Burning Man Travel Guide: Tickets, Transportation, Where to Stay & Essential Tips

How to Get Burning Man Tickets

Every Burning Man adventure starts with a ticket. Without one, there's no point putting yourself through the crucial planning stages. Here are the ticket purchase options:

• Main Sale - What it sounds like: the main opportunity for most attendees to purchase tickets.
• Ticket Aid Program - Reduced-price tickets for participants with financial need; you need to apply.
• Directed Group / Stewards Sale - Tickets allocated to theme camps, art projects, mutant vehicle crews, and other contributors who help build Black Rock City.
• Volunteer & Staff Sales - Tickets reserved for qualifying volunteers, staff, and contractors.
• OMG Sale - A final public ticket sale held closer to the event. Get tickets during OMG or risk missing out.
• Higher-Priced Supporter Tickets - These are premium-priced tickets that help fund the event, support art grants, and subsidize the Ticket Aid Program.

All tickets offer the exact same access, regardless of price.

Tip: Since purchasing tickets can be competitive, save time by registering before the sale starts.

Trouble Getting Tickets?

Burning Man tickets can sell out quickly, but that doesn't necessarily mean you're out of options. As the event approaches, tickets may become available through verified resale marketplaces. If you're purchasing from a secondary seller, be sure to review the terms carefully and verify ticket authenticity before completing your purchase.

Vehicle Passes

If you're driving into Black Rock City, you'll need a vehicle pass. It's completely separate from the ticket purchase.

Best Airports for Burning Man

Burning Man's location is remote, so no matter which airport you use, there's going to be added travel time. Let's start with the most convenient:

Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO)

For most Burners, Reno is the obvious choice . Why? It's only about 120 miles from Black Rock City. And because Reno prepares for the influx of Burning Man visitors, the convenience isn't just about the distance. There's also:

• A large rental car selection at the airport.
• Easy access to camping and other Burning Man supplies.
• Lots of hotel options.

Tip: If it's your first time going to Burning Man, Reno is recommended. It's the simplest and least stressful option.

Sacramento International Airport (SMF)

Since Reno isn't a major US hub, a larger airport like Sacramento might make more sense for you. It has:

• More flight options.
• Often lower fares.
• A less captive Burning Man-specific market, so the rental car pricing stays competitive.

The downside? It's more than double the distance compared to Reno, which means more time and higher gas costs.

Where to Stay in Reno Before Burning Man

Because it rarely works out that you'll arrive and head straight into the festival, plan on at least one night spent on the outskirts of Black Rock City. Use it as an opportunity to pick up any last-minute supplies, stock up on food and water, and make sure you have all your essential travel gear before heading into Black Rock City. While you can leave and re-enter Burning Man, you won't want to.

• RV Rentals - Rent an affordable RV in Reno Rent an affordable RV in Reno to explore the desert before heading to BRC.
• Reno Hotels - Although not as built-up as the Las Vegas hotel scene, Reno has hotels for every budget . Find options everywhere from Downtown and Midtown to nearby Sparks.
• Campsites - Whether you want to get extra use out of your camping gear or need a place to park your RV rental, Reno-Tahoe has plenty of options .

Tip: Sparks is very close to Reno and is often less crowded and cheaper for accommodation.

Where to Stay After Burning Man

Chances are good that you'll leave Burning Man physically exhausted. This is where convenience (and a hot shower) matters most.

Reno and Sparks

If your flight doesn't leave until the following day, the easiest thing to do is stay overnight in Reno or Sparks.

Certain camping facilities have showers, but you can't beat a hotel when you're tired and dirty. Select one with the important stuff:

• Hot showers
• Laundry
• Comfortable beds
• Easy airport access
• On-site restaurants to make dining easy

Getting to Black Rock City

There are four main ways you can travel from your airport of choice to BRC. Here they are alongside the benefits:

1. Car Rentals

• The freedom to arrive and leave on your own schedule
• No heavy camping gear to carry on and off a bus
• The flexibility to buy supplies enroute and take off on a road trip

If you're flying into Reno or Sacramento, a rental car can provide the flexibility to pick up supplies, explore the region, and travel on your own schedule. If you do rent a car, ensure you have a vehicle pass and comprehensive insurance. The desert dust can get everywhere.

2. RV Rentals

• A built-in and quite comfortable sleeping space
• Lockable storage for valuables
• Shade from the scorching desert sun

Tip: RV rental prices around Reno spike drastically in and around the Burning Man week. For the best prices and selection, book early.

3. Burner Express Bus

• The Burner Express Bus is a bus service offered by Burning Man to transport Burners from San Francisco and Reno to Black Rock City and back.
• Solid option for anyone who doesn't want to drive and solo travelers
• The Burner Express is more environmentally friendly than private transportation
• Cheaper than a car or RV rental plus fuel costs

4. Rideshares and Carpools

• Can be fairly easily coordinated through Burner social media groups
• Reduces costs and vehicle congestion
• The ability to make connections with other Burners before you arrive

Burning Man Driving Directions, Parking, and Weather

The drive to Black Rock City isn't difficult, but the remote nature of the roads means you need to fuel up and get supplies where you can. Prepare for long lines for gas during peak travel periods.

You’ll approach BRC on three main routes: I-80, Highway 447, and Highway 34.

Because everyone in the area is likely heading to the same place, traffic's going to be the main concern. It can add hours to your journey. Always carry:

• Plenty of water
• Sun protection
• Extra gas (if possible)
• Snacks

Parking at Burning Man

As long as you have the all-important vehicle pass, you'll have no trouble parking. Just keep in mind that you can't use your personal vehicle to get around Black Rock City. Instead, you'll have to rely on your feet, a bike, or hitching a ride on a mutant vehicle.

Weather Considerations

• Daytime highs can reach 100°F; overnight lows are usually around 50°F so bring layers.
• Dust storms are real. Visibility can be severely reduced in the blink of an eye.
• On rare occasions when it rains, expect thick mud – bring varied footwear.

Popular Road Trips Before or After Burning Man

Your presence in the area is the perfect opportunity to explore the American West. So, if you have time, consider adding one of these unique spots:

Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is often a welcome break after Burning Man. The comparatively lush surroundings mean you can hike among the trees and hit the beach for water sports. Even the scenic drives will help you wind down after all the Burning Man excitement.

Distance from BRC: About three hours

Virginia City

This one's different and more synonymous with the West. Virginia City is a historic mining town full of that iconic Old West Victorian architecture. Visit the mining museum to peruse the artifacts or simply marvel at the amazing mountain views. Although it's less than three hours away, it's about as different as it gets from Black Rock City.

Distance from BRC: Two hours and 45 minutes

Yosemite National Park

A little further afield, a trip to Yosemite is never wasted. Hiking trails among the ancient sequoias and granite cliffs will instantly recharge you. Let the mist from waterfalls wash away all thoughts of desert dust and bring your camera to capture the resident wildlife. Yosemite is one of the most rewarding national park destinations to explore by RV , especially if you're extending your trip after Burning Man.

Distance from BRC: Four and a half hours

Planning Your Burning Man Adventure

Reno makes the most sense for the most people as your base before and after Burning Man. Remember to book flights and accommodation early and leave time for the traffic and lineups you're bound to encounter.

Although you'll be attempting the journey with thousands of others, it's easier than you think.