Dance Competition Travel Hub
Stress-Free Travel Planning for Dance Families
Out-of-town dance competitions are exciting, but planning the travel can sometimes feel overwhelming.
This page was created to help dance families plan competition weekends with less stress and fewer last-minute logistics, so you can focus on supporting your dancer and enjoying the experience.
Start With Competition Dates
Before booking travel, it helps to have your competition dates confirmed. Our Events page keeps upcoming dance competitions and conventions in one place, making it easier to plan ahead.
Book Your Competition Travel
Competition hotels fill quickly—especially during peak season. Booking early gives you more options, better prices, and one less thing to worry about as competition weekend approaches.
Use the search tool below to compare hotels and start planning with confidence.
Tip: When possible, book lodging close to the competition venue to reduce travel time and early-morning chaos.
Choosing the Right Hotel for Dance Competitions
Not all hotels are created equal when you’re traveling with costumes, makeup cases, and early call times.
When booking, look for:
Hotels near the competition venue or host hotel
Rooms with mini fridges for snacks and meals
- Free Breakfast
Late checkout options (always ask!)
Elevators and luggage carts for garment bags
Quiet, family-friendly environments
Staying near other studio families can also make weekends smoother and some added fun.
When to Book Travel for Dance Competitions
A general rule of thumb for dance competition travel is to book early especially for popular weekends. When possible, look for refundable hotel options, since competition schedules can change and you may not need lodging for the entire weekend.
Helpful timing guidelines:
Regional competitions: Book 8–12 weeks in advance
Large conventions: Book as soon as dates are released
Nationals: Book immediately—availability goes fast
Booking refundable hotels gives you flexibility if call times shift, your dancer only competes one day, or plans change closer to the event.
Waiting too long often means higher prices and fewer options. If you know the dates, it’s worth checking availability early and securing a flexible reservation.
Dance Competition Packing Essentials
Packing for competition weekends can feel endless. Having a system helps keep stress levels low.
Don’t forget:
Costumes (tights, hair accessories, etc)
Makeup
Portable steamer
- Pop Up Changing Tent
Snacks, water bottles, and quick meals
Recovery tools like foam rollers or stretch bands
Download our free Dance Competition Packing Checklist to stay organized from the moment you start packing.
Real-Life Travel Tips from Dance Moms
Keep one emergency kit per dancer with extra tights, hair supplies, and safety pins
Pack costumes in carry-on luggage when flying
Bring a power strip—hotel outlets are never enough
Plan one calm moment each day for your dancer to reset
Small preparations can make a big difference!
A Note About Our Resources
Some travel links on this page may be affiliate links, which means Dance Mom Central may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only share tools and resources we genuinely find helpful for dance families.