Best Practices for Renting RVs for Burning Man
Planning for Burning Man can be overwhelming, but renting the right RV and preparing it properly can make all the difference. Here are essential tips to ensure your RV adventure is a success.
Planning and Location
Location Matters: 1 week before 2017 BM, begin searching for an RV rental. Crusie America is a reliable option, with Boise being the most cost-effective location, offering a 10-hour drive to Black Rock City (BRC) via Oregon and California. Renting closer to BRC can be significantly more expensive. Be Realistic: Consider the number of people you can comfortably house in an RV at Burning Man. A 25-foot RV meant for 5 people might be cramped for a week in the playa. For 4-5 people, a 35-foot RV would be more ideal. You and your travel companions may need creative solutions to accommodate everyone comfortably.
Preparation and Maintenance
Orientation and Setup: Set the valves properly at the RV center to avoid potential issues later. Make sure to take your time and understand the RV's orientation, which is important given the fast-paced and chaotic environment at Burning Man.
Drive Safety: RVs are not cars; be cautious, especially in soft sand and on inclines. Allow ample time for your RV rental, as the drive and setup can be challenging. Ensure clear and visible signage on your RV for easy identification, especially at night when you're tired, drunk, or in a compromised state.
Cleaning: Plan for approximately 4-5 hours to thoroughly clean the interior after your return. Use items like paper towels, trash bags, vinegar, and other cleaning agents. Consider using WD-40 and a tire dust cleaner to remove the hard-to-clean playa dust. Invest in Rhino board HD cardboard to protect and clean the floor and table surfaces.
Other Preparations: Stock up on essential items before your trip, such as duct tape, replacement parts, and furniture covers. Bring a bike rack if you plan to transport bikes. Use duct tape or painters' tape to cover the front windshield and windows to reduce heat buildup inside the RV.
Logistics and Considerations
Vehicle Check-Ups: You may encounter issues with your RV during the drive or at BRC. Keep duct tape handy to fix minor problems, such as a falling door or detached ceiling light.
Supplies and Equipment: Many RVs come with limited inventory, so be sure to count and supplement as needed. Consider buying pillows, sheets, and towels at a thrift store to save costs. Use a hotel or Airbnb with a washer to ensure you can clean these items before and after your trip.
Generator Use: The generator should be used sparingly, primarily to power the microwave. Use the port-a-potties as much as possible to conserve the RV's black water tank. If you must use the toilets, reserve them for essential use, as pumping the black water tank at BRC is expensive and impractical.
Security and Identification: Close all roof air vents when leaving BRC, as dust can accumulate inside the RV. Use caution with any external equipment, like awnings, as strong winds can cause damage. Be aware of your air intake to avoid CO poisoning.
Avoid Dust and Accumulations: Remove your shoes and as much clothing as possible before entering the RV. Remove dust-infested items promptly to minimize the accumulation of playa dust in your RV.
Enjoy Your Journey: Enjoy your Burning Man experience, and above all, return your RV in good standing. Your efforts in preparation will pay off. If you discover a successful method to clean playa dust, share it with fellow burners!