10 Essential Items to Pack for Your Pickleball Trip

Are you gearing up for an exciting pickleball adventure abroad? Whether you’re headed to a tropical resort, exploring Southeast Asia, or being dazzled by Japan, packing the right essentials can enhance your experience on and off the court. Here are ten must-have items to ensure your pickleball trip is smooth, enjoyable, and full of unforgettable moments:

1. Pickleball Gear: Of course, the most crucial item is a paddle, but you also need shoes and maybe a grip or two. Pickleball equipment is not readily available internationally, so bring everything you need so you don’t need to buy anything while you travel. You might even want an extra paddle in case something happens.

2. Apparel: Pack comfortable and breathable clothing suitable for playing pickleball in the conditions of the country you are visiting. Include moisture-wicking shirts, shorts or skirts, socks, and a hat or visor to shield yourself from the sun. Check the laundry facilities on the itinerary to see whether laundry is available. Pack light, but you definitely don’t want to run out of clean clothes.

3. Balls: Again, pickleball equipment is not readily available in international destinations, so we appreciate you bringing a couple of extra balls in your suitcase. After the trip, we give them to local players to thank them for hosting us.

4. Hydration Essentials: Staying hydrated is crucial to staying healthy during a pickleball trip. In places where you cannot drink tap water, it is easy to forget and become dehydrated. Pack a water bottle and fill it up at the breakfast buffet or in the room. Constantly sip water to stay ahead of dehydration. Also, pack some electrolytes like liquid IV or Jigsaw Health to replenish minerals and electrolytes when playing in the heat.

5. Sun Protection Essentials: To stay protected and healthy during the trip, bring sun protection essentials like a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. You may be able to find these items abroad, but it’s better to arrive prepared.

6. Medical Essentials: Bring any prescription medication you take, as well as basics like allergy medicine, painkillers, and sleeping pills for jet lag. You never know what you can find internationally, so it is better to be safe than sorry. The pickleball trips instructor will have some basic medical first aid items. Still, it’s also good to bring items for minor cuts, blisters, or muscle strains. Pack a basic first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications you may need.

7. Travel Adapter and Chargers: If traveling internationally, ensure you have the right adapters for your electronics. This information can be found on the Pickleball Trips website. Pack chargers for your phone, laptop, iPad, ear pods, razors, camera, and other devices to capture and share your pickleball adventures.

8. SIM Card or International Plan: Some people travel without a SIM card and use only the hotel wifi. However, if you need to stay connected during the trip, sign up for an international plan before the trip or purchase a SIM card upon arrival. Nowadays, there are also e-SIM cards. For peace of mind, it’s typically best to have access to the internet so that you can communicate with the instructors or group while separated.

9. Documentation: Secure copies of your passport, travel insurance, and emergency contacts. It’s also wise to have the hotel’s contact information available. If the destination requires vaccines or a visa, keep physical copies available just in case you cannot access the internet or your smartphone. Again, find the information you need on the specific Trips page.

10. Gifts: People everywhere love a gift. We recommend carrying some small items, such as T-shirts, towels, stickers, food items, or souvenirs from where you live. You can give these to the local players who we encounter. Players from around the world host us, so it’s nice to return the favor. It is always appreciated.

By packing these essentials, you’ll be well-prepared for a fantastic pickleball trip wherever you go! We can’t wait to travel with you.