As travellers look forward to iconic music festivals like Coachella, Rocking the Daisies, and Splashy Fen, the rhythm may not be the only thing harmonising this year.
A new trend is taking centre stage - glamping, the pursuit of glamorous camping, is revolutionising how festival-goers experience these musical extravaganzas, combining luxury with outdoor adventure
Gone are the days of roughing it, where festival attendees would brave the elements in flimsy tents and sleeping bags.
Today's festival-goers are interested in creating unforgettable experiences, showcasing their desire for comfort even amidst the chaos of a lively crowd.
A perfect illustration of this transformation emerged from Coachella last weekend, when TikTok videos captured the stark contrast in camping styles.
The annual festival, renowned for its eclectic line-up and celebrity sightings, is not just a music event but a spectacle of lifestyle choices, vividly represented by the tents that blanket the desert landscape.
Noteworthy among the various accommodation options was a viral video by user @kaylaontour, which explored the extravagant safari glamping side of Coachella.
@kaylaontour Safari camping at coachella. #coachella2025 #bratchella #coachellavalley #safari #ladygaga #camping #glamping #coachella #postmalone ♬ original sound - KAYLA🦋
With an eye-watering price tag of $10 000 (R190 000), her luxurious set-up included portable bathrooms, classy canopies, plush beds, inflatable swimming pools, and even bar fridges to keep refreshments chilled.
As she took viewers on her tour, social media was abuzz with reactions showcasing a mix of envy, disbelief, and intrigue.
Comments poured in as users reacted to glamping's opulence. One user @norcali1 remarked, “This camp is way nicer than some other camps I've seen on here,” while another @deeval890 lamented, “This is the only way I could do Coachella, and I know I can’t afford this, so I know I will never do Coachella.”
@creamcheesebagelyum hit the nail on the head, pointing out that “$10k could go a long way for a lot of people,” highlighting the disparity between festival lifestyles.
Glamping's rise is a response to the increasing popularity of multi-day music festivals, coupled with the growing demand for luxury and comfort.
Trends suggest a broader shift towards memorable experiences over material possessions, encouraging attendees to splurge on their desired festival lifestyle.
Factors like remote work viability have allowed even more freedom to enjoy nature while remaining connected.
At the core of the glamping phenomenon lies a blend of convenience and luxury.
@want.zamora Coachella camping ⛺️
♬ original sound - Marco Zamora
Glamping sites cater to a diverse audience, including those desiring a more relaxed outdoor experience.
Modern amenities like Wi-Fi, beds, and even spas elevate the simplistic act of camping into a lavish retreat.
Moreover, glamping's upsell potential is becoming an attractive option for festival organisers, offering a range of accommodation that caters to varying budgets and preferences.
As festival attendance numbers surge, the need for diverse lodging options has become imperative.
Some glamping providers are even prioritising sustainability, choosing eco-friendly solutions that resonate with environmentally conscious festival-goers.
As this trend continues to grow, attendees can expect unforgettable experiences under the stars, with a touch of luxury that was once unimaginable at music festivals.
With events like Coachella embracing this shift, glamping seems poised to redefine the music festival landscape, one lavish tent at a time.