Coachella 2025 is just around the corner, and attendees are eagerly preparing for two weekends filled with music, art, and the unique energy of the California desert. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, it’s essential to understand the festival’s rules regarding what can and cannot be brought into the venue.
The festival permits a range of essential items aimed at ensuring personal comfort and meeting basic needs. Guests are encouraged to stay hydrated by bringing empty reusable water bottles or hydration packs, which must be empty upon entry. These can be refilled at water stations available throughout the grounds. Small bags, fanny packs, and single-compartment backpacks no larger than 18″ x 13″ x 8″ are allowed, making it easier to carry daily necessities. For comfort while lounging on the grass, blankets and towels are welcome. With the intense desert sun in mind, attendees are also encouraged to bring non-aerosol sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect themselves from heat and UV exposure.
To help everyone stay connected and capture memories, cell phones and portable chargers are permitted, along with non-professional cameras that don’t have detachable lenses. These rules make it easy for festivalgoers to share their experiences without compromising safety or security.
However, Coachella maintains a strict list of prohibited items. Large bags, multi-compartment backpacks, and suitcases are not allowed. Outside food and drinks are also banned, unless required for documented medical reasons. This includes alcohol and sealed water bottles. In the interest of safety, illegal substances, drug paraphernalia, firearms, knives, and other potential weapons are strictly forbidden. Fireworks, explosives, and laser pointers are also on the banned list due to the potential hazards they pose.
Additional restricted items include aerosol products such as spray sunscreen or bug spray, chairs, tents, and flags or banners attached to poles. Professional audio or video recording equipment is not allowed unless the individual has proper credentials.
By familiarizing themselves with these guidelines before arriving at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, attendees can avoid unnecessary hassle at the entrance and focus on enjoying every moment of the festival. Coachella is all about music, community, and creativity—and knowing the rules helps ensure everyone gets to experience it to the fullest.
