5 Trailer Organization Tips for a Smoother Show Day
by Sam Tolentino
I recently upgraded to a new trailer – ironically the same week that Fiona went out of commission, so organizing it has been a welcome distraction and something to look forward to when we get back into the show ring. As someone who loves an organized space, these five tips will help you stay prepared and stress-free on show days so you can focus on riding your best and spoiling your horse.
1. Lock It Down with a Heavy-Duty Toolbox
Skip the plastic drawers and opt for a locking metal toolbox. It’s sturdy enough to stay put while hauling and you’ll never be fighting with drawers that just don’t open smoothly. This is my primary storage for show day related items. Coggins, gloves, hair nets, hair ties, show numbers, leather cleaner/conditioner, braiding supplies, treats, and a surplus of horse boots.
Bonus: The locking feature keeps everything secure and spill-free while on the move.
2. Add a Full-Length Mirror for Outfit Checks
A mounted full-length mirror is essential for every trailer dressing room. It’s called a dressing room for a reason! Check your outfit before heading into the show ring and for me, I find myself checking my helmet and hair net more times than I can count.
3. Prioritize Hydration with a Dedicated Water Container
Buckets and a large water tank or container are a must-have for keeping your horse hydrated and cool. I keep mine easily accessible and always travel with a hose attachment for quick refills and sponges for post-show cool downs.
4. Designate Trailer Zones so Everything Has a Home
- Bridles / halters / girths hanging up
- Saddle pads stacked on the gooseneck bed along with a storage tote for spare equipment like shipping boots
- Grooming box that doubles as a mounting block
- Boot bag that stays in the trailer for show boots / helmet so you’ll never forget them in the barn tack room
- Crops / dressage whips hanging on the wall
- Scrim sheets / coolers / quarter sheets on a shelf
- Show jackets and spare show breeches/shirt hanging up
- Extra jackets for chilly mornings (my personal favorite is the BOTORI cropped windbreaker. Light enough to wear in the schooling ring while keeping your show shirt clean and easy enough to get on and off while wearing a helmet!)
This keeps your daily-use items handy while still having backups ready when needed.
5. Build a First Aid Kit—for You and Your Horse
Emergencies happen. I keep a stocked medical box with essentials for both of us.
For Fiona:
- Banamine
- Vet wrap
- Syringes
- Thermometer
- Electrolyte paste
- Saline solution
- Betadine
- Scissors
- Gauze
- Duct tape
- Epsom salts
For Me:
- Tylenol or ibuprofen
- Band-aids
- Electrolyte packets
- Sunscreen
- Bug spray
- Feminine products
- Hand sanitizer
- Eye drops
- Safety pins
- Extra phone charger and power bank
About Sam
Sam is an adult amateur navigating the equestrian world as a first-time horse owner with her mare Fiona – the sassiest dun on the planet. Sam is also the creator of Shameless Equestrian, a blog she started to share Fiona’s Kissing Spines journey, DIY hacks, and equestrian life – with a healthy dose of shopping obsession because she never passes up a good deal!
Instagram: @ShamelessEquestrian
Blog: www.ShamelessEquestrian.com
Why I Love BOTORI
You’ll catch me wearing BOTORI whether I’m in the saddle or on the ground during one of Fiona’s many “sabbaticals”. My current obsession? The BTR Active riding tights and sports bra – insanely soft, ridiculously comfortable, and perfect for everything from riding to working out to curling up with a good book.