Ultimate Coachella Car Camping Guide

Your ULTIMATE Coachella Car Camping Guide: What to Pack, How to Prep, and Everything You Didn’t Know You’d Need

Thinking about camping at Coachella but not sure where to start? You’re in the right place.

Whether you’re a first-timer or just want to feel extra prepared this year, this ultimate Coachella car camping guide has everything you need—from what to pack and how to prep, to tips that’ll actually make your weekend easier.

Camping at Coachella is one of my favorite parts of the festival. Yes, the music is amazing. Yes, there are influencers in perfect outfits. But there are also thousands of real people, camping with their friends, soaking in the vibes, and making memories that don’t need a filter.

It’s affordable, convenient, and honestly part of what makes the full Coachella experience so fun.

If you love camping (or just want to save time and skip the long drive from a hotel each day), car camping at Coachella is 100% worth it.

I’m a huge planner—I mean spreadsheets, packing timelines, full lists organized by day. So trust me when I say: I’ve done the prep so you don’t have to.

This guide covers everything you need to know about Coachella car camping in 2025. Let’s make this your easiest, most epic festival weekend yet.

This blog post may contain affiliate links. Please note these do not impact my review, and no extra costs have been added to the items mentioned.

What Do You Need to Camp at Coachella?

What do you need to pack to camp at Coachella? Honestly—more than you think. At least if you want the weekend to go smoothly.

I’ve seen people show up with a tiny tent, a couple dehydrated meals, and a stool to sit on. They did not look like they were having the time of their lives.

This isn’t a backpacking trip in the woods—it’s Coachella!

You’re still at a music festival, and that means you can make your campsite comfortable, fun, and full of good food and drinks!

Some people go all out with flags, lights, and full-on campsite decor. It’s an art.

But don’t worry—we’ll start with the basics.

Here’s everything you actually need to successfully camp at Coachella.

Let’s make sure you’re prepped and ready for whatever the desert throws your way, like blazing winds and extreme heat.

Complete List of Coachella Car Camping Essentials

🏕️ Coachella Camping Setup Essentials

Your home base for the weekend deserves some love. A solid camping setup keeps you cool, comfortable, and organized—and makes those midday breaks between sets actually relaxing.

Canopy
Canopy stakes (a lot of them) – metal stakes at not allowed
Rubber mallet for the stakes
Bungee cords to secure everything
Shade shields or tarps (for the sides of your canopy and covering your car)
- Aluminet
- Canopy Side Covers
Collapsible footstool (to reach the top of your canopy to hang lights)
Tent: canopy insert tent or regular camping tent
Outdoor rug
Solar lights to hang around campsite
Solar pathway lights to put in front of your car to find your site at night
Tent locks
Top of the car storage

🌬️ Keeping Cool & Staying Comfortable

Coachella gets hot—like really hot. These items will help you beat the heat and enjoy your tent life without feeling like you’re in a toaster oven.

Solar or rechargeable fan
Ice chest cooler
Ice (Sold onsite for $14—expect to buy 3–4 bags over the weekend)
Mobile white noise machine
Ear plugs
Massager for legs (trust me, 30k steps a day adds up – especially if you’re over 30 – like me!)

🍽️ Your Coachella Camp Kitchen Setup

No need to survive on granola bars alone! You can keep it simple and still enjoy hot meals and cold drinks without ever leaving camp.

Folding tables
Camping chairs
Plates, napkins, utensils
Extra-large trash bags and pop-up trash cans
Dishwashing stuff: soap and sponge
Hand soap
Propane grill or tabletop grill – only tabletop grills are allowed
Propane for the grill + lighter
Hanging storage (use one for “kitchen” supplies—plates, cups, snacks, etc., shoes or random items)
Duct tape + scissors
Paper towels + dish towels
Foil

💧 Water & Hygiene Must-Haves

Between the dust and the sweat, staying clean and hydrated is key. These essentials make it easier to feel human after a long festival day.

