Generally, the total expenditure for attending Bonnaroo can range significantly, from approximately $500 for a basic, essential experience to several thousand dollars (e.g., $2,000 - $3,000+) for a premium, superior encounter, encompassing all conveniences and travel expenses. The actual cost is highly dependent on your choices regarding tickets, accommodation, travel, food, and extra spending.
Understanding Bonnaroo Costs
Attending Bonnaroo, like any major music festival, involves several key financial components beyond just the ticket. Planning your budget involves considering each of these categories to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Key Cost Components
To help you estimate your personal Bonnaroo budget, here's a breakdown of the primary expenses:
Ticket Tiers
Bonnaroo offers various ticket options, each with different price points and inclusions:
- General Admission (GA): This is the standard entry ticket, providing access to all stages, the campgrounds, and various activities. Prices typically start from $350 - $450, not including fees.
- GA+: A step up from GA, often including expedited entry and access to air-conditioned restrooms and exclusive lounges.
- VIP: This premium option offers enhanced amenities such as dedicated viewing areas, air-conditioned lounges, private bars, complimentary refreshments, and priority entry. VIP tickets can range from $900 - $1,500+.
- Platinum: The most exclusive tier, providing top-tier access, private dining, golf cart transportation, and premium viewing. These tickets can exceed $3,000.
Camping & Accommodation
Bonnaroo is primarily a camping festival, with most attendees staying on-site. The cost varies based on your chosen camping style:
- Standard Car Camping: This is the most popular option and typically costs $70 - $100 per vehicle, regardless of the number of occupants.
- RV Camping: For those bringing an RV, prices can range from $250 - $500, depending on hook-ups and size.
- Glamping: Bonnaroo offers various "glamping" or premium camping experiences, which include pre-set tents, beds, and sometimes air conditioning or private showers. These can range from $1,000 - $2,500+ for the weekend, often excluding the festival ticket.
- Off-site Accommodation: While less common, some attendees opt for hotels or Airbnbs in nearby towns, which would add daily travel costs to the festival grounds.
Travel Expenses
Your travel costs will depend significantly on your starting location and mode of transport:
- Flights: If flying, airfare to Nashville International Airport (BNA) or Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA) can vary widely, from $100 - $600+ depending on your departure city and booking time.
- Gas & Vehicle Maintenance: For those driving, factor in gas costs for the round trip, which could be $50 - $300+ depending on distance.
- Shuttles/Ride-shares: Once in the area, you might incur costs for shuttles to the festival or ride-shares if not camping directly on site.
Food, Drinks & Merchandise
Daily spending on food, beverages, and souvenirs can add up quickly.
- Food & Non-alcoholic Drinks: While bringing some food to your campsite is allowed and encouraged, purchasing meals from vendors inside the festival grounds can cost $15 - $25 per meal. Budget $50 - $100 per day for this.
- Alcoholic Beverages: Expect to pay $10 - $15 per drink inside the venue. Many attendees bring their own alcohol for consumption at their campsite to save money.
- Merchandise: T-shirts, posters, and other festival memorabilia typically range from $20 - $75+ per item.
- Showers & Ice: On-site showers usually cost $5 - $10 per use, and ice for coolers is essential, costing $5 - $10 per bag.
Estimated Bonnaroo Budget Breakdown
Here's an illustrative table to help visualize potential costs for different experiences:
| Cost Category | Essential Experience (Estimated Range) | Premium Experience (Estimated Range) |
|---|---|---|
| Festival Ticket | $350 - $450 (GA) | $900 - $1,500+ (VIP/Platinum) |
| Camping/Lodging | $70 - $100 (Car Camping) | $1,000 - $2,500+ (Glamping) |
| Travel (Gas/Flight) | $50 - $300 (Driving) | $300 - $800+ (Flights) |
| Food & Drinks | $150 - $250 (Basic, some BYO) | $300 - $500 (Vendor meals, limited BYO) |
| Miscellaneous | $50 - $100 (Showers, ice, small items) | $100 - $300 (Merch, extras) |
| Total Estimated Cost | $670 - $1,200 | $2,600 - $5,600+ |
Note: These are estimates and can fluctuate based on specific choices, booking times, and unforeseen expenses. Prices are per person unless otherwise specified for camping.
Tips for Managing Your Bonnaroo Budget
To make your Bonnaroo experience more affordable, consider these practical insights:
- Buy Tickets Early: "Early Bird" tickets are always the cheapest. Prices increase as the festival date approaches.
- Carpool: Share gas and car camping pass costs with friends.
- Bring Your Own Food & Drinks: Pack non-perishable snacks, sandwich supplies, and plenty of water/beverages for your campsite. This significantly reduces spending on expensive vendor food.
- Limit Merchandise: Decide beforehand if you want souvenirs and set a budget for them.
- Use Free Water Stations: Bonnaroo provides free water refill stations. Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated without buying bottled water.
- Plan Ahead for Showers: Consider a solar shower for your campsite or plan your paid showers efficiently.
For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, always refer to the official Bonnaroo website: Bonnaroo Official Site
