First Timers Guide
Each year, thousands of people make the unforgettable journey from all over Australia (and the world!) to the Big Red Bash.
For many, it’s your first time:
in the Australian desert
driving outback roads
camping on the red dirt
experiencing a festival this remote
It’s exciting, and you’ll never forget your first night camped under the Milky Way.
But we also know a trip like this takes a bit of planning, especially if it’s your first time.
Our website is packed with helpful information, and to make things easier we’ve pulled together the most important essentials for first-timers below.
Outback Travel
Weather
The Big Red Bash sits on the edge of the Simpson Desert, but we’re there in winter — so it may not be as hot as you expect.
You’ll still want:
a hat and light clothes for daytime
warm layers for the evening and early morning
Desert nights can get surprisingly cold.
See Weather for more details.
Outback Driving
Driving to the Big Red Bash is part of the adventure — and you’ll be joining a huge nationwide road trip into Birdsville.
The roads are spectacular, with big skies and wide open views, but outback driving can feel very different if you haven’t done it before (single-lane bitumen, loose gravel, dust and long distances).
We’ve put together guidelines on outback driving safety and etiquette to help you feel confident on the road.
See Outback Driving for more details.
We also recommend joining the Travelling to the Big Red Bash Facebook Group for travel updates and tips from other Bashers.
Big Red Bash Essentials
Where do I stay in Birdsville?
Birdsville is a beautiful desert town around 35km from Bashville.
Before and after the Bash, Birdsville’s population swells from around 100 people to nearly 10,000.
Accommodation in Birdsville during this time is limited, and the main option is camping — so make sure your camping setup is comfortable and durable enough for more than just a couple of nights.
See Accommodation for more information about camping in Birdsville.
What should I bring?
Bashville is a pop-up town in a remote desert location, so facilities are limited.
We provide key essentials such as:
composting toilets
greywater disposal
a well-resourced medical facility
food vendors
limited firewood and ice (pre-orders available)
…but you will need to bring everything else you require to be comfortable.
See What To Bring and Facilities for helpful packing and preparation tips.
Rolling In & Out
Around 4,000 vehicles roll in and out of Bashville for the Big Red Bash.
Moving that many vehicles through a remote campsite is a huge operation — and a little preparation makes a big difference.
Your Guide to Rolling In & Out is essential reading so you’re ready and don’t get delayed at the gates.
Health & Medication
Medical services in Birdsville are limited, and there are no pharmacies in town.
If you have any medical conditions, we strongly recommend:
checking in with your GP before leaving home
bringing all required medications with you (plus extra, just in case)
We have a well-resourced medical facility at Bashville staffed by doctors, paramedics and nurses from Queensland Health. However, it is not a pharmacy.
Please note:
the closest hospital to Bashville is 685km away in Mt Isa
the closest pharmacy is 625km away in Quilpie
Planning Tools (Highly Recommended)
A–Z Guide
The Big Red Bash A–Z Guide covers essential information to help your trip run smoothly, including:
what to do before you leave home
what to remember in Birdsville
what to expect at Bashville
key camp rules and planning tips
See A–Z Guide
Bash App
Make sure you download the Bash App, available on Apple and Android devices.
The app is usually released in mid-May before the Bash and is updated regularly with important information and alerts.
Festival Guide
The 2024 Festival Guide is available as a PDF if you’d like to take a look.
The 2026 Festival Guide will be released closer to the event.
You can also collect a printed copy when you pick up your wristband at Ticketing in Birdsville.
Bash FM
Tune into Bash FM while in Bashville for:
news and live updates
artist interviews
helpful reminders
the music you love
Still Have Questions?
No worries — we’ve got you.
You may find the answer in our Frequently Asked Questions.
We also recommend joining the Travelling to the Big Red Bash Facebook Group, where you’ll find a connected community and heaps of tips from seasoned Bashers.
And of course, you can always Contact Us.