As a baseball mom, I've learned that being prepared during overnight tournaments is key to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for both you and your child. By planning ahead, you can focus on supporting your child's passion for the game and creating lasting memories.
Travel baseball is extremely fun and exciting but it can also be overwhelming too. Â Especially when you are traveling to locations that you don't know or in climates that are different than you are used to. Â This post will help you be prepared so that all you have to worry about one you get there is enjoying the game. Â
You are going to learn about all the travel baseball must haves, from overnight tournament packing lists to sports mom bag essentials to baseball tournament must have items this post will make you an expert and the envy of the other moms.  So, grab your checklist, pack your bags, and get ready for a fantastic adventure as a prepared and enthusiastic baseball mom!
This post is all about travel baseball essentials! Â
DISCLOSURE:  This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click on a product and make a purchase I will earn a small commission.  I only recommend products that I truly believe are great so you get an awesome product and I get a small commission.  It's a win-win. Â
Overnight Baseball Tournament Packing List
At travel baseball tournaments, the atmosphere is buzzing with excitement (and nerves) as teams from all over gather to compete. Players in high school are often trying to attract the attention of a college or professional scout. Amidst the energy and anticipation, the last thing you want is to realize that you forgot an essential piece of gear.
That's why ensuring you have all the necessary equipment becomes even more crucial when you're away from home. Having the right gear not only allows your child to perform at their best, but it also gives you peace of mind, knowing that they have everything they need to succeed.
Essential Gear and Equipment For Players and Moms
Baseball Gear Checklist
Bat (or bats): If you have a back up bat bring it. There is always the possibility of a bat breaking. As my husband is fond of saying: "two is one; one is none."
Be sure to check the tournament rules to see what types of bats are allowed. In some of the tournaments that my son competes in they only allow wood bats (you can usually find this information on the event rules page.
Baseball Glove
Batting Gloves
Batting Helmet
Personal Protective Gear: Catcher's gear; sliding mitt; athletic cup
Cleats:Â Â We had a player on our travel team forget his cleats last year and of course realized it right before the game started luckily another player had brought an extra pair that fit.Â
Slides for after the game
Seasoned baseball moms will tell you that as soon as the boys come off the ball field, they change out of their cleats and into slides. So you definitely want to make sure to pack them.
If you're new to baseball mom life then pick up a pair of slides before you go - your player will thank you for it! These Under Armour slides a a great buy. Â
Bat Bag(s): If flying, you do not want to just check your son's everyday baseball bag because their exposed bat could become damaged or stolen (but still pack the regular bag bc he will probably prefer to bring that game day).
If you are flying you will need to get a bag that holds the gear and can be checked as baggage. Here's a great article on Top Tips For Flying With Baseball Bats & Sports Equipment
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Demarini  and Franklin bags are always a solid choice for bats and gear. These bags keep the bats safe from damage and theft and there is plenty of room for gear.
Evoshield is a really great brand. I like this bag because the bats are completely enclosed and there is plenty of room for the rest of my sons gear.
If you are flying and checking your son's gear it's a good idea to buy a TSA compliant lock for the bag since you have likely a pretty big investment in that bag.
Clothing for Players
Extra Uniforms:
I learned my lesson on this one after attending my first travel baseball tournament - we would get back to the hotel late (and exhausted) and my son's uniform was filthy (and stinky) and I had to stay up laundering it for the next game.Â
The next season when we ordered uniforms I ordered two of each jersey and pants. This way, for week-long tournaments I may just have to do laundry twice (my son's team has two jerseys that they alternate - if your son only has one jersey then I would DEFINITELY recommend buying at least two).
Extra Baseball Pants
Extra Jersey
Extra Socks
Undershirt: Â My son prefers to wear a long sleeved shirt under his jersey (even in hot weather)
Clothing For Moms: What To Pack
Hot Weather:
Dri-Fit Clothing: In the summer, we attend tournaments in Arizona where the temperatures are often over 100 degrees. Wearing dri-fit clothing is essential while watching baseball games in high heat because it helps keep you cool, dry, and comfortable throughout the game.
