Getting Ready for Dressage Competitions: The Ultimate Aussie Checklist
- Loz
- May 31
- 6 min read
From Prepping Your Gear to Caring for Your Horse – A Month Out Guide
Dressage might look effortless from the side-lines, but anyone who’s competed knows it’s all about preparation. The week leading up to a dressage competition is crucial for both you and your horse. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or gearing up for your first event, this guide will help you tick every box during the month leading up, so when you trot down that centre line, you’re ready to shine.
This comprehensive checklist covers preparations for:
Float/trailer
Towing vehicle
Horse(s)
Humans
Feel free to adapt this guide, recognising that individual needs may vary depending on your specific circumstances and your horse's requirements.
Month (or two) Before
Float Preparations
Conduct a deep clean and inspect for necessary repairs; address any issues promptly.
Confirm permitted parking areas at the event, including access to power if required.
Towing Vehicle Preparations
Arrange for any minor servicing of the towing vehicle; have contingency plans should major repairs be needed. Test the vehicle battery.
Human Preparations
Review and pay all competition entry fees.
Ensure adequate riding apparel; order replacements if necessary.
Familiarise yourself with available human-related facilities at the event.
Ensure you have a bridle number .holder [Hamag do amazing ones]
Memorise all your dressage tests (or ensure you organise a caller for your test).
Horse Preparations
Schedule sessions with a bodyworker, chiropractor, or physiotherapist for your horse(s).
Prepare all necessary State-required Transport Stock Statement (TSS) paperwork (direct link for NSW residents).
Complete multiple float-loading training sessions.
Book a farrier appointment, ideally within a week prior to the competition.
Check all tack.
Check equine first aid kit and restock items as required.
Verify available horse-related facilities at the event location.
Maintain horse's fitness level and improve your training sessions by focusing on transitions and perfecting movements within your test.
One Week Out: The Countdown Begins
The last seven days before your competition are all about routine, attention to detail, and a bit of Aussie grit. Here’s how to structure your week for maximum results:
1. Fine-Tune Your Training
Stick to the plan: Don’t try new tricks this week. Focus on consolidating movements, transitions, and your test patterns.
Short, focused sessions: Aim for quality over quantity. Keep your horse’s workouts precise and positive – you want them feeling confident, not frazzled.
Rest is key: Schedule a light hack or rest day(s) midweek to keep your horse’s mind fresh and body limber.
2. Grooming & Bathing
Midweek bath: Give your horse a good wash, paying extra attention to mane, tail, and legs. Use whitening shampoos for those with white socks or markings.
Daily grooming: Brush out the coat each arvo to keep it glossy and free from dust. Plaiting the mane the night before can save you time and stress on comp day.
3. Rugging & Comfort
Rug up: Use a lightweight rug to keep your horse clean after their bath. Adjust layers depending on the weather, making sure they’re comfortable and not overheating or shivering.
4. Feeding & Supplements
Maintain regular feeding: Stick to your usual feed and schedule to avoid any tummy upsets.
Electrolytes: In warmer weather or if your horse sweats heavily, supplement with electrolytes to keep hydration up.
Targeted supplements: Consider calming supplements if your horse is prone to nerves, or muscle support products for extra stamina – chat with your vet or nutritionist for recommendations.
Float Preparations
Check and inflate all tyres (including spares).
Test all lights and replace bulbs where needed.
Towing Vehicle Preparations
Check and inflate all tyres (including spares).
Refill windscreen washer fluid and clean the vehicle.
Pack torches/camping lights (with chargers), rechargeable tyre inflator, baby wipes, scissors or baling twine cutting knife.
Human Preparations
Plan meals and purchase groceries.
Begin packing luggage.
Clean and ready bedding (swag/stretchers/sleeping bags etc.).
Map out the travel route, identifying safe stopping points for horses.
Check if there are any major events, roadworks on your route.
Horse Preparations
Introduce extra salt, electrolytes, and ulcer protection into feeds.
Administer travel calmers if necessary.
Identify local produce stores and equine veterinarians along the route; save their contact details.
Limit intense training; prioritise short, effective workouts.
Confirm farrier visits are completed.
Day Before Departure
Float Preparations
Lay slightly dampened sawdust in the float (if you like to do this).
Hang pre-filled hay bags for horses.
