Ever wonder what’s inside the bag of a professional tennis player? While the racquets get all the attention, the real preparation happens off-court. A well-packed bag supports performance, recovery, and readiness for match day. In this article from Tennis Ranch Australia, we break down the must-haves you’ll find in a pro tennis bag — and how you can gear up like the best.
Whether you're aiming for the ATP or WTA tour or just want to level up your prep, here’s what goes into building the ultimate tennis bag setup.
1. Multiple Tennis Racquets (Strung and Ready)
Pros usually carry 4–8 racquets in their bag, often with some strung to different tensions to suit court conditions. If one breaks or loses tension mid-match, there’s a backup ready to go. For everyday players, having at least two strung racquets ensures you’re not caught short.
Check out the latest performance racquets from Babolat, Wilson, and Head.
2. Grips, Overgrips & Dampeners
A sweaty hand can mean a lost point. That’s why pros carry overgrips like Solinco Hyper-Grip to swap out between sets. You’ll also find replacement grips, vibration dampeners, and finishing tape to customise feel and absorb shock.
“The feel of your racquet is everything. One new grip can change your match.” — Pro Tour Stringer
3. Match-Day Apparel & Extras
From sweat-wicking shirts to fresh socks, pros always carry extra clothing. Most include:
- 2–3 dry shirts or polos
- Compression wear or arm sleeves
- Extra socks and wristbands
- Spare shoelaces or insoles
Browse our tennis apparel collection from Adidas, Nike and more for pro-ready comfort.
4. Tennis Shoes & Court-Ready Footwear
Many pros bring multiple pairs of tennis shoes: one for warm-ups and one for matches. It’s common to store them in a ventilated shoe compartment to separate them from other gear. Look for bags like the Head Pro Series that offer built-in compartments.
5. Hydration, Nutrition & Recovery Tools
Staying fuelled is non-negotiable. Expect to find:
- Electrolyte drinks or hydration tablets
- Energy bars, gels, or bananas
- Foam rollers or massage balls
- Resistance bands for warm-up and cool-down
Want to pack like a pro? Allocate a dedicated pouch in your bag for quick-access snacks and hydration.
6. Tape, First Aid & Essentials
Blisters, sprains, or a cut finger shouldn’t stop a match. That’s why pros carry:
- Pre-wrap and athletic tape
- Band-aids and blister pads
- Scissors and nail clippers
- Small towel or sweat cloth
Some even carry extra shoelaces or anti-chafe balm for long days on court.
7. Tech & Match-Day Tools
Smart pros are organised. Their bags often contain:
- Match notes or scouting reports
- A Phone charger or power bank
- Notebooks and pens
- Smartwatch or timing device
Keeping your bag well-stocked means fewer surprises and more focus on the game.
Conclusion: Build Your Own Pro Tennis Bag
A professional tennis bag setup isn’t just about carrying gear — it’s about confidence, preparation, and performance. With the right essentials packed, you can face every match like a pro. From racquets and grips to snacks and recovery gear, every item has a purpose.
Explore our full range of tennis bags and match-day gear at Tennis Ranch Australia. We’ll help you gear up, zip up, and show up ready.