The moisture-wicking fabric of dri-fit apparel efficiently pulls sweat away from your body, allowing it to evaporate quickly, which helps regulate your body temperature and prevents discomfort caused by excessive perspiration. With the sun beating down, dri-fit clothing becomes your secret weapon to stay cool and fully enjoy the game without feeling weighed down by sweat-soaked clothes.
Skort: I really like to pack skorts for the stands. I find that shorts tend to ride up and also in the heat stick to the backs of my legs. By wearing a skort, I avoid the uncomfortable pulling my shorts down in front of everyone but still have modesty as I go up and down the bleachers.
Cooler Weather
For cooler weather you want to pack layers. It may feel cool but as you sit in the sun you may want to remove a layer. Or vice versa it can initially feel warm and then next thing you know you are freezing. Bringing layers is an easy way to adjust as you watch the game.Â
Jeans
Jacket
Winter Hat and Gloves
Toiletries and personal care items
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Deodorant (a must in high heat!)
Razors
Medications
Allergy medication (being in a different location you never know how you will react)
First aid kitÂ
Must haves in your first aid kit are band aids, sterile gauze pads, a cold compress, and ibuprofin or motrin at a minimum.
Laundry Kit
Your kit should include Laundry detergent and stain remover at a minimum. I like to also include a whitener refresher because... white pants!
Bringing a laundry kit for baseball tournaments is a game-changer when it comes to staying fresh and organized. With multiple games and practices packed into a tournament, uniforms and gear can quickly accumulate dirt, sweat, and odors.
Always check to see if your hotel has laundry services on site. Most of the teams we travel with book at hotels with a laundry facility. If not, ask if the hotel has a laundry service that can wash the clothes, if not, you will likely have to go to a laundromat if your tournament is multiple days long.
Either way having the cleaning supplies on hand is a must.
Also, bring a roll of quarters for the washing machines.
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Water Bottles
I bring multiple Yeti's. One for me in the stand. One for my son during the game. And a large yeti that I fill with cold water and ice so that I can refill our bottles with cold water throughout the hot days during the tournament.
Quick and Easy Meal OptionsÂ
Sandwiches, pre-made salads, and fruit or cut up vegetables are great to have on hand.Â
Extra Bags for Dirty Laundry or Wet Gear
I just throw a garbage bag or two in my suitcase that way on the last day I can just pack up the dirty and stinky clothes and they don't mix with the other items.Â
Game Day: Baseball Tournament Must Haves
Bleacher Seat
What makes watching the game with a stadium seat so much better is the back support. Â When you are sitting in the stands for hours your back can start to feel it.Â
Also, if attending a tournament in a really hot location like Arizona if the bleachers are metal and exposed to the sun all day they will be extremely hot. Â A bleacher seat lets you sit in the stands without getting burned.Â
Ice Chest
Attending travel baseball tournaments means spending long hours, often under the sun, cheering on your player. Here's why bringing a cooler is not just a good idea, it’s essential:
Keep Drinks Cold: Long days in the sun can be exhausting and dehydrating. A cooler packed with icy cold water and drinks ensures that both you and your player stay hydrated and refreshed throughout the day.
Food Safety: No one wants a side of food poisoning with their baseball! A cooler helps keep perishable snacks like sandwiches, fruits, and salads fresh and safe to eat all day. This is especially important since you’re likely there from morning till evening.
Hands-Free Convenience: I absolutely love using a backpack cooler for its practicality. It allows me to keep the snacks and drinks chilled while keeping my hands free for other essentials—like clapping for that amazing play! Plus, it's comfortable to wear, even when fully loaded.
Travel-Friendly: Another great thing about a backpack cooler is its convenience for travel. You can pack it with your essentials and check it in like any other bag when flying to tournaments, making it a breeze to bring along.
Having a cooler at your side during those tournament days not only provides practical benefits but also adds a bit of comfort to the long hours spent on the sidelines. Whether it’s a sunny day out or a double-header that lasts into the evening, a well-packed cooler is your best companion.
