Cool stuff I've learned from ePlaya

[Bling]

Hi y'all,

It's taken weeks, but I've read all of the threads that looked interesting in this Q&A thread--all 83 pages of it. Lots of dupes in all that! But, still some gold. Think of this post as my gift to ePlaya-ers:
-- http://www.sciplus.com - Cool scienc-y things, cheap bike gear (baskets, lights, horns & bells...), glowy stuff, and lots more.
-- http://www.windycitynovelties.com - Cheap LED blinky stuff.
-- El-TAPE Not anything I'll ever figure out (it's been 30+ years since I soldered anything), but think of the possibilities...
-- 2-gallon Ziploc bags for clothes. Who knew they made them that big? I bought some on eBay and paid way more than I had to--turns out the Dollar store carries them for less. (Better quality from the brand name? Maybe.)
-- Goa trance music. So cool. Love this stuff. Find some on Youtube.
-- CLEAR goggles. Had the sunglasses kind, but hadn't thought about dust storms at night...
-- Frozen coffee concentrate. I don't even DRINK coffee. But my sweetie does, and so does my daughter. Dilute frozen expresso cubes 4:1 with water, & have no coffee grounds to deal with. Awesome.
-- Lemon lotion to neutralize Playa dust. J.R.Watkins (Walgreen's has it) smells exactly like lemon Girl Scout cookies (and the smell lasts for HOURS), and has shea butter, coconut oil, and other yummy natural stuff in it. I wanted to lick it off.
-- Chafing--the problem and solutions. Gotta admit, I never thought of this. But...ugh. Folks here swear by Gold Bond powder, Bodyglide, and UnderArmor undies to head off the problem.
-- Ice cream ball. This ROCKS! Make a pint or a quart (2 sizes) of ice cream on Playa by pouring ingredients, ice, and rock salt into a brightly colored ball and rolling it around. Mine's hot pink. Find one on eBay.
-- Wag bags. So, we're lugging a loo. What to do with the poo? These double-bags have poo powder, which gel-ifies wastes and turns it into a non-stinky solid that can be packed out in a 5-gallon bucket--and dumped safely in a landfill. Seriously. Even the U.S. Parks Dept. approves.
-- How to tie a Shemagh. A what? This is a Bedoin head wrap. I've read the descriptions. But a video is worth a million or so words. Here's one, with captions: http://tiny.cc/HgxrS
-- Rainbow vacuum cleaner - Apparently the only thing that will REALLY remove Playa dust, because it filters through water.

Stuff that might be useful to you that I knew about already:
-- Blister tape. Moleskin is so over. Seriously, haven't you noticed that it bunches up and rubs off? It's too thick. What works better is Transpore tape. Sold at any drugstore, it's a perforated plastic tape that breathes and forms a second skin over a blister. Better yet, use it as soon as you feel a rub. It will PREVENT a blister. I've used it for years and never go ANYWHERE without it.
-- Glow in the dark rope. Harbor Freight has this for $6 for 100 feet. It's nice, soft rope, and the glow is a bonus.
-- Waterproof (dustproof...) bags for cameras. Why use a Ziploc bag that doesn't fit, when for ~$20 on eBay you can find something MADE for your camera model--even if it's a digital SLR? I ordered a couple of these--and then found iPhone bags, too. $5!
-- Electrolyte powder. Gatorade has sugar (we don't eat sugar). Diluted Gatorade STILL has sugar. Camelbak tabs, Nuun tabs, etc. are sugar-free, but flavored and pricey--what if we hate them after spending $50 for a week's supply for 3 of us? Better idea: PLAIN electrolyte powder (Hammer makes one--150 servings = 37 gallons, $23), flavor as YOU like.
-- http://www.bewild.com/newpoeleledl.html - Best price I've found for El-wire kits with a battery pack (already attached, I think). Just $12.99 for 10 feet!

A few lingering questions that weren't answered by all 83 pages:
1). Say you drink a gallon a day (yes, it could be more, just humor me). How much of this should ideally include electrolyte replacement?

