Ultra-Exclusive, All-Access Pass

Artist Passes are generally reserved for those involved in the festival—like performers, their teams, or other industry people. These passes give you full access to all areas, from backstage to artist lounges, and are often considered the most exclusive.

• Pros:

  • Ultimate access to backstage areas, artist lounges, and other off-limits spots

  • Full access to everything from VIP areas to artist-only zones

  • The opportunity to meet and greet with the performers and other artists

• Cons:

  • These passes are not available for the general public

  • Extremely difficult to acquire, unless you’re in the music industry or have connections

Coachella Is Expensive—Here’s How to Save

I knew it would be pricey, but wow—Coachella adds up fast. Between the hotel, tickets, food, and transportation, it’s easy to spend thousands. But the whole point of this Coachella survival guide is so you don’t make the mistakes I did. Eat before you go, don’t take ride-shares, use the shuttle passes, and find affordable lodging. 

Here are a few ways to save money:

• Book your accommodations early and split costs with friends or a group.

• Bring your own snacks and pre-game meals in your hotel or campsite to cut down on food costs.

• Choose shuttle over Uber—it’s not perfect, but it’s much more affordable.

• Use the Coachella layaway plan to spread out ticket payments.

• Skip the merch lines unless you’re truly in love with something—you’ll find similar pieces online after.

Food and drinks inside the venue are great but steep. I spent around $20–25 per meal and nearly $18 for a cocktail. Multiply that by three days, and it’s easy to see where your budget disappears. I hope you’ll consider this Coachella survival guide to save money on food, transportation and more.

Final Thoughts: Was It Worth It?

Absolutely. Despite the long walks, the heat, the dust, and the sticker shock, Coachella was unforgettable. There’s something magical about watching the sunset over the desert while your favorite artist performs live. Would I do a few things differently next time? Sure. But for a first-timer, I had the time of my life—and I hope this guide helps you do the same.

Despite the crowds, the pricey food, and the occasional transportation headache, my first Coachella was genuinely unforgettable. Yes, there were moments that tested my patience—like figuring out the shuttle schedule, paying $16 for a lemonade, and walking miles between stages—but the energy, the music, and the people made it all worth it.

The true highlight for me? Seeing Green Day live. They were one of the headliners this year, and I honestly got chills when they hit the stage. Green Day was the soundtrack to my high school years, and watching them perform under the desert sky felt absolutely iconic. It was nostalgic, emotional, and electric—one of those rare moments where you feel time collapse and suddenly, you’re 14 again, screaming lyrics with thousands of strangers who totally get it.

If you’ve never been to Coachella and are wondering whether it’s worth it—yes, it’s a splurge, and yes, it requires some planning—but if you’re a music lover and want to be part of something that’s as much a cultural moment as it is a festival, you won’t regret it. Just pack smart, wear comfortable shoes, prepare to spend a bit more than you want to, and keep your expectations flexible. I hope you found this Coachella survival guide helpful. Drop your tips in the comments!