There are so many things to pack when getting your kid ready to head to hockey practice or a big game. You need to have all the right equipment, provisions, and miscellaneous extras, and it can all feel a little overwhelming. Fortunately, Stinky Lockers is here to help with a quick guide to packing your kid’s hockey bag. You’ll always have everything your young athlete needs on and off the ice by thinking smart and packing everything up ahead of time.

Essential Gear for Young Hockey Players

Obviously, the first thing to keep in mind when packing a bag is the essential equipment. Your young hockey player won’t get very far without their skates. Before packing them, you should take the time to sharpen the blades and check the laces.

Helmets are equally important, as they provide necessary protection. Make sure their helmet fits and doesn’t have any cracks or damage. Next, you can move on to other pieces of protective gear, like shin guards, elbow pads, and shoulder pads.

Don’t forget the neck guard! It may seem like a small thing, but it’s a vital piece of safety equipment that you should always remember to pack.

Organizing the Hockey Bag

Once you have all the essential gear, the next step is organizing the hockey bag. A well-organized bag not only makes it easier to find each item but also helps maintain the equipment. Start by placing the larger items, like skates and helmets, at the bottom of the bag. Putting the bulkier items at the bottom creates a stable base and reduces the risk of crushing smaller items.

Arrange the protective gear around the large items. For instance, place shin guards and elbow pads along the sides of the bag. This arrangement not only maximizes space but also makes each item easily accessible.

Maintenance and Hygiene Tips

Maintaining the hockey gear and keeping it clean is as essential as packing it. After every practice or game, take the time to air out the equipment. Regular cleaning can help prevent unpleasant odors and bacteria from forming over time. Most hockey bags come with ventilation features, but it’s still a good idea to take the gear out and lay it flat or hang it up to dry.

It’s a good idea to wipe down the gear with disinfectant wipes and consider giving pads and gloves a deeper clean periodically. You should always thoroughly dry the skates to prevent rust from building up on the blades.

We hope you’ve enjoyed Stinky Locker’s quick guide to packing your kid’s hockey bag. Don’t forget to properly label their bag so that there aren’t any unfortunate mix-ups at practice. We have a wide range of custom hockey bag name tags to help keep things looking distinct and unique. To learn more about our wide range of products, browse our website or contact us anytime with any specific questions, comments, or concerns.