Tango Bag Essentials
I am a bit of a tango bag maximalist(even though I really only use a few items at any given tango event) and carry many options and products in case I ever need them. My must-haves are underlined, and the rest are great to have if needed!
The Bag
I like a duffle bag - more secure than a tote and more accessible than a backpack but I usually carry a foldable tote bag in the suitcase for travel.
Dagne Dover - Landon Carryall - my favorite, I received mine as a gift but they have great sales/offers and can also be found on online consignment shops like ThreadUp.
Tote bags I usually have ones from when I buy clothes or as free merch from events as they are easily packable and don’t take up space.
Werner Kern Shoe Bag with Strap - I like this as a travel alternative to a tote bag, a little sturdier/structure for airflow and an adjustable strap.
Shoes
two different styles of heels and a pair of flats
shoe brush
baby powder(to make sticky floors smooth)
moleskin(to make sticky floors smooth)
for fast floors(when the floor is slippery*) I wear my shoes with suede bottoms for better grip or dampen my soles gently with a mini spray bottle of water.
Clothing
a set of comfy clothes to change into
extra tango outfit
jacket/cardigan
fashion double-sided tape(or, I use the Vapon toupee tape that has extra grip)/mini sewing kit with scissors - I have used these more often then I expected.
extra earrings
Others
reusable water bottle/mug
gum/mints - eclipse mints
hair supplies to put hair up - nothing worse than sweaty hair sticking to my face and neck
wallet/cash in the local currency
snack - power bars and dried fruits
folding hand fan - way more useful than you think they'll be
small personal hygiene kit - mini toothbrush/toothpaste, mouthwash, Vaseline, perfume, dry shampoo, skin/makeup wipes to refresh. Some places have these items avalible, and really make a difference when I am running around beforehand.
makeup basics for on the go - eyebrow gel, mascara, eyeliner, bb cream/foundation in a small jar, and a blender.
Medical/Physical Care Supplies
small pack of ibuprofen
blister tape - to tape up my feet if I'm starting to feel blisters from breaking in new shoes or for injuries.
kinesiology tape - sore or pulled muscles for extra support! YouTube has great short videos on how to use this.
tiger balm(camphor and menthol) - great for easing soreness and overnight before the next event. It does smell strongly so be considerate before an event.
lotion - for skin and muscle recovery
Some additional pages that have great info on tango essentials!
