first timer contemplating it

FrankA · Post by **FrankA** » Wed Jul 15, 2009 7:24 pm

Hi,
I have never been to this event before but, have some interest in attending this year. My interest was sparked rather late (in my opinion) to really plan for something like this. I have been poking around this site for a few days and others trying to come up with a reasonable plan to make the trip this year. I would be solo and flying into Reno on Wed. and probably leave on Sat. or Sun. to fly back across the country. With that being said I have narrowed this down to 3 options if I were to do it and would appreciate any advice criticism from more experienced people regarding my ideas.

1. Fly in to Reno with the hope of meeting some kind folks at the airport who would be wiling to take me in for the ride and, a stop at the grocery store. I would be happy to assist with gas/rental fees etc.

2. Fly in to Reno and take the biobus from Reno to BRC, stop at the grocery store for some supplies.

Both options 1 & 2 would get me to the event with minimal supplies but, there are a couple of issues with this. The big one is water and, me having to tote all of this stuff across the playa to find a camping spot. I would also have to take at least one more bus back to the small town to pick up some more water and tote more stuff across the playa again. Then there is the matter of not being able to "lock" my stuff up in a safe place while I am out roaming. Does this mean that I would need to camp in the walk in camping or could I still camp anywhere?

3. Fly in to Reno and rent a car to drive myself to BRC. This would allow me to get as many supplies as I needed with worrying about having to tote it all to my camp. This would probably make me arrive to BRC later on in the evening and, I would probably sleep in the car the first night instead of attempting to set up a tent at night. I can imagine that cars turn into ovens there during the day, is sleeping in them for the duration a valid option?

Thank you in advance for any information I receive.

ygmir · Post by **ygmir** » Wed Jul 15, 2009 8:48 pm

FrankA wrote:Hi,
I have never been to this event before but, have some interest in attending this year. jump in then My interest was sparked rather late (in my opinion) to really plan for something like this. then, hurry up I have been poking around this site for a few days and others trying to come up with a reasonable plan to make the trip this year. good call, do a lot of that I would be solo and flying into Reno on Wed. and probably leave on Sat. or Sun. to fly back across the country. With that being said I have narrowed this down to 3 options if I were to do it and would appreciate any advice criticism from more experienced people regarding my ideas.

1. Fly in to Reno with the hope of meeting some kind folks at the airport who would be wiling to take me in for the ride and, a stop at the grocery store. I would be happy to assist with gas/rental fees etc.

there should be a rideshare thread soon..........

2. Fly in to Reno and take the biobus from Reno to BRC, stop at the grocery store for some supplies.

fine if you can carry everything you need. otherwise, you'll need logistical support
Both options 1 & 2 would get me to the event with minimal supplies but, there are a couple of issues with this. The big one is water and, me having to tote all of this stuff across the playa to find a camping spot. I would also have to take at least one more bus back to the small town to pick up some more water and tote more stuff across the playa again.
PIA....... Then there is the matter of not being able to "lock" my stuff up in a safe place while I am out roaming. Does this mean that I would need to camp in the walk in camping or could I still camp anywhere?

anywhere you want, as long as it's not where someone else is, or, reserved for a theme camp, etc.

3. Fly in to Reno and rent a car to drive myself to BRC. Best idea yet, IMHO This would allow me to get as many supplies as I needed with worrying about having to tote it all to my camp. This would probably make me arrive to BRC later on in the evening and, I would probably sleep in the car the first night instead of attempting to set up a tent at night. I can imagine that cars turn into ovens there during the day, is sleeping in them for the duration a valid option? depends on when you sleep, and, your heat tolerance......a nice shade structure next to the car would be good.........
Thank you in advance for any information I receive.

read and re-read the first timers guide, survival guide, etc........it'll save your bacon ( free hint at playa survival)

good luck

Elorrum · Post by **Elorrum** » Wed Jul 15, 2009 8:57 pm

hmmm. I think it is doable. There may be some "find a camp affiliation" solutions, but I'd like to cut through that and go straight to solo self reliance in my hypothesizing. I think you are on the cusp of a great adventure. Planning will be key. I don't speak from the experience of actually flying to Reno and doing all this, but I solo camp and I know that the volume of stuff that I actually must use/consume is small relative to what I cram into my car.

