What to Pack for Your First BJJ Competition This Spring

🥋 What to Pack for Your First BJJ Competition This Spring

Don’t show up unprepared—here’s the ultimate checklist to help you stay focused and fight-ready.

🌱 Why Spring Is the Perfect Time to Compete

Spring brings a fresh wave of energy—and in the BJJ world, that means tournament season. Local events are heating up, and many academies are encouraging students to step on the mat for the first time.

But let's be real: first comp nerves hit different. And nothing makes it worse than forgetting key gear.

Whether you're stepping on the mat for the first time or just want to avoid rookie mistakes, this checklist will make sure you’re prepped, packed, and ready.

✅ BJJ Competition Packing Checklist

🥋 1. A Competition-Approved Gi (or No-Gi Set)

Most tournaments follow IBJJF standards: that means solid-colored gis (usually white, blue, or black) and minimal patching.

Recommended:

👉 Sanabul Highlights Pro Competition Gi – lightweight, IBJJF-legal, and sleek.

No-Gi Instead?

You’ll need a ranked rash guard and solid-colored shorts (no zippers or pockets).

👉 Sanabul Essentials Short Sleeve Compression Rash Guard

👉 Sanabul Men's Essential Compression Workout Shorts

🧼 2. Extra Rash Guard or Spats

Backup gear is essential—especially if you sweat through your first match. No one wants to compete in a soaked rash guard.

Recommended:

👉 Sanabul Essentials Short Sleeve Rash Guard – antimicrobial + durable.

👉 Sanabul Men’s essential Compression Tights (Spats)

🦷 3. Mouth guard

Required at most events. Even if not, don’t skip it—accidents happen fast.

🧦 4. Slides or Flip-Flops

No walking barefoot around the venue! Keep your feet clean (and your coach happy).

Any pair works, just don’t forget them.

💧 5. Water + Quick Snacks

You might wait hours between matches. Stay fueled with easy-to-digest foods.

Suggestions:

• Water bottle or Pedialyte
• Bananas
• Protein bars
• Trail mix

🧳 6. A Durable Gear Bag

You’ll need space for your gi, snacks, tape, slides, ID—everything.

Recommended:

👉 Sanabul Gear Pack Gym Backpack

👉 Sanabul Lab Series Duffel Gym Bag

🩹 7. Tape, Nail Clippers & First-Aid Basics

Tournament hygiene is serious. Keep these in your bag:

• Athletic tape (for fingers and toes)
• Nail clippers (yes, they’ll check)
• Disinfectant wipes
• Small towel

8. ID, Waiver & Registration Printouts

Some events will check your identity or require printed check-in materials.

Tip: Pack them in a small zip pouch or document sleeve.

👕 9. Clean Change of Clothes

After hours in sweaty gear, changing into fresh threads feels amazing.

Recommended:

👉 Sanabul Minimal Short Sleeve T-Shirt

👉 Sanabul Resorb All Day Shorts

📌 Quick-Grab Summary

💡 Extra Tip: Pack the Night Before

Don’t leave it until the morning of. Use this list, pack it out, and double-check your gear before heading to the venue.

🛍️ Sanabul’s Competition-Ready Essentials

Ready to stock up or upgrade your gear before the big day?

👉 Shop the BJJ Competition Collection

🥇 Final Thoughts

Your first BJJ competition doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right prep (and the right gear), you’ll feel confident and ready when your name gets called.

Breathe, smile, and remember—everyone starts somewhere.