Your first horse show is exciting, but there’s a lot to think about before you and your horse ever step into the ring.
Between paperwork, tack, travel arrangements, show clothes, and everything your horse will need for the day, it’s easy to wonder whether you’ve forgotten something.
A little preparation can make the experience feel much more manageable and leave you more time to enjoy this milestone with your horse.
Every show and discipline is different, so use this checklist as a starting point and adjust it to fit your event, your horse, and your needs.
Start with the Show Requirements
Before you begin packing, review the show’s rules and entry information carefully.
Requirements can vary by event, organization, and location, and knowing what you’ll need ahead of time can prevent last-minute surprises.
A few things to confirm include:
- Entry forms, fees, deadlines, and class eligibility
- Required health documentation, which may include a current negative Coggins test, Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI), or vaccination records¹ ²
- Show rules and rider dress requirements for your discipline
- Directions, trailer parking, check-in procedures, and stabling arrangements
If you’ll be traveling across state lines, check the health entry requirements for your destination as well as the requirements of the show venue.
US Equestrian notes that each state has its own regulations for horses entering its borders and that general equine entry requirements typically include a CVI and negative Coggins test.¹
Keep important documents together and easily accessible during your trip. Having digital copies on your phone can provide a useful backup.
Pack for Your Horse and Yourself
Everyone develops their own horseshow packing system eventually.
For your first event, start early and make a list to avoid that sinking “I forgot it!” feeling halfway to the showgrounds.
Depending on your discipline and event, your list might include:
- Saddle, saddle pads, bridle, reins, girth, and appropriate bit
- Boots, wraps, or other equipment your horse normally uses
- Grooming supplies, including brushes and a hoof pick
- Show clothing and footwear
- Spare tack or basic repair supplies
- Water buckets, feed, hay, and other stall supplies if needed
- A basic equine first-aid kit
Whenever possible, pack and organize everything the day before rather than waiting until the morning of the show.
Keep Your Horse’s Routine Familiar
The days leading up to your first show aren’t the time to overhaul your horse’s normal routine.
Maintain their usual feeding, exercise, turnout, and care schedule as much as possible.
Make sure your horse has regular access to fresh water, and plan ahead for how you’ll provide familiar feed and hay while you’re away from home.
If you have questions about your horse’s individual needs during travel or competition, talk with your veterinarian before show day.
Give Yourself Extra Time for Travel
Loading the trailer, organizing equipment, driving to an unfamiliar location, unloading, and finding your assigned area can all take longer than expected.
Build extra time into your schedule so you don’t have to rush. Before leaving home, check your route and allow for traffic, construction, or other delays.
A calmer start to the day can make the experience more enjoyable for you and your horse.
Arrive Early and Get Oriented
Once you arrive, give yourself time to learn your surroundings before the day’s activities begin.
Check in with the show office, confirm your number and class schedule, and ask about any last-minute changes. Find important locations such as the warm-up area, show ring, wash racks, and designated horse areas.
If permitted, walking your horse around can also give you both a chance to become familiar with the new environment before it’s time to compete.
Remember: Your First Show Is About Learning
Your first horse show doesn’t have to be perfect.
Pay attention to what worked well, what you wished you’d packed, how much time different tasks took, and how your horse handled the experience.
You may even want to make a few notes afterward while everything is fresh in your mind.
Each show teaches you something that makes preparing for the next one a little easier.
So, pack carefully, give yourself plenty of time, and remember to enjoy the experience; you only get one first horse show!
Your Pets & Horses are our Priority!
At the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC), our top priority is promoting the health and well-being of dogs, cats, and horses.
That is why we created the NASC quality programs and the NASC Quality Seal, which help you identify animal health and nutritional supplements from responsible suppliers committed to producing the highest-quality, most consistent products available.
Visit our website to learn more and to see a list of NASC members who have earned the Quality Seal.
References
- US Equestrian. Equine Transport — Healthy Travel and Interstate Travel.
- US Equestrian. Biosecurity Measures — Healthy Horse Entry Requirements.
