Quick answer: most teams need a competition uniform, bow, shoes, hair and makeup touch-up supplies, snacks and water, and something to fill the long waits between warm-up and performance - but always check your team's specific packing list first, since exact requirements vary between gyms. Want to check items off as you pack? Try the interactive Competition Day Checklist.
Always Start With Your Coach's List
Every gym and team has its own specific requirements - from exact hairstyle and makeup rules to what's allowed on the competition floor. This page covers what's commonly needed in general; your coach's specific list is always the authoritative one.
The Core Kit
Most competition days require:
- Competition uniform, ready and pressed;
- Cheer shoes, clean and laced;
- Bow, plus a spare if your team allows;
- Any team-specified undergarments, tights or briefs.
Hair and Makeup
Many teams have specific hair and makeup requirements for a uniform team look. Common items to pack include hairspray, bobby pins, hair ties, and whatever makeup your team specifies - plus a small mirror for touch-ups between warm-up and performance.
Comfort for a Long Day
Competition days often involve long waits between arrival, warm-up and performance. It's worth packing:
- water and snacks;
- comfortable clothing to change into after performing;
- something to pass the time - a book, tablet or cards;
- a blanket or something to sit on, since venues can involve a lot of waiting on hard floors.
Practical Extras
A small first-aid kit (plasters, safety pins for a loose hem or strap), a portable phone charger, and cash for venue food or merchandise are all commonly useful, even if rarely strictly required.
Where It All Goes
Most families pack everything into a cheer bag large enough to carry the full kit without crushing the uniform - see Cheer Equipment & Culture for a fuller overview of what a typical kit includes.
Related Terms
See What Happens at a Cheer Competition? for what the day itself looks like once you're there.