Going to riding camp is a special opportunity to develop your riding skills, spend your holidays among horses and enjoy an unforgettable adventure. Before setting off for the centre, however, it is worth preparing thoroughly and knowing what to bring so you have everything you need during time in the saddle and in your free time. The following guide will help you pack practically and sensibly, with safety, comfort and fun in mind.
It is worth starting to pack for your trip well in advance by browsing the website of the centre hosting the riding camp. There you will find rules, lists of compulsory equipment and information about which riding accessories are available on site and what you need to bring yourself.
Before leaving, check that your equipment is in good condition – especially your riding helmet, paddock boots, half chaps or tall riding boots, as well as your body protector if the camp programme requires one. It is also worth packing comfortable clothing suitable for different weather conditions.
We have prepared a practical list of things every riding camp participant should bring. You can adapt this basic list to the camp programme and your own needs.
Riding is impossible without suitable equipment, so the top priorities are:
a riding helmet – compulsory at every riding club, it protects your head in a fall,
a body protector – especially for jumping,
riding breeches or riding leggings – at least one pair,
white breeches and formal riding attire if competitions or a riding proficiency badge examination are planned,
riding gloves – improve your grip on the reins and protect your hands,
paddock boots or tall riding boots – supportive, safe footwear for riding,
separate, comfortable stable boots,
brushes and basic horse grooming accessories, if the centre requires you to bring your own kit.
This equipment directly affects safety when riding, while well-chosen footwear and trousers make riding more comfortable.
The weather can be changeable during the summer or winter holidays, so it is worth bringing:
comfortable sweatshirts and trousers for wearing around the centre,
a jacket with a peak or a lightweight windbreaker,
a warm sweatshirt/jacket for chilly evenings,
a hat to protect you from the sun (for summer camp),
comfortable clothing for your free time,
a supply of socks and underwear.
Make sure your bag contains:
toiletries – shower gel, shampoo,
a toiletry bag with essential makeup and personal care accessories,
toothpaste and a toothbrush,
towels,
insect repellents, which will be very useful in summer.
Keeping clean is essential to feeling good – especially after a whole day spent with horses.
It is worth bringing:
all necessary camp documents,
pocket money,
a phone and charger,
a power bank,
a water bottle,
a torch,
Board games or card games are also a great way to relax in your free time and help you make new friends.
Depending on the camp programme, the following may be useful:
horse treats (if permitted),
a small first aid kit,
plasters and dressings,
a notebook and pen for taking notes,
additional riding accessories, if you prefer using your own.
Packing well is half the battle. To make life easier when you arrive:
Sort your belongings into categories – keep riding equipment, clothing and toiletries separate. This will help you find what you need more quickly.
Do not leave packing until the last minute – it is worth packing early so you do not forget anything
Choose practicality – comfort matters more than appearance at camp. Choose comfortable clothing and shoes.
Leave room in your bag – keep some space for souvenirs and things you may acquire during camp.
Read the centre's rules – some centres do not allow certain items to be brought in. Checking will help you avoid packing unnecessary things.
Although it is tempting to bring everything “just in case”, some things are definitely not worth packing. These include expensive gadgets and electronics, numerous pairs of shoes, large bottles of perfume, delicate items that are easily damaged, unused accessories that will only take up space, and clothing unsuitable for physical activity.
The equipment needed for riding camp may vary depending on its focus. For a sport-focused camp, it is worth bringing equipment such as extra gloves, a sturdy body protector or formal riding attire if competitions or examinations are planned. Recreational camps, on the other hand, call for comfortable clothing, lightweight garments that allow freedom of movement, basic riding accessories and small items to make free time more enjoyable. In winter, requirements change dramatically – a winter camp means you need to bring warm clothing for layering, thermal riding breeches, thick socks, insulated gloves and accessories that protect against freezing conditions both when riding and when working with horses. Each type of camp has its own characteristics, and it is worth adapting the contents of your luggage accordingly to ensure your comfort and safety.
Proper preparation for riding camp will make your trip safe, comfortable and full of positive experiences. Suitable equipment, practical clothing and well-chosen riding accessories guarantee an enjoyable break with horses.
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