Preparing for a dance competition takes more than learning choreography. From costumes and shoes to hair accessories and snacks, having the right dance competition essentials can make the day less stressful and help dancers perform at their best.
Whether it's your first eisteddfod or a national dance competition, packing smart means you can focus on dancing instead of worrying about what you've forgotten.
One item that's quickly becoming a must-have for dancers everywhere is Gumbis—premium warm-up overalls designed to keep dancers warm, protect costumes, and provide all-day comfort.
If you're creating your dance competition packing list, here's everything you should bring.
1. Gumbis Warm-Up Overalls (Your Most Important Competition Essential)
Every dancer spends more time waiting than performing.
Between warm-ups, rehearsals, backstage line-ups and awards presentations, dancers can spend hours sitting, stretching and waiting for their next routine.
That's why Gumbis should be the first item packed in every dance bag.
Unlike bulky hoodies or tracksuit pants, Gumbis are designed specifically for dancers.
They help:
- Keep muscles warm between routines
- Protect expensive dance costumes
- Keep tights clean
- Preserve competition hair and makeup
- Keep dancers comfortable all day
Made from premium soft polar fleece, Gumbis fit comfortably over leotards, costumes and dancewear, making them the ultimate dance competition essential.
2. Dance Costumes
Always pack every costume the night before.
Use garment bags to keep costumes clean and organised.
Check that you have:
- All costumes
- Dance skirts
- Jackets (if required)
- Matching accessories
Keeping costumes covered with Gumbis while waiting backstage helps protect them from dirt, dust and accidental spills.
3. Dance Shoes
Every dance style requires different shoes.
Double-check you've packed:
- Ballet shoes
- Jazz shoes
- Tap shoes
- Contemporary foot undies
- Character shoes
- Acro footwear (if required)
Always pack spare ribbons or elastics for ballet shoes just in case.
4. Hair Kit
Competition hair needs to stay perfect all day.
Pack:
- Hair ties
- Hair nets
- Bobby pins
- Hair pins
- Hairspray
- Gel
- Comb
- Brush
The best part about Gumbis?
They're designed to be easy to wear and remove, helping dancers protect neat buns, braids and competition hairstyles without constant touch-ups.
5. Competition Makeup
Keep a small makeup bag nearby for quick fixes.
Include:
- Powder
- Lipstick
- Mascara
- Eyeliner
- Makeup wipes
- Setting spray
- Cotton tips
Having everything together makes backstage touch-ups quick and easy.
6. Water Bottle
Hydration is essential during long competition days.
A reusable water bottle helps dancers stay refreshed without constantly leaving backstage.
7. Healthy Snacks
Competition days can last eight to twelve hours.
Pack snacks that provide long-lasting energy, such as:
- Fruit
- Protein bars
- Rice crackers
- Nuts (where permitted)
- Yogurt
- Sandwiches
Keeping energy levels up helps dancers stay focused throughout the day.
8. Safety Pins & Sewing Kit
Costume emergencies happen.
A small emergency kit should include:
- Safety pins
- Needle
- Black thread
- Clear thread
- Scissors
- Fashion tape
You'll be grateful it's there if something comes loose just before going on stage.
9. First Aid Essentials
Small items can save the day.
Pack:
- Band-Aids
- Blister patches
- Pain relief (for parents if appropriate)
- Tissues
- Hand sanitiser
10. Phone Charger
Competition days are long.
Keeping devices charged means parents can check schedules, take photos and stay connected all day.
Why Gumbis Belong in Every Dance Bag
While every item on this list is important, Gumbis are the one essential that supports dancers from the moment they arrive until the competition ends.
Gumbis help dancers:
✔ Stay warm between routines
✔ Keep muscles ready to perform
✔ Protect expensive costumes
✔ Keep tights clean
✔ Preserve competition hair and makeup
✔ Stay comfortable during long competition days
✔ Feel confident before stepping onto the stage
They're not just another piece of dancewear—they're a competition essential designed by dancers, for dancers.
The Ultimate Dance Competition Checklist
Before leaving home, make sure you've packed:
- ✔ Gumbis Warm-Up Overalls
- ✔ Dance costumes
- ✔ Dance shoes
- ✔ Ballet tights
- ✔ Hair accessories
- ✔ Makeup
- ✔ Water bottle
- ✔ Healthy snacks
- ✔ Safety pins
- ✔ Sewing kit
- ✔ Phone charger
- ✔ Competition schedule
With everything packed and ready to go, dancers can relax, stay warm, and enjoy every moment of competition day.
Why Every Competition Dancer Needs Gumbis
Every dance parent wants their child to feel confident, comfortable and prepared before taking the stage.
Gumbis make that easier.
Designed specifically for dancers, Gumbis provide warmth without bulk, protect beautiful costumes, and help dancers stay performance-ready all day long.
Whether it's a local eisteddfod, a studio showcase or a national championship, Gumbis are the dance competition essential no dancer should be without.