10 Must Have Items in Your Backstage Kit for Internationals

Every queen needs an emergency pack, items that you hope you won’t need but should carry just in case! 

Here are my top 10 items to put in that emergency pack: 

1.  A Mini Sewing Kit- You never know when something may tear, break, or not fit exactly right. Your sewing kit should have a needle & thread, small scissors, & safety pins. This will help assure you are looking your best in any outfit.

2. Deodorant, Deodorant Wipes, or Body Spray- Pageant days are long. Nerves are high. We are constantly moving around, doing service projects, rehearsing opening number, or changing outfits. Pack your deodorant or body spray and keep yourself smelling your best which will ultimately give you more confidence on stage! 

3. Mess free Healthy Snacks & Water- Again, the days can be long! Make sure you have a good source of energy and protein to help fuel you through the days. Keeping hydrated will help you feel and look your best! 

4. Bandaids & Blister care- Sometimes being on our feet all day means little sores or blisters. I highly suggest taking those heels off every chance you can and resting those feet! Bandaids, blister bandaids, gel squares, and/or skin repair will help keep your feet feeling stage ready. 

5. Feminine Products- Feminine products are a must have for a busy pageant week. We are surrounded by strong women and you never know when you or a friend may need something. 

6. Medications- Medications such as Ibuprofen, Tums, ect. may be necessary. In addition, if you have emergency medications such as inhalers, EpiPens, diabetes medication, make sure to pack those and notify pageant staff that you carry them in case of emergency. Make these items easily accessible to you or the pageant staff. 

7. A mini hair care kit- Bobby pins, hair brush, & hair spray will all help keep your hair looking beautiful & stage ready at any minute. 

8. A mini makeup kit- All hair & makeup should be done before hitting backstage. However, sometimes you need a little refresh & touch up. Keeping some makeup wipes, blush, powder, lipstick, ect nearby for quick touch ups will help keep your makeup looking fresh.

9. Stain remover wipes or spray- Accidents happen. Be ready for them! Stain remover wipes or spray will help keep you stress free for the week. 

10. A printed copy of your resume & other pageant materials! - Yes, we submit most of these things online or have them accessible on our phones. However, printed copies of the schedule, your headshot & resume, our walking pattern, ect will help you refer back quickly and feel the most prepared! 

The week is busy but is SO fun! Being prepared will help keep you stress free and stage ready. Gather and pack these things early and get ready to shine on stage!  

-Sara Battaglia, American Women of Service Ms. 2024