It's easy to forget the little things - literally.
The tiny objects that slip our minds, and our suitcases, as we pack for our next dance-o-rama®. As ladies, we have extra dance costumes and accessories to consider, and some are more important than others to have on hand. Let's take a look at the most common items we hope our friends brought with them for us to borrow.
6 Dance Competition Essentials Most Women Forget To Pack
6. Don't Forget To Pack: Scissors
A small pair of scissors can end up being the dance competition equivalent of a Swiss Army knife. How many times have you needed to open a new package of eye lashes, cut a strip of double-stick tape, or snip off a loose thread or feather from your dance costume? And since we don't have time to ask the hotel front desk... We might as well put it on the list.
5. Don't Forget To Pack: Hairpins
All those spins and turns in your dance routines are bound to dislodge a pin or two. Nothing can be more distracting than a loose bun or hair accessory flapping in your peripheral vision. So keep a pack of pins nearby to make yourself feel more secure after that crazy salsa.
4. Don't Forget To Pack: Snacks
After a few dozen dances, your energy will start to wane. It's important to stay fueled so you can dance your best, so remember to pack healthy snacks. Lean toward nuts, protein bars and drinks with electrolytes. Avoid energy drinks and sugary snacks that will make you surge and crash. You'll be glad you have a quick snack available at your table between heats.
3. Don't Forget To Pack: A Sweater or Wrap
While you may be running hot on the dance floor, it can get chilly in the ballroom. It's more comfortable and better for your dancing to stay warm between heats. Whether it's a kimono, studio jacket or a wrap, keep covered.
2. Don't Forget To Pack: Different Bras
They're already built into your costumes, so sometimes we forget to account for the other outfits we bring for dinner or themed events. Is your evening gown strapless or backless? Does your dance costume need a nude or black bra? Bring a variety pack!
1. Don't Forget To Pack: Extra Dance Pants
As experienced dancers, we know to always wear dance pants with our skirts and dresses. But during the hustle and bustle of changing costumes throughout the day, we don't always know where that tiny, blessed, swatch of fabric ended up.
Is it in my suitcase? -
in my garment bag? -
in the hotel bathroom lodged between the sink and a towel?
All we know is that those dance pants aren't on - and that can be stressful! So bring them in bulk, even in different colors. They won't take up space and you'll never be sorry you have extra. This is an absolute must for any dance event.
Experienced Dance Competitor Packing Tip
Dancers, guys and girls, pack for Dance-O-Rama® and always forget something. (What's the definition of insanity again?) So do what experienced (and possibly OCD) dancers do: Make a list. Go through the event chronologically and write down everything you'll need.
What are you wearing as you arrive to the hotel?
What's the theme for dinner that night?
And on and on until the farewell breakfast.
Bonus Points
So, go ahead, pack your immaculate suitcase and toss that list since you're done with it. Wrong!
Save the list for when you're re-packing and don't check it off until it is inside the suitcase. Not suitcase-adjacent. Inside the bag.
We forget to bring things to dance competitions, and sometimes (even worse), we forget to bring things back home.
Find me at the next Dance-O-Rama® and we can compare lists!
How To Get Started
If you're interested in getting started with competitive dancing, we recommend checking out the
Competitive Dance Lessons page on this website, or continue reading these recommended articles.