PrintPart 3 of 5
The kid is dressed, the beast has tack. What’s next? It’s time to pack the tack trunk. Whether your tack trunk is monogrammed and made from tri-colored-fiberglass to match the barn colors ($$$$) or is an extra large plastic container from Wal-Mart, ($) if you don’t have what you need in there when you get to the horse show, you’re busted.
We’re somewhere in the middle with a newly purchased Horseman’s Pride tack trunk, ($$) complete with white board and mirror. It is the requisite color for the girl—black (StoneHaven colors are black and white), it didn’t break the bank, which makes me happy, and it has wheels, which pleases the husband who has to carry and move it.
Let’s assume you’re going to a one-day show. What do you need to pack? Pull together all of the pieces and then decide how to fit everything into the trunk.
Since you’ve read the previous articles, you’ll already have most of the basics at hand: bridle and assorted bits, super-clean saddle pads and girth. Don’t forget polo wraps, bell boots or any type of leather boots your horse may wear—even if he or she only wore them once three years ago. If you don’t pack them, the trainer will demand that you absolutely must have them today. (This philosophy also applies to any bit your horse has ever laid his tongue upon.) A longe line and whip are essential to have “just in case.” Ditto for a crop or bat.
Bags And Bags And Bags
The saddle doesn’t go in the trunk. Usually it can be hung on a saddle rack in the trailer, or you can purchase a saddle bag for it to travel in. There are bags available for almost anything: boots, bridle, helmet, show clothes, pony—no, no just kidding. As of today, there is no zip-up custom bag for your pony or your kid. Unfortunate. It would be the only way to get them to the show clean.
Take a look at the selection of bags available. Let me know what vendors you’ve purchased from. What’s your favorite travel bag? What do you put in it? I am considering purchasing some bags, if for no other reason to help keep everything clean, and it makes you look organized, even if you are not!
Grooming Supplies
