What to Bring to a Track Day: Complete Preparation Checklist

Preparing for a Track Day: The Key to a Great Experience
Your first Track Day can be one of the most exciting experiences of your life, but to enjoy it to the fullest you need to arrive prepared. It is not about packing a huge bag or buying expensive gear, but about having the basics covered so you can focus on what matters: driving and having an incredible time.
At Racing Rental we provide all safety equipment (helmet, gloves, harness), but there are several things that are up to you. Here is the complete list divided by category so you do not forget anything.
Clothing and Footwear
What you wear to a Track Day matters more than you might think. It is not about aesthetics but about safety and comfort inside the car.
- Long pants: mandatory. Jeans, athletic pants or thick fabric pants all work. Never shorts or bermudas
- Long-sleeved cotton shirt: cotton does not melt on contact with heat, unlike synthetic materials. If you do not have a long-sleeved option, a short-sleeved cotton shirt is acceptable but not ideal
- Closed-toe shoes: preferably with thin, flexible soles. Thick-soled shoes make it harder to feel the pedals. Avoid sandals, flip-flops or open footwear
- Change of clothes: you will sweat, especially on a hot day. Bringing a fresh shirt and change of underwear is a good idea
Documentation
- Valid driver's license: the only mandatory document. Without a license you cannot go on track
- ID or passport: as supplementary identification, especially if your license is from another country
- Booking confirmation: the WhatsApp message or email confirmation with your name and reserved package
Safety Equipment
At Racing Rental we provide helmet and gloves at no additional charge. But if you have your own gear, you are welcome to bring it:
- Helmet: if you have your own certified helmet (Snell or ECE), bring it. It is more comfortable to use a helmet you know and that fits your head properly. If you do not have one, we lend you one
- Driving gloves: optional if you use ours, but your own gloves are always more comfortable
- Neck support (HANS or similar): not mandatory for Track Days but recommended if you own one
- Balaclava: if using a loaner helmet, your own balaclava is more hygienic. We also have disposable ones available
If You Are Bringing Your Own Car
If you plan to drive your own vehicle on track, there are some things you should prepare in advance. We also recommend reading our guide on what a Track Day is and how it works to understand the full format.
- Brake check: ensure pads have sufficient material and brake fluid is in good condition. A Track Day demands much more from your brakes than normal driving
- Tire pressure: bring a gauge or verify pressure before leaving. On track it is recommended to slightly lower pressure compared to street use (check with the instructor)
- Remove loose objects: everything loose in the cabin (floor mats, bottles, keys, coins) can become a projectile under hard braking. Remove everything before going on track
- Oil and coolant levels: verify they are at the proper level. The engine will operate at higher RPMs than normal
- Fuel: arrive with a full tank or at least three-quarters. Track sessions consume significantly more fuel than city driving
Useful Things for the Day
- Water: plenty of it. Driving on track dehydrates you. Bring at least 2 liters per person
- Sunscreen: the pits do not always have shade and you will spend quite a bit of time outside waiting for your session
- Hat or cap: for the time spent outside the car
- Snacks: fruit, granola bars, something light. Avoid eating heavy meals before going on track
- Camera or charged phone: for photos and videos. Some people mount a GoPro on the car (check with the organizer)
- Towel: to dry off if you sweat a lot or to clean the helmet visor
- Folding chair: not essential but a luxury when waiting between stints
What NOT to Bring
- Jewelry, watches, rings: they can get caught on the steering wheel or harness and cause injury. Leave them in your car or in the pits
- Loose synthetic clothing: nylon or polyester jackets are a risk. Wear cotton or fire-resistant materials
- Overconfidence: this is not a joke. Many track incidents happen because someone tried to go faster than their skill level allows. Listen to the instructor and drive within your limits
What Racing Rental Provides
To make it clear what you do not need to buy or bring: we provide a certified helmet, driving gloves, safety harness (in the rental car), instructor service, safety briefing, lap timing, track insurance and mechanical assistance. If you rent our BMW E36, fuel and wear are also included.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy my own helmet?
No. We provide certified helmets at no additional charge with all packages. If you have your own helmet with Snell or ECE certification, you can bring it and it will be more comfortable since it is already fitted to your head. But it is not necessary to buy one to participate.
Is there a strict dress code?
There are minimum safety requirements: long pants, closed-toe shoes and preferably a long-sleeved cotton shirt. Shorts, sandals and loose synthetic clothing are not allowed. It is not a fashion dress code but a basic safety requirement in case of contact with heat or friction.
Can I bring spectators who will not be driving?
Yes, spectators are welcome. They can stay in the pit area, take photos and enjoy the event as spectators. There is no entry fee for them. Only drivers need to meet the documentation and clothing requirements.
Is food available at the racetrack?
It depends on the event. Some Track Days have food trucks or a kiosk on the premises, but not always. We recommend bringing your own snacks and water. The full-day package includes lunch.
Can I ride a motorcycle to the circuit?
Yes, there is motorcycle parking. But Track Days are car-only on track.
Is there mechanical service at the circuit?
There are pits with basic tools. Let us know in advance if you need specialized mechanics.
Clothing & Gear by Season
Summer (Dec-Feb, 30-35°C): Light but long-sleeved clothing (sun protection). Closed-toe shoes mandatory. Bring at least 3 liters of water, sunscreen and a cap for breaks. A towel to dry off sweat between sessions.
Winter (Jun-Aug, 8-15°C): Dress in layers: thermal base, fleece and windbreaker. Pits get cold between sessions. Thin gloves to maintain steering feel. A thermos with coffee is a winter paddock classic.
Rain (any season): Waterproof jacket and shoes with good grip. The helmet we provide has a visor, but a cap helps when walking in the pits. Waterproof bag for phone and documents.