The million-dollar question… My son is on a travel team, what do I need to take to tournaments? I have heard this question more times than I can count. An to tell you the truth, there’s always something I forget or something needed that I don’t have. I’m a “planner” by nature so I get extremely frustrated if I forget something. The good thing is I add it to my list for the next time. Therefore, my list and I are always evolving.
First, let’s start with the basics. The items I never leave home without are folding chairs (I prefer rockers), a good wagon, an ice chest (either on wheels or that can fit in my wagon (this also depends on how many are in your party), a first aid kit (yes the coaches usually have one, but mine is better – I add kids Benedryl and my son’s epi-pen), drinks, and lots of snacks.
While some tournaments say no coolers are allowed, others welcome it. Therefore, if you are a rule-follower you may want some cash in small bills and/or a credit card to the tournaments that don’t allow coolers. Another thing, I like to have on hand an extra pair of clothes and shoes/slides for my son to change into after the games. He also likes wearing slides between games to rest his feet from the cleats.
Additionally, here are some other items you could consider depending on the time of year and location:
- Umbrella or pop-up canopy
- Sun Screen
- Fan/mister
- Hand warmers
- Propane heater and/or blankets/weather pod
- Phone charger
- Cooling towels
- Sanitizer and wet wipes
- Zip-loc bags (quart size) – I use these for trash from snacks and a make-shift ice pack if needed
Finally, I know this is probably a lot to take in if you are just starting in the wonderful world of travel baseball, but believe me when I say above all, there is nothing like the memories you will make!
Here are some links to the rocker, canopy, and cart I use. Please let me know if you want to know about other items I use. https://www.dickssportinggoods.com/p/gci-outdoor-freestyle-rocker-mesh-chair-18gciufrstylrckrmodra/18gciufrstylrckrmodra
https://www.academy.com/shop/pdp/academy-sports-outdoors-tactical-wagon?sku=light-beige