1. I don't think that security of your belongings is a critical worry. out of sight out of temptation is a general campground security rule. keep your stuff inside your car (if you rent) or inside your tent out of sight. Anything you are freaking worried about, leave at home, or put it on a thick string around your neck.

2. toting stuff to your camp... If it was me, I'd root through my closet for my folding luggage dolly and see how some water containers would strap onto that... then consider whether the wheels would work in a soft surface. then probably camp close to where I got let off the bus. I don't imagine that they just dump you at the gate, that would be pretty mean. Moving your things won't be as difficult as the man with the bag of wheat, a fox and a duck crossing the river puzzle. Ask someone for help, or ask someone to help by keeping an eye on your stuff as you make your portages. "Hi, can I put this stuff in the shade of your car here while I go get another load?" Seeing a person lugging something heavy brings out the best in some people, and they offer to help. I would. You can also move your camp if you find a better place.

The trickiest part would be how to pack what you bring. If you have ever backpacked... that would be a good model. Read the SURVIVAL GUIDE.

You would actually be able to bring more than a backpacker, since you don't actually have to carry it all for miles at a time. Do you already own any camping gear? I think you could get enough water and groceries on your trip in. If you planned ahead, you could even bring some of your food in your luggage. People always post asking how this can be done, and there should be some feedback on how things went. research, read, not just burning man sites, but I'd look at minimalist travel and camping sites as well.

FrankA · Post by **FrankA** » Wed Jul 15, 2009 9:47 pm

Thank you for the suggestions you have given me. It's still a little bit for me to think about but, the more I think about it the more I think renting a car is the best option for my situation. To answer the question regarding camping, no I don't own any camping equipment nor can I remember the last time I slept in a tent. I would have to buy a cheap 1 person tent and sleeping bag and maybe a small air mattress to put under it. Pack up some thrift store t-shirts and a few pair of thongs and I should be set. Thanks for the help!

ygmir · Post by **ygmir** » Wed Jul 15, 2009 9:57 pm

FrankA wrote:Thank you for the suggestions you have given me. It's still a little bit for me to think about but, the more I think about it the more I think renting a car is the best option for my situation. To answer the question regarding camping, no I don't own any camping equipment nor can I remember the last time I slept in a tent. I would have to buy a cheap 1 person tent and sleeping bag and maybe a small air mattress to put under it. Pack up some thrift store t-shirts and a few pair of thongs and I should be set. Thanks for the help!

consider your feet regarding thongs......unless you mean the underwear..........

search "playfoot" and other maladies of the alkalai, dry, hot, desert......

it's hard to over-emphasize the need to be informed, and, do research........

Post by **mdmf007** » Wed Jul 15, 2009 10:43 pm

So heres my take on some newbie tips. Although yuour plan to go with a minimum footprint is doable - you need to plan and plan thoroughly.

Unless you find a ride-in, your water will be a pain in the ass. You can get water from some sources at BM presold, but you would still have to go get it from them as you need it.

Flying to reno without a ride pre-arranged is a balsy move. Another doable item, but man I would sure tackle that one first.

So as a 10 year vet and someone who spends over 8 weeks a year on playa for different reasons. I would go with planning in this order for a solo minimalist trip.

1. Buy ticket

2. Buy ticket on airline

3. Arrange a ride knowing what time and date you land from number 2 ( or buy a ticket after finding a ride to match their departure on rideshare or go with biobus or other)

4. If you have a ride arranged - buy your supplies in Reno, including water
4b. If you have to beg a ride, water is going to be a whore - pre buy water regardless. It costs more, but is already there waiting for you.
4c. Rent any type of rig, geo, truck, uhaul, penske, thats the easiest when flying in. You can then find riders and split the costs, making your share almost nothing or nil. Many people cant rent cars though.

