Burning Man is a cultural event that has become an annual phenomenon that attracts veteran-goers and newcomers alike. If you haven’t been to Burning Man before, then you need to do some research and prep work before the event arrives in order to avoid common pitfalls that may hamper your experience. The following beginners guide to Burning Man will help you on your first Burning Man journey.

Getting Tickets

If you want to secure tickets for burning man, you need to be ready before the sale starts with: the card you plan to use, the number of tickets you want to buy, and a few backup cards just in case. Pre-Registration for Burning Man usually starts in the middle of January, with pre-sales starting a few days afterwards. Group sales will start at the beginning of February with individual ticket sales going up towards the middle of the month. 

Accommodations

You’re responsible for your own accommodations at Burning Man. You can bring your own tent or RV, or you can join a camp by searching on the official website and social media if you’re looking to stay with a group.

What You Should Bring

Do not show up to Burning Man without the following: wet wipes, clothes, lights (wearable and otherwise); a bike and sturdy bike lock, 2 gallons of water for each day, and enough non-perishable food to feed yourself and to share.

Lights are essential because there is no extant lighting except for what people bring to the event. Bring tons of lights that you can wear on your person at night to avoid being injured by bicyclists. 

In regards to food, Burning Man does promoting sharing with the community, but sharing is the key word–not mooching.

Remember: come prepared, stay hydrated, stay safe–and have fun!