Match one on tournament day is not the time to realize you forgot sunscreen, snacks, or *gasp* even your backup paddle. Whether you’re playing a local bracket or preparing for a PPA Tour Slam, packing smart keeps your head in the game.

Here’s a quick checklist for what to bring on match day:

• At Least Two Paddles: You never know when something breaks, warps, or cracks.
• Grip Tape or Overgrips: Quick fix for those sweaty hands.
• Shoes and Extra Socks: Don’t forget your pickleball shoes and clean socks!
• Balls: Especially if you need to bring your own and to warm up ahead of time.
• Towel or Wristbands: Stay dry. Stay focused.
• Snacks + Hydration: Protein bars, fruit, electrolytes, and water. Avoid energy crashes by all means.
• Hat, Sunglasses, and Sunscreen: Keep the sun off your mind.
• Band-Aids, Pain Reliever, Sports Tape, etc.: Be your own first responder. Don’t forget about injury prevention.
• Change of Clothes: You’ll be thankful for dry clothes before your next match.
  

Pro tip: Pack your pickleball bag the night before. Waking up ready means one less thing to stress about, creating a better start to your tournament day.

See you out there—where preparation meets performance.