How to Pack for an Equestrian Competition: Checklist & Must-Haves

Preparing for an equestrian competition requires careful planning and organization to ensure that both you and your horse are fully prepared for the event. Whether you’re competing in a small local show or heading to a prestigious national competition, being well-equipped can make all the difference in your performance and overall experience. A well-thought-out packing plan not only eliminates last-minute stress but also allows you to focus entirely on your riding, rather than scrambling for forgotten items.

Equestrian competitions involve many moving parts, from entry paperwork and horse health records to properly fitted tack and competition-approved attire. Forgetting even one essential item—such as a show jacket, bridle, or horse feed—can lead to unnecessary stress or even disqualification. Additionally, ensuring that you have the proper grooming tools, first aid supplies, and travel equipment can help keep your horse comfortable and ready to perform at its best.

By following a structured checklist, you can be confident that nothing is overlooked. This guide covers all the must-have items for riders and horses, ensuring you arrive at your competition fully prepared, relaxed, and ready to perform at your peak. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or attending your first show, packing efficiently is the key to a smooth, enjoyable, and successful event.

Essential Documents & Paperwork

Before heading to the competition, it’s essential to gather and organize all necessary paperwork to ensure a smooth check-in process. Many equestrian events have strict requirements regarding rider and horse documentation, and forgetting any essential forms could result in delays or even disqualification. Proper preparation will save you from unnecessary stress and allow you to focus on your performance.

Key documents you’ll need include:

• Entry confirmation and competition schedule – This helps you stay on track with ride times and event logistics.

• Rider’s identification – Membership cards, licenses, or any required proof of eligibility for the competition.

• Horse’s passport and registration papers – Many events require proof of ownership and breed registration.

• Vaccination records and Coggins test results – Certain competitions, especially those with strict biosecurity measures, require updated health records for disease prevention.

• Health certificates for travel – If traveling across state or national borders, ensure you have the proper veterinary paperwork to comply with regulations.

• Trainer’s or coach’s contact information – Having their details handy can be helpful for last-minute questions, emergencies, or schedule adjustments.

To stay organized, store these documents in a labeled binder or waterproof folder and keep it in an easily accessible place, such as your tack trunk or travel bag. Double-check all paperwork a few days before departure to avoid any last-minute surprises.

Rider’s Competition Outfit & Accessories

Your competition attire plays a crucial role in making a great first impression in the show ring while also ensuring you meet the event’s dress code requirements. Properly fitted, clean, and well-maintained riding apparel not only enhances your presentation but also contributes to your overall comfort and confidence during your performance.

To keep your show outfit in top condition, store it in a garment bag to prevent wrinkles, dirt, or accidental damage. Packing everything in advance ensures you're prepared for any last-minute changes or weather conditions.

Essential Competition Attire:

• Show jacket – Must be appropriate for your discipline, whether it’s dressage, show jumping, eventing, or western.

• Show shirt – Should comply with competition guidelines and be comfortable for all-day wear.

• Breeches or jodhpurs – Choose the correct color based on your event’s regulations.

• Tall boots or paddock boots with half chaps – Well-polished and properly broken in for comfort.

• Approved riding helmet – Must meet current safety standards and be in excellent condition.

• Riding gloves – Help with grip and provide a polished, professional look.

• Spurs and whip – If permitted and necessary for your specific event.

• Stock tie, show tie, or collar – Required for some disciplines, such as dressage or hunter classes.

• Hairnet, bows, or ribbons – Essential for keeping hair neat and competition-ready.

• Belt – Should match your breeches and complement your overall look.

• Spare riding attire – Having an extra set of clothing, including breeches, socks, and gloves, ensures you’re prepared for unexpected weather or last-minute outfit changes.

By keeping your competition outfit clean, organized, and properly stored, you can step into the ring feeling confident and focused on your performance.

Horse Tack & Equipment

Your horse’s tack is one of the most important components of your competition gear, directly impacting both performance and comfort. Before packing, make sure all tack is clean, well-maintained, and competition-legal according to your discipline’s rules. A properly fitted saddle and bridle contribute to your horse’s ability to perform at its best while also ensuring a polished and professional appearance in the ring.

Essential Tack for Competition:

• Saddle – Must be discipline-appropriate, whether for jumping, dressage, eventing, or western riding.

• Saddle pad – Should be clean, well-fitted, and meet competition guidelines for color and branding.

• Girth or cinch – Must be in good condition with no fraying or loose stitching.

• Bridle with a legal bit – Ensure your bridle setup complies with your class requirements.

• Martingale or breastplate – If permitted and necessary for added security.

• Protective boots or leg wraps – Helps prevent injury if allowed under competition rules.

• Fly bonnet – Useful for outdoor events to keep your horse focused and comfortable.

• Number holder – If required, make sure it’s securely attached and visible.

• Extra reins, stirrups, and girth – Having backups on hand prevents unnecessary stress in case of breakage or emergency.

