We’re all going on a summer holiday!

So, you’re going on a riding holiday? Check out Jenny Richardson’s top packing and prepping tips before you go!

Riding holidays are super-fun! Whether you’re going to camp with your mates or holidaying with your family, you’re bound to have fun and meet new ponies to fall in love with. Have you thought about how to prepare? Here are some ideas…

Your riding holiday could be a great chance to show off your fave horsey clothes, like the ones from The PONY Shop. But don’t take too many – try to pack light because you’ll need fewer pairs of jods than you think!
Take your own riding hat so you know you have one that fits well. Put clothing and accessories in your hat when you pack to save space, too. Find out whether body protectors are provided or if you need to bring your own.
Check where you’ll be eating in the evening. If you’re at a posh hotel, you may need some smarter outfits, but if it’s more casual, wear the (clean) riding top you plan to wear the next day for your evening meal.
Take an old-style diary to keep track of your activities. The Leroy & Bongo planner on The PONY Shop is ideal – you can detail your riding goals and training sessions, as well as your achievements!
Pack short boots and half-chaps rather than long boots, if you have them, as half-chaps flatten down. Wear your short boots on the journey to save even more space!
Choose clothes that are multitasking – for example, riding tights and pull-on jods can pass as leggings for your spare time!
Remember to pack sunglasses, sun cream and your phone (in a smash-proof case) for those all-important selfies!
Take travel-sized toiletries, including little packets of baby wipes and anti-bac hand gel – perfect for mid-ride snacks (or toilet stops)!
Choose zipped tops if you need a jumper because they’re easy to take off without removing your hat. Pack a waterproof top layer, too, and some long-sleeved tops, in case you go cross-country.
Use your riding holiday as an opportunity to push yourself with your riding. Can you jump a bit higher than usual? Try outa new riding discipline or type of pony?

Jenny Richardson is Equestrian Centre Business Manager at Ireland’s Castle Leslie Estate – for fabulous, family riding holidays. Check out our Saddle Club, which runs weekdays every school holiday, plus lessons and hacking, games, competitions and pony care (for riders aged seven and over). Visit castleleslie.com