Don't Forget These (Top 5 Most Forgotten)
- 1. Generator fuel - Gas stations near festival are insane
- 2. Heavy-duty extension cords - Your RV outlet is in one spot
- 3. Reflective windshield covers - Reduces RV interior temp significantly
- 4. Layers for cold nights - It drops to 50s, people forget
- 5. Dust masks/bandanas - Desert dust is relentless
This packing list is built from years of Coachella RV camping experience. The desert environment presents unique challenges—extreme heat, cold nights, dust, and no hookups—that require specific preparation. Don't learn these lessons the hard way.
⚡Generator & Power (Critical)
- Generator - 3,000+ watts recommended for AC. If renting RV, confirm it's included.
- Fuel - 20-30 gallons for 4 days of moderate AC use. Fill up BEFORE arriving.
- Gas cans - 5-gallon containers for extra fuel storage.
- Heavy-duty extension cords - 50ft+ outdoor-rated cords (multiple).
- Power strip - Indoor use for charging devices.
- Portable phone chargers - Multiple, high-capacity (20,000mAh+).
- Portable solar panel (optional) - Reduce generator load for device charging.
🌡️Climate Control & Comfort
- Reflective windshield/window covers - Dramatically reduces interior temp.
- Portable fans - Battery or USB powered for air circulation.
- Spray bottle - Misting yourself helps in dry heat.
- Extra bedding - Light sheets for hot nights, blankets for cold (50s overnight).
- Portable AC unit (optional) - Backup for generator quiet hours.
🏕️Shade & Outdoor Setup
- Canopy/shade structure - 10x10 or larger popup canopy. Essential.
- Canopy weights - Desert wind is no joke. Sandbags or water weights.
- Outdoor rug - Defines your space, keeps dust down at entry.
- Camp chairs - Comfortable seating for your outdoor area.
- Folding table - Outdoor prep/eating space.
- String lights - Ambiance + helps you find your RV at night.
- Tapestry/flag - Decorate and identify your spot in a sea of RVs.
💨Dust Defense
- Bandanas/buffs - Cover nose and mouth during dusty conditions.
- N95 masks (optional) - For sensitive lungs or heavy dust.
- Goggles - Clear or tinted for dust storms.
- Doormat - Shake off dust before entering RV.
- Wet wipes - So many wet wipes. Face, hands, body.
- Saline nasal spray - Keeps sinuses clear.
- Eye drops - Dust dries out and irritates eyes.
🍳Food & Kitchen
- Cooler(s) - Large wheeled cooler for overflow + ice runs.
- Ice plan - Know where to restock (general store on-site).
- Easy breakfast foods - Bagels, fruit, yogurt, granola bars.
- Lunch supplies - Deli meat, bread, snacks. Save $ vs festival food.
- Plenty of water - Cases of bottled water + refillable bottles.
- Electrolyte drinks - Gatorade, Liquid IV, Pedialyte. Critical in heat.
- Coffee supplies - Maker, grounds, creamer (morning essential).
- Paper plates/utensils - Minimal dishwashing.
- Trash bags - Leave no trace.
🎪Festival Day Gear
- Hydration pack/CamelBak - Hands-free water. Non-negotiable.
- Comfortable walking shoes - You'll walk 10+ miles/day.
- Sunscreen - SPF 50+, reapply often. Desert sun is brutal.
- Sunglasses - Quality pair, consider strap.
- Hat - Wide brim or cap for shade.
- Layers for night - Hoodie, light jacket. Temps drop to 50s.
- Earplugs - Protect hearing at stages, help sleep later.
- Fanny pack/small bag - Keep essentials accessible.
🧴Toiletries & Health
- RV-safe toilet paper - Regular TP can clog RV systems.
- Holding tank treatment - Keeps RV bathroom odor-free.
- Shower supplies - Shampoo, body wash, quick-dry towels.
- Moisturizer - Desert air is extremely dry.
- Lip balm with SPF - Lips crack fast in dry heat.
- First aid kit - Bandages, pain relievers, antacids, allergy meds.
- Prescription medications - Don't forget daily meds.
- Melatonin/sleep aid (optional) - Can help in unfamiliar sleeping environment.
🚐RV-Specific Items
- Leveling blocks - Polo fields aren't perfectly flat.
- Wheel chocks - Safety when parked.
- Fresh water hose - Fill up your tanks if needed.
- Flashlight/headlamp - For outside the RV at night.
- Basic tool kit - Screwdrivers, duct tape, zip ties.
- RV manual - If renting, know how systems work.
Veteran Packing Tips
- • Shop in Palm Springs - Stock up on groceries and gas before the Indio chaos.
- • Freeze water bottles - Double as ice packs, drinking water as they melt.
- • Bring more water than you think - Dehydration is real in the desert.
- • Pre-make meals - Prep food at home to minimize cooking at the festival.
- • Label everything - Your cooler, chairs, etc. look like everyone else's.
- • Pack a "go bag" - Ready-to-grab bag for the festival each day.
More Coachella Guides
BK
Ben co-founded EventFleetRV and oversees all fleet operations and logistics. With extensive experience coordinating RV deployments for NASCAR events, major festivals, and corporate productions, he ensures every fleet delivery exceeds client expectations.
Co-FounderFleet Operations ExpertMotorsports Specialist
Published: February 1, 2026500+ fleet deployments