I went to Coachella for the first time with a general-admission wristband and quickly realized I made a mistake by not splurging on VIP tickets

Jensen RubinsteinApr 28, 2022, 03:19 IST

The writer at Coachella.Jensen Rubinstein

I attended Coachella for the first time this year.
It wasn't the easiest festival to get to, but guest appearances and production value were worth it.

I went to Coachella for the first time this year. I thought the weekend was exhausting, but I would go again.

The author standing in front of the Coachella ferris wheel.Jensen Rubinstein

I bought a travel package through Coachella, which included lodging and a shuttle to and from the venue.

Arriving at the shuttle drop off at Coachella.Jensen Rubinstein

Entering the festival grounds was quick and easy.

Crowds walking from the shuttle drop-off area to the venue entrance.Jensen Rubinstein

Fences separated hotel shuttles in the drop-off area at Coachella, helping to organize the shuttle lines for pick-up at the end of the night.

Each shuttle line had its own holding area for drop-off and pick-up.Jensen Rubinstein

We went to Coachella each day on a full stomach because the food was expensive inside the venue.

The author and her sister on the shuttle to Coachella.Jensen Rubinstein

The surprise guest appearances were my favorite part of the weekend.

Shania Twain performs onstage during Harry Styles' Friday-night set.Jensen Rubinstein

Getting a good view was surprisingly easy.

A view of Harry Styles' set.Jensen Rubinstein

I was surprised by how high quality the production was.

Maggie Rogers smiles during her set on the Coachella Stage.Jensen Rubinstein

We were in the fourth row for Karol G.

Karol G performing on the Coachella Stage on Sunday afternoon.Jensen Rubinstein

Billie Eilish used a crane to travel deeper into the crowd for a few songs during her performance.

Billie Eilish performing on a raised crane during her Saturday night set over the crowd.Jensen Rubinstein

Bands typically played simultaneously on all seven stages throughout the day, so I missed some sets I was interested in seeing.

People walking around during a performance at Coachella.Jensen Rubinstein

I thought the weather changes in Indio were extreme.

People sitting in the shade of a sign.Jensen Rubinstein

Some stages were covered, offering much-needed shade.

Most of the stages had roofs over them.Jensen Rubinstein

At night, the temperatures dipped and it became gusty.

I used bandanas when it got windy at night to protect my face.Jensen Rubinstein

While I had a fun weekend, next time, I'm getting VIP tickets for the added perks.

Barricades separate the VIP and GA viewing areas.Jensen Rubinstein

Weighing the pros and cons, I would absolutely go back again.

Me and Jaidan standing in front of the Coachella vista.Jensen Rubinstein

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