Racer gets asked all the time by new burners and even seasoned burners: What should I bring to The Burn? Well, much of this depends on the size of your transport, how long you plan to stay as well as what are your major reasons for attending and interests in general. Luckily, nearly everything you don’t have can be bartered for, lent or even given to you at Burning Man.
The below is comprehensive list of items to bring, especially if you’re travelling to the burn in an RV or Camper, as well as some packing tips and strategies:
Essential Items for Burning Man
1. Tickets and Identification
- Burning Man Ticket: Your ticket is your entry pass to the event.
- Vehicle Pass: If you’re driving, this is required for your vehicle to enter Black Rock City.
- Government-Issued ID: Essential for entry and in case of emergencies.
2. Shelter and Sleeping
- Tent/Yurt/Hexayurt: A sturdy shelter to protect you from the elements.
- Rebar Stakes or MOOP-Free Anchors: To secure your shelter in the often windy conditions.
- Sleeping Bag: Nights can get cold, so a warm sleeping bag is essential.
- Sleeping Pad or Air Mattress: For comfort and insulation from the ground.
- Shade Structure: A canopy or tarp to create shade during the day.
3. Clothing and Personal Gear
- Dust Mask/Bandana: To protect against dust storms.
- Goggles: For eye protection during dust storms.
- Hat or Scarf: To protect your head from the sun.
- Layers of Clothing: Temperatures can vary widely, so pack for both hot days and cold nights.
- Sturdy Boots/Shoes: For walking on the rough terrain.
- Costumes: Embrace the creative and fun spirit of Burning Man.
- Swimsuit: For any water-related activities.
- Rain Gear: Just in case it rains.
4. Health and Hygiene
- Baby Wipes: Useful for quick cleaning.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for maintaining hygiene.
- Biodegradable Soap: For washing yourself and your dishes.
- Toilet Paper: Porta-potties may run out.
- First Aid Kit: For treating minor injuries.
- Prescription Medications: Bring enough for the duration of your stay.
- Sunscreen: High SPF to protect against the desert sun.
- Lip Balm with SPF: To prevent chapped lips.
5. Food and Cooking Supplies
- Non-Perishable Food: Easy-to-prepare meals and snacks.
- Cooler: For storing perishable items.
- Reusable Water Bottles: To stay hydrated.
- Camp Stove/Portable Grill: For cooking.
- Fuel for Stove: Ensure you bring enough for the week.
- Cooking Utensils: Pots, pans, knives, spatulas, etc.
- Plates, Bowls, Cups, and Cutlery: Reusable to minimize waste.
- Dishwashing Supplies: Biodegradable soap, sponge, and drying rack.
6. Water
- At Least 1.5 Gallons Per Person Per Day: For drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
- Water Jugs: For storage and dispensing.
7. Bicycles
- Sturdy Bike: The best way to get around the playa.
- Bike Lights: Required for nighttime visibility.
- Bike Lock: To secure your bike.
- Bike Repair Kit: For any on-the-go fixes.
8. Lights and Illumination
- Headlamps: Hands-free lighting.
- LED String Lights: For decorating your camp and yourself.
- Extra Batteries: To keep all your lights powered.
9. Communication and Navigation
- Portable Radio: For event updates and emergency information.
- Two-Way Radios: For staying in touch with your group.
- Playa Map: To navigate the event site.
- Notebook and Pen: For jotting down important info or creative thoughts.
10. Comfort and Entertainment
- Camp Chairs: For relaxing at your camp.
- Portable Shade Structures: To create shaded spots around your camp.
- Hammock: For a relaxing nap spot.
- Musical Instruments: For spontaneous jam sessions.
- Art Supplies: For creative expression.
- Portable Speaker: For music (keep the volume respectful).
11. Personal Safety
- Whistle: For emergencies.
- Portable Fire Extinguisher: In case of fire.
- Emergency Blanket: For extreme weather situations.
- Multi-Tool: Useful for various tasks and repairs.
12. Money and Transactions
- Cash: Some camps and services might require it.
- Credit/Debit Card: For emergencies and transactions at the gates.
13. Environmental Considerations
- MOOP (Matter Out Of Place) Bags: For collecting your trash and keeping the playa clean.
- Reusable Bags: For shopping and carrying items.
- Gray Water Disposal System: To manage your wastewater responsibly.
14. Specialty Items
- Decorative Items: To personalize your camp.
- Gifts for Gifting: Small items to share with others in the spirit of the event.
- Interactive Art Supplies: To contribute to the community’s creative efforts.
15. Mental and Emotional Preparation
- Journal: For personal reflection and documenting your experiences.
- Books or E-Reader: For downtime relaxation.
- Meditation Supplies: Such as a yoga mat or meditation cushion.
Detailed Packing Tips and Strategies
Organizing Your Gear
- Categorize Items: Group your gear by category (e.g., clothing, kitchen, first aid) for easy access.
- Use Clear Bins: Store items in clear, labeled bins to quickly find what you need.
- Checklist: Create a detailed checklist to ensure you don’t forget anything.
Travel and Transport
- Vehicle Preparation: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition for the long drive.
- Packing Efficiency: Use every inch of your vehicle space wisely, keeping heavier items at the bottom.
On-Site Setup
- Early Arrival: Arrive early to set up your camp before the crowds.
- Camp Layout: Plan your camp layout for optimal comfort and convenience.
Living on the Playa
- Stay Hydrated: Always carry water and drink frequently.
- Rest Regularly: Take breaks to avoid exhaustion in the harsh conditions.
- Respect the Environment: Follow Leave No Trace principles to keep the playa clean.
Social and Community Engagement
- Be Open and Friendly: Embrace the community spirit by engaging with others.
- Participate in Activities: Join in the events and workshops to fully experience Burning Man.
Post-Event Cleanup
- Leave No Trace: Ensure you pack out everything you brought in, leaving the playa as you found it.
- Camp Breakdown: Take your time to carefully disassemble your camp and pack away gear.
