With Coachella 2014 just around the corner, people are beginning to pick their outfits and pack up their bags. Coachella is a huge event that only comes around twice a year so if you are going, you want to be prepared.  Since I’ve been before, I figured I should share my experience and let others know about some tips I wish I knew for my first time at a music festival. #1- Don’t overthink outfits or wear super complicated clothing. It’s going to be HOT. When I say hot, I mean you are going to be drenched in sweat the entire time you are going to be there. This is just something that has to happen and everyone just has to deal with it. It’s in a desert, there’s nothing we can do about it. With that being said, I suggest to wear as little clothes as possible. Even though your high-waisted shorts and combat boots are just begging to be worn, I highly advise against it. Sandals or tennis shoes that let your feet breathe and clothes that won’t suffocate you are your best option. It’s honestly acceptable to walk around in a bathing suit. If you aren’t that daring, just be sure to wear the minimum. I promise that if you show up in a cute but uncomfortable outfit, you will be miserable the entire time. This event goes all day so your clothes should not be something to worry about; no one actually cares what you are wearing. #2- Bring a fanny pack/small backpack for your things. You do not want to be stuck carrying around your phone, wallet, and sunglasses all in your pockets. Things can get lost and items can be stolen. I know in everyday life fanny packs are never a good look but at music festivals they are the most important piece of your outfit. When you are jumping up and down in a mosh pit of people enjoying the music, the last thing you want to worry about is your money falling out of your pocket or your phone being taken. They are small, convenient and allow you to not hold anything in your hands of on your shoulders. However, if you don’t believe me at least invest in a small backpack, you’ll thank me later. 
#3- Don’t get to the festival right away. I know you’re excited and I know you want to get there already but trust me the first few hours aren’t anything exciting. Most of the bands from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. are tiny local bands that you will most likely have never heard. The day is long, the last performance will probably end around 1 a.m. and then you will need to navigate the crowds back to the car/bus. You will get extremely exhausted if you do this every single day. If there is a particular band you want to see then go ahead by all means, stay all day but if you have no reason to go, then don’t. The sun is draining and you need to rest. Take some time to chill at your hotel pool or go get a big lunch at a restaurant close by. You want to be ready for each day so don’t stress if you don’t get there right when the gates open.  
#4- Don’t plan each day thoroughly. I know there are a lot of bands and DJs performing each day but don’t make a schedule. Pick a few major acts you want to see each day but other than that, leave part of the day to roam around or explore new artists you’ve never heard before. Some of the best times at Coachella happen when you’re sitting around eating a slice of pizza and just enjoying being there. It’s an amazing place to be, so be sure to take time to meet new people and listen to new things. If you’re running around all day trying to make it to every single performance you planned out, everyone will get tired and frustrated. Odds are you won’t make it to every single one you want to anyways but don’t get mad just enjoy the experience and let the festival make its own memories.