What to pack for a pole camp: the complete checklist

Packing for a pole camp is different from packing for a regular vacation. Here's a complete checklist so you don't forget anything important — and don't overpack either.

Whether you're heading to a tropical retreat in Bali, a mountain camp in the Austrian Alps, or a week-long intensive in Mexico, the essentials are surprisingly similar. The key is packing smart: enough training gear to get through multiple sessions per day, the right recovery tools to keep your body happy, and just enough regular clothes to enjoy the experience outside the studio.

Training essentials

These are the non-negotiables — the items you absolutely need for every pole camp, regardless of destination or style.

Pole wear

Bring at least three to four sets of training outfits. You'll be training multiple times per day, and sweaty pole wear doesn't dry overnight in humid climates. Pack more sets than you think you need.

• Shorts — tight-fitting shorts that expose the inner thigh and back of the knee for grip. High-waisted pole shorts or booty shorts are standard.
• Sports bras or crop tops — you need skin contact on your torso for many moves. Avoid slippery fabrics.
• Long leggings — useful for flexibility classes, conditioning, and warming up. Some people also prefer leggings for lyra and silks to prevent friction burns.
• A fitted long-sleeve top — essential if aerial silks are on the schedule. Bare arms on fabric mean painful burns.

Grip aids

Grip is everything in pole, and different conditions demand different solutions. Pack more grip aid than you think you'll need — running out mid-camp is a common regret.

• Dry hands grip (like Dry Hands, iTac, or Mighty Grip) — your go-to for most conditions.
• Liquid chalk — great for sweaty hands, and often preferred in hot climates.
• Grip gloves or finger grips — optional but helpful for endurance during long training days when your hands are raw.

If you're flying, grip aids go in checked luggage — some are alcohol-based and can't go in carry-on. Check individual product regulations before packing.

Knee pads

If there's any chance of floorwork, exotic, or contemporary dance classes, bring knee pads. Even camps that are primarily sport pole often include a floorwork or exotic session. Volleyball-style knee pads or dance-specific ones both work well. Break them in before the camp — new knee pads can slip or bunch.

Heels

If the camp includes exotic or heels classes, pack at least one pair of platform heels. Seven-inch or eight-inch platforms are standard for exotic pole. If you're new to heels, start with a chunkier platform and a lower height — a six-inch boot is easier to walk in than a seven-inch open-toe.

Bring heel protectors or toe pads for comfort during longer sessions. And if you have space, a second pair is worth it in case one breaks or causes blisters. Wrap heels in a cloth bag to protect them (and your other gear) in transit.

Recovery and body care

Training multiple hours a day is demanding, especially if you're not used to it. Proper recovery gear keeps you functional all week.

• Foam roller or massage ball — a travel-sized foam roller or a lacrosse ball for trigger points is invaluable after long training days. Your legs, back, and shoulders will thank you.
• Arnica cream or gel — reduces bruising and soreness. Apply it the night of training and again in the morning. Pole bruises are a badge of honor, but they don't have to hurt all week.
• Muscle tape or kinesiology tape — useful for supporting sore wrists, shoulders, or knees. Learn basic taping before you go.
• Moisturizer — here's the catch: moisturized skin doesn't grip the pole. Apply moisturizer after your last session of the day, never before training. Bring a small bottle and use it only at night.
• Blister plasters and medical tape — pole blisters and aerial fabric burns are common during intensive training. Be prepared.
• Magnesium supplements — helps with muscle cramps and sleep quality during high-training-volume days. Tablets or powder both work.

Packing by destination

Tropical destinations (Bali, Thailand, Mexico, Caribbean)

• Extra grip aid — humidity makes everything slippery. Pack at least 50% more than you'd normally use.
• Light, breathable clothing for outside training hours.
• Strong sunscreen — especially if training includes outdoor poles or beach sessions.
• Insect repellent — essential in Bali and Southeast Asia.
• A light rain jacket — tropical weather changes fast.
• Flip-flops or sandals — you'll live in these outside the studio.

Mountain or cooler destinations (Austria, Switzerland, Scotland)

• Warm layers for between sessions — studios may be warm, but the walk back to your room might be cold.
• A warm hoodie or fleece for recovery time.
• Hiking shoes if the camp includes mountain excursions.
• Thermal base layers for early morning or late evening walks.

Mediterranean destinations (Croatia, Greece, Spain, Italy)

• Swimwear — many Mediterranean camps include beach days, boat trips, or pool access.
• A nice outfit for group dinners out — Mediterranean culture takes dining seriously.
• Sunglasses and a hat for excursion days.

Packing by pole style

Sport pole camps

• Wrist wraps or supports — sport pole is wrist-intensive, and multiple sessions per day can strain them.
• Extra grip aid — you're spending more time on the pole than on the floor.
• A resistance band — useful for warm-ups and shoulder prep.

Exotic pole camps

• Platform heels (7-inch or 8-inch minimum for most exotic camps).
• Knee pads — non-negotiable for floorwork.
• Multiple outfits — exotic camps often have themed showcases or photoshoots. Bring outfits you feel confident in.
• Leg warmers — great for warming up and adding flair.

Aerial camps

• Full-length leggings — bare skin on silks and lyra fabric causes friction burns.
• Long-sleeve fitted tops — arm coverage is essential for wraps.
• Rosin or aerial-specific grip aid — different from pole grip.
• Socks — some aerial work requires foot protection for wraps and locks.

Outside the studio

Pole camps aren't just about training — they include group dinners, excursions, social nights, and often a final showcase or performance. Pack accordingly:

• One or two nice outfits for dinners and social events.
• A performance outfit if the camp has a showcase night (check with the organizer in advance).
• Comfortable walking shoes for excursions and sightseeing.
• A reusable water bottle — staying hydrated during intense training is critical.

Travel and documentation

• Travel insurance — strongly recommended. Make sure it covers sports activities. Pole and aerial training can result in minor injuries, and you want coverage if something happens.
• Booking confirmations — printed or saved offline. Don't rely on mobile data in remote locations.
• Power adapters — check the plug type for your destination country.
• A portable phone charger — camp days are long, and you'll be filming workshop content and taking photos.
• A small notebook — useful for writing down combinations, tips from instructors, and move names you want to remember.

What NOT to bring

Over-packing is the most common mistake. Here's what you can leave at home:

• Every pair of heels you own — one or two pairs is plenty. You won't switch heels between classes.
• Your entire grip aid collection — pick your two favorites and leave the rest.
• Bulky workout equipment — resistance bands are fine, but leave dumbbells and heavy rollers at home. Most camps have conditioning equipment available.
• Excessive "just in case" outfits — you'll be in pole wear most of the day. You need far fewer regular clothes than you think.
• A pole — yes, some people ask. Camps provide poles. You don't need to bring your own.

The carry-on strategy

If you're flying, put your most critical items in your carry-on in case checked luggage is delayed: one set of training wear, your grip aid (non-aerosol only), knee pads, and heels if you need them for day one. Everything else can go in checked luggage.

Platform heels are bulky — wear your heaviest shoes on the plane and pack the lighter pair. Stuff socks and small items inside your heels to save space. Roll your pole wear instead of folding it to maximize suitcase real estate.

A well-packed bag for a week-long camp should fit in a standard checked suitcase with room to spare for souvenirs on the way home. If you're packing more than that, you're probably over-packing.