VIP isn't necessary at all and you shouldn't feel obligated to do it. I've been going to fests for a few years and decided that since I'm only going to one this year I'll give VIP a chance. I'm more into it for the more private camping area, but I'll be in the regular camping area quite a bit just hanging out with all the people.

If you're driving up separate, theres a gas station about 2 miles from the festival that you guys should meet at if you want to camp together. Once you're in you can't really choose where to park.

Also I totally responded to your PM but my browser froze and deleted my long reply. I'll write it out again later.