5. Camping solo is always a blast - you get to know your neighbors well, and friendlieness is a default at BRC. Obviously there are dicks, and drunks but you'll find them anywhere.

6. Burn all your burnables to lighten up your load home and Leave no trace on your way out. Bring burlap bags for garbage and sort out yuour crap. Burnables goes in burlap (clean papers, cardboard, etc) and in the plastic garbage bag goes the nasties and plastic wastes.)

Just how id do it though. many other plans work as well.

FrankA · Post by **FrankA** » Mon Jul 20, 2009 10:18 pm

I'm not contemplating anymore, starting making reservations today.

Post by **AntiM** » Tue Jul 21, 2009 5:38 am

I have a sleeping bag you can pick up on the playa, one less thing to carry. I camp in Hushville, we're a placed village and I usually know my address before time to leave. I am easy to find, even for a newb.

Let me know if you'd like one, I have a couple on hand. Used, but clean. I have to write your name on the bag or I'll space it out.

And if you're serious about the sleeping bag, perhaps I could be coaxed into bringing a suitcase of water for you. Just don't waste my time by saying yes then flaking out on me.

FrankA · Post by **FrankA** » Tue Jul 21, 2009 3:44 pm

Thank you very much for the offer Anti however; it will not be necessary. I am going to fly in to sacremento and, rent a car so I will have plenty of room to tote whatever I need. That doesn't mean that I wouldn't mind stopping by to say hi to you. Just out of curiosity, what is hushville about?

Post by **AntiM** » Tue Jul 21, 2009 3:48 pm

Hushville is a village which does not allow generators or amplified music. In theory, a quieter place to camp. Check out www.hushville.com if you are interested. We have tons of tiny camps, but visit and party together. No common showers or shade or kitchen, but we have a Town Round and throw potlucks. some years we had naked vegan brunch, but that doesn't always happen.

Sail Man · Post by **Sail Man** » Tue Jul 21, 2009 4:27 pm

FrankA, do you have any plan for any kind of shade shelter? Buying a cheap tent, bag and air mattress is one thing, but if you plan to sleep into the morning hrs, or hang around your camp for that matter during the day, you will need a shade shelter, and a way to secure it very

securely to the playa. For your tent don't use the stakes that come with it, use at least 12" spikes, you can get them at Lowes/H Depot in the hardware section, or even a similar product, 3 or 4 packs of camping stakes at Walmart for exp. Make sure you have a tent repair kit, as well as a repair kit for the air mattress.

What are your food plans?

FrankA · Post by **FrankA** » Tue Jul 21, 2009 4:50 pm

My plan so far is to pack very light: clothes, bag, tent, possibly air mattress/pump and fly to sacremento. I will pick up a car in sacremento and either drive to reno or shop. Either way, I will pick up a few things to snack on for the week...granola/energy bars, bread, peanut butter, crackers etc....water, suntan lotion, lotion, spray bottle and, whatever else i think of. Then I will go to the desert, I will most likely sleep in my car the first night (so i can find out exactly why I don't want to sleep there) and set up my tent the next day. I do plan on buying better stakes and a tarp with some rope to make some kind of shad structure/lean to using the car?? I want to tote as little as possible across the country with me (leaving from alabama) and can pick up the remainder of the items on the way. As a last resort I can always take the shuttle to town for more over pirced supplies. I did not think about the tent repair kit, that is probably a good idea; i can live without an air matress I am sure (i'm not even sure that I am bringing one).
Thank you for the link to hushville, I will look that over.

Lucid484 · Post by **Lucid484** » Thu Jul 30, 2009 2:38 pm

your plan is similiar to mine...I'm hailing from massachusetts.I am taking a plane into reno on sunday when teh gates open and should arrive about 3pm. In 2 checked bags for the plane im packign my tent/sleeping bag/canopy shade/clothes and some other misc gear...I have a rental car for a week at the airport.so when i get there before i drive into BRC im gonna buy about 18 fallons of water and put in the trunk (a little over 2 gallons a day to drink) and a bunch of canned/shelf stable food,sunscreen,baby wipes etc...

