If you think Coachella and Stagecoach are only for trust-fund philosophers and Burning Man refugees, think again.

We hit up mom and festival-goer Erin Gilhuley for her tips on how to rock out in Palm Springs with the little ones in tow.

Why bring your child to an outdoor festival like Coachella or Stagecoach?

“These music festivals are safe, friendly and unique places to take your kids to experience the artistic richness you can’t get at a typical resort hotel or amusement park. The venue offers a somewhat unexpected level of comfort for parents, with controlled areas for alcohol consumption, enhanced security, established protocol if kids get lost, and a multitude of eye candy for kids.”
 

What's in your backpack for a comfortable 12-hour day for Mom and child?

“Sunscreen, snacks, juice boxes, lip balm, Band-Aids, baby wipes (the universal mommy must-carry), hats, camera, sweater (just in case), spare clothes for the kids and the critical cellphone to send text messages to find friends at the show.”
 

What are some hazards to be wary of?

“As with any place with a large crowd, parents cannot let their guard down. And if a child hasn’t experienced this kind of thing before, they should be prepped for the loud noise and masses of people.

“Don’t assume your child can handle the entire day. Plan accordingly and schedule the day with appropriate breaks and rest times where you can sit on the open grass and enjoy a meal, or stroll around the vendor booths. Last year, my daughter Eavan’s highlight was to see Lily Allen. After we saw Lily, I decided to call it a day. As with any kid event, the most successful days will be planned around the child, not the parent.”
 

What are some family-friendly must-sees at Coachella and Stagecoach?

“The artwork at both shows is a must! Sculptures, lights, performance art and, of course, general people-watching. The cool thing is that these two festivals are completely different."

"For Coachella, it will be more organically music-driven with less geared specifically for kids. That will mean more discussion of the art and music itself. But for Stagecoach, there will be more kids and therefore more planned kids activities: square dancing, hay bale mazes, cowboy comedy, games, petting zoo and the Half-Pint Stage with special kids concerts.”
 

Stroller or carrier?

“I would highly recommend taking a child who can walk!”