2). In case we get caught in traffic lines coming or going, we want to bring extra gasoline--maybe 10 gallons. What's the safest way to store this in a blistering hot desert? Gasoline frankly scares the pants off me. It's why we have an electric lawn mower. Help!

3). Yes, I know. The Playa can reach lows of 40° at night. But how WARM does the Playa tend to be at night? I'm trying to plan costumes...

Finally, it would be a HUGE gift if one of you electrically-savvy folks would write an electrical primer in PLAIN ENGLISH, starting by assuming zero prior knowledge. What's an amp? A watt? Resistance? Huh? Just sayin...

Thanks, ya'll!

[oneeyeddick]

BTW, ziploc also makes a 2 ft x 2.7 ft bag, not sure what the gallon rating is on that but you can stick a couple of 5 gallon buckets inside it.

Click here to have a look

[j_cavera]

Some answers to your questions:

1). Say you drink a gallon a day (yes, it could be more, just humor me). How much of this should ideally include electrolyte replacement?

I did fine with one small (12 oz) PowerAde per day and some salted almonds. On the salty foods front, sardines and anchovies taste especially yummy. YMMV.

2). In case we get caught in traffic lines coming or going, we want to bring extra gasoline--maybe 10 gallons. What's the safest way to store this in a blistering hot desert? Gasoline frankly scares the pants off me. It's why we have an electric lawn mower. Help!

Gasoline is not nearly as explosive as TV and movies would have you believe. A regular plastic gas can or three is fine. To keep vapors from building up, pop the vents on them and make sure that they have some airflow. A sealed car with unshaded windows, a black interior and the gas cans sitting in the back seat is not a really good idea.

3). Yes, I know. The Playa can reach lows of 40° at night. But how WARM does the Playa tend to be at night? I'm trying to plan costumes...

Depends on who you snuggle with. Seriously though, in my four years of going, it has been as warm as non-coat-weather (like I really carry a thermometer with me).

- Jim

[Bling]

[quote="oneeyeddick"]BTW, ziploc also makes a 2 ft x 2.7 ft bag, not sure what the gallon rating is on that but you can stick a couple of 5 gallon buckets inside it.

That is one big-ass Ziploc!

[Bling]

Some answers to your questions:

I did fine with one small (12 oz) PowerAde per day and some salted almonds. On the salty foods front, sardines and anchovies taste especially yummy. YMMV.

Just what I needed to know; thanks! Ooh, I hadn't thought of sardines. Not sure anything would make it worth eating anchovies.

A regular plastic gas can or three is fine. To keep vapors from building up, pop the vents on them and make sure that they have some airflow. A sealed car with unshaded windows, a black interior and the gas cans sitting in the back seat is not a really good idea.

Right. So where DO we put them, where they're in the shade and overly happy burners won't see them and think it might be fun to set our camp on fire? Is under our "RV" a good place? Where do you put yours?

Depends on who you snuggle with. Seriously though, in my four years of going, it has been as warm as non-coat-weather (like I really carry a thermometer with me).

Non-coat weather is just what I was wondering. Thanks so much!

[AntiM]

Non-coat, yes, usually. Bare? Not so much. Early evening yes, but pre-dawn tends to be quite chilly. If I'm up at three or five, I need something light to throw over my shoulders. I have worn coats there in the morning.

Layers are your friends. And I ain't talkin' chickens, cuz.

[Bling]

I bought a 2-layer jacket--fleece + polartec--that I'm planning to decorate with El-wire. So, one layer or two on the jacket, plus or minus whatever's under it...

We're still trying to figure out when to sleep, though.

[Sail Man]

Bling, just keep the gas outta sight and under shade. Dont know how airtight your rv is so if it isnt I wouldnt store the gas there, you may smell fumes as it vents. Also, dont fill them all the way up, as they heat up a form vapors, gas can be forced from the vent and if it gets on the playa now you have nasty smelling playa dust to cart home

I've used the 5gallon plastic cans w/out problems.

Another product to consider is the safety cans that homey despot and the like sells. They automatically vent as pressure build.

[CapSmashy]

The Glad brand ziplocks come in many of the larger sizes for half the price of the Ziplocl brand.

