Winter riding camps offer not only a great adventure but also unfortunately a challenge that comes in the form of weather. If you plan to spend your winter break in a saddle, then you surely want to be prepared for everything that life might throw at you. No one likes to stop their fun simply because their socks are wet. Fortunately, a well packed suitcase can solve many of your problems. Check our article to find out what to bring for a winter riding camp – for you and your horse.
Packing for a winter riding camp that lasts several days or more is quite an enormous task. You need to take not only clothes and items that you use every day but also essential equestrian equipment. If you’re also going with your horse, then the list must include all of your horse’s things as well! You should pack your suitcase wisely; consider every item whether it’s truly needed or not. And do not leave packing for the last evening, because you might find out, you’re lacking some necessary items.
Winter riding camp – everything for a rider
It’s not recommended to take new equipment – for example untested boots or breeches. If you need something new, then buy it beforehand and try it out during at least one ride before the camp. This will ensure that the new item is comfortable, gives you freedom of movement, and doesn’t scratch you. You should always pack extra pieces of clothing, especially in winter, when you might get wet, and you will be forced to change to let the other outfit dry fully. To make things easier, you might want to divide your pieces of clothing into those that will be used for horse riding and those for everyday use.
Riding accessories
These are all of the riding items to need. Don’t worry if you lack one piece of equipment – just ensure you have a warm sports outfit.
- Winter breeches – comfortable breeches are a must-have and the winter, insulated version is perfect for a winter riding camp and trail rides in freezing temperatures!
- Riding helmet – sometimes riding facilities allow you to borrow a helmet, however, if you have your own then it is best to pack it. If you use a balaclava, neck warmer, or a scarf underneath the helmet then don’t forget to bring it with you.
- Equestrian protective vest – protective vests are a great safety product that is gaining popularity among riders. If you use one on a daily basis, then definitely take it to the camp.
- Gloves – a pair of good winter riding gloves will undoubtedly make every ride more enjoyable and at the same time protect your hands from abrasions caused by reins.
- Jodhpur boots and chaps, tall boots, thermos boots – choose horse riding shoes. If you have two pairs, then even better! Thermo boots are a great choice for trail rides and outdoor arenas, while tall boots and jodhpur boots with chaps are perfect for heated indoor arenas.
- Jacket – clothing layers are the best for winter. A few riding sweatshirts are perfect for horse riding and free time in between rides.
- Vest – riding vests effectively protect against wind, keep you warm, and give full freedom of movement. You can pair one with a tight blouse or sweatshirt to add an extra layer of warmth.
- Riding socks – riding socks worn over or under breeches can replace chaps and at the same time might keep your feet and calves warm during a ride.
- Competition clothing – if you plan to take a riding exam during your winter riding camp, then you need competition clothing: a shirt, competition jacket, gloves, and white breeches. All the clothes should be tidy and elegant.
- You can additionally get a special bag designed to meet the needs of riders. Thanks to a riding bag you will be able to pack all your riding equipment into one place and organize all items for easy access.
- Kingsland Emma Equestrian Helmet Bag
- Kingsland Eve Equestrian Weekend Bag
- Kingsland Emry Unisex Fleece Equestrian Jacket
- Kingsland Classic Coolmax Unisex Knee Socks
Everyday clothes and items
Most of your time will be spent wearing riding attire yet you mustn’t forget to pack some necessary everyday items such as:
- Underwear, socks (thermoactive underwear is a great choice)
- Pyjama
- T-shirts, shirts
- Warm clothing that can be layered (for example: a light long-sleeve blouse, hoodie, and a vest)
- Hat, scarf, gloves (best to have two pairs)
- Shoes
- Toiletries and care products (towel, toothpaste, toothbrush, hairbrush, shampoo, soap, cream, antiperspirant, and other products that you use on a daily basis)
- Hair ties
- Phone charger
- First aid kit (bandages, painkillers, cream for bruises, and any other medication that you regularly)
- Id and a wallet with a small amount of cash
- Snacks
- Optional: books, boardgames, notebook, and a pen
- Sometimes you might need to take your own sleeping bag and a pillow
Winter riding camp essential items for a horse
If you have your own horse with the permission of the camp organizers, you’re taking the animal with you, then you will need a saddle box which can every piece of equipment needed for horse riding and everyday care. You especially need:
You will also need travelling boots, a hay net, and care products for riding equipment. A first aid kit for a horse is also a useful thing to have – due to an unfortunate event, your horse or another one at the stable might urgently need it.
If you want to find out what items you need to have at a stable in winter then read our article!
- Kingsland Elin Equestrian Saddle Pad
- Kingsland Gema Jumping Saddle Pad
- Kingsland Classic Halter with Rope
Summary
Riding camps are a great experience for every beginner rider. Planning your trip in advance is essential; this will help you pack all the necessary items. Some riding facilities post their own list of items to bring – if your facility has one, then check it out and see if you have everything. Look over the activities planned for the camp. For example, if there will be theoretical lectures then taking a notebook and a pen might be a good idea, while a trip to an aquapark requires you to pack a swimming suit. Make sure that you have all of your items that are used daily (especially any medications and care products). Try not to overpack as well – taking too many personal belongings and equipment for your horse might lead to a mess and losing some of the things. Most importantly, don’t forget to have fun.
Your safety while horse riding should always be a priority. Take care of it by getting yourself an equestrian safety vest. To do this, visit our section: Riding Vest
Equestrian store: +48 784 039 784
E-mail: contact@equishop.com
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