Water bins
Wash bin
Wagon (helpful for filling up water at refill stations)
Portable shower or use on-site trailer showers
Towel for showering
Shampoo + conditioner
Face wash, toothbrush, toothpaste, makeup-removing wipes
Body lotion and moisturizer
Pop-up hamper – to keep in your tent
Magnetic hooks for regular trailer showers at Camp
Hanging Shower Caddy

🔌 Charging, Power & Electronics

Staying charged is half the battle at Coachella. These tools help power your gear and keep you connected (or let you disconnect when you want to).

Car connector + extension cord (for inflating your air mattress)
LED mirror for getting ready
Headlamps (helpful for late-night bathroom runs)
Bluetooth speaker
LED glow bracelets or lights (for visibility and vibes)
If you can swing it: A large Jackery battery (can power everything from phones to fans to your cooler)
Portable charger for phone

⭐ Extras That Make a Big Difference

These aren’t flashy, but they’ll save you in the long run. From minor car issues to staying dust-free, these are the little things that make a huge difference.

Jumper cables (lots of cars will die and need a jumpstart, be prepared)
Car vacuum (keep your tent and car clean—dust gets everywhere)
Nasal saline spray + eye drops (don’t underestimate the desert air)
CamelBak or hydration pack
Flushable Wipes and Toilet Seat Covers – Those porta potties aren’t reliable

Best Tips for Camping at Coachella

I’m always looking for ways to make the camping experience smoother, cooler (literally), and more fun.

Whether it’s your first time camping at Coachella or you’re just looking for a few smart hacks, these tips will help you avoid easy mistakes and make the most of your weekend.

Some of them might seem small, but trust me, they’ll make a huge difference once you’re out there in the desert.

Charge Your Phone in an Ice Chest
Place your phone and charger in a ziplock bag and let it charge inside your ice chest. It stays cooler in there and will charge way faster in the desert heat.
Pre-Make Your Meals
Save time and stress by prepping meals ahead of time. We always do breakfast burritos and bring easy snacks like Uncrustables—so clutch for those early mornings.
Use the Free Charging Stations Early in the Morning
They’re available in the campgrounds, but they fill up quickly. Hit them up first thing when you wake up.
Pack and Charge Multiple Portable Chargers
Seriously, you can never have too many. Your phone is your lifeline out there.
Bring an Extension Cord to Inflate Your Mattress
Makes it way easier if you’re using your car or a shared plug—especially if you need to reach out from under your canopy.
Hide Your Valuables
Don’t leave phones, wallets, or expensive gear in plain sight. Use a lock, stash items deep in bags, or keep them on you when you’re not at camp.
Bring Solar Lights for Your Campsite
It gets dark out there at night. Solar string lights or lanterns make your setup safer—and more festive.
Pack a Headlamp for Porta Potties at Night
The porta-potties have no lights. A headlamp is a total game-changer.
Drop a Pin at Your Campsite
As soon as you’re set up, drop a pin on your phone’s map. It’s so easy to get turned around, especially at night.
Add Lights or a Flag to the Front of Your Campsite
A fun way to show some personality and find your way back after a long night of dancing.
Use the Coachella Camping Supermarket Shuttles
They run throughout the day and can help you pick up anything you forgot or didn’t pack enough of.
Read the Rules—Seriously!
Know what’s allowed and what’s not before you go. It’ll save you from getting stuff confiscated at security.
Screenshot the Map of the Campgrounds
Wi-Fi and service can be spotty. Having a map on hand will help you find things like the showers, market, and security hubs.
Fill Your Air Mattress at the Camping Hub Market
You can inflate your mattress there for free—but you can’t take the inflator with you. Plan ahead and bring your own if you want to set it up at your car.
Stretch Each Morning
You’ll be walking a lot. A few quick stretches when you wake up can make a huge difference for your legs and back.
Arrive with Your Group if You Want to Camp Together
They won’t let you save spots. You’ll need to drive in together to get placed next to each other. If you’re waiting on friends, there’s a holding lot you can wait in after security.

Coachella Camping Entertainment 🎶🏕️

Camping at Coachella is way more than just setting up a tent and crashing at night — it’s a whole experience.

