Burning Man 101: A beginners guide to Burning Man
Welcome Home
You’ll hear this a lot at Burning Man. At first, I didn’t understand why. A crazy desert that seems like it’s trying to kill you? How could this be home? While I loved the principles and felt called to it, I didn’t grasp why people would consider it home. Until I stepped foot on the playa. Then it all made sense. And it probably won’t make sense to you, until you do the same.
“Welcome Home” is more than just a greeting at Burning Man; it’s a heartfelt sentiment that captures the essence of what the playa represents. Burning Man isn’t just an event — it’s a community, a transformative experience, and a place where people can fully express themselves without judgment.
For many, the playa feels like a true home, a place where they can be their authentic selves and find a sense of belonging. It’s a return to a space where freedom, creativity, and connection thrive. When you arrive and hear “Welcome Home,” it signifies that you are entering a place where you are accepted, where you are part of a larger family, and where you can truly be yourself.
Burning Man challenges the world we live in. It’s a space that defies conventional norms and invites radical self-reliance, communal effort, and self-expression. The principles and experiences you encounter on the playa often inspire positive change and a deeper understanding of community and self, which you can bring back to your everyday life.
People often say that Ayahuasca calls you when you are ready for its medicine. I believe Burning Man is a medicine that also calls you when you are ready. So, if you’re feeling the call, trust that the universe will guide you there. Welcome home!
This Guide
There are many amazing guides such as Zoe’s Guides, and itemized packing lists like this. Whilst useful, sometimes they are too comprehensive, so here’s what I found most useful from guides, advice and experience.
First Things First: Scoring That Golden Ticket
Securing a Burning Man ticket can be challenging, but here’s how to get your hands on one:
Joining a Theme Camp:
- Easiest way: Theme camps have allocated tickets, so joining one can simplify the process.
General Steps:
- Pre-register: Sign up on the Burning Man website.
- Main sale: Participate in the main sale. Use multiple devices for a better chance.
- STEP: Sign up for STEP, the official ticket resale platform.
- Network: Let everyone know you’re looking for a ticket; people often sell their tickets to friends before using STEP.
Free Camping Versus Joining a Camp
Free Camping
Free camping means going alone or with friends, and it’s fairly easy if you have an RV or even a car. However, it can be challenging to bring everything you need if you’re coming by bus or hitchhiking.
Pros:
- Total freedom: You can do whatever you want, whenever you want, without worrying about commitments.
- Ultimate self-reliance: Very Burner of you!
Cons:
- Requires more planning: You’ll need to manage all your water, food, power, etc., by yourself.
- Building community: It takes more effort to find your people and build a sense of community.
Theme Camp
The camp you join will significantly impact your experience. Life is always best when you’re with your people. If you have a camp with people you love, who uplift you, your Burn can be far better than going alone. If it’s your first burn, a camp will make it much easier for you. But it all depends on the people.
Pros:
- Instant community: One that will help you navigate your first burn.
- Shared resources: Water, food, power, shower, shade etc.
- Share gift: As a group, you can give an even more epic gift to the burn.
Cons:
- Camp fees and commitments: Though if you’re with the right camp, none of the work will feel like work, and you’ll want to be there for all the camp gatherings — in fact, you’ll want to be there for more than just your commitments.
- Possible disconnect: Maybe you don’t click with your camp.
- Cost: Some camp fees can be expensive.
My Checklist for Choosing a Camp:
- The theme/gift to the playa: Make sure it’s something you’re passionate about. I camp with a Piano Lounge, so it’s always a joy, never a chore, to be there and help create the concerts and experiences. Everyone does way more than their shifts require because they want to. This year, I am pumped about creating a disney singalong pilates class and gifting the camp with a cacao ceremony.
- Connection with people: People you’ll want to go on adventures with them. That you trust. You’ll help you if you have a hard time.
- Water supply: Getting water tanks on the playa costs the camp money, but it’s so much easier to have them bring the water for everyone than to carry water for 1–2 weeks for yourself.
- Food: While some camps give delicious meals as their gift to the playa, you should never rely on that as your sole food source. I personally don’t want to live off granola bars either. If your camp has chefs with meal plans, you’ll be far more nourished and less stressed about surviving the burn. Massive plus if they have camp dinners.
- Power: You can charge your phones, or if you’re bougie, you can bring your AC unit and make sure you can have chilly naps in the afternoons.
- Shower: Make sure it’s not just a bag shower — you can bring that yourself.
- Space for downtime: We all need some introverted time to recharge our batteries. Though there are camps that are designed just for that, that you can visit.
- Shade structures: So you and your tent don’t get too hot.
Choose wisely, and your camp will be your sanctuary. Remember, your camp is your home on the playa, and the people there will be your family. But don’t fret, if you’re camp isn’t the right fit for you, you will find your people there, and may get adopted by another (that’s what happened to me).
Getting There: The Great Pilgrimage
You’re heading into the heart of the desert, Black Rock City. Remember, “It’s not just about the destination, it’s about the journey.” Here’s how you can make your journey epic:
- Driving: Carpool if you can — it’s a blast. Even more fun if you’re driving an art car down there! Make sure to arrive with a full tank because lines to get out can be long and drain your petrol.
