13 Items You Should Always Have In Your Dance Bag for the Competition

Dance Bag – Your Secrets and Tricks

Is that empty dance bag staring at you? The competition day is just around the corner and you have to make sure that everything will go as planned. We’ve all been there—you get to the competition ready to sweat and do your best only to find out that you’ve forgotten something that’s essential. That’s why it’s important to organize your clothes and equipment on time, to take some of the pressure off.

Your gym bag should be your “dance bag of tricks”. So, here’s the list of the things you should pack. Having these items at your disposal will keep you prepared for the big day and also for some unforeseen situations on the dance floor. Check them out:

1. Clothes for rehearsal

Before you get ready for the show, you will have rehearsals. For that occasion, you need to wear the clothes you feel comfortable in, so that you can try choreography without worrying about your pricey and fancy costume.

2. Towels

On your rehearsals, there might not be a lot of sweating, but you’ll certainly make good use of a towel. So, don’t forget to bring it with you.

3. A change of clothes

Apart from your costumes and rehearsal clothes, you also need a change after the competition is over. Packing these clothes will give you the peace of mind because you never know what can happen on that long day.

4. A bottle of water/a sports drink

This may be a duh for some of you, but it’s one of the most important items you could pack in that dance bag. Always bring a bottle of water with you rather than count on what you’ll find at the competition. You can also pack a sports drink that will give you a boost of energy if you feel the need for that.

5. Healthy snacks/meals

Since this is going to be a loooong day, you need to keep up your energy at a high level. And that’s where healthy food/snacks come in handy. Prep your bag with some snacks that can be easily munched on-the-go. Some of the examples are: protein bars, oatmeals, salads, tuna sandwiches, fresh fruits and veggies. Whatever you opt for, just be sure to bring the food that’s easy to digest and light on the tummy. You should also eat more often during the day, but let the portions be small.

 6. Makeup

After busting out your best moves on the dance floor (not to mention sweating), makeup touchups are inevitable. Buy a makeup case and keep all the items you might need in it (including a nail polish, micellar water, cotton balls, lip balm, lipstick, an extra pair of false lashes, blush, foundation, eyeshadows, water-resistant mascara, makeup brushes and shimmer items).

7. Hair Products

Speaking of beauty products you might need, hair products are must-haves. Pack a comb, hair spray, gel, hair ties, bobby pins, and hair dryer to keep your hairstyle perfect all the time.

8. Wet wipes

Freshen up on the fly! Wet wipes are so practical and versatile, so having these at hand will be great.

9. Deodorant/Antiperspirant  

Mmmm, do I really need to give an explanation on this one? I guess you don’t want to smell on such an important day. However, make sure to bring the deodorant that won’t leave white or yellow marks on your costumes.

10. Repairing kit

Mini sewing kit and hot/super glue are also something you must have in your dance bag. Decoration from your costume or dance shoes may break or fall apart and these one of these two could save the situation.

11. First Aid

Band aid, instant ice packs, medications (of course, those that are allowed to bring to the competition) are just some of the first aid supplies you might need at the competition.

12. Your phone AND charger

Without a doubt, you’ll need your phone. However, a charger is easy to overlook, so don’t forget it.

 13. Items for activating winning mindset

Getting in the winning mood means being focused and calm as much as you can. So, bring your favorite motivational book, or listen to your favorite songs to calm your wandering and excited mind, and take back control. Also, if you’re one of those people who believe in a lucky charm, then feel free to bring yours.

So hopefully this has answered your question of what to bring to the competition. Let me know what you thought of this dance bag checklist. Did I miss anything out? What essentials do you have in your dance bag? 

If you want to find out what other things might come in handy you can check our other article about 7 Hacks Only Dancers Know.


I always loved dancing, but I started with ballroom dance six months ago, because I didn’t have chance to start earlier. However, now that I do, I want to make the most out of it. Never stop believing in yourself and give your best to make your dreams come true. As Les Brown said: “Shoot for the Moon, because even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars”.


Tags: bag competition clothes items snacks

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