Every year, we say the same thing: “This time, we’re packing light.” And every year… there are a few things that always come with us anyway. Not because they’re fancy or exciting — but because after enough trips, you learn which items make everything easier once you arrive.
When you haul into a new place, there’s already plenty of change for your horse. New sights, new smells, new sounds. The goal is to remove as many unknowns as possible. Here’s what we always bring, even when we’re trying to keep things simple:
- A familiar turnout or containment setup. Something your horse recognizes immediately. A defined space where they can eat, rest, and lie down helps them settle much faster after hauling.
- Extra water buckets (more than you think you’ll need).Buckets crack, get stepped on, or disappear. Having backups avoids scrambling at the end of a long day.
- Hay from home (or as close as possible).Even if it’s just for the first day or two, familiar hay can make a big difference in keeping horses eating and comfortable.
- Electrolytes or supplements your horse already knows. Travel can change drinking habits. Familiar supplements can help encourage hydration without adding anything new.
- A small but complete first-aid kit. Nothing elaborate, just the basics you already use at home, packed where you can reach them easily.
- Extra lead ropes & halters. Because the one you need will inevitably be the one that goes missing.
- A simple routine, and sticking to it. Feeding times, turnout order, and basic handling staying the same can be just as important as the gear you bring.
Over the years, we’ve noticed something interesting: you feel lighter when you’re prepared. Horses settle faster. People relax sooner. And instead of problem-solving, you get to enjoy why you came in the first place. Yes—we still joke about packing light. But experience has taught us that the right essentials are always worth bringing along. Peace of mind travels really well.