As one of the most celebrated music festivals globally, Coachella has become synonymous with luxury and entertainment. However, the festival’s allure comes at a steep price. From tickets to exclusive camping options and exorbitant food costs, attendees must carefully budget their expenses. This article explores the financial commitments involved in experiencing Coachella’s magic, including ticket tiers, accommodation choices, and on-site dining.
Beyond the ticket prices, festival-goers face significant additional costs for lodging and sustenance. While some opt for basic car camping, others indulge in luxurious glamping experiences that rival five-star accommodations. Meanwhile, festival grounds offer an array of culinary delights but at premium prices, making it essential for visitors to plan their spending wisely.
Accessing the Festival: Ticket Options and Pricing
Tickets to Coachella vary widely depending on the experience desired. General admission grants access to the core festival activities, while VIP packages provide enhanced amenities. Attendees can also choose shuttle services or group ticket packs for added convenience. Understanding these options is crucial for managing festival expenses effectively.
Coachella offers four distinct ticket categories tailored to different preferences. For those seeking standard access, general admission tickets start at $649 for the first weekend and slightly lower at $599 for the second. Adding a shuttle service bumps the cost to $779 and $679 respectively. Group purchases come with minor discounts, offering savings of approximately $10 per ticket when buying in bulk. For a more indulgent experience, VIP passes range from $1,199 to $1,399, granting access to exclusive lounges and special treatments throughout the event. Those craving ultimate exclusivity can explore suite and private table packages available upon request.
Lodging and Dining: Balancing Comfort and Cost
Accommodation during Coachella spans a spectrum from economical car camping to extravagant glamping setups. Each option caters to varying budgets and comfort levels, ensuring every attendee can find something suitable. Additionally, festivalgoers must account for substantial food expenses when planning their stay.
Camping at Coachella ranges from simple DIY solutions within personal vehicles to high-end “glamping” environments complete with air conditioning and gourmet meals. Car camping remains popular, starting at around $160 per vehicle inclusive of local taxes. Upgrades such as preferred parking spots near entrances or powered sites accommodating small electronics are available for extra fees. New this year, ready-set-tent packages provide pre-assembled shelters equipped with essentials like sleeping bags and lights starting at $650 plus tax. La Campana introduces private temperature-controlled tents featuring real beds and power supplies priced between $2,400 and $3,300 plus tax. For even greater luxury, Lake Eldorado bungalows offer 24-hour concierge service and private facilities ranging from $3,423 to nearly $7,000. At the pinnacle of extravagance lies Safari camping, costing upwards of $10,000 for two people, providing all-inclusive amenities including golf cart transport and personalized merchandise delivery.
Food options inside the festival are equally varied yet costly. Prices fluctuate significantly based on vendor selections; simple lemonades might reach $17 while elaborate burgers topped with caviar command up to $150. Popular items include Italian sandwiches for $12, chicken tenders baskets for $25, and lobster rolls paired with chips for $35. Alcohol servings start at $15 for beer increasing to $23 for mixed drinks. A general store operates daily supplying necessary supplies though marked-up compared to typical retail prices. Planning ahead by bringing provisions reduces overall expenditure allowing attendees better enjoyment without constant financial strain.