Written by: Nicole Schafer
Festival season is here, and the debate is back: Should you camp at the festival or book a
private house nearby? Whether you’re gearing up for a wild week at EDC Las Vegas or planning
to go full basshead at Lost Lands, where you sleep can totally shape your experience.
Let’s break it down—raver to raver—so you can choose the vibe that best matches your needs.
🌈💃🕺
🔥 Camping: The 24/7 Experience
Pros:
- Immersive AF: From sunrise sets to sleepover tent chats, you’re literally in it. Every
moment is a vibe. - Built-in Community: Walk out of your tent and boom—instant friends. Camp neighbors
often become rave fam by Day 2. - No Uber Needed: Skip the surge pricing and sweaty shuttle lines. You’re steps away
from the gates. - Theme Camps & Activities: From renegade sets to yoga at sunrise, campgrounds can be
mini festivals in themselves.
Cons:
- Less Glam, More Grit: Showers? Sometimes. Flushable toilets? Rarely. If you’re a
high-maintenance raver, prepare accordingly. - Sleep? Good Luck: Between bass bleeding in from the stages and the guy two tents
down blasting dubstep at 8am, rest is…optional. - Packing Stress: Tents, air mattresses, food, water, outfits, glitter…camping takes
preparation.
Camper Tip from @gr00vybbyyy
“Bring earplugs, baby wipes, and a pop-up canopy—trust me, you’ll thank yourself during Day 3
sunburn o’clock.”
🏡 Private Housing: The Recharge Retreat
Pros:
- Real Beds, Real Showers: Say goodbye to dusty naps and baby-wipe “baths.” Sleep like
royalty and reset for the next day. - Secure Space: Lock your valuables away, enjoy AC, cook meals—luxuries that feel like
gold after 12 hours of dancing. - Chill Vibes: If you’re more of a part-time raver and full-time nap enthusiast, housing gives
you a needed break from the madness.
Cons:
- FOMO Is Real: Leaving the festival grounds each night means missing late-night
campsite shenanigans and sunrise moments. - Commute Woes: Rideshares = $$$. Shuttles = lines. Either way, you’ll be dealing with
travel logistics daily. - Less Community Feel: If you love meeting strangers-turned-besties, housing might feel a
little too quiet.
Housing Hack from @RaveDadJoe:
“Split an Airbnb with a group and rotate who drives each day. Also: never underestimate the joy
of a full fridge.”
💸 Budget Breakdown
Expense: Festival Ticket + Camp Pass
Camping: ~$250–$500 (including supplies)
Private Housing: ~$300–$500
Expense: Gear/Supplies
Camping: Included in above if shared
Private Housing: Minimal if house is stocked
Expense: Transportation
Camping: Usually lower
Private Housing: Can be high (gas, Ubers, daily parking)
Expense: Comfort Level
Camping: 🧻🦟🪵
Private Housing: 🛌️🚿🍷
🧳 Pack Like a Pro
Camping Musts:
- Tent + stakes (and mallet!)
- Sleeping bag or air mattress
- Shade canopy
- Battery-powered fan
- Reusable water jug
- Lanterns or string lights
Housing Musts:
- Festival outfits + extras (you will want options)
- Uber app and extra chargers
- Groceries/snacks for pregame fuel
- Cooler if fridge space is tight
- Your own speaker for afterparties 😉
🎶 So…Which One Is Right for You?
If you live for spontaneity, love meeting people, and can survive a few dusty nights with minimal
comfort, camping is your path to raver enlightenment. If you need your sleep, love a hot shower,
and prefer a bit of structure with your chaos, private housing is the move.
Honestly? You can’t go wrong. The magic of a festival lives in the music, the people, and the
memories you create whether you’re snoozing in a tent or popping champagne in an Airbnb hot
tub.
No matter where you lay your glittery head at night, just don’t forget the essentials: hydrate,
wear sunscreen, and be kind to your rave fam. ✨
Much love your fellow raver,
@nikishayy