What's inside matters a lot, but does the bag really matter?
Yes, the bag matters because it takes a beating, needs to travel, and keeps all the dance things safe.
The dance bag can be an expense. Many versions are made for performance. The performance-style bag typically has a built-in garment rack, smooth wheels, and multiple pockets. Amazon sells a Dance Duffel Bag with an expandable Garment Rack with a Cover. Found at https://amzn.to/46QX3Yx
Many dancers use these types of performance bags. If your dancer is young and there seems to be a future in the competition dance scene, you may want to consider one of these bags. Having a garment rack to hang multiple costumes on is also a serious bonus.
There are many solutions to the dance bag saga. We decided to go in a different direction. We use a medium-sized rolling suitcase ($50-Target) and a stand-alone garment rack ($9.00-Target). Having smooth rolling wheels is great for maneuvering parking lots and long hallways. An outside pocket to shove trophies and certificates in after awards has proved valuable since you can avoid reopening the packed bag. We added a little star to the handle to make it stand out like you would at an airport. The suitcase works well because the costumes can travel flat inside. We hang them up when we get to the event.
The expandable garment rack we bought is easy to move around on its wheels. We also use it at home to hang all the costumes on while airing them out between events. I realized at our competition recital that the garment rack needed to be modified. We needed a spot for shoes, so my husband crafted a board to sit on the bottom. It worked awesome!
Here are a few more must-haves that go into the dance bag.
My Amazon associate links are included in this post for your shopping ease. These are not my products but just favorite picks for busy parents to help prepare for the dance competition world.
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleansing Cloths https://amzn.to/3ZSP62x
My daughter has sensitive skin. These makeup wipes work perfectly without turning her face red. We go through several packs of these each dance season. During competitions, makeup may need to be changed between routines.
Fake Eyelashes and Eyelash Glue
Ardell Fake Eyelashes, look more realistic than other brands but there are many choices out there. https://amzn.to/46NtOpn
Clear Eyelash Glue, good for Sensitive Skin https://amzn.to/3tw6vlG
If your dancer makes it through an entire day using only one set of fake eyelashes, that's a win. Finding an eyelash in a weird spot, like stuck to the back of your leg, will probably happen at least once during the dance season.
Trifold Makeup Vanity Mirror with Lights (Portable)
https://amzn.to/3QcxlIs
A portable hands-free mirror is essential for getting ready once your dancer applies makeup and does hair without help. This mirror sits on a stand, folds up for travel (keeping the mirror safe), and has battery-powered lights.
Dance Tips:
Costumes should be stored in garment bags during travel. We use clear closed-bottom bags to keep all the costume pieces trapped inside the bag.
Costumes get stinky and dirty. After each event, costumes should be removed from garment bags to air out. We hang them on our garment rack and use a fabric refresher spray. For lipstick or foundatin stains, hand spot treatments might be needed. Be careful not to use a product that will add a permanent mark to the delicate materials. It's scary! I've had success with warm water and mild soap.
Garment racks can be used as a privacy screen in a dressing room. Throw a blanket over it, for a quick mini wall to change behind.
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