Nice idea with the stick. It could double as a shade pole with some cordage and tarp/cloth/plastic.

Lack of water, shelter, fuel, food, people, and almost devoid of life except that which can kill you. I'd say rule number 1 when going into the desert for ANY reason, including with a vehicle, is stick to well traveled/populated areas and make sure someone knows where you are going (to and from) and has a check-in times with current positions. Preferably measured in hours (the fewer the better).

In fact, I'd venture a guess that those in a car may not be as careful, making assumptions about their relative safety where a hiker would probably prepare decently, knowing that death can come swiftly in case of an accident.