Packing for Long Trips

Being an athlete that participates in club also means traveling to tournaments out of state. When traveling far distances there are many things you are going to want to bring with you to keep you entertained and provide you with everything necessary during the trip. While some people like to bring minimal items, others seem to be planning for a weeklong trip. Here are some things you should keep in mind when packing.

First off you will obviously need to pack all your clothes and equipment necessary for the sport you're playing. This includes jerseys, headbands, shoes, socks, sports bras if you're a girl, warm-ups, and whatever items are specific to your sport. For example if you play volleyball you will need knee pads, volleyball shoes, spandex, all of your jerseys, sometimes a headband, warm-ups, pumped up volleyball, and your team's custom bag if you have one. Other sports like softball might need bats, gloves, etc.

The next thing to keep in mind when packing is food. Always make sure you are going to have enough to eat, or plan ahead to buy food somewhere. You are going to need throughout the day and concessions can get pretty expensive. It is also usually better to bring your own food, because concessions are not always healthy even if it is at a tournament.

Another thing you might want to think about is the clothes you will be wearing when you're not playing. This can include swimsuits for your free time at the end of the day, or formalwear for team dinners. Almost every club volleyball tournament I have been to my team has had one team dinner over the weekend where all the girls dress up. You might also want to bring sweats or something comfortable to lounge around in after your tiring day.

The last thing to consider when packing that is not always necessary is something that will provide you with entertainment on your long car ride. Some people like to bring books, while others bring movies or play on their phone. I like to use my time wisely and take a much needed nap. I also bring homework with to get my studies out of the way and have a stress free weekend.

There are lots of items athletes could bring when traveling long distances. It is okay to go a little overboard, but make sure you have all the necessities first. Remember you are traveling for sports, not for a small vacation, though it may seem like that's what it is. Traveling has to be one of my favorite parts of playing club sports, because it brings memories that can never be forgotten.