My Ultimate Coachella Checklist: Everything to Survive And Thrive

Oh, Coachella: Those three days of frolicking under the desert sun, bonding with friends, and absorbing good vibes all around. It’s a place where hundreds of thousands of people of all backgrounds come together to participate in several days of full-on sensory experiences: music, art, food, fashion, and heat. If you’ve ever been, you know it’s an extraordinary three days of high-energy and fun.

So, you have a ticket and festival season is rolling around, and now it’s time to get packing. But in all the chaos of Coachella, it can get overwhelming trying to make sure you have everything you need to survive and thrive at this big event. Over the years, I compiled a master packing list to make sure I don’t forget anything and I’ll be sharing it to streamline your packing process too!

Whether you’re an experienced festival-goer or a newbie, this comprehensive packing list will ensure you have everything you need to have a prepared, stress-free, comfortable and unforgettable festival experience. Keep in mind, this list also includes items you need for festival ground camping as well.

Note: Scroll to the bottom of the page to find an image version.

Without further ado, let’s get straight to it.

Personal

Ticket + Camping Pass (if camping)
Phone + charger
Portable charger
Cash
Government-issued ID
Small bag/Sling/Fanny Pack
Hydration pack/Camelbak
Bandana/mask
Sunglasses
Hat(s)
Music ear plugs

Toiletries

Toothbrush + toothpaste
Floss
Shampoo
Conditioner
Dry shampoo
Body wash
Face wash
Lotion
Sunscreen
Toilet paper
Deodorant
Hand sanitizer
SPF lip balm
Make-up
Make-up wipes
Hair brush
Hair ties
Body wipes
Towels
Shower shoes

Camping

Pop-up canopy
Tent
Plastic stakes (no metal)
Rubber mallet
Tarp/Tapestry (for shade)
Rug or bamboo mat
String lights
Lantern
Extra batteries
Ice coolers
Zip-ties
Folding table
Table cloth
Lawn/camping chairs
Misters
Fans
Multi-purpose knife
Portable camp shower
Large bucket (for portable shower)
Camp decorations

Kitchen

Cook stove + fuel
Lighter/matches
Cooking pan/pot
Cooking utensils
Biodegradable dish soap
Dish sponge
Plastic cups
Paper plates
Paper towels
Plastic utensils
Trash bags
Plastic food containers
Zip-lock bags

Sleep

Pajamas
Sleeping bag
Sleeping pad or air mattress
Blankets
Pillow
Ear plugs
Eye mask

Clothing

Tops + T-shirts
Sweaters + Jackets
Shorts
Pants
Underwear
Socks
Comfortable shoes

Entertainment

Yoga mat
Portable sound speaker
Ping-pong balls
Cornhole
Spikeball
Playing cards
Frisbee

Health

First aid kit
Electrolytes/Liquid I.V. Packets
Vitamin C packets
Ibuprofen or Paracetamol
Chewable Antacids
Allergy medicine

Food (Varies, but these are some ideas)

Pasta salad (pre-made)
Burritos (pre-made)
Pizza
Bagels + bread
Avocado
Salt + Pepper
Fruit (grapes, oranges, bananas)
Pre-cut fruit (pineapple, watermelon)
Sandwiches
Cup of Noodles
Chips
Beef jerky
Dried fruit
Cookies
Granola bars

Drinks

WATER WATER WATER
Bagged ice
Coffee/Tea
Energy drinks
Coconut water
Juice + Gatorade + soda
Alcohol + Beer cans + wine boxes (Ages 21+ only)

Coachella Music Festival with a view of the rainbow tower (SPECTRA), palm trees, and classic ferris wheel.

Are you camping? If so, you might find this helpful: 40 Must-Have Essentials And Ultimate Tips for Coachella Camping

Tips And Notes:

Pack for hot weather during the day and cool nights. Bring layers so you can adjust to the changing temperatures.
Choose comfort. Bring comfortable clothes that you can move around and dance in. You’ll also be walking a lot, likely 30+ miles over the weekend, so bring comfortable shoes, otherwise you’ll regret it (trust me).
Bring plenty of water and stay hydrated. If you’re camping, bring a lot of water. Some years get scorching. This year will be my 7th year attending, and majority of those past years were in 90+ F degree temperatures. If you run out, they have refillable water stations as well.
Shade and sun protection is important. Again, it’s hot. A hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and shade are all important to protect yourself from the scorching sun. If you’re camping, you NEED a pop-up canopy or some type of shade (it is a non-negotiable for me).
Pack ahead of time. Double-check your list and start gathering items ahead of time so you don’t panic-pack later. If you’re missing items or plan to buy them before going, don’t wait until the last minute to avoid things selling out.
Check the Official Coachella Website. Be sure to check the Coachella website for any specific prohibited items before you pack. Rules may change or be modified so find the latest information on their official website.