Camp Setup

Ultimate Packing List

Everything you need to bring to Burning Man 2026. Print this list and check it twice.

💧 Water & Hydration

  • ☐ 1.5 gallons of water per person per day (minimum)
  • ☐ Electrolyte packets (Liquid IV, Nuun, Pedialyte)
  • ☐ Reusable water bottle / CamelBak
  • ☐ Water storage containers (5-7 gallon jugs)
  • ☐ Spray bottle for cooling

⛺ Shelter & Camping

  • ☐ Tent (with good ventilation)
  • ☐ Shade structure (carport, aluminet, or parachute)
  • ☐ Rebar stakes (3/8" x 18") + caps
  • ☐ Ratchet straps and rope
  • ☐ Sleeping bag (rated to 30°F)
  • ☐ Sleeping pad or air mattress
  • ☐ Camp chairs and table
  • ☐ Tarps (ground cover and reflective)

👕 Clothing

  • ☐ Light, loose daytime clothing (cover skin from sun)
  • ☐ Warm layers for nighttime (fleece, jacket, thermals)
  • ☐ Closed-toe shoes (for walking on hot playa)
  • ☐ Boots (for nighttime and dust storms)
  • ☐ Costumes and fun outfits
  • ☐ Wide-brimmed hat
  • ☐ Bandanas / buffs (dust protection)
  • ☐ Swimsuit (for misting camps)

💡 Lighting

  • ☐ LED lights for your body (EL wire, LED strips)
  • ☐ Bike lights (front, back, wheels)
  • ☐ Headlamp (red light mode preferred)
  • ☐ Camp lighting (solar or battery LED string lights)
  • ☐ Glow sticks (backup)
  • ☐ Extra batteries / portable chargers

🍴 Food & Kitchen

  • ☐ Non-perishable food for 9+ days
  • ☐ Cooler with ice (ice is sold at the event)
  • ☐ Camp stove and fuel
  • ☐ Pots, pans, utensils
  • ☐ Plates, cups, bowls (reusable)
  • ☐ Trash bags (heavy duty, many)
  • ☐ Paper towels and dish soap
  • ☐ Snacks: nuts, jerky, dried fruit, energy bars

🩹 Health & Hygiene

  • ☐ Sunscreen SPF 50+ (lots of it)
  • ☐ Lip balm with SPF
  • ☐ Moisturizer (heavy duty)
  • ☐ Goggles (sealed, anti-fog)
  • ☐ N95 dust masks
  • ☐ Saline nasal spray
  • ☐ Apple cider vinegar (for dust rinse)
  • ☐ First aid kit
  • ☐ Personal medications
  • ☐ Baby wipes (for cleaning without water)
  • ☐ Hand sanitizer
  • ☐ Toilet paper (for porta-potties)

🚲 Transportation

  • ☐ Bicycle (single-speed, fat tires work best)
  • ☐ Bike lock (essential!)
  • ☐ Bike repair kit
  • ☐ Bike basket or bag
  • ☐ Cup holder for bike

🔧 Tools & Misc

  • ☐ Duct tape
  • ☐ Zip ties (many)
  • ☐ Multi-tool or knife
  • ☐ Mallet (for rebar stakes)
  • ☐ Portable solar panel / power bank
  • ☐ Gifts to give (stickers, pins, trinkets)
  • ☐ Earplugs (for sleeping near sound camps)
  • ☐ Ziploc bags (dust-proof storage)

Pro Tip: The "Playa Provides" Myth

While the gifting economy is real and generous, do not rely on it for survival essentials. The saying "the playa provides" refers to unexpected magical moments — not to water, food, or shelter. Bring everything you need to be completely self-sufficient for 9+ days.