Athletes are extensive travelers, and so is their luggage! As a tennis player you must consider carefully what you pack for a tournament to ensure you are prepared while also meeting any travel regulations and restrictions.

Have a close look at the following tips to make your next trip a successful journey!

Prepare For Take-Off
Answer the following questions weeks before your trip and check-in relaxed:
1) Will I need a visa to travel into this country? Where is the closest embassy to apply for my visa? Will I need a "letter of invitation" to apply for my visa? Will I need one or two biometric pictures? How much will my visa cost and can I pay with credit card? How long will it take to get my passport back?
2) Did I receive my confirmation number of my hotel booking and flight?
3) Do I have a map and/or directions to drive to the tournament? How do I get from the airport to the hotel and from the hotel to the stadium?
4) Does the airline allow tennis racquets as standard carry-on luggage or do I need to place a special request?
5) What is the currency of the country I am traveling to and will I need cash before departure?
6) Do I have at least 2 pairs of my tennis shoes which are in good condition but already worn?
7) Did I get my racquets from the stringer?

Pack Your Tennis Bag For The Court
Make sure that you have the following items in your tennis bag that you carry to the court with you:
• Extra pair of tennis shoes
• Extra laces
• Racquets and extra strings
• Drinks: at least 3 bottles (each 500 ml) of water and 1 bottle of a approved sports drink (500 ml)
• Snacks: sports bar, pretzels or approved Sport Gel
• Sports towel to wipe off sweat, for example "Cramer Sports Towel"
• Sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection
• A light colored hat or visor - wicking material
• Extra Tennis clothes to change at a set break
• 2 pairs of Tennis socks to change at a set break
• Female products
• Broad spectrum (UVA and UVB) sunscreen and /or sunblock - minimum of SPF 15
• Jump rope or Thera-Band for warm up
• Hair bands and hair clips
• Personal items such as a purse and mobile phone if these items cannot be secured in the locker room

Weigh your bag!
A tennis bag should not exceed 15 pounds. Distribute the weight evenly (use a bag with two straps and carry like a backpack) to keep your back safe and healthy!

DISCLAIMER
The contents of the Game, Set, Health site, are for informational purposes only and should not be treated as medical, psychiatric, psychological, health care or health management advice. The materials herein are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this site. Reliance on any information provided herein is solely at your own risk.