Gateway Ranch Survival Guide

Sonder '23 is a 3 day camping event at Gateway Ranch, an off-grid ranch in Northern Arizona. As such you will need to be fully self-sufficient and self-reliant. This includes food, water, shelter, and adequate gear for warm days and chilly nights. Here’s a list of recommended supplies to make your experience at Sonder '23 comfortable, safe and enjoyable*:

 

1. Tent or other shelter: A 3-season tent will suffice for the mild weather, but bring extra stakes and guy lines as winds can pick up unexpectedly. Due to potentially extreme wind gusts, we recommend securing all temporary structures, such as tents and pop-up canopies, with 12” lag bolts instead of tent stakes.

2. Sleeping bag: A sleeping bag rated for 20-30°F should keep you warm on cooler nights.

3. Sleeping pad: A sleeping pad will provide cushioning and insulation from the ground.

4. Sunscreen: The sun can be intense in northern Arizona throughout the year, so bring a high SPF sunscreen.

5. Hat: A wide-brimmed hat will provide additional protection from the sun.

6. Sunglasses: Sunglasses will help protect your eyes from the bright sunlight and glare.

7. Water: Bring at least 2 gallons of water per person per day to stay hydrated in the hot, dry climate.

8. Food: Bring non-perishable food that is easy to prepare, such as trail mix, granola bars, and canned goods.

9. Cooking equipment: Bring a portable stove, fuel, and cookware if you plan on cooking meals.

10. First aid kit: A first aid kit is important in case of injury or illness. Include any necessary prescription medication.

11. Lighting: Bring a flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries for nighttime use. It’s also recommended to attach a light to your body at night, such as an LED wristband or clip on LEDs on your shoes so others can see you when you’re walking around. Seriously, it’s really really dark out here.

12. Personal charging device: If you plan on charging your phone, lights, etc., bring a charging source. There will not be any outlets available for personal device charging.

13. Clothing: Bring lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that covers your skin to protect against the sun. Also, bring warm layers for cooler nights and a big coat if you tend to get cold. A light rain jacket or poncho may also be useful.

14. Personal hygiene items: Bring toiletries such as toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, wet wipes and hand sanitizer.

15. Trash bags: Pack out all your trash and leave no trace. Bring trash bags to store and transport your garbage.

 

*If you’re flying in from out of town, and would prefer to rent camping supplies for the weekend, here are a few local resources for gear rental:

1. https://www.campingcrates4u.com/ - Local pickup in Gilbert, AZ only. No shipping currently available. If you’re flying into Phoenix and driving up, this is a good option.

2. https://peacesurplus.com/camping/ - Local camping gear rental located in Flagstaff, AZ.