Tomorrowland 2022: a practical guide for first-timers

The first time at Tomorrowland is a unique and remarkable experience. Here’s a brief guide on how to make the most of it.

Those who went say that there are two things to know about Tomorrowland: you have to go at least once in your life and once you’ve gone you won’t be able to stop repeating. The 2022 edition has a very special flavour as it accumulates the expectations of those who would go for the first time in 2020 and those who bought their first tickets this year. The mysticism and fantasy that emanates from the name Tomorrowland creates huge anxiety about what to expect from this legendary festival, but fear not first-timer, We Rave You has put together some practical tips that will help you make the most of your first time at Tomorrowland.

Tomorrowland 2022 has kicked off, which means you’ve already gone through one of the most difficult stages of the process of going to this mythical festival: buying tickets. Now, and as trivial as it may sound, the important thing is not to forget to bring your bracelets, your vouchers and your ID, so that no logistical detail gets in the way of you and Tomorrowland’s holy grounds.

Will you be staying in Dreamville during the festival?

If you’ve opted for the immersive experience of being a real inhabitant of Tomorrowland’s fantastical village, here are some precious tips. The festival grounds are gigantic, but those of Dreamville are colossal. It is useful that you take a good look at the detailed map provided by Tomorrowland so that it is easy to find the different areas and services available (there are a lot of them). The camping areas are divided up by type and colour, make sure you memorise your spot well so it’s easy to get back to your tent. If you didn’t bring everything you need, don’t worry, besides the supermarket, there are shops with camping products and much more. For bathing, you can choose between the free outdoor showers or the indoor ones which will cost you a few pearls but will guarantee hot water (at least if you go early!). Don’t forget the flood of people that will be your neighbour on those days. If you bring your own tent, choose a waterproof one and remember, tents are not safes. Keep your most valuable belongings in the lockers available. You can rent them locally or in advance.

First thing first

The first moments at Tomorrowland can be overwhelming. There are many emotions, many images and many sensations invading your every sense. Take a deep breath and organise yourself, don’t forget there are three days per weekend and you must be strategic. If you haven’t loaded your bracelet with pearls (Tomorrowland’s official money) you should do it to start buying what you need. No need to be crazy as there are several charging points available around the festival. You’re probably thirsty for one of Tomorrowland’s wonderful merchandising items. We advise you to start there, buy what you want at first and then put it in a locker, you’ll be sorry if the item you wanted sells out!

Give yourself a break

You will cover a lot of kilometres back and forth during the festival. Don’t be too hard on yourself and take advantage of the various resting and shade areas to regain your energy. It is important that you stay hydrated. Drink regularly and remember that bottles of water will be sold to you without the cap, so it’s not a bad idea to bring one! A meal at one of Tomorrowland’s restaurants is also an experience not to be missed. Tomorrowland also has a medical facility at your disposal which you should use whenever you need to.

Don’t miss a thing

If you count the number of sets per day and per stage, you will see that there are lots of unmissable performances. If you don’t want to miss any of your favourite artists, be prepared! Use the official app of the festival and tag who you want to see, you will have several possible schedule overviews that will help you organize. To assist you on this task it will also be useful to analyse in detail the Tomorrowland map also available on the app.

See all the stages and take your time. Stay at least a few minutes on each stage, walkway or plaza and soak it in. The whimsical details are everywhere, let yourself get involved. Another thing not to miss is your friends. You are likely to get separated on several occasions and your mobile phone batteries can run out before you know it. So, it is quite useful to arrange an emergency meeting point, in case you are out of contact.

Be prepared

The weather in Boom is unpredictable and it’s not unusual to experience all four seasons in one day. Bring cool, practical clothes for the hottest time but don’t forget warm clothes for the night – renting a locker is ideal to store your extra clothes and other items so they’re safe and available whenever you need them. It’s worth remembering that you’ll be walking, a lot. Choose comfortable shoes, very comfortable shoes, but don’t choose the most expensive ones you have. Mud, dirt, water, abrasion, everything will happen to your poor shoes, but it will be worth it! Traditionally rain always visits the festival, expect it. The staff often provide waterproof ponchos, but it’s smart to be prepared. We’ve already talked about lockers, but there are things you’ll want to have with you in a fanny pack or shoulder bag. Position your bags forward and always keep track of your belongings. Unfortunately, there are always people who might want to steal from you.

One of the things that are part of going to Tomorrowland is bringing a flag. The chances are varied. Some people choose to bring flags alluding to Tomorrowland, flags of their country or fully custom-made flags. Many nationalities will paint the crowd with the colours of their country, which usually results in amazing photos. This tradition allows you to identify other festivalgoers from your country for the popular group photos.

A guide to Tomorrowland dedicated to first-timers would result in a long hardback book, but we leave you with some practical tips. The Tomorrowland experience is very personal, subjective and unique. The main thing is to look after yourself and others and have a wonderful time. Make the most of it, after all, you are at one of the best music festivals in the world. Welcome, People of Tomorrow.

Image Credit: Tomorrowland