Introduction: More Than Just Racquets
You can tell a lot about a player by what they keep in their tennis bag.
Some bags are chaos: mismatched grips, loose balls, mystery banana peels. Others are so minimal that you wonder how they even made it to the court.
Mine? Somewhere in the middle.
Over time, I’ve built a system — a mix of essentials, match-day tools and recovery hacks that help me stay prepared, comfortable and focused, whether I’m training or stepping onto the court for a tournament match.
So here it is — a full breakdown of what’s in my tennis bag and why each item earns its place.
The Core Gear
1. Racquets (x2–3)
I always carry at least two identical racquets, strung to the same tension — just in case strings snap mid-match or conditions shift.
- Currently using: [Insert model – e.g. Babolat Pure Strike 16×19]
- Strung at: [Your tension – e.g. 23kg with RPM Blast]
- Backup is not optional. It’s insurance.
Consistency starts with the tools you trust.
2. Tennis Balls (New Can + Practice Balls)
- One fresh can for matchplay
- A few used balls for serving practice or warm-ups
- Stored in a side pocket or mesh pouch
🎾 Fresh balls = cleaner contact + proper bounce = happier rallies.
3. Overgrips (Always a Spare or Two)
Sweaty hands? Blistered grip? Overgrips are lifesavers.
- I carry 2–3 spare overgrips (usually white for visibility)
- One is already in my pocket when I play, just in case
Pro tip: change your grip before it feels like a sponge.
Clothing & Match Essentials
4. Extra Shirt + Socks
Sweaty matches call for mid-session wardrobe changes.
- Dry-fit shirt (lightweight + breathable)
- Performance socks with arch support
Bonus: prevents blisters, keeps your head (and body) cool.
5. Wristbands / Headband / Cap
Sweat control = concentration control.
I rotate between:
- Headband (on hot days)
- Cap (for sun and glare)
- Wristbands to wipe without fuss
🧢 Looks cool. But also… it’s functional.
Fuel, Hydration & Recovery
6. Water Bottle + Electrolyte Drink
Hydration is non-negotiable.
- 1 large water bottle (insulated if possible)
- 1 sports drink or electrolytes tab dissolved pre-match
I start sipping 30–45 minutes before match time.
Cramps don’t care how well you’re playing.
7. Snacks: Banana + Energy Bar
You never know when a match will go long.
- 1 banana (unbeatable)
- 1 protein bar or oat bar for longer days
- Emergency nuts or dried fruit in a zip bag
Better to have it and not need it than the other way round.
Health & First Aid Kit
8. Towel
Small but mighty. Used for:
- Grip-drying
- Face-wiping
- Ritual calm between points
🎾 It’s part recovery tool, part mental reset button.
9. Tape, Band-Aids & Blister Pads
For unexpected scrapes, sore toes, or string burns.
I keep:
- Athletic tape
- A few plasters
- One Compeed-style blister patch
Trust me — you’ll thank yourself.
10. Pain Relief Cream or Gel
If my elbow or shoulder feels tight post-match, I use a topical cooling gel.
- Compact tube (within sports regulations)
- Apply after matches or during breaks if needed
Always test any product first to avoid reactions.
Mental Game Kit
11. Notebook + Pen
Sounds strange? Not at all. I use mine to:
- Set match intentions
- Jot down post-match reflections
- Record patterns that worked (or didn’t)
Mental prep starts with self-awareness.
12. Noise-Cancelling Earphones
Sometimes I need to zone in — or zone out.
- Used for music, meditation, or blocking out distractions
- Go-to playlist: something steady, focused, no lyrics (usually)
Music sets the tone before I even hit the court.
Extras & Emergencies
13. Small Towelled Face Wipes / Deodorant
Tournaments can run all day. And feeling fresh helps you play fresh.
- Pocket-size deodorant
- Wipes for quick refresh between matches
Clean body = clear mind. Trust the science.
14. Plastic Bag or Zip Pouch for Wet Kit
Never underestimate how sweaty kit can get. Having a dry bag to keep it separate = crucial.
Final Thoughts: Pack with Purpose
What’s in my bag isn’t random — it’s intentional.
Everything has been added because at some point… I really needed it.
Being prepared isn’t just practical — it’s mental.
When my bag’s sorted, I feel ready. When I feel ready, I play better.
So if you’re still throwing everything in last-minute — take a few minutes to rethink your packing list.
Your gear can’t win the match for you — but it can make sure you’re free to focus on what does.
