It’s that time of year again. The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival is here, and it’s time to pack your bags and head out into the blistering hot desert. Coachella is a three-day festival that takes place in Indio, Calif. every year over the span of two weekends. Talented musicians and artists from all genres join forces to give fans the time of their lives. This year, some of the performances to look forward to include Phoenix,The Postal Service, Wu-Tang Clan and Vampire Weekend. Music lovers travel long distances to attend the festival and see their favorite performers. If you’re a Coachella newbie, there are a lot of mistakes you’ll make. Do some research and make sure you’re prepared. 

“The mistake I made before was I didn’t wear comfortable shoes and comfortable clothes,” Thurgood Marshall College senior Beradin Jezeh said. “I wasn’t happy for most of the day; you walk around so much I’ve learned that comfort trumps style — at least for me — in the shoe department.”

We know this is an exciting time for those lucky enough to get tickets, but now that you’re going, there are a few things you can’t forget to pack. Here’s a cheat sheet on all the things you’ll need:

1. Make a customized list of your must-see artists. Know where and when they are playing. This will save you and your group from having to stand around in the heat trying to figure out your next step.

2. Carry a backpack. There are many things you’ll need to take with you, like a map, tickets and extra clothes. Having a backpack will eliminate the stress on your shoulders that tote bags may cause. 

3. Bring cash. Although some places will accept cards, carrying cash makes everything a lot easier. Also, it guarantees having access to everything and keeps you from standing in line at the ATM where you may have to pay unnecessary fees.

4. Apply sunblock and lip balm. Keep in mind the festival takes place in a desert, and the last thing you want to deal with is getting sunburned and having chapped lips. They are small items but they go a long way.

5. Bring water. Water will be your best friend over the Coachella weekend. Make sure to take more than just one, or bring a reusable eco-friendly bottle to fill up every chance you get. Staying hydrated will ensure a healthy weekend.

6. Layering pieces are important. Although it is blistering hot during the day, once the sun goes down, the weather will drop. Having a layer piece will keep you warm during the chilly desert nights.

7. Bring sunglasses. Something cheap is preferred. If you drop your sunglasses in the middle of a huge crowd, you it’s better to lose brand X sunnies over your Ray Bans.

8. Wear comfortable shoes. Everyone wants to look fashionable at Coachella, but once you’re there, the only thing that will really matter is how comfortable you are. Keep in mind there is a lot of walking that goes on. Try to stay away from open-toed shoes because you will probably get stepped on and getting dirt in your toes is not the greatest feeling. Having an extra pair of socks is also a good idea.

9. Having baby wipes and sanitizing cloths is essential. This will be the easiest and fastest way to stay fresh and keep clean. Showering won’t be an option during the day, so use these wipes to relieve yourself of your sweat combined with dirt. The people around you will appreciate it.

10. Have a meet up location in case someone gets lost. Keep in mind getting cellphone reception will be close to impossible. Keep your phone on airplane mode to save as much battery as possible. There will be charging locations around, so charge when you can.

Quick Tip: For meals, we recommend pizza is because you’ll be able to eat and walk at the same time. The Terrace, which is conveniently located in the center of Coachella, and it’s, is a great place to grab some pizza and they also have a beer garden. Also available are a variety of options from there food vendors and restaurants in the Coachella Valley area, such as Ruth’s Chris Steak House and Las Casuelas Quinta. Food trucks will also be available, along with full bars. Take what you must, sit in the shade and drink water constantly.