Hello! Are you dreaming of a pilgrimage to Omaha to witness the "Woodstock for Capitalists" and hear from the Oracle himself, Warren Buffett? It's a fantastic goal for any investor or business enthusiast. Attending the Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting is a truly unique experience, but it's important to understand the costs involved. While the meeting credential itself might be surprisingly cheap, the total trip can add up quickly. Let's break it down, step by step, so you can plan your budget and make this trip a reality.
Step 1: Get Your "Ticket" to the Show - The Meeting Credential
So, you want to be in the room where it happens? The good news is, the actual ticket to the annual meeting is virtually free! Don't let the multi-hundred-thousand-dollar price tag of a Berkshire Hathaway Class A share or the hundreds of dollars for a Class B share scare you. You don't need to be a billionaire to get in.
Sub-heading: How to get your credential
Be a Shareholder: The most common way to get a credential is by being a Berkshire Hathaway shareholder. If you own at least one Class A or Class B share, you can request a credential. These credentials, which serve as your "ticket," are mailed out to shareholders. Each shareholder can request up to four credentials for themselves and their guests.
The Proxy Form: Around early March, the company releases a proxy form online. You can use this form to request your credentials. The only cost for this is the international mail to the US, which is a nominal fee.
The eBay Option: Wait, you can buy them on eBay? Yes! It's a well-known secret that some shareholders sell their extra credentials on platforms like eBay. These are often sold as "souvenirs" for a small fee, typically ranging from $5 to $25 per pass. This is a great option if you don't own any shares or just need a pass for a friend.
Walk-up Registration: You can also register in person at the CHI Health Center the day before the AGM, but be prepared for very long queues and be ready to show proof of share ownership.
Remember: Your meeting credential is your golden ticket for the entire weekend, granting you access not just to the meeting, but also to various shareholder-only events and discounts.
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| How Much Does It Cost To Attend Berkshire Hathaway Annual Meeting |
Step 2: Conquer the Travel Costs
Omaha, Nebraska, is a small city, and during the Berkshire meeting weekend, it becomes a hub of activity. This high demand directly impacts travel costs, especially flights.
Sub-heading: Flights to Omaha
Domestic Travelers: If you're traveling within the US, you can expect flight costs to range from $300 to $1,000 for a round trip in economy class. Booking well in advance is key to getting a better price.
International Travelers: For those coming from outside the US, flight costs can be a significant portion of your budget. A round-trip economy flight from a major international hub can cost anywhere from $600 to $2,000 or more.
Alternative Travel: Consider taking a train! For example, the Amtrak train from Chicago to Omaha is a popular and scenic option, costing around $80 for a ticket.
Sub-heading: Getting Around in Omaha
Ride-hailing: Uber and Lyft are readily available and a popular way to get around. A single ride can cost between $7 and $25, depending on the distance and time of day.
Public Transit: Omaha has a public bus system. Tickets are affordable, around $1.25 per segment.
Walking: If you book a hotel within walking distance of the CHI Health Center and the Old Market, you can save a lot on transportation and enjoy the city's atmosphere.
Step 3: Secure Your Accommodation - Book Early!
This is arguably the most critical and expensive part of your trip. Hotels in Omaha get booked up months in advance, and prices skyrocket during the meeting weekend.
Sub-heading: The Hotel Price Shock
Peak Season Pricing: Don't expect to find standard hotel rates. Hotels can be 5 times their normal price, with a standard hotel like a Holiday Inn Express costing between $300 to $500+ per night.
Book 6+ Months in Advance: Many regular attendees book their hotel for the following year within a month of the current meeting. Start your search as early as June for the following May meeting.
Loyalty Points: If you have hotel loyalty points with chains like Hilton or IHG, this is the perfect time to use them to offset the high costs.
Sub-heading: Other Lodging Options
Tip: Take mental snapshots of important details.
Airbnbs: Airbnbs are a viable option, often costing around $200 per night. However, be aware of the risk of cancellations by hosts who might try to charge a higher price once they realize it's the AGM weekend.
Couchsurfing: If you're on a very tight budget, couchsurfing is a possibility, but accommodation is limited.
