What to pack for a swim gala: The ultimate checklist
Swim galas are exciting, but they can also be long, tiring, and unpredictable (hello, surprise wind or blazing sun).
The best way to set your swimmer up for success?
Pack like a pro.
We've put together the ultimate gala checklist to make sure your swimmer stays warm, dry, focused, and race-ready, no matter what the day throws their way.
Cooler bag with snacks and hydration
This is essential. Use a cooler bag with an ice brick to keep: High-protein snacks (biltong, chicken strips, meatballs, protein bars, banana) Water and hydration drinks (32GI, HydraFit, HI5; no Energade, Powerade or sugary drinks!)
See our article on snack hacks for galas to help you pack.
Top tip: Pack food in small, clearly labelled containers your swimmer can grab easily between races.
Poolside gear
Galas often involve a lot of waiting, and conditions can vary. Make sure your swimmer has:
- A comfortable camp chair
- Their TC tracksuit top, socks, and a warm beanie
- A swimming parka if they have one, especially in winter
- Sunscreen (yes, even in winter)
- A hat or cap for outdoor venues
- A blanket and pillow to rest under the gazebo between races
Towels – and plenty of them!
Bring one towel per race, especially in colder months. Wet towels don’t dry quickly, and we want to avoid swimmers getting cold between events. Label them clearly.
Swimming kit
Pack it all; and spares just in case:
- A warm-up costume (or training suit)
- A racing costume
- Goggles and a spare pair
- TC cap and a spare (because the pool deck eats caps for breakfast)
Something to keep busy (that isn’t a screen)
Swimmers need to stay under the gazebo between races to rest, stay warm, and avoid sun or wind exposure. But sitting still isn’t always fun, especially for younger swimmers.
Encourage them to pack:
- A book, word puzzle or activity book
- A pack of cards or travel board game
- A small fidget or sensory puzzle
- A sketchpad or crossword
Note: No phones, tablets or devices; TC galas are screen-free zones so that swimmers stay present and connected with their team and to avoid any expensive devices finding feet.
Label everything (seriously, everything)
Gala days are notorious for gear going missing. Use name stickers, permanent markers or iron-on labels to mark:
- Towels
- Costumes
- Goggles
- Caps
- Cooler bags and bottles
- Flip-flops or Crocs
- Chairs, blankets and pillows
It might feel extra, but it’ll save you from the Bermuda Triangle of lost swim stuff.
Conclusion
Packing for a gala doesn’t have to be stressful. Use this checklist as your go-to, get your swimmer involved in packing their own bag, and treat it like part of the preparation process.
At TC Aquatics, we teach swimmers to take responsibility for their sport, and that starts with showing up ready.
So grab your checklist, double-check your gear, and head to the pool with confidence.
"Pack smart. Stay warm. Fuel right. Swim strong."