Sequins, Safety Pins, and Snacks: Our Comp Day Essentials

It’s 6:00 AM.

Your dancer is curled up in the backseat with their studio jacket on. The GPS says 34 minutes to the venue. You’re caffeinated, slightly frantic, and already running through mental checklists.

And then it hits you:

Where are the jazz shoes? (Cue the internal panic music!)

Whether you’re a first-time comp parent or a seasoned soloist, we’ve all had that moment…standing in a dressing room, rummaging through sequins and snacks, knowing something’s missing.

So, let’s fix that!

At Fusion, we’ve seen it all: forgotten tights, missing headpieces, even dance parents pinning a ripped costume last minute.

Here’s a real-deal list of what dancers should have in their competition bag. The stuff that actually matters when the day gets hectic.

The Wardrobe Essentials

- All costumes, clearly labeled in garment or duffle bags

- All shoes (please check this TWICE)

- Tights- multiple pairs (because rips happen)

- Dance bras + undergarments that match costumes

- Back-up hair ties + bobby pins

- Earrings

Pro Tip: Do a full dress rehearsal at home and pack immediately after.

The Hair & Makeup Lifesavers

- Full makeup kit (foundation, lipstick, glitter, etc.)

- Makeup remover wipes- Hairspray + gel

- Brush + teasing comb

- Hair net + bun essentials

- Q-tips + cotton pads for touch-ups

Competition lighting is no joke, blend that contour!

The Emergency Kit

- Safety pins (A LOT of them)

- Needle & thread

- Fashion tape

- Mini first-aid kit (band-aids, pain reliever, blister pads)

- Stain remover pen

- Deodorant + body wipes

You will be someone’s hero with this bag. Guaranteed.

The Extras You’ll Thank Us For

- Portable mirror

- Phone charger

- Snacks + water (protein bars, fruit, etc.)

- Blanket or robe (for staying warm between routines & backstage)

- Speaker or headphones for pre-stage rituals

- Positive energy and patience (the most important item of all)

One Last Word of Advice...

Pack before the day of, AND check it twice.See you backstage!

-The Fusion Team