What you carry in your tennis bag can help you avoid defaulting, retiring or being disqualified for a match. In addition to items you require to play your match, you might need equipment to make a facility or court legal for play if you are the host. Being prepared for common occurrences during tennis matches will let you continue play uninterrupted and enjoy your time on the courts.
Rackets
Based on what league governs your matches, you may be limited as to where you can go to find a replacement racket. International Tennis Federation rules do not allow you to tie off a broken string, since this will create an uneven string pattern. Keep more than one racket in your bag. If you have a favorite racket, practice with your backup racket, and make sure you can use it during a match, if necessary.
Accessories
To keep your racket the way you like it during matches, keep accessories in your bag to make any modifications you need before or during play. This would include head tape, a vibration dampener, replacement grip and grip over-wrap.
First-Aid and Health Items
Prepare for physical problems that might arise during a match. Put bandages, athletic tape, sunscreen, bug spray, a sports drink and pain reliever in your tennis bag.
Clothing
A cotton shirt absorbs your sweat and then seals to your body, covering your pores. This traps heat and increases your risk for heat stroke. Have extra shirts, caps, wrist bands, head bands and socks to replace wet items after each set. If your bag does not come with a waterproof pouch for wet clothing, keep a plastic bag inside your tennis bag. Have one pair of extra shoelaces.
Miscellaneous Items
Prepare for circumstances that may arise before, during or after your match. Keep a tape measure, net strap, towel, energy bar, rules of tennis, money, car key, water bottle, sunglasses, balls and a pen or pencil in your bag.
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