The 2023 Formula DRIFT season has officially begun and with Long Beach in the books, we’re looking forward to the next 7 rounds. If you’re a fan of the series you already know that TYPE S is the sole supplier of the underglow kits but we’re upping the ante this year with dash cams to catch all those angles for your viewing pleasure along with the recently announced LED decel light for the cars. We’re gearing up for what’s sure to be a great season and consider ourselves well-versed when it comes to attending race weekends but that doesn’t mean everyone else is so we’ve put together a list of things you’re going to want to have with you at any track you’re planning to attend that are guaranteed to help have a fun and enjoyable experience. Sunscreen For obvious reasons, this should be a staple that you have with you at all times when you’re spending days outside. Even with overcast the sun isn’t very forgiving in many of the race locations, to begin with but add in the UV magnet that is a race track and you’ve got the perfect formula for full-coverage sunburns. No one wants to be stuck in the heat while their outsides are on fire and aloe can only do so much so avoid the potential for pain and discomfort and apply sunscreen before heading to the event and reapply throughout the day as needed. Power Bank Depending on the event you’re going to we’re willing to bet there’s a pretty good chance you’re going to be in the middle of nowhere and that outlets will be few and far between to charge up your phone, camera, headphones, etc. The last thing you want is to have your phone or camera die on you in the middle of a live stream with family and friends or have to miss out on capturing the best moments because you have to nurse your battery life. A compact and affordable solution would be to bring a TYPE S power bank that doubles as a jump starter and flashlight (better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it). Earplugs If you’ve ever been to a racetrack you know it’s not a quiet place to spend your time and Formula DRIFT events are next-level. The constant running of engines, loud pops, bangs, and tire screeching can be damaging to your eardrums depending on which part of the track you’re posted up at. It’s essential to protect your hearing, especially if you’re subjecting yourself to the noise for several days in a row so bring a pair of earplugs with you to give your ears a break. Not only will this help you enjoy the event more comfortably, but it will also help to prevent long-term hearing damage. Comfortable Shoes Make sure the shoes you pick were made for walking ‘cause you'll be doing a lot of it at Formula DRIFT events. There are a few things you need to consider before throwing on your favorite pair of flip-flops and heading out to the track. Racetracks are H.O.T, hot. Shade is not often widely available and you’re probably going to want to avoid burning your feet halfway through the first day. It should go without saying but we’ll say it just in case- heels are probably not the best choice. The grounds at any given track are often uneven and unforgiving so we recommend not wearing any shoes that are uncomfortable or difficult to walk in. Don’t count on staying in one spot for the day either; where you park is often far from where you enter which isn’t always close to where you can grab food and drinks- add in the activations and signing areas there’s a good chance you’re going to get alllll of your steps in. We suggest you opt for sneakers or other comfortable shoes that will allow you to move around freely and explore the event without any discomfort. A Dash Cam Why would you need a dash cam when you’re not driving on the track? Well, you may not be on the grid but you might be taking a road trip to get to the event, parking in a lot that isn’t guaranteed to have security cams and if you’re traveling out of state it’s always better to be over-prepared than under. Grab yourself any of our TYPE S dash cams before hitting the road and know that no matter what happens, or where, you’ll have that added layer of security to show your insurance company if there’s an accident, fender bender, break-in, etc. We think everyone should have a dash cam for their own safety and peace of mind to begin with but any time you’re leaving your vehicle unattended for hours at a time or traveling far distances it’s a handy thing to have Cash While most of the vendors, food trucks, and beverage stands accept credit cards, it's always a good idea to bring cash with you. Technology in more remote areas can sometimes be a little finicky and you’re going to want to avoid the outrageous ATM fees on-site. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat or to grab merch from your favorite driver, having cash on hand can make those transactions much easier. Additionally, some events are held in more metropolitan areas with nearby lots charging for parking. If you’re not right at the track or didn’t pay in advance, having cash will likely save you from dealing with cash apps or potentially having to find somewhere else to park. Something to Sign Sure, you could grab something at the event like a shirt, hat, hero card, etc., but if you have your own piece of memorabilia for drivers to sign, bring it with you! There’s always a time set aside for meet and greets and autograph sessions before the race. It seems like something super simple and often is but it’s also easy to forget to think ahead when you’re excited and packing for a weekend away. A Good Cushion There are only so many options for seating arrangements at a racetrack. You’re either sitting on metal, on concrete, or if you’re lucky maybe some hard plastic. Either way, your butt is gonna hate you for it by the end of day 1. Major race events offer a full-body workout. You’re up and down stairs all day, you’re walking from one side of the concourse to the other multiple times, you’re sitting in the sun for hours- or the rain, and sometimes you get the pleasure of weathering through both in one afternoon. Why put your body through its paces when you can save your back and your behind with a simple TYPE S seat cushion? Yeah, for like $40, you can be the most comfortable person there. Our seat cushions are portable, lightweight, and durable plus you get the added benefit of making the drive to the track more enjoyable too. A Camera Who’s really going to any event without wanting to film some reels, start a live stream, or at the very least take a few photos? You can do all of that with your smartphone, but if you have a legitimate camera and a knack for photography, you won’t want to leave your gear at home. Whether you're taking pictures of your favorite drivers, the cars, or the most exciting moments on the track, a camera will help you savor the memories of the event. Plus, you can grab an LC360 video light and edit presets, control the lighting, and skip some of the editing steps to post banger photos right there at the track. A backpack Lastly, a bag or backpack to carry it all in. A lightweight backpack will be your best friend at a Formula DRIFT event. You can pack your sunscreen, earplugs or headphones, camera, chargers, autograph supplies, seat cushion, cash, and earplugs while still having space to shove in any merch you grab or free swag from vendors. Going to any Formula DRIFT weekend is an exciting and memorable experience but you’ll be sure to have the best possible time by bringing these essential items with you. It’s one thing to enjoy the weekend, it’s something else entirely to do it comfortably. The main takeaways are that we encourage you to protect your hearing, capture memories, and make your trip easier by being prepared. So, before heading out be sure to double-check this list, pack your bag, and throw on your best “go fast” walking shoes. You won't regret it and we look forward to seeing you all at the races!
