The Ultimate Horse Show Packing Checklist

Show days are exciting but can become stressful if you forget something essential. From the rider’s kit to horse gear, a well-packed truck or float can make all the difference.

We asked our BARE ambassadors to share the things they never forget to take, giving you the ultimate insider guide to stress-free show prep.

The Non-Negotiables (Yes… Including the Horse)

Some things should go without saying, but not always!

Posie Sutherland keeps it simple but memorable:

“I always have my BARE white breeches in the truck ready to go, and of course my ponies—it has happened to friends, everything packed & arrived at the show without their horses… hahaha!”

She also never forgets liquorice and carrots, because every good round deserves a reward.

Rider Must-Haves: Comfort, Energy & Performance

When you’re competing, comfort and consistency matter.

• Emma Cox always packs her go-to:

“BARE two-tone tights—they’re the very first thing packed. I can’t ride without them and they always hold up to a long day jumping between horses.”

• Maddi Ball keeps it practical:
  • BARE competition tights
  • Water (usually in her BARE reusable bottle)
  • A makeup tack box for quick fixes

• Sophie Vince never leaves without:
  • BARE jods & breeches
  • A portable tack box
  • Equissage for performance and recovery

• Sienna Wright adds a dressage perspective:

“I would be completely lost on show day without my BARE two-tone competition tights… and for dressage I love the white Sculpt hybrid breeches.”

Horse Essentials: Care, Comfort & Recovery

Your horse always comes first, and these riders make sure of it.

• Elsie Rieger packs with care in mind:
  • Liquorice treats for rewards
  • Electrolyte sachets for hot days
  • Baby wipes for last-minute clean-ups
  • A spare pair of BARE tights (because things happen)
  • Protein/energy bars for herself between classes
• Tanisha Ryan focuses on preparation for anything:
  • BARE lightweight/waterproof long jacket
  • Hippo Health Spookbuster for calm and confidence
  • Her “lucky shirts” (because sometimes it’s a mental game too)

The Unsung Heroes: Small Items, Big Impact

These are the things riders swear by—the ones that save your day behind the scenes.

• Kelly Ralph keeps it real:
  • Baby wipes (bulk buy essential)
  • Jelly lollies for a quick energy hit
  • Lip balm always in her pocket
  • And most importantly—a full water tank

“You never know how far you’re going to have to walk to find a tap on show day.”

• Emma Cox also highlights a different kind of essential:

“My show bestie, number one helper and strapper… from holding horses to fixing plaits and calming nerves—they are the real MVPs.”

The Organised Approach: Packing to Avoid Chaos

For some riders, success starts the night before.

• Amelia Petrie focuses on being organised early to avoid stress:

She starts by packing her BARE outfits the night before, then moves onto horse gear before things get hectic.

“I like to make sure my boots, bonnets and saddle pads are clean before packing them into the tack box, and I leave the gear I use regularly until last.”

From there, it’s a full system:

• • Rugs, feeds, and show box
  • Wash bag and grooming essentials
  • Cleaning tack after final rides
  • Plaiting and packing saddles, bridles, and competition gear

Especially when taking multiple horses, her approach is simple:

prepare early, stay organised, and avoid the last-minute rush.

The Ultimate Horse Show Packing Checklist

Based on our ambassadors, here’s your go-to checklist:

Rider Gear

• Breeches / competition tights
• Spare outfit
• Jacket (weather-proof option)
• Water bottle
• Lip balm
• Energy snacks

Horse Gear

• Saddle pads & boots
• Clean tack (saddle, bridle, accessories)
• Rugs & feed
• Electrolytes
• Grooming & wash kit

Must-Have Extras

• Baby wipes / cleaning wipes
• Treats (carrots, liquorice)
• Makeup/tack box
• Recovery tools (Equissage, etc.)
• Your show support crew

Every rider packs a little differently but the best setups all come down to the same thing: preparation, reliability, and a few personal must-haves you won’t compromise on.

Because on show day, it’s not just about what you bring, it’s about knowing you’re ready for anything.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I pack for a horse show?

You should pack both rider and horse essentials, including breeches, saddle pads, boots, clean tack, grooming supplies, feed, water, and recovery items. Don’t forget small extras like baby wipes, snacks, and treats for your horse.

What are the most important horse show essentials?

The most important essentials include well-fitted riding gear, clean and comfortable tack for your horse, hydration, and preparation items like electrolytes and grooming kits. Reliable gear you trust is key.

What do riders often forget to bring to a horse show?

Commonly forgotten items include gloves, spare outfits, cleaning wipes, and even small things like lip balm or snacks. As our ambassadors joked—some riders have even forgotten their horse!

How do I prepare for a stress-free show day?

Pack the night before, organise your gear into sections (rider, horse, extras), and leave frequently used items until last. Having a checklist and arriving early helps reduce stress.

Why is a horse show packing checklist important?

A checklist ensures you don’t forget essential gear, helps you stay organised, and allows you to focus on performance rather than last-minute problems on show day.