Posted by Our family is new to the track lifestyle. Track meets are all day. They start early. They are typically far away. And the weather can be unpredictable.
The first time we showed up to the kid’s (ages 9 and 11) track meet we were woefully unprepared. We had just ourselves and a stroller. Not even hats. My husband got sunburned, we had to change the baby on concrete, and I had to go to Target to buy a chair just to have somewhere to sit.
We’re still working out our system, but here’s our current set of tips on how to be comfortable all day at a track meet as a spectator with a newborn baby – while still keeping it minimal.
#1 Bring Seating w/ Shade
You won’t always be able (or want) to find a spot in the bleachers and shady spots might be taken. You need somewhere to sit with shade and the kids need somewhere to sit when they aren’t competing.
We bring two camping chairs with built-in canopies and a woven beach mat. The chairs are pricey but they’ve lasted a long time and we can use them in the rain too. The woven beach mat works well on grass, concrete, and packed dirt.
#2 Bring snacks
There usually are concession stands for more substantial food items, but bring some snacks to enjoy. We bring cut up fruit, salami, chips, etc. And of course, water. We also bring a small trash bag and paper towels.
#3 Dress in Layers & Check the Weather
The weather can change throughout the day. So dress in layers. I like to bring a light jacket with a hood, sun hat, and sunglasses. I plan on keeping a beanie hat and a blanket in the car just in case.
#4 A place for the baby
We bring our stroller in the bassinet position. It’s a perfect shady spot for the baby to get changed or lay down for a nap. I always bring a large light receiving blanket to cover the bassinet so that I can block the sun or wind. Also, bring your baby carrier so you can more easily move around since you’ll be holding them a lot.
#5 A Wagon to Haul all your stuff
Filling a wagon with all your bags and stuff makes it easier to do one haul to and from the car. Investing in one has helped us on numerous family outings.