Your Ultimate Guide to Surviving (and Thriving) at Tomorrowland 🎶✨
Tomorrowland is the stuff of dreams—an absolute bucket-list festival with insane stages, mind-blowing music, and a vibe you won’t find anywhere else. But let’s be real, surviving the weekend takes a bit of planning. Lucky for you, I’ve got the inside scoop on how to make the most of it without losing your mind (or your wallet).
1. Get Your Stuff Sorted Early 🕒
Let’s cut to the chase—Tomorrowland tickets are hard to get. They sell out in minutes, sometimes even seconds. Set alarms, mark your calendar, and be logged in and ready the moment ticket sales start. And don’t forget to register on their website beforehand; it’s a requirement to buy tickets. Pro tip: join the Global Journey package sale if you’re keen on snagging both travel and tickets in one go.
Accommodations? Whether you’re all about the DreamVille camping experience or prefer a cozy Airbnb nearby, book early. DreamVille sells out as quickly as the tickets, and local hotels fill up months in advance. If you can’t find something nearby, Antwerp and Brussels are great alternatives with easy transport to the festival.
As for getting there, Tomorrowland offers shuttles and trains to the festival grounds from Brussels and Antwerp. If you’re flying in, Brussels Airport is your best bet—just make sure your travel plans are sorted well in advance.
2. Pack Smart, Not Heavy 🎒
Tomorrowland’s weather can’t decide if it wants to be sunny and hot or rainy and chilly—it’s Belgium, after all. Bring layers, including a light rain jacket or poncho. Comfy clothes are a must, but don’t forget to pack something festive if you want to get into the Tomorrowland spirit.
Shoes are a big deal. You’ll be walking (and dancing) for hours, so ditch the flip-flops and heels for sturdy, comfortable sneakers or boots. And trust me, a good pair of socks can make a world of difference.
Sun protection is essential. A sunburn can ruin your weekend, so pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Also, bring a hydration pack or a reusable water bottle. Water refill stations are scattered around, and staying hydrated is key to surviving the long days.
Other essentials? Portable phone chargers (because you’ll definitely run out of battery), earplugs (save your hearing for future festivals), and a small backpack or fanny pack to carry your stuff.
3. Know Your Stages 🎵
Tomorrowland isn’t just one big stage—it’s a universe of music. There’s the iconic main stage for those larger-than-life headliners, but don’t miss out on the other stages like Freedom, Core, and Atmosphere. Each has its own vibe, from deep house and techno to drum & bass and experimental sounds.
Before the festival, download the lineup and mark your must-see acts. But don’t overplan—some of the best sets are the ones you stumble upon accidentally. Take some time to wander and soak in the diversity of sounds.
4. Download the App 📱
Tomorrowland’s app is a lifesaver. It’s got everything: the full schedule, interactive maps, and live updates. You can even customize your own schedule by favoriting artists you want to see.
The map feature is especially useful because the festival grounds are huge. Knowing where the stages, food vendors, restrooms, and refill stations are will save you a ton of time and stress.
5. Cash is So Last Year 💳
Tomorrowland has fully embraced the cashless system with “Pearls.” You preload money onto your festival wristband, and that’s what you use to pay for food, drinks, and merch.
You can top it up on-site, but the lines can get long, so it’s a good idea to load it with enough funds beforehand. And don’t worry—any unused Pearls can be refunded after the festival (minus a small fee).
6. Don’t Be Late to the Party ⏰
Getting to the festival early is a game-changer. Not only will you avoid the crazy crowds, but you’ll also get to soak in the stunning scenery before it’s packed. The decorations, art installations, and stages are incredible and deserve some attention without the chaos of thousands of people.
Plus, getting in early gives you a chance to scout out the best spots at the stages, grab food and drinks before the lines form, and settle into the vibe.
7. Keep Yourself in Check 🛡️
You’re going to be surrounded by massive crowds, loud music, and non-stop action. Protect your ears with good-quality earplugs—you’ll thank yourself later.
Stay hydrated (yes, I’m saying it again), and take breaks when you need them. There are plenty of chill zones and shaded areas where you can rest your feet and recharge.
Pro tip: don’t forget to eat. The food at Tomorrowland is amazing, with options from around the world. Treat yourself to a proper meal during the day to keep your energy up.
8. DreamVille is the Move (If You’re Staying) 🏕️
DreamVille isn’t just a campsite—it’s a whole community. From pre-festival parties to chill hangout spots, it’s the perfect way to dive deeper into the Tomorrowland experience.
Make sure you pack the basics: a good tent, a comfortable sleeping bag, a pillow, and whatever you need to stay warm at night (it can get cold). Portable chargers, toiletries, and snacks are also a good idea.
DreamVille has a marketplace with food, drinks, and supplies, but prices can add up quickly. Bringing your own snacks and drinks (within the allowed limits) can save you some cash.
9. Don’t Try to See Everything 🌍
It’s impossible to see every artist, explore every stage, and catch every moment. Don’t stress yourself out trying to fit it all in. Pick a few must-sees, but leave room for spontaneity.
Sometimes the most memorable moments happen when you least expect them—like stumbling into a set from an artist you’ve never heard of or finding a hidden corner of the festival with incredible vibes.
10. Get Ready to Walk...A Lot 👟
Tomorrowland is massive, and you’ll easily rack up 15,000+ steps a day. Comfortable shoes are a must. And while you’re at it, bring some blister pads or bandages just in case.
If you want to save some energy, check the map and plan your route between stages. It’s better than zigzagging across the entire festival grounds a hundred times.
11. Enjoy the Moment 🌟
This is your chance to escape reality and dive into a world of music and magic. Take a few pictures and videos, but don’t get stuck behind your phone screen.
Dance, make friends with strangers, and just soak in the experience. Tomorrowland is all about connection, positivity, and living in the moment.
So there you have it—a guide straight from the heart to help you crush it at Tomorrowland. Plan ahead, stay open to the unexpected, and get ready for one of the best weekends of your life. See you on the dance floor! 🎉