3 bags of ice from Arctica fits in approx 5, 2 gallon sized ziplock bags. Keeps your cooler dryish and your meltwater clean for use in shower bags, washing up or drinking.

[Bling]

Thanks, you guys! Maybe the gas cans could go UNDER the wagon? Hoping to avoid buying ice, by using the cool info in the Dry ice thread--2 coolers, one with just ice and dry ice, and the other with food.

[justfred]

It's possible to eat perfectly well for a week in the desert with no ice. We prefer to save ice (which is available daily) for luxuries like cold drinks, rather than for keeping perishable food cold.

A single 3 to 5 gallon gas can should be all the insurance you need against long line waits - when idling, your car uses very little ice. Better, leave at a less busy time. We carry fuel for generator, which usually ends up being more than we need, so there's a bit of spare for emergencies.

[Ugly Dougly]

Are you sure you're a birgin?

[Bling]

It's POSSIBLE to eat for a week in the desert with no ice, but our plan involves freezing premade meals in vacuum seal bags, because we have some dietary issues--and then all we have to do to cook is boil in bags. We can even reuse the water.

We ARE planning to leave at a less busy time--Sunday morning (yes, before the Temple burn), because our daughter is missing a week of college as it is. And no generator. So, 5 gallons of gas would be enough? I'd feel better with one can instead of two.

[Bling]

Are you sure you're a birgin?

Hi Dougly--not sure who that's aimed at, but my goal is to NOT stand out as being a Birgin! Obsessive preparation is half the fun of any trip, IMHO. Packing lists! Whee!!

[[SpaceBoy]]

Are you sure you're a birgin?

Hi Dougly--not sure who that's aimed at, but my goal is to NOT stand out as being a Birgin! Obsessive preparation is half the fun of any trip, IMHO. Packing lists! Whee!!

i applaud your desire to be prepared, but at the same time, there is something to your virgin year, make sure to have fun and get a little crazy. my first year i went with a very good camp and i was taken care of so i could really experience the playa

[Ugly Dougly]

Yeah, I'm talking to you, Bling.

You're obviously not a virgin, so stop pretending.

[Bling]

[unjonharley]

Thanks, you guys! Maybe the gas cans could go UNDER the wagon? Hoping to avoid buying ice, by using the cool info in the Dry ice thread--2 coolers, one with just ice and dry ice, and the other with food.

I do not understand you people that buy ice.. I have a cooler full of block surronded by cube ice.. With a tray for small amount of food.. This last about 9 days.. That's the trip in and out.. There is a hose attached to the drain of the cooler.. All the fresh water I can drink and use is right there.. I wrap the cooler in windsheld reflectors then moving blankets with a tarp around the whole thing.. It is opened for food once a day.. Some times I have to add a gallon of water to melt more ice.. My campmate has a hugh cooler packed the same way.. Takes four people to set it out on horses.. That's his drinking/cooking and our camp bath water.. We use a pump up sprayer to dampen the camp ground with the extra and carry out the soiled water.. There is a correl about 45 miles out of BRC where we stop for a bath and dump the coolers on the way home..

[justfred]

It's POSSIBLE to eat for a week in the desert with no ice, but our plan involves freezing premade meals in vacuum seal bags, because we have some dietary issues--and then all we have to do to cook is boil in bags. We can even reuse the water.

Keep in mind that sealed bags of perishable food will probably leak and ruin your cooler water; oterhwise if they get warm there's really no way to know till you've cooked them. Contamination might not even be visible, but will certainly be unpleasant. Even people with dietary issues can eat for a week with no ice - people around the world with all manner of dietary restrictions do without refrigeration all year long. I'm just suggesting this because it makes life a LOT simpler. On the other hand, most people ignore this and expend a lot of effort on keeping food cold, when they could be having fun instead.

So, 5 gallons of gas would be enough?

More than, assuming you don't have a massive oilburnermobile.

[Token]

http://www.burningman.com/installations ... orage.html

Also some general common sense items.

