A trip to
Burning Man on a motorhome is an exciting adventure that requires careful preparation. To make your trip go smoothly and leave only pleasant memories, it is important to think over all the details in advance. This checklist will help you not to forget anything.
Documents and visasStart with the most important thing — the documents. Make sure that all participants in the trip have valid passports. If you are not a US citizen, check if you need a visa to enter the country and apply for it in advance. Make copies of all important documents (passports, driver's licenses, visas, medical insurance) in several copies, including laminated ones. Keep copies separate from the originals, as well as in electronic form (for example, in cloud storage or by e-mail).
MoneyATMs do not work in Black Rock City and they do not accept bank cards. The only exception is ice and coffee in a special camp. It is necessary to have a sufficient supply of cash with you for the duration of your stay. Count not only on personal needs (food, water, souvenirs), but also on possible expenses related to the maintenance of the motorhome (refueling the generator, draining waste, replenishing water supplies). Each of these services costs around $100-150. Also keep in mind that you may need money on the road at gas stations, shops and cafes.
ConnectionThere is virtually no cellular service or internet connection in the Black Rock Desert. Warn your family and friends that you will be unavailable for a certain amount of time. Arrange for communication sessions upon your return. If it's critically important for you to stay connected, consider renting a satellite phone or Starlink equipment. You can also use walkie-talkies to communicate within the group, but make sure they are allowed on the premises.
Logistics- Housing after Burning Man: Take care of a place where you can relax after a week in the desert. Book a hotel room or apartment in advance, as the demand for housing in nearby cities is very high on graduation days.
- Route: Make a detailed itinerary to Black Rock City and back. Mark gas stations on the map (including those where you can refuel the generator), shops, places to stay overnight (if you plan to spend the night on the way), and waste disposal points for motorhomes. Please note that there may be traffic jams for hours on the roads leading to the desert on check-in and check-out days. Download offline maps, as the mobile internet may be unstable along the way.
- Useful addresses: Find and save addresses of food and water stores, gas stations, and service centers along the route and in cities closest to the desert (for example, in Reno) in advance. This will help save time and nerves in case of unforeseen situations.