Im thinking it shouldnt be much of a problem for me to accomplish this.

Homiesinheaven · Post by **Homiesinheaven** » Thu Jul 30, 2009 3:49 pm

man, you guys are brave. snacking for a week? under the harsh conditions that will get very old after day three. do you plan to shower at all? think about that ever so stinky flight back home.

i would use the money you're going to pay for a car rental and try to join a big theme camp and pay them for the camp dues which might even include food and water. it'll take a lot of research and poking around but you can do it. being super nice goes a long way when joining a camp. if you're into truly "roughing it" then more power to you but i think this will make for a more comfortable, communal, and fun experience.

good luck.

Lucid484 · Post by **Lucid484** » Thu Jul 30, 2009 4:36 pm

welli was in the military and have eaten nothing but MRE's for a week straight. and used baby wipes as the only way of cleaning myself.

hell when me and my wife go campign we usually fillt he trunk up with snack food and munch all week,

Elorrum · Post by **Elorrum** » Thu Jul 30, 2009 6:00 pm

Bravo! I think you both have great plans. Renting a car will allow you to bring the heavier bulky things you need. Needing a camp for suport is not true for everyone. I can wash my hair in a basin with less than two liters of water, keep clean with washcloth baths and baby wipes. I keep a clean change of clothes in a ziplock bag and put it on just before I leave. A good long hot shower when I get home is such a treat.

Elorrum · Post by **Elorrum** » Thu Jul 30, 2009 6:00 pm

Bravo! I think you both have great plans. Renting a car will allow you to bring the heavier bulky things you need. Needing a camp for suport is not true for everyone. I can wash my hair in a basin with less than two liters of water, keep clean with washcloth baths and baby wipes. I keep a clean change of clothes in a ziplock bag and put it on just before I leave. A good long hot shower when I get home is such a treat.

Lucid484 · Post by **Lucid484** » Thu Jul 30, 2009 6:28 pm

yeah that nice long hot shower when I get home will be the best thing ever....I'm linking about leaving monday morning and getting a hotel room in reno to wash up and relax/sleep before I baord my flight home tuesday AM.....I think the people sitting next to me on the plane might appreciate that LOL

FrankA · Post by **FrankA** » Thu Jul 30, 2009 8:05 pm

apparently me and lucid think alike. I was also thinking about leaving early sunday and staying @ a hotel somewehre so i can relax and take a long hot shower somewhere but, that would also involve me missing the temple burn. since this will be my first trip out i think i want to see that as well so i'm really not sure what i'm going to do. as long as i'm in sacremento, ca early monday morning everything is good. as far as the shower thing goes i was thinking about the carcass wash but, i will be taking spray bottle and soap just in case.

Token · Post by **Token** » Thu Jul 30, 2009 8:37 pm

Flying J truck stop in Winnamucca has a shower. From what I've heard they are decent and affordable. Might be a good option after exodus and the 447 grind.

FrankA · Post by **FrankA** » Thu Jul 30, 2009 9:27 pm

Thanks for the tip but, I'm headed the other direction I think.

thisisthatwhichis · Post by **thisisthatwhichis** » Fri Jul 31, 2009 8:29 am

Don't forget the goggles, suncreen and stuff to survive the sun/heat/cold/dust storms...... And Re-read the first-timers guide.........

From first hand experience, it'll be much more pleasant for you......

swampdog · Post by **swampdog** » Fri Jul 31, 2009 9:26 am

Either way, I will pick up a few things to snack on for the week...granola/energy bars, bread, peanut butter, crackers etc...

good idea, but as HIH points out, it's not really food for a week. My first 2 trips I went pretty minimalist - canned soup and other prepared foods were my mainstay. First meal - emptied can of soup into pan, heated it up over stove, ate from the pan, washed the pan. Second meal, figured out the pan was redundant, put a can of soup over the burner, ate from the can, threw away the can, licked the spoon clean. Third meal, realized that canned soup actually tastes about the same hot as cold and ate cold soup from the can, threw away the can, licked the spoon clean. Canned soup, canned chile, those Indian meals in a bag, there are lots of options.