Whether you’re hanging out at your campsite or exploring the Camping Hub, there’s no shortage of activities to stay busy.

Bring a few things to keep yourself entertained during downtime, and don’t forget to check out what Coachella’s camping hub offers!

We packed cards, crafts, and a speaker to keep the vibes going (respectfully — no blowing out your neighbors’ eardrums).

If you’re wondering what to do while camping at Coachella, here are some of the best ideas to make your experience even better!

Fun Things to Pack for Your Campsite 🎲

Sometimes the best memories happen just chilling at your campsite. Packing a few games and activities can keep the vibe fun and relaxed when you’re not at the festival stages.

Cards – Easy to pack and always a good time. Bring a deck or two for games like Uno, Spades, or even Go Fish.
Dice – Perfect for quick games like Left Center Right or some old-school drinking games.
Beer Pong – A camping classic. Bring a lightweight table and some cups and you’re set.
Listen to the Music of the Artists Playing That Weekend – Set up a chill playlist to pregame each day. It’s a fun way to get hyped for the sets ahead!
Corn Hole – If you’ve got space, bring a collapsible cornhole set. It’s a hit for afternoon hangouts.
Crafting Activities – Whether it’s friendship bracelets, tie-dye, or festival-themed crafts, it’s a super relaxing way to pass the time.

Things to Do at the Coachella Camping Hub 🎉

The Coachella Camping Hub is packed with events and entertainment, day and night. Definitely take advantage of everything going on — it’s like its own mini festival inside the campground!

Silent Disco – Dance your heart out with headphones under the stars.
Dodgeball – Get a team together and let out some energy with classic dodgeball tournaments.
Food and Coffee Vendors – Fuel up without having to leave the camping area.
Tattoo Parlor – Yes, you can actually get a real tattoo at Coachella!
Permanent Jewelry Booths – Get a welded bracelet, anklet, or necklace to remember the weekend forever.
Photobooth – Snap some fun group pics with your camping crew.
Wifi Lounge – Check your texts, post your pics, and recharge (both your devices and yourself).
Arts and Crafts Tent – Keep the creative vibes going with free craft activities.
Pickleball Courts – For real — grab a paddle and join in!
Yoga and Pilates Classes – Stretch it out in the mornings and keep your body feeling good all weekend.

Food at Coachella Car Camping

One thing’s for sure — you will NOT go hungry while camping at Coachella.

Food Sold at Coachella Car Camping

There are tons of food vendors set up right inside the campgrounds. I’m talking everything from acai bowls and breakfast burritos to sushi, cheese fries, and ice cream.

And yes — there’s coffee, matcha, and all your other essentials to survive the mornings.
You won’t be missing your favorite foods here.

Check out my full breakdown of food from last Coachella for the ultimate guide on what to expect!

Packing Food for Coachella Car Camping

Yes, you can absolutely pack your own food and drinks for Coachella camping — and it’s a great way to save money and stay fueled all weekend long.

But there are a few important rules: only a tabletop 2-burner propane stove is allowed, and no glass containers are allowed anywhere on the grounds. They’re super strict about it!

If you want all my best tips, easy meal ideas, and a full checklist for Coachella camping food, make sure to check out my guide to easy meals and snacks for camping at Coachella!

Where to Charge Your Phone Camping at Coachella

Wondering how to keep your phone charged while camping at Coachella? It’s something you definitely want to plan for ahead of time.

First, bring your own chargers. Bring a lot of them. We always pack a bunch of portable chargers, and honestly, even then it sometimes doesn’t feel like enough.

If you can, a larger battery that can charge multiple devices for hours is really helpful — but they can be expensive.

You can also recharge your devices at the free charging stations around the Coachella campgrounds. There are a few large charging hubs at Camping Hub, and the good news is they’re now inside the shade. A few years ago they were set up outside in the direct sun, which wasn’t ideal. Charging anything in 100-degree heat is never a good idea.

There are still some outdoor charging spots scattered around the campgrounds too, but if you want to stay out of the heat while charging, the Camping Hub stations are the best option.

