I was looking thru my "Contest Box" in my closet the other day and decided to do a full inventory, trash the old, update the new.

I found it very helpful using my "FITNESS COMPETITION CHECK OFF LIST" (in my COMPETITION BINDER I sell $40). This list was created by my Sister, Sandy Grant, and over the years, we have Updated it and created the perfect list .

It was fun finding all of my old fitness routine cassette tapes (yes, before the illustrious CD came out), my gymnastic wrist supports, ace bandages, and my collection of fitness backstage memorabilia.Why I kept some of this stuff, i'll never know....

I still find it helpful to separate my travel bags from my backstage bag, and most of my clients feel the same way. You will need to carry over some items, but in all honesty, this will help stop you from over packing!

Fitness Bag (fitness or figure or bikini!) BACKSTAGE
competitor button (lanyard)
suit & heels & jewelery (butt glue + baby oil, cotton balls)
routine outfit / shoes & socks / music + one back up /  supports /  hair bands
directions, wallet, NPC card or check to get one
make up bag + hair stuff w/ mirror
tanning touch up + lotion/ oil / gloves & towel
food, sups, water
pump up bands & change of clothes
camera, cell phone, sewing kit + scissors

This is just a few, quick reminders, in my opinion, that should belong in your backstage bag. My Article in my Binder is incredibly detailed, and is a great shopping list too!

This year, my boyfriend got me a brand new carry on- sized suitcase for us traveling. It's the perfect contest bag! Though this was a gift, money is no object...right? hee hee

But when you're purchasing for yourself for your next show, try looking at always buying everything on sale! If you start your contest prep 12 - 18 weeks out, start purchasing items immediately, that you can put away for that show time! Your Contest bag is one of those items that some wait to purchase. Start heading out to the Department stores when they have Luggage sales (before travel season starts, start gaging prices)...Hit Ebay up (make sure it's a seller that is verified and has over 500 sales). Look at Discount Stores like Target, ROSS dress for less, Walmart, and Kohl's...

Having matching luggage is fun, easier at airports,etc. But it's not necessary. Think about your bottom line. How much SHOULD you really spend on that new Louis Vitton Set...? And besides, the prettier the bag, the more outrageous, it's more of a target when traveling. BUT, that doesn't mean that you can't have fun with it! Your carry on luggage can be bold and bright, whereas the bigger one going into cargo hold might want to be on the plain jane side...just a thought, just my opinion.

I've seen some really fantastic (a bit more expensive, but not terrible) at Nordstrom's' Rack.

Maybe it's just an excuse to shop, but shopping for big items like luggage can be a very personal experience...Is red totally your color? Are you a simple Navy or Black? oooooh, wanna branch out to GREEN? Nah, you want the one with wild cherry clusters everywhere with the fake pink boa trim! OH, I SEE.....LOL

~Trainer Shannon