What to Pack for a Jiu Jitsu Competition
Tournament days can be long, busy, and unpredictable. A little preparation goes a long way, especially if it is your first competition or your child’s first time competing.
Use this packing list to help make sure you have what you need before you leave for the venue.
Competition Gear
The most important thing to pack is the gear you will need to compete. Always check the tournament rules before the event, because uniform requirements can vary.
For gi divisions, make sure the gi you plan to wear is allowed under that tournament’s rules. Some competitions have strict requirements for gi color, fabric weight, sleeve and pant length, patches, overall fit, and condition. A clean white, blue, or black gi is commonly accepted at many tournaments, but rules are not the same everywhere, so it is always best to confirm before competition day.
For gi divisions, pack:
Clean, tournament-approved gi
Belt
Rashguard or shirt to wear under the gi, if required or preferred
Flip flops or sandals for walking around the venue
Extra hair ties, if needed
Athletic tape, if needed
For no-gi divisions, pack:
Rashguard
Grappling shorts, spats, or approved no-gi bottoms
Mouthguard, if you use one
Flip flops or sandals
Athletic tape, if needed
It is also smart to bring an extra uniform or backup gear if you have it, especially if you are competing in more than one division.
Personal Items
Make sure you have the basics with you before leaving home.
Pack:
ID, if required by the tournament
Phone
Phone charger or portable battery
Wallet
Registration confirmation, if needed
Any required tournament information
Medications or personal medical items
Small towel
Change of clothes for after competing
For kids, it can help to pack a separate bag with everything they need so it is easy to find quickly.
Food and Drinks
Tournament schedules are not always predictable. You may compete right away, or you may have a long wait. Bring food and drinks that are easy to digest and familiar to you.
Good options include:
Water
Electrolyte drink
Bananas
Applesauce pouches
Granola bars
Crackers
Pretzels
Rice cakes
Sandwiches
Simple snacks your child already likes
Avoid trying brand-new foods, heavy meals, or anything that might upset your stomach before competing.
For Long Waits
A big part of tournament day is waiting. Venues can be crowded, loud, and busy, so bring a few things to make the day more comfortable.
Helpful items include:
Hoodie or warm layers
Extra socks
Blanket or small seat cushion
Book, tablet, or quiet activity
Headphones
Cash or card for parking, food, or vendors
Hand sanitizer
Wipes
Small first aid items
Parents may also want to bring something to keep younger siblings occupied if they are coming along.
For Parents of Kids Competing
If your child is competing, pack with comfort and patience in mind. Kids may be nervous, hungry, bored, excited, or all of the above.
For kids, consider bringing:
Extra snacks
Extra water
A change of clothes
Comfort item, if needed
Small activity for downtime
Hair ties or clips
Towel
Plastic bag for sweaty gear afterward
Keeping the day low-stress helps your child focus on the experience rather than feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
After the Matches
Once you are done competing, you will probably want to change, eat, and relax. Bring something dry and comfortable to wear home.
It is also helpful to pack a bag for used gear. A plastic bag or wet bag can keep sweaty gis, rashguards, and towels separate from the rest of your things.
Final Thoughts
You do not need to bring your whole house to a jiu jitsu tournament, but you do want to be prepared. Pack your competition gear first, then add food, water, personal items, and anything that will help you stay comfortable during a long day.
Being prepared will not remove every nerve, but it can make tournament day feel a lot easier.