Just know that things charge slower at these large stations because so many people are using them at the same time.

Try to go early in the morning or late at night if you want to avoid the biggest crowds. Midday before the festival is usually the busiest.

Water Refill Stations Camping at Coachella

There are free water refill stations all around the Coachella campgrounds. You’ll usually find them near the porta potties or showers — not right next to them, but close by. There are a few at Camping Hub too.

If you’re bringing big water jugs (like the giant Sparkletts ones), make sure you pack a little hose or plastic tube.

The faucets are really made for regular gallon-sized bottles, and it’s tough to fit anything bigger under there. I’ve heard about stations that can fit the big jugs, but I’ve never seen one myself.

We packed a large canteen and used that to fill up our main water container. It took a bit longer to fill, pour, and repeat, but it worked!

Types of Camping at Coachella

Car Camping, Preferred, & Powered Car Camping
- Options include regular, preferred (Lot 8), and powered (Lot 5A)
- All car camping spots are 30×10
- One vehicle per site allowed
- One vehicle per site REQUIRED
- Sites assigned in order of arrival – but is specific to your car camping type: regular, preferred, front row, or powered.
- Powered Car Camping includes: One (1) 3-pronged outlet, 1 extension cord with 3 outlets, and access to flushing restrooms in Lot 5B
Tent Camping
- No cars allowed
- Tent camping space is 15×10
- Sites assigned in order of arrival
- Includes one (1) overnight parking spot in an adjacent lot
Ready-Set Tent Camping
- Includes a Coachella souvenir tent
- One (1) tent camping parking pass for adjacent lot
- Sites are 10×15
- Accommodates 2 people max
- Includes: Tent, air mattress, pillow, sleeping bag, hanging light and tent lock
La Campana Tent Camping
- Premium campground located in lot 5B
- Includes one (1) designated parking spot in adjacent lot
- Separate prive check-in
- Showers and flushing restrooms
- Mirrors and plugs to do your hair (not located at camping site)
- Outlet for phone charging
- Includes bed, mattress, and side table
- Temperature controlled tents
Sunset Van Camp
- Preset campervan with AC
- Includes: power, bed and kitchen
- Different van sizes are available
Lake Eldorado
- Located between lots 7 and 8, behind the camping hub
- Separate private check-in location
- Includes one (1) overnight parking spot in adjacent lot
- Access to flushing toilets and showers
- Mirrors and outlets for doing hair (not located within tent)
- Cell phone charging station
- Not air conditioned
Safari Camping
- Base price $12,000
- Air conditioned and fully furnished tents
- Access to concierge and golf cart service
- Air conditioned restrooms and showers
- Private parking
- Breakfast and snacks
The Resort at Coachella
- The most expensive option
- Includes Artist Guest Passes
- Spa treatments and massages
- Air conditioned restrooms and showers
- A lot more!

Services and Amenities at Coachella Camping

There’s a surprising amount of stuff available at Coachella camping. You’re not totally off the grid — they’ve got the basics covered and then some. From porta potties and showers to late-night snacks and a whole Camping Hub full of activities, it’s easy to stay comfortable (and entertained) all weekend long.

Here’s a quick look at the services and amenities you’ll find around the campgrounds:

Market
Porta potties
Showers
Food stalls
Camping Hub: Games, music, crafts tent, beauty bar, etc.
Water refill stations
Charging stations
Wifi in the Camping Hub
Supermarket Shuttles
- Catch a free ride to Ralphs via the Coachella Camping Supermarket Shuttles. They run Thursday: 3 PM to 7 PM and Friday through Sunday: 7 AM to 1:30 PM.
- If you’re buying hard alcohol, please remember that glass is not allowed inside Camp. Please transfer it to a plastic bottle.
- All guests will need to go through security and scan in to re-enter the campsite

Coachella Car Camping Setup Tips

Setting up your Coachella campsite takes a little planning, especially with the strict space rules. Each spot is 10×30, and yes — they do have boundary lines for each space. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your space and avoid any last-minute layout stress:

Plan your layout ahead of time
Measure your car
Google the lengths of your tables and tents
Remember, the dimensions of each campsite are 10×30
- You can’t go over the line
- You have to stay within boundaries

What to Know About Coachella Car Camping

Coachella car camping can feel overwhelming or “not cute” at first—but with the right prep, it’s actually one of the best parts of the whole weekend.

