Summer Sports League Essentials

This post is sponsored by Bayer. To make sure these products are right for you, always read and follow the label.

Whether you are looking to relive your days as a pint-sized soccer phenom, practice your teamwork skills or just meet new people, joining a summer sports league is becoming an increasingly popular past-time – and with good reason! Sports are a great way to have fun and escape the stress of everyday life. No matter what sport you’ve signed up for, there are a few essential items you’ll want to bring along. Check out this handy list for tips on packing for your first day on the field.

Summer Sports League Essentials

• Water Bottle. Hydration is no joke, especially when it gets hot out there. Don’t rely on nearby water fountains. If it’s out of order or not near your game, you’ll be out of luck. Look for an insulated stainless-steel water bottle to keep your water cold for hours under the sun. It’s also better for the environment and will also be easy to pick out of a pile of store bought single use bottles.

• Safety Equipment. Sport-related injuries can be serious and could keep you on the side lines in the short term, or lead to long-term problems. Protective equipment like helmets, elbow and knee pads, eye protection and mouth guards can help to reduce your chances of getting hurt or the severity of your injury. Find out what gear your sport requires and pick it up before your first game.

• First-Aid Kit. The type of first aid you’ll need varies by sport, but there are a few general supplies that will come in handy no matter what. Make sure you have instant chemical cold packs, bandages, cleansing wipes and distilled water for cleaning wounds. Pack a pain medication like ALEVE to give you 12 hours of relief to keep you in the game.

• Sunscreen. Sun protection is key all year round, but especially if your game will keep you in the hot sun for a couple of hours. Apply your sunscreen before you get dressed for the game and keep it on the sidelines to reapply after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating, and reapply immediately after toweling-off.

If time is a factor, try a spray like Coppertone Sport Sunscreen Continuous Spray; apply just 15 minutes before sun exposure. It goes on fast, has a light and breathable feel, and stays on strong when you sweat. Keep in mind that sprays should be rubbed into the skin just like lotion to avoid missed areas. For a small and portable option, pick up the new Coppertone Sport Sunscreen Stick. It provides broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection and won’t run into your eyes when you sweat.

• Spare Clothes. Keeping an extra pair of clothes on hand keeps you dry and comfortable on the way home, not to mention protecting the interior of your car. As an added bonus, you’ll be ready for any unexpected outings with the team.

Have you joined any sports leagues this summer? What are the most important things in your duffel bag?

This post is sponsored by Bayer. To make sure these products are right for you, always read and follow the label.