Unzip the ultimate pickleball bag checklist! Discover must-have pickleball gear and pro tips for female players who play hard and travel smart.

---

Let’s be honest—your pickleball bag is more than just a place to stash your paddle. It’s your command center, your locker room, your prep zone. And if you’re a competitive woman who hits the court with purpose, your gear matters.

In this Her Paddle Gear Guide, I’m spilling everything that goes into my pickleball bag—from paddles to ponytail holders. Whether you’re playing a tournament, heading to open play, or just getting into the sport, this checklist will help you pack like a pro.

---

The Essentials: Pickleball Gear You Absolutely Need

1. My Go-To Paddle (and a backup, always)

I never leave home without:

• Primary paddle – Currently rocking the JOOLA Hyperion Pro IV 14mm for its control and spin.
• Backup paddle – Just in case the first one breaks or starts sounding… off.

🎯 Tip: Make sure both paddles are USAP-approved if you’re playing in sanctioned tournaments. Check official approved paddle list here.

2. A Set of Indoor and Outdoor Balls

Yes, the type of ball matters.

• Outdoor balls – Like the Franklin X-40 or Dura Fast 40.
• Indoor balls – Softer, like the Onix Fuse.

📌 Pro move: Carry 3–5 extras. Balls crack more than we like to admit!

3. Pickleball Shoes – Court-Specific, Please!

No running shoes allowed here.

Look for:

• Non-marking soles
• Lateral support
• Durability for quick pivots

👟 Brands I trust: K-Swiss Express Light, Fila Volley Zone, and ASICS Gel-Renma.
Read detailed reviews on The Pickleball Studio.

---

Style Meets Function: Apparel + Accessories

1. Performance Apparel (with Pockets!)

In my bag:

• Moisture-wicking skirts and tanks
• A long sleeve layer for warmups
• Compression shorts or leggings for cold mornings

💅 Bonus tip: Look for gear with UPF protection for sunny court days.

2. Sweat Towels and Headbands

Pickleball = sweat. Keep it cute and dry.

• Quick-dry microfiber towel
• Headband or visor (currently obsessed with Her Paddle embroidered visor – coming soon! 👀)

3. Extra Hair Ties, Always

Do I hoard these? Maybe. But you don’t want to be caught without one mid-match.

---

Court Prep Tools That Make a Difference

1. Grip Tape + Overgrips

Hot days = slippery handles. I always pack:

• A fresh overgrip (Udrippin) – use code
  DINKQUEEN15 for a discount
• Scissors and pre-cut tape
• Rosin bag or grip enhancer spray

Pro tip: Replace overgrips every 2–3 weeks if you play often.

2. Resistance Band or Warm-Up Gear

Keep your shoulders happy.

• Small resistance loop
• Lacrosse ball for trigger point release
• Mini foam roller if I have space

3. Sunblock + Lip Balm with SPF

Ladies—we protect our dinks, but are we protecting our skin?

My faves:

• Neutrogena Sport SPF 70
• Supergoop! Lip Shield SPF 30

Pack them in a small toiletry pouch to keep things organized.

---

Nutrition + Hydration: Fuel for the Fierce

1. Electrolytes + Hydration

Water’s not enough if you’re sweating buckets. I pack:

• A 32oz insulated water bottle
• Liquid IV, LMNT, or Nuun tablets

Hydrate before, during, and after. It keeps your energy and focus sharp.

2. Easy Snacks

Tournament day? Keep blood sugar steady.

• Protein bars (RXBar or GoMacro)
• Trail mix or nuts
• Electrolyte gummies or chews

Avoid sugar crashes: skip energy drinks or soda before match play.

---

Tech + Tools I Never Forget

1. Portable Phone Charger

Tournaments run long. Your battery won’t last.

• Compact power bank
• Charging cable + wall plug

2. Notebook or Match Journal

Yes, I track my progress. You should too!

• Wins/losses
• Partner pairings
• What worked + what didn’t

Want a downloadable match log? Stay tuned — we’re dropping one soon on Her Paddle!

---

Bonus Must-Haves You’ll Thank Me For

– Extra socks + undergarments

Trust me, nothing beats a dry change post-match.

– Mini first aid kit

Band-aids, blister pads, Advil, and nail clippers = lifesavers.

– A small towel for paddle cleaning

Wipe off grit, sunscreen, or mystery dirt.

– Travel-size deodorant

Because pickleball isn’t always… fragrant.

---

FAQs: What Should I Pack in My Pickleball Bag?

Do I need a special bag or can I use a backpack?

While a gym bag works, a pickleball-specific backpack has:

• Paddle compartments
• Ventilated shoe pockets
• Water bottle holders

I use the 6.0 Six Zero Pro Tour Bag (use code MYAM10 for 12% off)

Check out additional options like the Selkirk Tour Bag, Franklin Pickleball Backpack, or Six Zero Performance Bag.

How often should I check and clean my gear?

• Grips: Every 2–3 weeks
• Paddle: Wipe down after each use
• Shoes: Monthly check for wear
• Bag: Clean out weekly (snack wrappers hide EVERYWHERE)

What if I’m flying with my gear?

TSA is fine with paddles in carry-ons! Just don’t pack pickleball balls in checked luggage—pressure differences can cause damage.

---

Ready to Pack Like a Pro?

Whether you’re heading to a tournament, league night, or open play with your crew, what’s in your bag can make or break your game day experience. Packing smart means you can focus on what really matters—playing fierce, fun, and free.