Why Packing Matters More Than You Think
Your first rated horse show is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. Between early mornings, multiple classes, and the unpredictability of live competition, the last thing you want is to realize you forgot something important. A solid packing list takes the stress out of show day and lets you focus on riding.
This checklist is designed for riders competing in equitation, hunter, and jumper divisions at rated USEF shows in Southern California, but most of it applies to any English riding competition.
Rider Clothing and Equipment
Start with the essentials you will wear in the ring. You will need a properly fitted show coat in navy or black, a show shirt with a ratcatcher collar, tan breeches in good condition without stains or pilling, tall boots that are clean and polished, a fitted helmet that meets current ASTM/SEI safety standards, a belt, gloves, and a hairnet. If you are competing in equitation classes, presentation matters even more, so make sure everything fits well and looks sharp.
Pack a backup show shirt in case of spills or sweat, and bring comfortable clothes to wear between classes. Many riders change into sneakers and casual clothes when they are not mounted.
Horse Tack and Equipment
Your trainer will typically handle the horse's preparation, but it helps to know what goes to the show. Standard items include your saddle, bridle, and martingale if used, a saddle pad appropriate for the division, a girth and backup girth, boots or wraps for schooling, and any specialized equipment your horse uses such as a specific bit or noseband.
Bring extras where you can. A spare stirrup leather, an extra pair of reins, and a backup girth can save your day if something breaks during warm-up.
Grooming and Barn Supplies
Even if your trainer handles grooming at the show, having your own kit is smart. Pack a basic grooming kit with brushes, hoof pick, and mane comb, fly spray, show sheen or coat polish, braiding supplies if your horse will be braided, hoof oil or polish for the ring, towels and rags, and baby wipes for quick cleanups on boots or tack.
Health and Safety Items
Shows are long days, often in direct sun. Take care of yourself and your horse by packing sunscreen and a hat for when you are not riding, plenty of water and electrolytes, snacks and easy meals since show food options are often limited, any medications your horse takes, a basic first aid kit for minor cuts or blisters, and your horse's health certificate and coggins paperwork which are required at most show grounds.
Paperwork and Documentation
Do not forget the administrative side. Bring your USEF membership card and horse registration, your entry confirmation and class schedule, your trainer's contact information, and any zone or circuit cards that apply to your divisions. Many of these are digital now, but having printed backups is always a good idea in case your phone dies or service is spotty at the show grounds.
A Few Things People Always Forget
After years of showing, a few items come up again and again as things riders wish they had packed. These include a phone charger or portable battery pack, cash for braiders or tips, a folding chair for downtime between classes, a change of clothes in case of rain or mud, boot pulls to help get tall boots on and off, and a small sewing kit for emergency repairs to show clothes.
Let Your Trainer Guide You
If this is your first show, your trainer is your best resource for knowing exactly what to bring and what the barn will provide. At Sorella Farm, show preparation is part of the training program. Ireland Swenson and the team handle the logistics of getting horses to the show ready to compete, so riders and families can focus on the experience itself.
For questions about showing with Sorella Farm, contact Ireland at (909) 851-2008 or ireland@sorellafarm.com.