What to Pack in Your BJJ Bag: Must-Have Gear for Every Training Session

What to Pack in Your BJJ Bag: Must-Have Gear for Every Training Session

Your BJJ bag is like your silent training partner, always in your corner, keeping you prepared for whatever the mats throw your way. At Cary BJJ, we see every level of student walk through our doors, and one thing’s consistent: those who come prepared train better, recover faster, and enjoy the journey more.

Here’s what we recommend you pack to get the most out of every class. These recommendations are good for both adults bjj and kids bjj so don’t think you don’t need to consider it!

The Essentials: What Every BJJ Bag Should Include

Clean Training Gear

Whether you’re stepping into a Gi or No-Gi class, always bring:

  • A clean Gi (if applicable)
  • Rash guard and grappling shorts
  • A small towel for sweat management

Tip: If you’re attending multiple classes or sweat heavily, consider packing a backup rash guard.

Water Bottle

Hydration is a non-negotiable. You’ll sweat a lot, and keeping a refillable water bottle on hand is key to staying sharp through drills and rolls.

Towel

Bring a small towel to wipe down during breaks or to dry off post-training. Especially helpful if you’re heading straight out afterward.

Hygiene is Respect

Extra Change of Clothes

Always pack clean clothes to change into after class. Leaving in your training gear is a fast track to skin issues and unwanted odors for you and your car.

Nail Clippers

Long nails are a hazard in BJJ. Keep a small clipper in your bag and give yourself a quick check before class.

Band-Aids + Antiseptic Wipes

Minor mat burns or skin scrapes can happen. It’s good etiquette (and smart self-care) to cover anything open or irritated.

Deodorant or Body Wipes

If you’re training during lunch or on your way to something after class, these are your best friends.

Finger Tape & Recovery Tools

Finger Tape

A must-have for grip-heavy sessions. Whether you’re nursing sore joints or preventing strain, tape keeps you rolling longer.

Optional Extras:

  • Lacrosse ball (for rolling out tight spots)
  • Compression sleeves or knee braces
  • Protein bar or quick snack

The Overlooked but Awesome Add-Ons

Mouthguard (Backup)

If you use one, keep a spare. You’ll thank yourself the day you forget your main one.

Trash Bag or Wet Sack

Throw your sweaty Gi or rash guard in here instead of loose in your bag. Helps keep things sanitary.

Training Journal

Log techniques, notes from class, or lightbulb moments. Great tool for tracking progress and retention.

Ear Guards

Not everyone uses them, but if you’re prone to cauliflower ear, toss a pair in your bag just in case.

What’s In My Bag (Timm – Cary BJJ) 

“Personally, I like to keep my setup clean and efficient. I always carry:

  • An extra change of clothes
  • Nail clippers
  • Band-Aids
  • Water bottle
  • Finger tape
    These items have saved me more than once, from surprise cuts to post-class dinners.”

Final Thoughts: Train Clean, Train Ready

Having your BJJ bag dialed in means fewer excuses and more time focused on improving your game. Over time, you’ll tailor your gear list to your needs, but these basics are a solid place to start.

Ready to put that bag to use?

Come train with us at Cary BJJ in Cary, NC. Your first class is free, and if you forget something, we’ve probably got a backup!

Posted in BJJ Gear