Step 4: Budget for Food, Shopping, and Fun
Omaha has a great food scene, and the meeting weekend is packed with events and opportunities to spend money.
Sub-heading: Dining Costs
Restaurants: Expect to pay standard US prices for meals. A meal at a local restaurant can cost anywhere from $20 to $100 per person, depending on the fanciness.
Tipping Culture: Don't forget to factor in tips! The US has a strong tipping culture, and you're generally expected to tip 15-20% of your bill.
"Berkshire BBQ Meal Deal": On the day of the meeting, you can get a "$6 Berkshire BBQ Meal Deal" at the CHI Health Center. Be prepared for long lines, up to 90 minutes during peak times.
Food Budget: A daily food budget of $50 to $100 is a reasonable estimate.
Sub-heading: The Shopping Extravaganza
Shareholder Discounts: The meeting weekend is also a shareholder shopping day, where you can get discounts at exhibits from Berkshire-owned companies. This is a chance to buy items from Brooks, See's Candies, Nebraska Furniture Mart, and more.
Collectibles: Many attendees love to buy collectibles, such as limited-edition items and merchandise.
Souvenirs: Factor in the cost of souvenirs and gifts. People often spend a couple of hundred dollars on chocolates, toys, and other merchandise.
Step 5: Calculate the Total Estimated Cost
Let's put it all together to get a rough estimate of the total cost for a 3-night stay in Omaha. This is a general guide and can vary greatly depending on your travel style and where you're coming from.
Item | Estimated Cost (US Dollars) | |
Meeting Credential | $5 - $25 (eBay) or Free (via proxy form)
| |
Round-trip Flight (Domestic) | $300 - $1,000 | |
Round-trip Flight (International) Tip: Pause, then continue with fresh focus. | $600 - $2,000+ | |
Accommodation (3 nights) | $900 - $1,500+ | |
Food & Drinks (3 days) | $150 - $300 | |
Local Transportation | $50 - $150 | |
Shopping & Souvenirs | $100 - $500+ (optional) | |
Total (Domestic) | $1,500 - $3,500+ | |
Total (International) | $2,000 - $4,500+ |
Note: This is a rough estimate and doesn't include any pre-or post-meeting events, tours, or extra activities in Omaha.
Tip: Remember, the small details add value.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to get a Berkshire Hathaway annual meeting credential if I'm not a shareholder?
You can often purchase a credential from shareholders who sell their extra passes on platforms like eBay for a small fee, typically between $5 and $25.
How to get a free credential for the meeting?
If you own at least one Class A or Class B share of Berkshire Hathaway, you can request a free credential for yourself and up to three guests by mailing in the proxy form.
How to save on hotel costs in Omaha for the meeting?
Book your accommodation at least six months in advance, and consider using hotel loyalty points or looking into Airbnb, though be aware of potential cancellations.
How to find affordable flights to Omaha?
Book your flights as early as possible. Consider flying into a nearby international airport like Chicago or Denver and then taking a domestic flight or train to Omaha.
How to get around Omaha without renting a car?
QuickTip: Reading twice makes retention stronger.
You can use ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft, or utilize the city's public bus system, which is very affordable.
How to save on food expenses during the meeting weekend?
Take advantage of the Berkshire BBQ Meal Deal at the CHI Health Center for a cheap meal, and consider using food waste apps like TooGoodToGo.
How to get the most out of the shareholder shopping discounts?
Bring your meeting credential to the exhibit hall and various Berkshire-owned stores to enjoy special shareholder discounts on products like See's Candies, Brooks, and more.
How to know when the next annual meeting will be held?
The meeting is traditionally held on the first weekend of May in Omaha, Nebraska. The official dates are announced by the company.
How to prove I am a shareholder to get a credential?
You need to show proof of ownership, such as a screenshot of your brokerage account holding, along with your photo ID when you pick up your credential.
How to attend the meeting virtually if I can't travel?
The annual meeting is typically live-streamed on CNBC's website, allowing you to watch the entire Q&A session with Warren Buffett and Greg Abel from anywhere in the world for free.
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