From planning your layout to knowing what to pack, having a game plan makes all the difference.

Whether you’re here for the activities, a new experience, or just want to save money and skip the hotel shuttle chaos, camping is such a fun way to experience Coachella.

Hopefully, this guide gave you everything you need to feel confident and ready.

Bookmark it, send it to your group chat, or start your packing list now. You’ve got this—see you out there in the desert!

XOXO,

Julia

FAQs

Can I bring a bicycle?

Yes! You can bring and ride a bicycle around the camping areas. Just note—bikes aren’t allowed inside the actual festival venue, so you’ll need to park them at your campsite before heading in.

Dimensions of Coachella Car Camping

- - Each car camping spot is 10 feet by 30 feet. That includes your car and all your setup (tent, tables, canopy, etc.), so it’s a good idea to measure your gear ahead of time to make sure it all fits.

Can you leave Coachella Car Camping early?

- - Yes, but only during specific times. Check out the Coachella camping page for more details. The gates are only open during check-in hours, if you want to leave late Sunday night – you will have to pack up Sunday morning and move your car to the Free Day Parking lot and then, you can leave from there after the show. But you cannot pack up your car and leave during the evening.

How much does it cost to camp at Coachella?

- - Car camping passes typically cost around $149–$179 (before fees), but prices can change from year to year. Preferred car camping starts around $390. And the rest of the camping prices go up from there.

Can I sleep in my car at Coachella?

- - Yes! You’re totally allowed to sleep in your car in the car camping area. A tent is preferable because it gets insanely hot. If you do sleep in your car, get a sunshade or canopy for it, to keep it cool. And keep the windows cracked. Also, don’t idle your car for too long. A lot of people kill their cars this way.

How many people camp at Coachella?

- - It’s hard to know the exact number, but thousands of people camp at Coachella. Between tent camping, car camping and preset camping – it’s thousands of people. That’s why they have a camping hub to create a little city for everyone to gather and keep us entertained so we don’t get crazy at our camping sites.

Can you bring alcohol to Coachella car camping?

- - Yes, but there are rules. Each person (21+) can bring a limited amount of beer or boxed wine—no glass allowed. Be sure to move all your hard alcohol into plastic containers to avoid having them taken during check-in.

Are there water refill stations at Coachella?

- - Yes! There are several free water refill stations throughout the campgrounds and at the Camping Hub. Bring a reusable water bottle or a large container, and maybe a small hose if you’re using a big jug—it helps.

What is a camping pass Coachella?

- - A camping pass is what gives you access to stay in the Coachella campgrounds. You’ll need one per car (not per person) if you’re doing car camping, or one per tent spot if you’re going with tent camping.

What is companion camping Coachella?

- - A companion camping pass lets you park in the companion lot if you’re not driving your own car into a campsite, but still want to stay with your group. It’s mostly used when multiple groups want to camp together but only one car can fit in the main spot.

What is the difference between car camping at tent camping at Coachella?

- Car camping means your car is parked right at your campsite, and you set up everything around it. Tent camping is a separate area where you walk in and carry your gear to your tent spot—no car access at the site. Both have their perks, but car camping is the most popular because of the convenience.
Is there ice at Coachella?
- Yes! Ice is available for purchase every day in the campgrounds. You can flag down the Mobile Ice Sales carts when they drive through each lot—look for them Thursday from 2pm–5pm and Friday through Sunday from 9am–3pm. There’s also ice for sale at the General Store in Lot 8 if you miss the carts. Expect to grab a few bags over the weekend (they were $14 each last year).

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About the author: Hey there! I’m Julia, a passionate theme park and travel writer. My love for theme parks has fueled my obsession with sharing tips and adventures for years. Join me as I uncover the magic of Coachella and beyond!

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