1. Fuel is valuable. Tag it and lock it. Cable locks work well to prevent oportunistic casual "borrowing". It happens.

2. Cover it with camo netting or some type of shade cloth.

3. Keep it away from your sleeping area.

[Lord Of Ruin]

Okay, a couple of observations. Feel free to discard.

I hear you about dietary restrictions as I have my own. But one thing to consider would be to make every effort to make quick, no cook meals insofar as possible within your constraints. I know vegan, gluten-free people that do this so you can too. You will find having to gather 'round, break out everything to prep, eat and cleanup a real pain in the ass at times. You'll be more like a teenager...just scarf and go! So much to do and see! So think some of them through.

Also, keep in mind you can PLAN for spoilage. That is, some items once cooked will keep just fine for a time. (remember cold pizza on the counter in college?) You can plan to consume some fresh things right at the front of the week, keeping your preserved stuff for later in the week. Yes, fresh fruit and veggies will work out there, but depending on what they are, they have a very limited shelf life if not refrigerated.

Okay folks, the unpleasant section time, but few people helped me with this so I'm going to pass on my experience.

On the porta loo, I've done this every year. I have some medical conditions that might preclude me from using the public toilets. So...I'd buy trash compactor bags as the liners. They are very, very thick, as you don't want those to break! I bring a jug of kitty litter with odor control. Sprinkle some in the bottom to start (like a half cup!) and a little on top after your business. You can generally use for a day or so before change, less if you are squeamish or sharing with someone. Very easy to change...simply remove, get most air out, then tie shut. I also bought some citrus air freshener that was made of natural stuff, although there is surprisingly little smell since the luggable look lid snaps shut. I actually used this inside my tent every year and it was virtually undetectable.

On the fuel, I simply bought an extra bike lock cable from Harbor Freight or Home Depot and went through the handle of the gas can to lock it to the frame of the trailer. I put it in the shade a few feet behind the trailer but not under it. One thing is to top off as late as you can. I'd say top off right when you leave the 80 freeway, and again in Gerlach if there isn't a crazy line. I think it's important to understand where on your gas guage is your bingo fuel point; you'll need to make sure you have enough to at least get you back to the 80 freeway which is usually a couple hours drive.

Although less than optimal, you COULD always leave mid event after the rush is done and go into town to Gerlach and completely fill your tank. This should be thought of as an "oh shit" emergency option, but it IS an option. You could also more than likely "borrow" a few gallons or so from a friendly person if you really got stuck.

Your question about the playa temps has been answered but I wanted to add that one GREAT layer to get are ski thermal underwear. These are no longer the bulky things of your grandpa, but instead are more form fitting. You can get them in both black and white, so depending on your costumes, you can add that as a base layer and really kick up your warmth without impacting your look. I always bring my black base layer for this reason.

On the coffee, an alternative (maybe better because espresso cubes have to be kept frozen to remain viable, probably) option might be the new Starbucks instant coffee. They sell it in individual coffee cup sizes and my wife, who is a coffee aficionado says it tastes quite good. Very simple to heat a cup of water and your cup is good to go. We use them camping.

On the glow in the dark rope (especially Harbor Freight's) be sure to check the strength rating. Most of their "cheap rope" is just that...cheap. It snaps clean during windstorms out there. I've seen the glow rope, as well as a variety of the poly ropes from there just snap during gusts...don't underestimate the sail potential of tarps and tents! Para cord and lightweight climbing style ropes are excellent and can be found inexpensively if you search.

On electrolytes, depending on your salt intake through food I'd say once or twice a day....as outlined in other threads, I do Emergen-C's electrolyte powder in a 12 oz bottle of water twice a day...when I rise, and before bed....like clockwork, never fail. I drink other plain water and a metric tonne of alcohol out there, so I'm fairly religious about it.

LoR

[klondike_bar]

gas is fairly stable. store it out of the sun, out of your tent/vehicle, and make sure you loosen off the cap to let it vent a little on really hot or cold times of day.

at night, the playa can get fairly cool. but it depends what youre doing that determines if youll actually get cold. There is plenty of snuggling, dancing, and movement to keep your blood flowing. If thats not enough, theres propane blasts and fire pits everywhere. I generally wore a tshirt or light longsleeves until about 1am, then had to either pump my blood or wear slightly heavier longsleeves/pants if staying in one spot.

as for electrical: watts = amps * current (usually 12V DC or 125v AC) generally you wont need electrical power unless using it to cook or light a large area. most headlamps/glowies/radios will run off batteries just fine.

