For every color guard rehearsal I bring pretty much the same things.
There are a few essentials, but also just some things that I like to have. This list applies to an average, three-ish hour rehearsal, so it’s nothing crazy. Hopefully this can help you decide what to pack!
When I arrive at rehearsal, I’m carrying my flag bag, a drawstring bag, and water jug.
Flag Bag
In my flag bag, I keep all the equipment I may need for rehearsal.
At the start of the season, I bring my personal flag and rifle, along with flags that my school has given me to borrow. I borrow our school mascot flag for football games, and a flag with a matching silk to everyone else, so that we look more in uniform while practicing.
When show season begins, I’ll just bring the flags we use in the show, unless for some reason we need our mascot flags. I’ll also bring my rifle, because I spin my personal rifle in shows.
Sunscreen
This is a huge must-have! My season starts in spring and ends in fall. That means that most of my rehearsals are going to be very hot and sunny. Sunscreen is easy to forget, but it’s very important. We spend a lot of time in the sun and I’ll definitely get burned without it.
Don’t forget to apply it to your ears and the part in your hair!
Half Gallon Water Jug
Along with sunscreen, water is everything at rehearsal.
It’s super important to stay hydrated with all of the sun and physicality involved in this activity, so water’s going to keep you happy and healthy. I bring a half gallon jug, which I think is pretty standard in marching band, but a lot of people bring a full gallon.
It’s absolutely necessary to drink water before, during and after rehearsals.
Bug Spray / Wipes
Bug spray comes in handy when you’re practicing outside and it starts getting dark. During my rehearsals we’re either on grass, in a parking lot, or in our school’s stadium. In all of these places, bugs love to be annoying. I don’t like worrying about accidentally eating a mosquito while I’m spinning, so bug spray helps.
Hat / Sunglasses / Bandana
As you spend more time in the heat and sun, sunscreen alone just doesn’t cut it. Keeping your head and eyes covered helps you feel your best. It’ll help you cool down a bit and to not be squinting for so long.
Snack
I usually bring a granola bar or a bag of chips with me. When I’m not feeling great, or I just get hungry, I can eat something during a break.
Wallet / Phone / Keys
This is a pretty obvious one, but it’s definitely important!
Bandaids
Little accidents happen sometimes in guard, so it’s good to be prepared. In case anyone gets hurt, I carry these.
Glove(s)
Depending on your team or your preferences, you may or may not need gloves. Personally, I only wear a right glove, because it helps me with weapon and the left one doesn’t do much for me.
And because I’m basically Michael Jackson.
Fanny Pack with Drill
When it comes time for show drill, you’re going to get some more stuff to carry. You’ll have your drill sheets, dot book, pencils or whatever your band uses for drill, and you’ll probably need a fanny pack to put it all in.
Talk to your team if you’re ever confused on what you need, and when you need it.
A Good Attitude
Try to leave all your issues at home and come ready to have fun and work hard!
That covers my list – what do you bring to color guard rehearsal? Tell me in the comments below!
