8 Packing Essentials for Sports Tournaments
If you’re an athlete yourself or a parent who spends weekends driving to and from tournaments for your kids, make sure you are well equipped for your travels. With our packing list, you’ll have everything you need on the road so your only worry is which team will win.
Whether you’re wondering what to pack for a baseball tournament, football game, or a tennis match, this list of items will ensure you are ready to go for game day:
1. Cooler:
Long days call for a well-packed cooler. Fill it with ice packs, then throw in some water bottles and your favorite sports drinks to stay hydrated. Don’t forget to pack snacks that do well for long periods of time, even on hot days, and are easy to transport. Fruit and protein bars will keep you energized for the day ahead.
2. Sunscreen
If you will be at the field all day, keep yourself (and your kids) protected from the sun with an SPF of at least 30. Opt for spray to make reapplying throughout the day a breeze. Bonus points for doubling up with a sun hat.
3. First Aid Kit
A first aid kit is a must for keeping Band-Aids, antibacterial cream, gauze, and ibuprofen for the occasional blister, headache, or a more serious incident.
4. Chargers
Make sure to pack your phone charger or bring a portable charging pack so you can drain your battery taking as many pictures as you want without having to worry about your device dying.
5. Bug Repellent
This is a must for both day and night games, and will help keep your skin protected from collecting itchy bug bites.
6. Fold Out Chair
You never know what the seating situation could be at a tournament. If you will be sitting for a lot of time, save your back by packing supporting seating. It’s always a good idea to keep a foldable chair in the trunk of your car just in case there aren't any bleachers available.
7. Umbrella/Protective Gear
Weather can be unpredictable – so, always be prepared with an umbrella or a raincoat. If you’re attending an outdoor tournament, such as a baseball or soccer game, consider keeping a portable canopy in your car that can protect you from both the sun and rain.
8. Entertainment
There’s bound to be some downtime. Keep yourself and your family busy with books, magazines, headphones, a favorite game or toy in tow.
What Type of Luggage is Best For Sports Trips?
If you’re going to a sports tournament by car, you don’t have to worry about carry-on sizes or checked baggage weights like you would when traveling by plane. While having unlimited space can be liberating, without those limitations, you can easily overpack. Before you choose which bag to bring, think about who will be coming with you on the trip and how many items they will each bring.
A duffel bag is always a good idea for road trips. Not only do they fit in the trunk or backseat of a car on the way to tournaments, but they can also double as a practice bag with flexible room for carrying equipment. Someeven come with wet pockets that let you separate dirty, wet, or smelly clothes. But, if you’d prefer to pack a little lighter, score one ofthese backpacks that offers built-in organization and loads of features or anindividual organizer as a top accessory.
