🐴 Sam’s Truck Series, Pt. 2: Tack Essentials (What We Always Pack Twice)

Welcome back to Sam’s Truck Series! After covering our first aid kit, today it’s all about tack — the gear that keeps us riding smoothly and ready for anything.

I like to keep everything clean and organised, but not over the top. Having the right backups neatly packed means less stress and fewer surprises at the show.

🎒 Our Packing Philosophy: Keep It Simple, Pack Smart

We use containers, bags, and pouches to keep things tidy and easy to find — no crazy labels, just a system that works. Here’s what we always double up on:

✅ What We Pack (and Pack Twice):

• Bridles and reins — our main set plus a spare, stored neatly in a bridle bag or container.

• Bits — competition bit and a familiar backup, kept together for quick access.

• Girths — primary girth plus one backup, both cleaned and ready to go.

• Stirrups and leathers — extra pair of leathers (holes pre-punched) and spare safety stirrups.

• Saddle pads — 2–3 show pads plus one older pad for schooling or warm-ups, all clean and folded flat.

• Jump boots and bandages — front and hind boots for show, plus an extra set for training or emergencies; bandages for travel and turnout packed together.

• Breastplates and martingales — all checked and packed neatly.

• Jump whip — always have a spare tucked away.

• Spurs and gloves — backup gloves and spurs with rubber guards.

• Number holders and show belts — keep extras on hand to avoid last-minute panics.

• Extra halter and lead rope — simple spares stored in the tack box or container.

🧡 Why This Works

Keeping everything clean, organised, and easy to find makes packing quicker and shows less stressful. No frantic searching or last-minute panics — just calm, confident prep.

If you’re packing your own truck kit, everything you need (and plenty of backups!) is available at Dutaillis Saddlery. Feel free to reach out if you want personalised recommendations.

Stay tuned for tomorrow’s post — Grooming & Gear Check — because even the cleanest horse finds the muddiest puddle right before the ring!