The Ultimate Dance Competition Prep Checklist: What Every Dancer Needs to Succeed

Dance competition season is here! Whether it’s your first time on stage or you’re a seasoned competitor, preparation is the key to success. The right planning, packing, and mindset can make all the difference between a stressful experience and a winning performance.

To help you stay organized, we’ve put together the ultimate dance competition checklist—everything you need for a smooth, confident, and standout performance.

1. Dance Competition Essentials: What to Pack

✅ Costumes (Checked and Ready!)

• Make sure all costumes are clean, ironed, and complete with all accessories.

• Bring a backup set of tights (snags happen!).

• Use a garment bag to keep costumes organized and wrinkle-free.

✅ TotalStretch Tights (Pack Extras!)

• Always have at least two extra pairs of Body Wrappers TotalStretch Tights—one for performance, one for emergencies.

• Choose the right style: Convertible, Footed, or Stirrup tights based on your routine.

• Check for runs or holes before packing!

✅ Shoes (And More Shoes!)

• Pack all necessary dance shoes—ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary, or pointe.

• Break in new shoes ahead of time to avoid discomfort on stage.

• Bring extra laces, elastics, and toe pads for safety.

✅ Hair and Makeup Kit

• Hairspray, bobby pins, hair ties, and a brush for quick touch-ups.

• Makeup essentials: foundation, lipstick, eyeshadow, blush, and setting spray.

• False lashes and lash glue (if required for competition).

• A small mirror for last-minute checks.

✅ Emergency Kit

• Safety pins and a sewing kit for costume fixes.

• Fabric tape to keep costumes in place.

• Band-aids, blister pads, and instant cold packs for injuries.

• Deodorant and body wipes for freshness.

✅ Snacks and Hydration

• Water bottle (stay hydrated!).

• Healthy snacks: bananas, nuts, granola bars, or protein bites.

• Electrolyte packets for extra energy.

✅ Props and Accessories

• Double-check if your routine needs hats, scarves, or any props.

• Carry spares in case something gets lost backstage.

✅ Competition Schedule & ID

• Keep a printed copy of your competition schedule.

• Some competitions require dancer IDs or registration confirmations—keep them handy!

2. Warm-Up and Rehearsal Prep

✅ Stretching and Warm-Up Routine

• Arrive early to warm up and loosen your muscles.

• Do a mix of dynamic stretches, light cardio, and technique drills to avoid injury.

• Use a foam roller or massage ball to release tight muscles.

✅ Practice Run-Through

• Go over your routine one last time without over-rehearsing.

• Focus on clean execution and expressions rather than drilling every step.

• Listen to your music to get mentally in sync with the tempo.

✅ Final Costume & Tights Check

• Put on your full costume and TotalStretch Tights before heading to the stage.

• Do a quick mirror check to ensure everything is secure.

• Remove jewelry and accessories that aren’t part of the routine.

3. Mental Prep for Performance Confidence

✅ Positive Mindset

• Take deep breaths and visualize a successful performance.

• Repeat affirmations like “I am prepared, strong, and ready to shine!”

• Don’t compare yourself to others—focus on your own best performance.

✅ Pre-Stage Rituals

• Listen to your favorite pump-up song.

• Do a few power poses for confidence.

• Give yourself a pep talk or meditate for a few minutes.

✅ Stay Present & Enjoy It!

• Smile, connect with the audience, and dance with passion.

• If you make a mistake, keep going—the judges may not even notice!

• Most importantly, have fun and express your love for dance!

Bonus Tip: Post-Competition Recovery

• Cool down with light stretching after your performance.

• Hydrate and refuel with a healthy meal.

• Reflect on your performance—celebrate your strengths and learn from challenges.

Final Thoughts

Competitions can be nerve-wracking, but with the right preparation and mindset, you can step on stage feeling confident and ready to shine. Whether you’re competing solo or as part of a team, organization is key—so use this checklist and make your competition day stress-free!

Got any must-have dance competition tips? Share them with us in the comments! ✨