Burning Man is a life-changing experience that requires a level of preparedness unlike any other festival in the world. I’ve just gotten back from the Playa and everything I own is covered in a layer of dust, it’s amazing. Never have I appreciated a shower so much. So what do you need to know before heading to Black Rock Desert next Burning Man? Let me tell you.
- Bring more light-up gear than you think you’ll need. Glow sticks, poi flow lights, flashing collars, headlights, running bands. When buying glow sticks remember that the cheap multipacks sold in most party stores and Walmart are fun to wear but are shit quality. The better option is to buy heavy duty glow sticks at camping and hardware stores. They are generally thicker, last longer and glow brighter. Definitely worth shelling out a few extra dollars to have the light during a Playa white out or an all night rave.
- Buy a few packs of gum. The luxury of a piece of minty gum cannot be overstated after a long day of sun and dust. Do your mouth a favor and bring some along to relieve your dehydrated cotton mouth.
- Get creative but don’t go overboard. Don’t get me wrong- I definitely enjoyed dressing like a goth, raver sparkle pony and not washing or brushing my hair for a week but don’t kid yourself into thinking anyone gives a shit what you wear. You could literally wear the same thing for the entire time and there would be no harm done. If you don’t have fun dress up clothes I’d suggest the thrift store as the number one spot to go. Or you can wait and check out the fantastic costume shops on South Virginia Street in Reno. You’ll generally end up paying a significant piece of change, but the clothing is very high quality, often custom-made and tailored with Burners in mind.
- Don’t skimp on goggles. It is essential to have snug-fitting, comfortable goggles. Bring two pairs and save yourself the headache of not having protection if you lose a pair. I’d suggest one pair that is tinted and another that have clear lenses for night-time use.
- Bring multiple forms of mouth protection. One of the most enjoyable items I brought along with me was an LED gas mask from RaveBooth.com. However, novelties don’t offer much protection from 70 mph wind storms. A working respirator from Home Depot is essential if you want to avoid Playa lung and can be tricked out with sharpie markers. Bring several bandanas for clear day riding/walking in case you’re hit with a sudden dust storms.
- Organization is key. Even staying in an RV with room to lay out my suitcase and clothes I still found myself searching for things for a good portion of the day. The more you segregate your shit and organize items in little baggies, the less time you’ll spend frustrated. Don’t forget to save at least one set of clean clothes in a sealed ziplock to wear on the trip home.
- Don’t go crazy with the food. We went overboard with food and ended up giving most of it to hitch-hikers and Gerlach-ians on the way home. Think quick and easy: cliff bars, uncrustables, granola, trail mix, bagels & peanut butter, . You won’t feel like cooking, trust me.
- The only things you can buy are coffee/drinks and ice. Center camp hosts a coffee bar that also sells cappuccino, chai tea, mochas, hot chocolates and lemonade. The prices range from $2-4.
- Other essentials: extra comfy socks, a book to read when you’re hibernating from the storm, moisturizing cream for playa foot, baby wipes, makeup removal pads, extra lip gloss.
To be edited as I think of more!
