How I Survive Hacker Summer Camp (And You Can Too)

Every year, Las Vegas fills up with tens of thousands of us for the week the industry calls "Hacker Summer Camp": BSides, Black Hat, and DEF CON, back to back to back. It's exhilarating, exhausting, and always worth it. Here's how I get ready so I can spend the week learning and connecting instead of scrambling.

Pack Like You Mean It

I bring three pieces every time: a checked bag, a carry on, and a personal bag. It might sound like overkill, but trust me, between swag, badges, books, conference gear, and whatever you pick up along the way, you will run out of space if you don't plan for it. Give yourself room to come home with more than you left with.

Dress for the Desert

Vegas heat in the summer is no joke, it's an extreme, dry heat that will catch you off guard if you're not ready for it. Stick to light colors and breathable fabrics. And the tip that matters most: stay hydrated. Carry water with you at all times, even when you don't think you need it. Between the walking, the crowds, and the dry air, dehydration sneaks up fast.

Strategize Before You Go

This week has more going on than any one person can attend. Before you land, carve out time to look at the schedules for whichever cons you're hitting and map out the talks, villages, and trainings you actually want to catch. There's real value in wandering and discovering things spontaneously, but knowing your must see list in advance means you won't miss the sessions you'd regret skipping.

Eat Smart, Not Just Fast

Vegas can drain your wallet as quickly as it drains your energy. Scope out budget friendly food options near your venues ahead of time. Knowing where to grab a solid, affordable meal means more of your budget stays free for the parts of the trip you actually came for.

Bring a Conversation Starter

Some of the best things that come out of this week aren't on the schedule, they happen in the hallway, in line for coffee, or at a village booth. Find something to spark a conversation, whether that's a pin, a sticker, a project you're proud of, or just a good opener. You never know who you'll meet, it could be your next job title, your next collaborator, or a lifelong friend.

Stay Safe, Have Fun

At the end of the day, this week is a marathon, not a sprint. Pace yourself, look out for yourself and the people around you, and don't let the hustle of it all crowd out the fun. You're here to learn, connect, and grow, enjoy it.

See you out there,

The Siren