Umbrella or Pop Up
Many baseball seats are in direct sun with limited shade.Â
If you are flying, you have limited space. So packing a small umbrella in your suitcase is a good idea. A small umbrella is also good if you are sitting in the bleachers you can use it without bothering other fans.
If you are driving or have more room you may like a pop-up umbrella. This one is nice because it is bigger and you can set it on the grass to create shade and there is room for a younger sibling too. Â You can also share it with other families who may not have brought shade (they will be very grateful!)
Pop Up Canopy Tent
These are also only an option if your tournament is within driving distance. I personally do not have one. However, during the summer baseball season some (awesome) baseball moms will show up and set up their canopy over the bleachers - or next to if they can't. Those are definitely the most popular since it provides shade for many of us fans.Â
Folding Wagon
A folding wagon can be a convenient way to bring all of your stuff from the car to the baseball field. But this is only an option if your tournament is within driving distance. When we fly, I would not bother to check a folding wagon. Having a good baseball mom bag and a cooler with convenient backpack straps will serve you just as well.Â
Bleacher Umbrella Holder
Shop our picks for game day must haves
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Miscellaneous ItemsÂ
Cash and small change for entry fees, parking fees, or or concessionsÂ
For team moms: Team rosters and emergency contact informationÂ
What to Pack In Your Sports Mom Bag
Bag
First of all you want to find a bag that's going to hold all your stuff. Many baseball moms like a large tote bag. Those are cute and fine for a regular day at the ball field. But for a double header, a tournament, or to have a fully stocked bag so that you are prepared for anything, I recommend a large durable bag. My favorite is the simply southern tote. Â
Hand sanitizer:Â I always like to keep a hand sanitizer but at a baseball tournament, it is especially important. Many facilities have bathrooms with running water but some only have a port a potty. In that case, it is great to be able to clean your hands.
Something to Entertain a younger sibling:Â Since you are going to be there for several hours you definitely want to plan ahead so that a younger sibling has something to do (and you can enjoy the game). Throwing book or pens and paper will give them an activity. You can also include a tennis ball or jump rope so they can play with the other siblings at the baseball field.Â
Or you can have the sibling pack their own separate bag with everything they want to play with.
How do you keep cool at a baseball tournament?
When it comes to hot baseball tournaments or games, staying cool is the name of the game! With the scorching sun and sizzling temperatures, it's important to keep your cool both on and off the field.
In addition to sunglasses and sunscreen. Â Dri-fit clothes are a must if the temperature is really scorching. Â If it's not too hot then a skort or shorts and a cute baseball mom tank top is perfect.Â
Splash some water on your face during breaks and use those misting fans or spray bottles to create your very own refreshing breeze. And remember, when the heat is on, keep your spirits high and enjoy the game with a big smile. So let's beat the heat, play our hearts out, and make this baseball tournament a hot time in the coolest way possible!
Personal Fan Or Mister
Personal wearable fans or misters are fantastic companions for watching a game in scorching heat. These devices provide instant relief by creating a cooling breeze or a fine mist that helps lower your body temperature. Whether you're in the stands, on the sidelines, or at a tailgate, they keep you comfortable and refreshed, allowing you to enjoy the game without being overwhelmed by the heat.
Plus, they're portable and easy to use, making them a must-have for anyone looking to stay cool and beat the heat while cheering on their favorite team.Â
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Yetti, Hydroflask, Stanley or Similar
I am an addict. Â I have Yeti, Hydroflask, and Stanley water bottles. Personally, I think a stainless steel, vacuum sealed bottle is a must. Â It ensures that you have cold water throughout the game. Â
Right now my favorite is my 40 ounce Stanley. Â The handle makes it so easy to carry and it fits in a standard drink holder so it doesn't roll around in my car. Â And, I can remove the straw and lock the lid so I can carry it in my bag without spilling all over.
Hydration for Baseball Tournaments
Staying hydrated during a baseball tournament is important for both your player and you. The physical demands of the game, coupled with the outdoor elements, can quickly lead to dehydration. Plus there is additional stress on the players especially if they are hoping they will get noticed for college or the pros.