If feasible, connect the float to the towing vehicle.
Towing Vehicle Preparations
Refuel the vehicle.
Pack a jack for the float, jerry cans of horse water, water and feed buckets, shavings, hay, or additional horse feed as required.
Human Preparations
Load fridges/coolers with food into the float/vehicle.
Pack rubbish bags and the human first aid kit.
Gather all clothing, medicines, toiletries, and bedding (including "she wees").
Fill water bottles and place them in the vehicle.
Print directions as a backup in case of connectivity issues.
Organise notetaking materials and devices (with chargers and extra batteries).
Ensure all devices are fully charged and pack necessary riding apparel, considering extras.
Go to bed nice and early, double check your alarm is set.
Horse Preparations
Provide a light (only if required) workout to assess soundness.
Wash / groom horse(s) and rug for protection, as appropriate.
Clean and load all tack.
Pack necessary rugs, prepared feed (including at least one extra day's supply), grooming kits, water containers, and tack (saddle, girth, bridle, saddle pads, boots, martingale, whips etc., considering spares).
Ensure the equine first aid kit is packed and bring treats, extra lead ropes, and halters.
Administer calming or travel-specific supplements as needed.
Day Of Departure
Float Preparations
Attach float to towing vehicle if not already done.
Open all windows / vents and prepare for loading.
Pack cleaning tools (fork, pooper scooper, broom, shovel) and a mounting block if needed.
Towing Vehicle Preparations
Bring a spare set of keys
Check all lights when connected to the float.
Carry finalised TSS forms in the vehicle.
Drive cautiously; a steady approach ensures your horse(s) arrives calm and refreshed.
Human Preparations
Pack luggage and snacks/drinks for the journey.
Have a meal before departure; pack additional medications.
Go to the bathroom!
Horse Preparations
Offer hay and/or wet hard feed before loading.
Do this first so you can complete the other items whilst feeding
Pick out hooves and fit float/travel boots and travel-appropriate rugs (generally un-rugged for long distances).
Schedule breaks to offer water and top up hay as necessary. Some choose to unload, walk, and allow grazing during stops.
Upon Arrival
Float Preparations
Clean out float to remove poop and gunk.
Unhook, and secure, if vehicle use is required.
Towing Vehicle Preparations
Complete and store TSS forms.
Human Preparations
Set up accommodation and take time to eat, drink, and relax.
Horse Preparations
Unload, remove travel boots, and walk the horse for approximately 20 minutes.
Allow time for acclimatisation in paddock/yard/stable.
Provide fresh hay, feed, water, and groom/rug as preferred.
Gear You Can’t Go Without
A successful dressage day is as much about having the right kit as it is about riding well. Here’s what every Aussie competitor should have ready:
Girth: Make sure it’s clean, fits well, and is competition legal.
Saddle: Check for fit and cleanliness. Give it a good clean/condition the day before.
Saddle pad: Spotless, well-fitted, and ideally freshly cleaned.
Number holders: Attach securely to your saddle pad or bridle so they’re clearly visible.
Bridle: Clean, with all buckles and stitching checked. Bit polished and reins supple.
EA approved helmet: No exceptions – safety first and must meet Equestrian Australia standards.
Gloves: White or black, depending on your outfit and rules, clean and hole-free.
White riding breeches/tights: The classic dressage look—make sure they’re spotless and fit well.
Competition top: Long-sleeved or short-sleeved as per the comp rules, crisp and clean.
Stock: Pre-tied or self-tie, matched with a neat stock pin for a polished look.
Hair nets: Essential for a tidy, professional appearance—no stray hairs allowed.
Whip & spurs: Only if allowed in your class. Check the length and style against current EA regulations.
Last-Minute Tips for a Smooth Comp Day
Pack your gear the night before: Use a checklist to avoid leaving anything behind.
Charge your phone: Have contacts and test times handy and snap some post-ride pics!
Arrive early: Give yourself plenty of time to warm up, settle your horse, and walk your test.
Stay hydrated: Pack water and snacks for both you and your horse.
Breathe: Enjoy the moment, trust your prep, and have fun out there!
Conclusion
Preparation is the secret sauce in dressage. By getting organised, keeping your horse happy and healthy, and making sure your gear is on point, you’ll step into the arena with confidence. Good luck and may your next comp be a cracker!
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