Travel-checklist

Suggested TEAM USA Dragon Boat Equipment Check list

(6/19/13, updated 10/1/17).

CLIMATE:

    • Prepare for hot humid AND cool weather.

RACE CLOTHING:

    • TEAM Uniform: racing jersey, navy shorts

    • cool max stuff (long or short sleeve) for practices

    • gloves (just in case the water is cooler)

    • rain gear/jacket/pants (to stay warm in between races)

    • slippers (for between race rests)

    • bathing suit

    • water shoes

    • You typical race day munchies/energy bars/drinks/gels...etc. Bring whatever you can from home, to make your away race experience - "just like at home"

EQUIPMENT:

    • paddles - bring 2, one a little longer than you normally race with

    • extra padded stuff, butt pads

    • life jacket - optional

    • sun block, sun glasses

    • resting mat/towel

    • plastic bags, beach towel, set of race day dry clothes, camelback-like hydration system.

    • small locks to close your gear bag on race days

    • navy pants/shorts (for opening ceremonies)

    • leggings

    • long sleeve shirts

    • hats/headband

IMPORTANT STUFF TO PACK:

    • travel directions

    • passport

    • personal medication (aspirin, advil...etc)

    • a listing of your medical requirements

    • a photo copy of your "Banned Substance" form

    • a photo copy of your passport's photo page (Black and white only, apparently color copies are illegal)

    • Be very careful of the cough/cold medications you bring...make sure they do NOT include anything listed on the banned substance list.

OTHER STUFF:

    • ear plugs for your snoring roomie

    • wrap your paddle blade with 15 x 10 1/2 envelopes lined with bubble wrap

    • cell phone with charger (with international adaptor)

    • ATM card, credit card

    • PASSPORT! Although not required for entry into most countries, it IS required to reenter USA

    • extra batteries for your camera

    • binoculars

    • copies of your airline ticket(s), passport identification page, credit cards, driver's license, and other documents you plan to carry with you. Store these records in a separate place from the originals to expedite the replacement process

    • CARRY ON:

      • Bring on board plenty of gatorade (i guess you bring the powered form and then mix with water into a drink) to help keep you hydrated on the long flight and keep electrolytes up.

      • carry on stuff you can't afford to lose (racing uniform, paddle)...check the rest.

      • Wear team USA gear so it's easier to find teammates at the airport

      • Long haul flight: ear plugs, eye cover, compression sleeves (legs), pillow.

      • I bring cough drops to help keep my throat deal with the dry state of the airplane.

TO DOs:

    • Suggested travel wear: TEAM USA Polo and navy pants

    • PACK your required team uniforms in Carry ON...so when your luggage is lost, you can still race

    • Look for message from your captain or TEAM USA rep on some lobby bulletin board

    • If you miss team shuttles, TAKE A CAB! Otherwise, always be 15 min EARLY!

    • travel aware and with common sense

    • To minimize effect of high altitude (headaches)...hydrate hydrate and hydrate before and during our stay,

      • It has been suggested to load up on B12. But only do this if you know you are OK with B12.

WHAT TO EXPECT ON RACE DAY:

    • You will compete in 2-3 races within 2.5 hours on race day. So plan your clothing accordingly, as in ponchos, towels to stay warm between races.

    • Hang around the coach/captain/drummer as racing rosters are being fine tuned and racing numbers handed out

    • Lots of cool down between races

  • NO frills event: no vendors, no festivities, just racing, some spectators...but no different than at home

    • Lots of team flags, pins, giveaways, team usa trading shirts, and national spirit