Hydration is vital for maintaining optimal cognitive function, muscle performance, and endurance on the field. Proper hydration helps regulate body temperature, prevents cramping, and ensures efficient circulation of oxygen and nutrients to muscles. It also supports mental focus, reaction time, and decision-making abilities. By keeping your player well-hydrated throughout the tournament, you can help them sustain their energy levels, prevent fatigue, and enhance their overall performance.
For my son, I have him start drinking extra water and electrolytes at least two days before the tournament.
When we get to town, I go to the grocery store and buy a case of water (for a weekend tournament - more for a longer tournament). I put the case in the refrigerator and the night before I put several in the freezer. In the morning, they are frozen which keeps our other items cold but also they are cold when they thaw.
Extra Water Bottles
The night before the games I put all of the yeti's and hydroflasks in the freezer (empty) so they get extra cold.Â
Game day. My son has his hydroflask filled with cold water in his baseball bag. I also fill a half gallon yeti with cold water and another large yeti and keep both of these in the cooler. I also put the frozen waters in the ice chest as well.Â
We then have plenty of cold water
Bag of Ice
Putting a bag of ice in your ice chest is helpful for keeping your items cool - but also helpful in case there is an injury on your team.Â
Liquid IV
Liquid IV is so great at replenishing electrolytes and supercharges hydration without sugar. I buy a large bag and keep it on hand. I love the strawberry and tangerine flavors but all are good.Â
Gatorade
Original gatorade has sugar but gatorade zero does not. My kids like both so I try to get the Zero when I can. Â
Grab our Downloadable Travel Baseball Packing ListÂ
Snacks For Baseball Tournaments
Food and Snacks
Some facilities have a concession stand but not all do. So it's a good idea to keep some healthy snacks on hand. Â Here are some great ideas to have available. Â
- Energy Bars: These are convenient and provide a quick boost of energy. Look for options with a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.
- Fresh Fruits: Easy to pack and refreshing, fruits like apples, bananas, grapes, and oranges are excellent choices to keep you hydrated and provide natural sugars for sustained energy.
- Trail Mix: Create your own or buy pre-packaged trail mix with a combination of nuts, dried fruits, and seeds. It's a tasty and nutritious snack that provides a mix of protein, healthy fats, and fiber.
- Pretzels: A classic choice for sports events, pretzels are low in fat and provide carbohydrates for energy. Look for whole-grain options for added nutritional benefits.
- Granola Bars: Opt for granola bars that have a good balance of whole grains, nuts, and dried fruits. They're convenient and provide a mix of carbohydrates and protein.
- Veggie Sticks with Hummus: Cut up carrots, celery, bell peppers, or cucumber sticks and pair them with individual portions of hummus. It's a healthy and refreshing snack that provides fiber and vitamins.
- Cheese Sticks: Pack individual cheese sticks or baby bel cheese for a quick source of protein and calcium. They're easy to eat and require no preparation.
- Yogurt Cups: Choose single-serving yogurt cups that are low in sugar and high in protein. Greek yogurt is an excellent option as it provides more protein compared to regular yogurt.
- Peanut Butter Sandwiches: Make simple peanut butter sandwiches on whole-grain bread for a satisfying snack that provides protein and healthy fats.
- Rice Cakes: These crunchy snacks come in various flavors and are a low-fat, low-calorie option. Pair them with nut butter or hummus for added flavor and protein.
- Hard-Boiled Eggs: Prepare and peel hard-boiled eggs in advance for a protein-packed snack that will keep you fueled during the tournament.
CONCLUSION
Having the right travel baseball must-haves is the key to a successful and enjoyable experience on the road. By packing the essential equipment, comfortable apparel, and staying hydrated and fueled with nutritious snacks, you and your player will be ready to have a great tournament experience.
Don't forget the first aid kit for those minor bumps and bruises, and remember to bring along your positive attitude and team spirit. Travel baseball is not just about the games; it's about the friendships formed, the memories made, and the love for the sport. So, gear up, pack smart, and get ready for an incredible journey filled with thrilling moments, camaraderie, and the joy of playing the game you love. Safe travels and may your travel baseball adventures be filled with unforgettable experiences!
This post was all about travel baseball essentials! Â
