Ever find yourself in a dance class without the most basic of items? Check out our list below for ten essentials you should keep in your dance bag.

1. Dance shoes.

If you’re a ballet, tap, or jazz dancer, you’ll need the shoes you dance in (and if you use character shoes for any routine, pack those, too).

2. Extra tights, leotards, and leg warmers.

Just in case you rip your tights when you slide across the floor, need a leotard that isn’t hot pink, or your calves need warming in 45 degree Chicago weather.

3. A jacket.

Some studios are frigid. Be prepared with a zip-up jacket or sweater to keep you warm.

4. Snacks, including a protein bar.

Don’t pack anything that’s going to weigh you down (like a Hostess Zebra cake or a Cinnabon cinnamon roll, though they’re delicious). Pack nuts, fruit, veggies, and a protein bar to keep your energy up in the middle of an intense rehearsal.

5. Water.

Did I say water? I think I said water. Water. Water for days.

6. A small first aid kit.

Remember that one time you had a blister from breaking in your new character, jazz, and/or ballet shoes? Remember when you could barely walk for three days? Pack a first aid kit that includes bandages, antibiotic ointment, and ibuprofen or aspirin.

7. A towel.

Sometimes dancers get sweaty. It’s okay. Keep a towel just in case.

8. Hairbrush, comb, and bobby pins.

There’s nothing worse than hair dangling in your eye when you’re trying to be as fierce as Beyonce in the “Single Ladies” video. Grab a hair tie and some bobby pins so you can keep your locks up and away from your face.

9. Deodorant.

There are times when you kill it so hard in a dance rehearsal that you’ll need to freshen up. Pack some deodorant for occasional re-applications.

10. A small shower kit.

Who knows when you’ll be asked out on a post-rehearsal date by your dance partner? Be ready for anything and pack a shower kit with shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.

Are you an actor, too? Check out our article on what every actor should keep in their rehearsal bag, and get to the theatre prepared for anything.