- Burner Express: For those who prefer to start the party on a bus. One-way tickets start at $140. You never know who you may meet on the bus!
- Hitchhiking: Burners are awesome people, so this can be an adventurous way to begin or end your burn.
- Flying + Car Rental OR Flying + Hitchhiking/Busl: A convenient option if you’re coming from afar.
- Private Jet: If you can afford it, or are well connected ;) Maybe you’ll get lucky and get home this way after meeting a pilot in an art piece in the middle of a dust storm- you never know…. It is burning man!
When you arrive, you’ll start your initiation by rolling in the dust. Keep that in mind when choosing your attire. The dust here is legendary; some believe it bestows telepathic powers. The only creature that survives when the desert transforms into a lake is an animal called Fairy Shrimp (yes, that’s the scientific name). The dust is filled with their eggs, and the myth goes that these creatures communicate telepathically. So, when you’re covered in this magical dust, you might just tap into some of that telepathic power. You’ll often hear people say, “the playa provides,” and that’s why. Whatever you need, or want, seems to appear as if by magic.
Packing List for Burning Man
Firstly, pack with the principle of radical self-reliance in mind. Bring everything you need to survive. Once you’re packed up, don’t stress about forgetting something. The playa will provide. In a magical way, whatever you may need or have forgotten will be gifted to you. Here’s my packing list:
Adventure Essentials:
- Shelter: If you have an RV or van, you’re set! Just look up guides on protecting it from the dust. Otherwise, you’ll need a tent. Many people love Shiftpods, designed for the playa, and you can even put AC units inside. If you don’t have power for AC, a canvas tent is more breathable.
- Bed, sleeping bag, and pillow: If you bring an air mattress, pack patches. Nothing worse than a deflated bed. I love sleeping on this mattress, with a cot underneath.
- A pair of boots: They need to be comfy and something you won’t mind parting with if they fall apart. I used these and loved them — comfy from day one. Ideally, they have a zip so you don’t waste adventure time doing laces.
- Lights: So you don’t become an art car’s hood ornament.
- Warm clothes: Desert nights are colder than your ex’s heart — sometimes.
- Costumes: Express yourself, but maybe leave the feather boa at home — remember, MOOP! Anything that could fall off, and leave a mess like glitter and feathers will be frowned upon.
- A bike, lights & bike lock: A basket, seat cover, and cup holder are a huge plus. You can rent a bike for around $250, but this needs to be organized beforehand. Worst case, there are shared bikes, but having your own wheels will massively help. You can then go to some ‘pimp my bike’ stations or bring the bling beforehand so you can spot your wheels easily — trust me, you’ll lose them sometimes.
- Baby wipes: The best way to stay clean. I recommend a baby wipe shower before you sleep each night. It will also give your skin a break from the dehydrating dust. Even better if you can lather yourself in moisturiser after.
- Plate and fork. I love having cutlery sets that have a case like this or all in one kits like this. It helps keep things clean for when you’re ready to eat again.
- Headlamp & batteries
- Toiletries & Towels: Think lip balm, moisturiser, things to help you combat the dryness of the dust. Gold bond is a great brand.
- Sunscreen for the day and moisturising lotion for night
What You’ll Want on You at All Times:
- A comfy camelbak: To stay hydrated. Osprey has great options, but cheaper backpacks work too.
- Dust mask or bandana and goggles or glasses: For dust storms. These are versatile for protecting your face, skin, and staying cool or warm.
- Goggles: Clear safety goggles are cheap and effective. Have them in your bag for dust storms.
- Sunscreen: I love sun bum. People are awesome and give out sunscreen on the playa too, but don’t count on this. The dust also acts as sunscreen a bit ;) Again, don’t count on this.
- Electrolytes: LMNT are the best. Here is a link to a free sample pack (they are spenny).
- Earplugs: For sound stages. These are awesome.
- Your favourite snack
- A cup with a lid: At every camp that offers drinks, you’ll need your own cup. Consider adding a sticker of your ID. One with a lid is a huge plus, and even better if it has a handle, or something where you can then attach it to the outside of your bag with a carabiner. Something like this.
- Your ID: Some camps are 21+ and if you want alcoholic drinks they will ID you
- Toilet paper
- Headlamp: For night and porta potties.
- Ziplock bags for MOOP (Matter Out of Place): Leave no trace is an important principle. If everyone picks up trash whenever they see it, we’ll keep the desert protected.
- Sanitiser
Nice to Haves:
- Sheets for your bed
- Storage box with lid: Keeps things safe from the dust and your tent clean. Like this.
- Sleep mask: I LOVE Manta sleep masks.
- Earplugs or AirPods: Download a white noise playlist and put noise canceling on if you can. For sound stages these are incredible.
- Moisturiser: The dust will dry out your skin!
- Pickles or anything fermented or vinegary: Helps alkalise your PH levels due to the dust. There are also pickle and tea camps that help with this.
- V-8 Juice: Helps fight against the impact of the dust. Find here.
