Whether you are beginning your dance journey and are looking to know the essentials, or are a vetted dancer in need of a little inspiration, we’ve got you covered.
The Essentials
- Dance Shoes
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- By the way, it’s not something to be embarrassed about—dance shoes can smell! Keep your bag fresh by placing dryer sheets inside of your shoes and letting them air out after when you arrive home.
- Are you new to dance and without shoes? We’ve all been there! Bring a comfortable pair of sneakers or something closed-toe and easy to move around in to get started.
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- Practice Clothes/Change of Clothes
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- Changing into designated dance clothes helps put you in a mindset to get moving! Headed somewhere after practice? Save yourself a trip home and pack a change of clothes with you.
- Need some inspiration? Check out our blog on what to wear to a ballroom dance lesson.
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- Water
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- Studios almost always have water at the ready, but it's a great idea to bring your own bottle.
- Hydration is important and often goes beyond just drinking water when you are very physically active! Instead of leaning on sugary drinks, try a hydration multiplier like Nuun or Liquid IV alongside plenty of water throughout practice.
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- Snacks
- Ideally, something with protein, fat, and carbohydrates will keep your energy up throughout your practice or lesson. Here are some suggestions:
- Apple or Banana and Nut Butter
- Protein Bar
- Vegetables and Hummus
- Nuts and Dried Fruit
- Popcorn
- Protein Shake
- Ideally, something with protein, fat, and carbohydrates will keep your energy up throughout your practice or lesson. Here are some suggestions:
- Deodorant
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- Dance is a workout—before you know it, you’ll be breaking a sweat. Come prepared!
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- Notebook/Phone
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- Write down tips you’d like to keep in mind, schedule your next lesson, and record what you’d like to practice on your own.
- Want to know how to improve your notes and practice plans? Read more here!
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Leveling it Up
These aren’t always essential, although they surely come in handy for some dancers.
- Shoe Brush
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- These keep the soles of your dance shoes in good condition and able to maintain traction on the floor.
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- Small First Aid Kit
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- Think essentials only—bandages, a small container of pain-reliever, alcohol wipes.
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- Hand Sanitizer
- Electrolytes or Caffeine
- Small sweat towel
- Safety Pins
- Wet Wipes
The Bag
These bag options have plenty of storage to help organize your dance essentials.
- Kinetic Gym Duffle - Athleta - $159
- Everyday Gym Bag - Gymshark - $35
- Landon Carryall Bag - Dagne Dover - $125
- Stevyn Duffle - Calpak - $78
- Carry On Duffel - Target - $29.99
- Sabi Chic Tote - Sabi Chic - $150
