When Chevrolet invited us out for a road trip through the California desert to check out the Stagecoach music festival, I took a beat and responded with something professional like "hell, yeah." I'm a country music fan, for one, but more importantly, I love a good road trip. And it's been my experience that the only way to go to a music festival is to drive—ideally in something durable and comfortable that's equipped with a good sound system.

I came to learn that it made sense for Chevy to be involved as well. The classic American automaker has been inexplicably linked to music for more than half a century. From Springsteen and Prince to Snoop Dogg and Alabama Shakes, Chevy's cars have been name-checked in more than 1,000 popular songs. Who better to partner up with for a rambling country road trip?

The Chevy Colorado ZR2 truck.

The Chevy Colorado ZR2 truck.

The Chevy Colorado ZR2 truck.

After landing in Los Angeles on a predictably sunny afternoon, I was handed a VIP wristband to the festival and a brand new Chevy Colorado ZR2. Let me just say, there's a unique confidence one instantly acquires when rolling down Melrose Avenue in a rugged off-road truck. Maybe it's the 31-inch Goodyear Wrangler off-road tires, over-cab lights or steel roll bar, but the thing just felt freaking tough.

It's the exact truck you want to drive to a 300-acre wide open field hosting some of country music's best new artists and legendary acts. And while you're there, maybe test out its off-roading capabilities by rolling through ditches, traversing unpaved desert roads and doing surprisingly tight donuts in the far end of a festival parking lot to show off. [Editors note: We, of course, would never do such a thing in a brand new, borrowed truck.]

The Ace Hotel & Swim Club in Palm Springs, California.

The Ace Hotel & Swim Club in Palm Springs, California.

The Ace Hotel & Swim Club in Palm Springs, California.

When we weren't at the festival, we were recuperating at the always easygoing Ace Hotel & Swim Club. Nestled against the backdrop of the dry desert hills on the outskirts of town, it's one of our favorite places to stay (and relax with a drink poolside) in Palm Springs. That's also where we'd refill the truck each day with our essentials for a good time at any music festival. And since there are still plenty to attend this summer, here are a few suggestions to keep you happy, hydrated and non-sunburned.

The Survival Kit