- Vitamins and medication: Magnesium, zinc, and vitamin C are my musts.
- Cooling items: Gel neck wraps are great. Your neck and wrists are ideal places to cool down as they cool the blood that goes through your whole body.
- Warming items: Hot water bottles or water bottles that can handle boiling water.
- Nasal spray and eye drops
- Tissues
- Plastic bags
- Powerbank
- Cash for ice & emergencies: The only thing you can buy out there.
- Vinegar: Put in a spray bottle with some water. If your skin is getting dry you can spray this to help alkalise and then wash off and moisturiser
What to Wear at Burning Man
Fashion at Burning Man deserves its own spotlight. You’ve probably seen incredible photos of people looking fabulous, and maybe you’re spending a lot of time thinking about what to wear. One of the core principles is Radical Self-Expression, so use this opportunity to dress in a way that feels authentic to you. This can even include wearing your birthday suit, as Burning Man is a safe place for nudity that isn’t sexualized.
Instead of getting caught up in festival clothing and blending in with everyone else, I challenge you to think about what makes you feel powerful and authentic? What have you always wanted to wear but been afraid to?
Ultimately, your attractiveness on the playa comes down to your energy and vibe. I thought I looked the worst I ever had, yet I felt more attractive to the most attractive people I’ve ever encountered. On the playa, I truly believe you’re rated on your energy and personality. It’s a place where authenticity and the way you carry yourself matters more than looks.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Clothes for hot weather: During the day, it gets super hot. I often wore a bikini and a kimono.
- Warm clothes for night: It can get freezing. Most people find fur coats both effective and fashionable.
- Themed outfits: Your camp might have specific themes.
- Special days: Participate in Tutu Tuesdays and White Wednesdays if you want.
- Light-up gear: At night, it’s much safer to be lit up. At the very least, wear a headlamp so people don’t crash into you, or go all out with something fun. Our camp wears these Glowy Zoey suits.
- Accessories: Fun sunglasses are super cool, cheap, and easy to find.
- Ziplock bags: Keep each outfit in a separate bag so they’re easily findable.
- Clean clothes: Save a clean set of clothes in a ziplock bag for after your first shower, wherever that may be. You’ll thank yourself later.
- Post-Burn laundry: Consider taking all your clothes to a laundromat afterward to avoid getting playa dust in your washing machine.
- Don’t bring anything MOOPY: That means no glitter, feathers, anything that could shed.
- Comfy slippers: These are both the ugliest and comfiest things I’ve ever put on my feet. Amazing for when you’re tired or around bedtime.
How Long Should You Stay at Burning Man?
I personally love the build. Watching a city for 80,000 people come to life in just a few days, all created by the community, is pretty damn special. But not everyone can take that many days off. The energy and activity ramp up each day until Wednesday. From Wednesday to Saturday, things are at their peak, with the most going on. On Saturday, the Man burns, and on Sunday, the Temple. Some people leave before this because the line to exit can take up to 12 hours or more.
Ultimately, how long you stay is up to you and what you can manage. With any festival or new city, it usually takes 1–3 days to get your bearings and acclimatize. After that, it becomes even more fun as you start to find your way around. Pace yourself, soak it all in, and make the most of your time on the playa.
Gifts at Burning Man
Burning Man isn’t about trading or bartering, and you won’t be able to buy anything there. It’s a gifting economy, meaning that gifts are given freely without any expectations in return. If someone gifts you something, there’s no need to give them anything back. The beauty of this system is that the people you gift to aren’t usually the ones who gift you, and vice versa.
When you’re part of a camp, your shared gift to Burning Man could be an experience, a space, food, or anything else your camp offers. Your camp fees and the shifts you contribute are your gifts to the community. Beyond that, you’re welcome to give as many gifts as you like, both within your camp and to others. It’s entirely up to you.
Remember, gifting is just as important as receiving. Many of us struggle with receiving in our daily lives, and Burning Man is a wonderful place to practice this. Embrace it, and let the magic of the playa guide you.
Other Pro Tips
- Stay Sober for the First 24 Hours: Take it all in. It’s a lot to wrap your mind around, and being sober is the best way to process everything.
- Plan Your Sleep and Nap Schedule: Experience Burning Man both during the day and at night. Make sure you catch at least one sunrise in deep playa and one sunset dancing at Distrikt.
- Pace Yourself: Stop and smell the roses. You’ll discover something new every time you allow it.
- Take a Bike Ride with No Agenda: Head in a general direction and let go. The best days are when you allow yourself to just experience the magic and go with the flow.
- Visit the Artery: Get a map and take an art tour. Visit Center Camp, see the Man, and visit the Temple. Don’t miss a show at Star Star Camp.
- Study the Book of Events: Flag some things you want to see or do and make at least a couple happen.
- Try Something New: Go to a workshop. Do something out of your comfort zone.
- Visit the temple. It’s a place where you can bring something you want to let go of. The energy is magical, and can be very sad. It’s also a great place to contemplate, pray or meditate.
Remember, virgin Burner, the playa provides. Go with an open heart, a sense of adventure, and maybe some wet wipes. Welcome home!