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Checklist - What to bring

Basic mandated necessities

Due to the extreme climate at Black Rock City, Burning Man has specific guidelines and requirements for attendees, and while it's essential to be well-prepared, they do not have an exhaustive list of basic necessities that will result in denial of entrance. However, here are some crucial things that every attendee should have to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:

  • Ticket
  • Government-Issued ID
  • Personal Shelter
  • Enough Water (1.5 Gallons per day)
  • Food and Snacks
  • Appropriate Clothing
  • Sunscreen and Sun Protection
  • Lighting
  • Trash Bags
  • Positive Attitude and Respect
Same list but with explanations
  1. Ticket: You must have a valid ticket for the event to enter Black Rock City.
  2. Government-Issued ID: A valid photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport, is necessary for identity verification.
  3. Personal Shelter: You need some form of shelter, like a tent or RV, to protect yourself from the elements.
  4. Enough Water: You must bring enough drinking water to sustain yourself for the duration of your stay. The desert environment is harsh, and staying hydrated is crucial. BM recommends 1.5 Gallons per day.
  5. Food and Snacks: Bring an adequate supply of non-perishable food and snacks to keep you energized throughout the event.
  6. Appropriate Clothing: Pack clothing suitable for hot days and cold nights in the desert. Be prepared for extreme temperature variations. There will also be dust storms, bring a mask and dust goggles.
  7. Sunscreen and Sun Protection: The sun can be intense, so bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and other forms of sun protection.
  8. Lighting: Bring lights or headlamps to navigate the city at night, as it can get dark.
  9. Trash Bags: Burning Man has a strict "Leave No Trace" policy, so you must be prepared to pack out all your trash and dispose of it properly.
  10. Positive Attitude and Respect: While not a tangible item, a positive and respectful attitude is essential for the communal experience at Burning Man.

Keep in mind that this list is not exhaustive, and there may be additional items you'd like to bring for your comfort and safety. Burning Man encourages participants to be self-reliant and to prepare for a wide range of conditions. Always check the official Burning Man website for the latest guidelines and requirements before attending the event.

Optional: Radio

BM runs a Radio Station called BMIR on 94.5 FM. Bringing a radio capable of tuning to that station is a good way to stay in touch with what's going on.

Extra comfort items

BM has been going on for a while, which means:

  • The event has grown, resulting in phenomenons such as the Exodus (Can take 8 hours sometimes!)
  • A bunch of things are now known to either be working, or not working, at Black Rock City
  • People have come up with a list of things that enhance comfort during and after the event
Luxury items

This is not an exhaustive list. Please add your own items you feel have enhanced your experience:

  • Chapstick for your lips & Vaseline for your nose, it can get pretty dry out there.
  • Body lotion, for your face, neck, arms, hands, and feet. Your skin will get super dry if you don't use this.
  • A fresh set of comfortable clothes, packed in a ziplock bag, to wear during or right after the ExodusExodus.
  • Sanitary wipes for the Porta Potties (aka "Portos") / Shower Wipes (anti-bacterial).
  • One last battery bank you avoid using,using during the event, to rechargecharge your phonedevice(s) during/after ExodusExodus.

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