[Elliot]

Hmmm....



Electrical potential, measured in Volts. Think of it as the pressure against a dam on a river. But few people ever say “potentialâ€

[geospyder]

Twinkle Twinkle Little Star
Power equals I squared R

Bad boys rape our young girls behind victory garden walls but violet gives willing get some now

ElI the IcE man

That all brings back memories. A transistor theory class I had signed up for was cancelled so I substituted an intro to computers. Got hooked and became a long haired hippy programmer back in the Haight-Ashbury days.

[Elliot]

Well, I learned that electrical stuff in Norway, so we had less violent memory aids. (The Vikings having retired some centuries previously.)

Now, as for Ohm's Law, it was named after a guy who was sitting in a chair, going "mmmmmmmm.....", thinking real hard, trying to understand that electrical stuff. To think better, he stuck a finger in a wall socket and went "OHMMMMMMM....!", and a light bulb came on in his head and he wrote down how electricity works, and that's why this is knows as Ohm's Law.

[motskyroonmatick]

EPlaya has taught me much and been an excellent resource for me. It is also a daily way for me to check out where things are at with this group of burners I like. It is fun to watch it go on and I hope my contributions help people out every once in a while.

My favorite grey water evaporator idea that was posted here. I eventually built it and it works quite well.
http://eplaya.burningman.org/viewtopic. ... evaporator

[theCryptofishist]

It's certainly a pretty grey water circulation kit.
(My brain ins't working too well on names today.)

[Captain Goddammit]

I'll try an electrical analogy in bicycle terms.
You can think of voltage as the electrical equivalent of speed, and amps as the equivalent of force.
Lets say you're on your bike, going 10MPH in first gear - you're pedaling really easily but really fast. That's kinda' like running high voltage and low current (amps).
Now switch into 10th gear, at the same 10MPH. Now you're pedaling hard, at a slow speed. That's similar to a lot of current (amps) at low voltage.

The POWER (if it were electrical watts) is the same in each particular situation described here. High pedal speed x low force (like when in first gear) = bike moving down road at 10MPH.
Low pedal speed x high force (like when in tenth gear) = bike moving down road at 10MPH.

Watts is the amount of work actually being done. That's the bike carrying you across the playa at 10MPH. Either high pedal speed and low effort (like in first gear) or low pedal speed at high effort (like in 10th gear) would result in your ass being hauled the same.
120 volts x 10 amps = 1200 watts.
12 volts x 100 amps also = 1200 watts.

Here's another analogy I'm gonna make up, some electrical engineer will probably hate it but...

When you ride your bike in first gear, pedaling easy but quickly, you aren't stressing your bike's pedal crank very hard.
When you ride your bike in 10th gear, you are stressing your pedal crank really hard, if it weren't strong you would bend it. This is why wire has to be heavier-gauge to carry higher AMPS.

Smaller wires can transmit a lot more power at higher-voltage-lower-amps than at lower-voltage-higher-amps, just like a smaller, weaker bike pedal crank could survive you pedaling it softly but quickly up a hill in first gear better than it could take you pedaling it slowly but really hard in tenth gear, at the same ten MPH. That's why house current is higher voltage. That's why big main power-company transmission wires are super-high voltage.
Cars use low-voltage for safety reasons.

[Elliot]

Captain, that's excellent! Why didn't I think of that?

[Elorrum]

good info here. thanks to all.

Alternate Energy Zone AEZ site has a lot of good links for electrical primers, solar energy basics (with pictures I think) desert camping, shade, shelter, burning man checklists, stories, etc.

I love American Science and surplus.

Here's something I try to remember when I get in acquisition mode. I have enough I have more than enough. I can find something fun to make out of the things I already have. My gear is not a burden or an onerous task. It is for fun and support in my adventure.