WHAT TO PACK IN YOUR RUGBY BAG
Published: 20/08/2025, by Will Sendel
With the Women’s Rugby World Cup in England on the horizon, there’s never been a better time to get started. Whoever you are, there’s opportunities to hone your skills and show your stuff on the field. Here’s a breakdown of some of the essentials that’ll take your performance - and your club – to the next level.
Rugby is not for the faint of heart. It’s great to toss around the ball with your mates, but if you’re heading to a training session or competing with your teammates, there’s a fair bit of kit you’ll need to elevate your game.
From protective gear that keeps you performing to post-match paraphernalia that sees you leave in the same state that you arrived, here’s our top picks for what you’ll need to remember as if you’re playing.
PACKING THE ESSENTIALS WITH A RUGBY BAG
Fundamentals first – there’s no point having the gear if there’s no way of carrying it. Investing in a top-quality bag with space for your boots is a great way to stay on top of what you need. Think of it as one of your front rowers; robust, tremendously strong and a bad idea to go without. There are a few properties you’re looking for in your bag, the main ones broken down below:
· Shoulder strap: The kit you’re carrying isn’t just bulky, it’s heavy too. Give your arms a break and look for a bag with a sturdy strap for your shoulder
· Size: As mentioned, you’ll find yourself with both weight and bulk to accommodate, so a big bag is a must
· Zip compartments: If you come away from the pitch with a clean kit and boots, you’re doing it wrong. Do yourself a favour and make sure your bag has divided compartments that’ll keep your clean clothes mud-free for the journey home
LOOK THE PART WITH YOUR KIT
You won’t get far without it. You need kit that keeps you playing in complete comfort but is up to withstanding the battle. If you aren’t wearing your club’s strip, you can check out our rugby collection to find all the shirts, shorts and socks.
STEP OUT IN STYLE WITH PERFECT BOOTS
Your performance all starts from the ground up; if you want success, you need a pair of boots that you can trust. With top boots designed for soft, firm or artificial ground, find your companion now.
STAY SAFE WITH PROTECTIVE GEAR
As we say, rugby is not for the faint of heart. If you’re in a match, hard tackles and heavy collisions are as unavoidable as muddy boots, which is why protective gear is a must. Here’s a few to keep you on the pitch (and out of danger).
Gum Shields: Designed for high impact play, gum shields protect your teeth and gums from trouble. Whether you’re tackled down the flank or locked in a scrum, it’s a necessity if you’re hoping to be smiling at full time.
Headguard: Protect yourself against collisions, concussions and cauliflower ear by investing in a good quality headguard. With padding that supports your head throughout every tackle, a top headguard ensures you can truly unwind after a game.
Protection Vest: Though not worn by everyone, protection vests are getting more popular amongst rugby players. Featuring padding that absorbs shock on impact, these sleek vests support you on the pitch from the first minute to the final whistle.
Shin pads: A lot gets missed in a tight-knit scrum, especially at ground level. If you want to make sure that no stray (or frustrated) kicks hinder your game, invest in a pair of top-quality shin pads.
MASTER YOUR PERFORMANCE WITH A WATER BOTTLE
As the competition heats up, it’s vital to stay on top of your hydration - lethargy, illness and fatigue will soon set in if you don’t. To stay on top of your water levels, a quality water bottle is a worthy investment for your bag.
PLAY WHEREVER, WHENEVER WITH A RUGBY BALL
Though it would make the game less physical, we doubt you’d have much fun on the pitch without a rugby ball. Check out some of the world’s best, from global brands synonymous with excellence like Gilbert, KooGa and Canterbury.
FEEL GOOD AFTER A GAME WITH YOUR WASH BAG
Unless you plan on cleaning your car after every match, you need a wash bag. With a few essentials (shower gel, shampoo, a towel, deodorant), you can leave the changing rooms as clean as you entered them.
Wherever you’re playing, your performance on the pitch all starts with your equipment. Whether you’re hoping to lift the trophy in England or are taking your first steps into the sport, do yourself a favour and find the right rugby gear for your game, available at Sports Direct.
