10 things you need to bring when slacklining

Every time I go outside to setup my slackline I forget something. Here is a list of ten ingredients that are sure to make your experience more enjoyable.

1. Bring your slackline.  There are many different rigging methods.  When I'm cruising the beach-side on my bike, I prefer to bring the minimalist's rig.  It's light and simple.  Other times, when I'm rigging lines over 20 meters (65 feet) I like to bring my pulley blocks.  They're a bit heavier, but worth it when you're working with long lines and need to adjust tension on-the- fly.
2. Bring protection for the trees.  Protecting the trees is of utmost importance.  Slackline is still not accepted in many places.  In fact, it has been banned in many parks around the world.  Keep image of slackline a good one by protecting any trees you sling.  
3. Bring water and snacks.  Slacklining takes a lot more energy then most people think.  A nice day in the sun feels that much better when you're well fed and watered.
4. Bring a knife.  Time and time again I need to cut webbing.  
5. Bring pen and paper.  Slackline is a social activity and a great way to meet new friends.  A pen and paper will be useful when that cute guy or girl wants to exchange phone numbers. 
6. Bring a mat to sit on.  In Vancouver we get a lot of rain and the ground can often be quite wet.  
   
7. Bring a camera.  When you are about to land that new triple backflip you've been working on all season, you'll want a picture for bragging rights.  
8. Wear sandles.  Socks are shoes are no fun when you're playing in the sun.
9. Bring a first-aid kit.  As is with any (fun) sport, slackline does carry the risk of injury.  Broken glass may be hiding in the grass.  Some cloth tape, Afterbite, and band-aids will come in handy if you should cut yourself or be stung by an insect.  
10. Wear a smile!  As a slackliner, whether you like it or not, you've become an ambassador and pioneer to an emerging sport.  Inevitably, you'll be approached be passer-bys who want to know why you're training for the circus.  Don't scoff, instead, tell them what you're up to, and tell them: slackline.com.

Enjoy!