Desert Survival Guide

• ✓ Bring at least 1.5 gallons (6 liters) per person per day — minimum. More is better.
• ✓ For a 9-day event, that is 13.5 gallons (51 liters) minimum per person.
• ✓ Add electrolytes to your water — plain water is not enough in extreme heat.
• ✓ Drink before you feel thirsty. If your urine is dark, you are already dehydrated.
• ✓ Keep water containers sealed and shaded to prevent evaporation and contamination.

• ✓ Shade structure is essential — a tent alone will become an oven by 9 AM. Use a carport, parachute, or aluminet shade cloth.
• ✓ Secure everything with rebar stakes and ratchet straps — winds can reach 75 mph.
• ✓ Use reflective tarps (silver side out) to deflect heat from your shelter.
• ✓ Sleep in a tent with good ventilation, or consider a cot under a shade structure.
• ✓ Bring a sleeping bag rated to 30°F (-1°C) for cold nights, plus light bedding for warm nights.

The playa dust is highly alkaline (pH 10+) and will get into everything. It can irritate skin, eyes, and lungs.

• ✓ Goggles — sealed, anti-fog goggles (not sunglasses) for dust storms.
• ✓ Dust mask or bandana — N95 masks work best for fine playa dust.
• ✓ Moisturizer and lip balm — the alkaline dust will crack your skin and lips.
• ✓ Saline nasal spray — helps clear dust from nasal passages.
• ✓ Vinegar rinse — diluted apple cider vinegar neutralizes the alkaline dust on skin and hair.

• ✓ Wear loose, light-colored clothing during the day. Cover your skin — sunburn happens fast.
• ✓ Use SPF 50+ sunscreen and reapply every 2 hours.
• ✓ Wear a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.
• ✓ Rest in shade during peak heat (12 PM — 4 PM). This is not laziness — it is survival.
• ✓ Use a spray bottle with water to cool down. Evaporative cooling works well in the dry desert.

• ✓ Lights are mandatory at night. Wear LED lights, EL wire, or glow sticks so vehicles and bikes can see you.
• ✓ Light your bicycle front and back — unlit cyclists are a major safety hazard.
• ✓ Dress warmly — temperatures can drop 60°F from day to night.
• ✓ Watch out for guy wires, rebar stakes, and uneven ground.