Get the granola and energy bars too, of course. I'm also a fan of those little snack packs of canned fruit, but they're pretty moopy - too high a ratio of waste/wrapping to food. But nice n slurpy on a hot afternoon.

Token · Post by **Token** » Fri Jul 31, 2009 9:28 am

FrankA wrote:Thanks for the tip but, I'm headed the other direction I think.

Oops

Then Pilot and Loves in Fernely would be on the way out.

trenton · Post by **trenton** » Fri Jul 31, 2009 12:24 pm

Look into using Fed-ex or Ups to ship your supplies (not frood ect.) to Reno then rent a vechicle for the Event Just go You will have a gas!

FrankA · Post by **FrankA** » Fri Jul 31, 2009 5:55 pm

yeah i was planning on the soup thing as well. my thoughts were that i could just set the can in the open or in the car for an hour or 2 and it would be "warm enough"...I'm trying to do this without having a need to boil water or bring a cooler but, the more I think about it the ability to boil water helps for coffee. if i can boil water it just means i will end up buying more stuff in sacremento or reno...whichever. i figure alot of people will be going through that area on the weekend but, will it still be busy on tues. afternoon? And thanks for the tip regarding the pilot, i will look for it on the way in.

Elorrum · Post by **Elorrum** » Sat Aug 01, 2009 8:09 am

Swampdog, I love how your soup preparation evolved. lol

I found for me that a can of soup was my favorite dinner, not a compromise food for the sake of convenience, but something I really enjoyed: salty, liquid, light and easy. Here's an idea I've always wanted to try, and perhaps will soon: a black (small) innertube on a black board with a piece of plastic (no glass at burning man) on top. It packs flat, and would heat a can of soup or even cook something in a pot, placed in the middle. I found this idea in a link for solar ovens. I agree, for me, the no stove approach is so thwarted by one thing: coffee. I could do without cooking altogether, but I have to have coffee.

if you have the bucks and "pretty hot" water, here's a hand pump espresso maker, not sure how easy it would be to clean, but:

A small burner butane/propane combo unit with a pot packs small and you could get fuel in Reno/or SActo.
http://www.rei.com/outlet/product/789309

I have a stove like that one and a stove top espresso pot... best so far for me.

I've made pepsi can stoves that burn denatured alcohol, with burner holes punched in the side, so the pot just sits on top... very small, lightweight. some guys sell them on ebay.

FrankA · Post by **FrankA** » Sat Aug 01, 2009 10:51 am

Well apparently now it looks like I will be spending the evening researching solar ovens...As far as the coffee thing goes, I like to keep things simple so I was leaning more towards instant. I can get a cheap burner here for around $20 and pick up propane/pot to boil water in there so that's not the problem. The problem is if I can boil water I can use it for cooking. If I did that then I would would have waste so I would have to make an evap pool somehow....one thing leads to the other. If I could tell myself that boiling water is for coffee only and keep it that way it will be fine but, I just know myself to well I guess....he he..thank you for the information about the espresso pumps.

do you tote milk out there with you too?

Elorrum · Post by **Elorrum** » Sat Aug 01, 2009 8:12 pm

fortunately I don't mind the taste of powdered milk. I can even use it on cereal. Grey water, I didn't think of what sort of problem that would be for somebody flying in. I think you could just pack it out in your water containers, and dispose of it at your hotel.

Post by **Sham** » Sat Aug 01, 2009 8:15 pm

Elorrum wrote:fortunately I don't mind the taste of powdered milk. I can even use it on cereal. Grey water, I didn't think of what sort of problem that would be for somebody flying in. I think you could just pack it out in your water containers, and dispose of it at your hotel.

Have you considered making your powdered milk using gray water? Now that's self reliance!

Gray milk!

first timer contemplating it

first timer contemplating it

Re: first timer contemplating it

and so it begins

thank you for the offer