Before leaving, double-check all tack for any signs of wear, loose stitching, or damage. Cleaning and conditioning leather items in advance will keep them supple and show-ready. Packing everything in a dedicated tack bag or trunk ensures easy access and organization once you arrive at the competition.

Horse Grooming & Care Supplies

A well-groomed horse is essential for making a great impression in the competition ring. Beyond aesthetics, regular grooming helps keep your horse comfortable and healthy. Having the right grooming tools on hand ensures that your horse’s coat, mane, tail, and hooves are spotless before stepping into the show arena.

Essential Grooming Tools:

• Soft and stiff brushes – A stiff brush removes dirt and debris, while a soft brush adds a polished finish.

• Mane and tail brush or comb – Helps detangle and smooth hair without causing breakage.

• Hoof pick and hoof polish – Keeps hooves clean and can add shine for a finished look.

• Shampoo, conditioner, and stain remover spray – Ideal for last-minute touch-ups, especially for light-colored horses.

• Show sheen or detangler – Adds shine to the coat and keeps the mane and tail silky smooth.

• Sponges and towels – Useful for cleaning sweat marks, wiping faces, and quick touch-ups.

• Sweat scraper and fly spray – Helps keep your horse cool and free from pests.

• Braiding or banding kit – Includes rubber bands, needle and thread, scissors, and a mane comb for a polished, professional look.

• Clippers or trimmers – Useful for tidying up whiskers, bridle paths, and leg hair before the show.

Packing baby wipes and extra towels ensures you’re ready for any last-minute cleanups, from dust on the coat to smudges on tack. Keeping grooming supplies in a dedicated grooming tote or box makes it easy to access everything quickly while preparing for your class.

Horse Care & Health Essentials

Ensuring your horse stays hydrated, nourished, and comfortable throughout the competition is just as important as your riding performance. Travel, new environments, and intense activity can be stressful for horses, so bringing the right feed, water, and health essentials helps maintain their well-being and peak condition.

Essential Horse Care Items:

• Hay and grain – Pre-measured portions make feeding easier and help maintain your horse’s regular diet.

• Water buckets and fresh water supply – Horses may be hesitant to drink unfamiliar water, so bringing water from home can encourage hydration.

• Electrolytes – Supports hydration and energy levels, especially for long show days or hot weather.

• Feed pan and hay net – Keeps feeding organized and ensures your horse can eat comfortably in the stall or trailer.

• First aid kit – Should include wound care supplies, liniment for muscle relief, vet wrap, and other essentials for minor injuries.

• Ice boots or cooling wraps – Helps reduce inflammation and aid in recovery after strenuous activity.

• Salt block or horse treats – Encourages drinking and provides a small reward after a great ride.

For long-distance travel, always pack extra hay and water to ensure your horse remains well-hydrated and stress-free. Keeping these supplies easily accessible in the trailer or tack area ensures you’re prepared for any situation that arises during the competition.

Travel & Stall Equipment

Emergency & Repair Kit

Personal Items & Comfort Essentials

Equestrian competitions can be long and physically demanding, so staying comfortable, hydrated, and prepared is key to maintaining focus and energy throughout the day. Having the right personal essentials ensures that you can handle changing weather conditions, take breaks when needed, and stay fueled for peak performance.

Essential Comfort Items:

 

• Sunscreen and bug spray – Protects against sunburn and insect bites during outdoor events.

• Hat and sunglasses – Shields your eyes and face from the sun for better visibility and comfort.

• Rain gear – A waterproof jacket and boots keep you dry in case of unexpected rain.

• Change of clothes and extra socks – Fresh clothes provide comfort after riding or in case of spills and weather changes.

• Cooler with snacks and drinks – Helps maintain energy levels throughout the competition day.

• Folding chair and shade umbrella – Offers a place to rest between events and protection from the sun.

• Notebook and pen – Useful for jotting down judge’s feedback, training notes, or competition results.

• Phone charger or portable power bank – Ensures your phone stays charged for important calls, schedules, and photos.

 

By packing these comfort essentials, you can focus on your performance while staying relaxed, refreshed, and ready for every ride.

Final Packing Tips for a Stress-Free Show Day

Packing efficiently is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable competition experience. A well-organized system helps you focus on your performance instead of worrying about forgotten items or last-minute scrambling. To keep everything in order, follow these essential packing tips:

• Pack the night before – Avoid last-minute stress by preparing everything ahead of time.

• Use labeled bags and containers – Organize tack, grooming tools, and personal items for easy access.

• Check the weather forecast – Pack appropriate clothing and gear to handle any conditions.

• Create a checklist – Cross off items as you pack to ensure nothing is forgotten.

• Do a final trailer check – Double-check that all gear, feed, and supplies are loaded securely before heading to the event.

A well-planned packing system not only keeps you organized and stress-free but also ensures that both you and your horse are fully prepared for competition day. With everything in place, you can focus on your ride, perform at your best, and enjoy the experience in the show ring.