# 20 Items You Should Pack For An Out-Of-Town Contract

We all know Broadway is not the end all, be all. Many actors find steady work in productions at regional theaters across the country.

_(Touring contracts are a whole different story. Perhaps a blog post for next time!)_

If you find yourself scrambling choosing what to pack for an **out-of-town contract,** don't fret! Here are 20 simple things you should bring.

## 1. Neutral colored clothing

Pick things you can mix and match! Neutrals are best because you can add layers and accessories to create new looks.

## 2. Workout clothes

The obvious. You will most likely live in **rehearsal clothes,** so plan accordingly.

## 3. Two pairs of sneakers

You'll want to be **comfortable** (especially if you're wearing heels in a show).

## 4. One formal outfit

An **opening night** look is important. A nice dress and heels, a suit and tie. You know the drill.

## 5. Three or four dressy casual outfits

A pair of sandals and a sundress or nice slacks and a button up go a long way. You'll never know when you'll be going to a nice **event** or a **party** on a night off!

## 6. Two or three pairs of jeans

**Keep it to a minimum.** Jeans tend to weigh your bag down, especially if you're bringing multiple pairs. You'll probably end up living in athletic wear anyway.

## 7. A week's worth of socks and underwear

**Bring more than you think.** Wearing the same jeans or shirt twice a week may be no big deal, but you'll want to have plenty of underwear until you can do some laundry. (PS - a foldable laundry basket will come in handy!)

## 8. Electronics

Smartphone (obvi), computer, tablet. Whatever makes you happy. Consider bringing a small speaker and/or a mini-tripod for recording video submissions while out-of-town!

## 9. Chargers

Your electronics won't last forever! If you can, bring two phone chargers... I always end up losing mine at the theater. [Power strips](https://amzn.to/2SK8wmy) are helpful too.

## 10. Headphones

To block out the haterz. And to blast some good good music at the gym.

## 11. Audition Binder/Headshots/Resumes

You'll never know when you'll have to whip out an audition song or two. Every contract I've been on, I've been able to also get a few **auditions** in on my days off. It's worth to pack your music and a couple of resumes, just in case!

## 12. Stage Makeup (and makeup-makeup)

You won't want to waste your super expensive, everyday makeup on performances. Make sure to bring some makeup that you can dedicate just to theatrical needs.

## 13. Magic Bullet

A bunch of my actor friends have found it helpful to bring their own **blenders**. [Magic Bullets](https://amzn.to/2LdsMub) are great because they are light and packable.

## 14. Favorite Teas and Coffee

Not all grocery stores stock up on your favorite **teas** and **coffee** blends!

## 15. Tupperware

[**Tupperware**](https://amzn.to/2LdRz1n) can be used as storage not only for food, but for personal items too! Jewelry, hair ties, stamps, and various small items can be stored away and stacked.

## 16. Multi-purpose bowl or mug

Bringing your own **personal bowl** or favorite mug is great if you make oatmeal or drink coffee every day. You can also always get something like that there, if needed.

## 17. Favorite Pillow or Blanket

If you have a favorite pillow, bring it. Favorite blanket? Bring it. It’ll definitely make you feel like home!

## 18. Water Bottle

Unless you can't live without plastic water bottles, pack [**your own sturdy water bottle**](https://amzn.to/2LeHqBF). Extra points if it has a filter in it!

## 19. Flip flops and slippers

What's your bathroom situation like? You may want to bring **flip flops or shower shoes** (and a bathrobe!), just in case. And consider bringing **slippers**! You never know what the floors of your housing will be like, and you can also wear them backstage if need be.

## 20. Bathing suit

Think about what part of the country you'll be in, and try to do a little research on the weather during the time of year you'll be there. Hopefully there's a pool or a beach nearby for some swimming! You'll kick yourself if you don't bring a **bathing suit.**

**BONUS - portable foam roller.** You'll thank me later.

\* If you're a member of [Actors' Equity](http://actorsequity.org/), **check your contract.** Many, if not all, are required to **ship** a certain amount of your personal items. That includes not only your checked baggage on the airplane, but also reimbursement of shipping a box to your contract, and then shipment home at the end of your contract. Each contract is different, and it varies how much stuff they'll ship.

**Pack light and pack smart!**