As the temperature rises in Coachella Valley, your fun day in the sun can turn into a dangerous one.
The combination of scorching desert sun, dry heat, swirling dust, and the excitement of the moment can pose a serious challenge to even the most dedicated festival-goers. It’s crucial to take sun safety seriously and prepare adequately for the unique conditions that Coachella offers.
To ensure you have a memorable and comfortable experience, here are some essential tips for surviving the extreme heat at Coachella.
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What to Pack for Extreme Heat at Coachella
Last year the Coachella Valley reached over 110 degrees. When we say to prepare for the heat, we’re not joking.
The intense heat can cause dehydration, intense sunburns, and heat rashes. Please don’t ignore sun protection for a cute outfit. Take your photo and then put your hat, mask and cooling towel back on.
You don’t want to spend your festival time in the medical tent.
Hat and Sunglasses
Shield yourself from the relentless sun with a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses. You can pack cute ones but please make sure they will actually shield you from the sun.
Scarf
A lightweight scarf can serve multiple purposes. Use it to cover your face during particularly dusty moments or as an extra layer of protection from the sun. it’s also great for evening time to use a coverup.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from the harsh desert sun by applying a high-SPF sunscreen. Reapply throughout the day, especially if you find yourself sweating a lot, which you will. Sunscreen is a crucial if you don’t want to burn. Don’t forget about your back, face, hands and neck.
Coachella does a good job of having sunscreen stations placed around the festival but pack a small SPF stick to use for your face and reapply every couple of hours at least.
Water and Electrolytes
Staying hydrated is non-negotiable in the desert heat. Pack a reusable water bottle or hydration backpack and make use of the festival’s water stations.
Additionally, consider bringing electrolytes like Drip Drops or LiquidIV to replenish essential minerals lost through sweating. Proper hydration is key to enjoying your time at Coachella.
I would also avoid heavy drinking during the day when it’s super hot outside. Leave the cocktails and beers until the sun goes down.
Fan
A must-pack item for hot days is always a fan. You can pack a regular fold-up fan or a powered fan.
I have a few rechargeable handheld fans that I love and I also invested in the neck fans too which were great.
Be aware that you will need to recharge these fans at the end of every night, so pack an extra charger to be sure you can use it the entire weekend.
Cooling Towel
Cooling towels are the best for hot and dry days in the Coachella Valley. Use them to cover your head or wear them around your neck, either way, they are going to help rapidly cool you down.
Mask for Dust
Coachella is super dusty. This isn’t a heat thing, it’s just constantly dusty. You may not realize it at first but if you don’t cover your face then you will leave with a horrible cough that will last at least a week.
Pack a reliable mask or face covering to keep you from getting the Coachella Cough. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did.
Eye Drops
The combination of heat and dust can irritate your eyes. I had to buy eye drops on the second day of the festival because my eyes were so dry it hurt to keep them open.
Wear sunglasses to help keep the dust out of your eyes and use eye drops to keep them from drying out and getting red.
Take Breaks
Take breaks in shaded areas to rest and recharge. Whether it’s finding a spot in a chill zone or sitting under a tent, taking short breaks will help you stay energized and avoid heat exhaustion.
This is also a good time to hydrate, grab a snack and charge your phone.
Start Late
On extremely hot days you may be tempted to get an early start but the afternoon sun is brutal.
Stay inside or in the shade as long as possible and on really hot days, head into Coachella in the early evening or late afternoon around 3PM to avoid the heavy sun and heat.
Sun Safety at Coachella
Coachella is fun and pretty but also a desert. You need to prepare for extreme heat, high winds and dust.
Don’t forget the top items like water bottles, hats and sunscreen. Everything else is a major bonus that you won’t regret having with you.
Pack the essentials and stay cool, stay safe, and enjoy every moment!
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