Coachella is an epic music festival, but car camping there can be a challenge. Scorching sun, strong winds, and long shower lines are just a few hurdles you’ll face. But don’t worry, with the right preparation, you can survive and thrive in the Coachella campground. This guide provides essential Coachella Car Camping Tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Battling the Elements: Wind and Sun
The Coachella Valley is known for its intense sun and unpredictable winds. These can wreak havoc on your campsite if you’re not prepared.
Taming the Wind:
- Dismantle Tarps and Easy-Up Tents: Before heading into the festival each day, take down any tarps or easily collapsible tents. The wind can get underneath them, ripping them apart and potentially damaging other equipment.
- Stake Everything Down (and then again): Don’t underestimate the wind’s power. Secure your tent and any other equipment with sturdy stakes, ensuring they are deeply embedded in the ground. Reinforce staking if needed. A well-staked tent can withstand significant wind pressure. Consider a durable plastic tent like this one for added stability.
Beating the Heat:
- Stay Cool with Cooling Towels: Invest in cooling towels. These can provide hours of relief from the scorching desert sun. Simply wet them and drape them around your neck or head.
- Create Shade: A pop-up canopy tent is a lifesaver in the desert heat. If you’re on a budget, even old bed sheets strung up can provide much-needed shade.
Conquering the Coachella Shower Situation
Shower lines at Coachella can be notoriously long. Here’s how to strategize:
- Shower Before the Festival Ends: Skip the last act and hit the showers while everyone else is still enjoying the music. You’ll thank yourself for avoiding the post-festival rush.
- Rise and Shine Early: Beat the crowds by showering before 8 am. The lines are significantly shorter in the early morning hours. You can always take a nap later while everyone else waits in line.
The Ice Budget: Keeping Your Cool(er)
Ice is a precious commodity at Coachella, and buying bags daily can get expensive.
- Invest in a High-Quality Cooler: A Yeti cooler, or similar high-performance cooler, will keep your ice frozen for much longer, saving you money and trips to the ice vendor.
- Keep Your Cooler in the Shade: This seems obvious, but it’s crucial. Direct sunlight will melt your ice quickly. Position your cooler in a shaded area, under your canopy or car.
Illuminating the Night: Essential Lighting
Navigating a dark campsite can be tricky. These lighting solutions will make your life easier:
- Headlamp: A headlamp is invaluable for hands-free lighting while searching for items in your tent or walking around the campground at night.
- Lantern with Fan: A lantern with a built-in fan provides both illumination and a cooling breeze inside your tent.
With these Coachella car camping tips, you’ll be well-equipped to handle the challenges of the desert and enjoy the festival to the fullest. Remember to plan ahead, pack smart, and prioritize comfort and safety. Happy Coachella!
