Whether you’re a dancer about to perform or on your way to one of your dance classes, accidents can happen at any time that require you to think quickly. Having a properly packed bag will prepare you for all the scenarios life throws at you. The following guide highlights what you should carry in your bag to ensure your dancing success.

A Guide to Packing Your Dance Bag

1. Haircare Products

Ballerinas and other classical performers must have secure and refined hairstyles, both on stage and in dance classes. Somehow, bobby pins and hair elastics have a way of disappearing, so it’s essential to carry plenty of them, so you’re ready if your hairstyle starts falling out. 

Designate a pocket in your bag for extra hairpins and elastics, or carry them in a plastic baggie or makeup bag. It’s also a good idea to pack a brush or comb and hairspray to complete your look.

2. Warm-Up Clothes

You want to keep your body warm as you start moving. This lets your muscles flex without strain, preventing injury. Since some studios and stages run cold, it’s vital to have warm-up clothes with you. Warm-ups should be fitting clothes that layer easily over your leotard, like leg warmers, ballet sweaters, and unhooded zip-up jackets.

3. Backup Clothes & Shoes

You never know when your tights might snag, or you'll get too sweaty in your leotard. By keeping extra clothing in your bag, you can easily change into something fresh. 

Keeping different types of shoes, from ballet to jazz, and various colored tights, such as black, tan, and pink, in your bag will ensure you’re ready for anything. This is especially important if you’re going to an audition, as they could ask you to perform any type of dance you’ve listed on your resume.

4. A Sewing Kit

While you can change into a spare leotard for dance classes, there are some situations where your only choice is to repair what’s ripped, like a costume for a recital. Having a sewing kit in your bag, and knowing how to use it, will ensure you can fix anything from leotards to pointe shoes. Make sure your kit includes pink, white, and black thread, as well as needles, scissors, ribbon, and a seam ripper.

5. A First Aid Kit

Dancers en pointe are especially prone to blisters and scrapes. A first aid kit is an easy way to tend to your injuries quickly to get you back in class or on the stage. First aid kits should include antiseptic wipes, an antibiotic ointment like Neosporin, different sized Band-Aids, moleskin, and pain reliever. 

Take your dance skills to the next level by enrolling in classes at Utah Dance Artists in South Jordan. This dance school features more than 55 professionally trained instructors who teach students as young as 18 months old. Classes include classical ballet, hip-hop, jazz, and contemporary. Visit the website to view the complete class list, or call (801) 562-0913 to schedule a tour.