Keep Your Costumes, Accessories, and Shoes Organized at Dance Competitions

Keep Your Costumes, Accessories, and Shoes Organized at Dance Competitions

Dance competitions are exciting, fast-paced, and can be more than a little chaotic! Quick costume changes, keeping track of accessories, and making sure your shoes are always where they need to be makes staying organized a key to a stress-free day. Whether you’re a dancer or a dance mom, here’s your ultimate guide to keeping everything in its place and ready to go.


Dance Garment Bags Are Essential (check out garment bags by Kendall Country)

A high-quality, stylish dance garment bag is your best friend at competitions. It keeps costumes safe, wrinkle-free and easy to transport when you’re on the go. A garment bag with multiple compartments allows you to store everything you need in one convenient spot.

Pro Tips:

  • Use clear garment bags or clear pockets inside the bag to see costumes and accessories at a glance.
  • Label each pocket or section with the name of each routine to avoid last-minute searching for what you need.
  • Add a checklist to the bag so you can double-check that all pieces are there before leaving home and ensure everything comes home with you.

Organize Accessories by Routine

The small accessories, like earrings, hair clips and gloves are often the easiest to lose. Avoid panic by keeping everything grouped by routine and in separately labeled see-through bags.

The Best Method:

  • Use small, labeled clear plastic bags or travel pouches for each routine.
  • Place each pouch in the corresponding section of your garment bag.
  • For quick changes, keep accessories for each routine in separate, easy-to-grab and easy-to-see pouches.

Keep Shoes in Check

Shoes are a big deal.  You can’t perform without them! Different routines often call for different shoes (ballet, jazz, tap, etc.), so make sure they’re easily accessible and ready to go.

Tips for Shoe Organization:

  • Use a shoe bag with compartments to separate pairs to keep them clean and scuff-free.
  • Label each pair with the routine name using a tag or a piece of masking tape on the sole.
  • Keep a “spare shoe” kit with a few extra pairs of laces, toe pads, inserts, or anything else your dancer might need in an emergency.
  • Use garment bags with a shoe pocket so the shoes are packed with the costumes for the same routine

Use a Packing Checklist (download a printable copy from Kendall Country)

Stay organized.  Create a checklist for each routine, detailing all the items you need, including costumes, accessories, shoes, and props. Check off everything as you pack to ensure nothing gets left behind.

Bonus Tip:

Print out the checklist and bring it with you to the competition. You can also put one in your bag!  It’s a great way to stay on top of things when repacking after each routine.


Invest in Storage Solutions

Most likely you will be juggling multiple routines and costumes so having the right storage tools can make all the difference.

Must-Have Items:

  • Hanging Racks: Portable garment racks are perfect for keeping costumes accessible and organized backstage. (Kendall Country Dance Rolling Duffel with Racks)
  • Storage Bins: Use bins or containers for props and larger accessories.
  • Labels: For quick identification of costumes, shoes, and props.

Don’t Forget Emergency Supplies

No matter how organized you are anything thing can happen. Be prepared with an emergency kit that includes:

  • Safety pins
  • Double-sided fashion tape
  • A sewing kit
  • Stain remover wipes
  • Clear nail polish (for tights or rhinestones)
  • First aid kit

Stay Tidy Backstage

Competitions can be chaotic, so create a system to keep your area tidy and prevent items from getting lost.

  • Have a designated space for each costume and accessory bag.
  • Lay out costumes in the order of routines to make transitions smooth and easy.
  • Keep a laundry bag for used tights or anything that needs washing after the competition.

Pack with a Purpose, Unpack with Care

After the competition, take time to unpack everything carefully.

  • Hang costumes and props to air them out and prevent wrinkles.
  • Wash tights, props, and anything you will need for the next competition.
  • Wipe down shoes to keep them clean and ready for the next event.
  • Restock your emergency kit so you’re always prepared.

Final Thoughts

Staying organized at a dance competition reduces stress and allows you and your dancer to focus on enjoying the day, having fun, and performing your best. With a little planning, the right garment bags and a good system, you can make even the busiest competition days run smoothly and anxiety-free!