What To Pack For The F1 Singapore Grand Prix On Sep 20-22 – Based On Lessons I Learnt Over The Years Attending Previous Races
Photo: Singapore GP
If there's one thing we know about Formula 1 aficionados, it's that they never compromise on style, even amidst the roar of the engines and the shimmering skyline of Singapore. The Marina Bay Street Circuit awaits, and with it comes the challenge of packing efficiently for an unforgettable race weekend.
As an experienced race-goer, everything recommended here is purely from experience and learning from the years I’ve carried the wrong bag (a Kanken backpack), almost passed out from dehydration and shock from expensive water sold on-site, draining my phone battery because I ended up having to stream the races on my phone as screens are scarce at the circuit. I haven’t even started on the year I voluntarily dressed up as Mercedes’ team principal Toto Wolff on a super hot day which ended up with heavy rain.
So before you rev up your engines and head to the track, let us be your pit crew, guiding you through the essential items to stow away in your teeny tiny bag. From chic essentials to practical must-haves, here's your tried and tested ultimate guide to packing like a pro for the F1 Singapore Grand Prix. Limited tickets are still available on Klook and the Singapore GP website.
1. Carry a teeny tiny bag
Just a heads up, everyone will get checked at all the entrances for security purposes but the smaller the bag, the shorter the time it’ll take you. Leave your backpacks and fancy handbags at home and choose to go with waist pouches, small-sized crossbody bags or basically something big enough for a phone, (a small) wallet, and other essentials.
Small, compact bags
Known for durability, this compact bag fits more than it seems making it perfect for the F1 races. It’s rugged and roomy and can carry your essentials with ease. There are also compartments where you can fit cards and cash.
Carhartt Shoulder Bag WIP, $62.17, Buy it now
Travelon Anti-theft Metro Convertible Small Crossbody Bag
This sleek, anti-theft bag keeps your belongings safe while you enjoy the race. Lightweight, stylish, and easy to carry, it converts from a crossbody to a clutch for ultimate convenience.
Travelon Anti-theft Metro Convertible Small Crossbody Bag, $36.29, Buy it now
Nylon Crescent Bag with Coquette Bow
Need something cute and want to show your team colours at the same time? This bag adds a touch of charm to your race day outfit. Its compact size is perfect for holding essentials like your phone, sunscreen, and tickets, while the bow adds a stylish flair.
Nylon Crescent Bag with Coquette Bow, $32.47, Buy it now
My all-time personal favourite when attending races and concerts, this versatile bag can be worn around the waist but also as a crossbody. It fits more than it seems and can store all the race day essentials you need.
Fjallraven Kanken Hip Pack, From $59.89, Buy it now
I alternate between the Baggu and the Kanken all the time when going for events cos they are so compact and roomy. The fanny pack has more compartments so if you like to keep things organised and neat, this bag is great to bring to watch the races.
Baggu Fanny Pack, $74.74, Buy it now2. Yes, you can bring a reusable water bottle
Just remember that according to official regulations, the bottle has to be empty with a capacity of no more than 600ml! But don’t fret, there are several water points throughout the circuit. Pack a sleek, refillable water bottle that you can easily tuck into your bag. There will be ushers handing out maps when you enter so pick up one and do your recce on where the best points are (maybe one near the Paddock Club so you can accidentally bump into the drivers).
Water bottles to refill
Besportble Portable Sports Clear Bottle
Lightweight and leak-proof, this collapsible water bottle is perfect for keeping you refreshed during the F1 races. It’s easy to pack and carry around all day.
Besportble Portable Sports Clear Bottle, $9.09, Buy it now
Brita Portable Water Bottle 600ml
Stay hydrated with the Brita Portable Water Bottle, which comes with a built-in filter to ensure clean drinking water wherever you are. It’s perfect for the hot and humid race day.
Brita Portable Water Bottle 600ml, $16.36, Buy it now
Special Made Collapsible Water Bottle
A space-saver in your bag, this collapsible water bottle expands when needed and folds away when not. Great for staying hydrated without the bulk.
Special Made Collapsible Water Bottle, $12.87, Buy it now
TakeToday Collapsible Water Bottle 591ml
Lightweight and leak-proof, this foldable water bottle is perfect for keeping you refreshed during the F1 races. It’s easy to pack and carry around all day.
TakeToday Collapsible Water Bottle 591ml, $16.56, Buy it now3. Sunscreen and sunglasses are a must
Singapore's tropical climate can be as unpredictable as the race itself. Shield yourself from the elements with a wide-brimmed hat and a pair of statement sunglasses (8Days' pick: Ray-Bans sunglasses that celebs love). Don't forget to layer on sunscreen to keep your skin looking radiant throughout the weekend.
Sun protection
Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 60 Roll On Sunscreen 75ml
There’s a reason why this one is such a bestseller. Stay protected from the harsh sun with this easy-to-apply roll-on sunscreen. It’s water-resistant, making it ideal for a sweaty day outdoors.
Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 60 Roll On Sunscreen 75ml, $18.45, Buy it now
Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Gel SPF50+ PA++++ 70ml
This is a personal favourite because the watery base feels cooling on the skin. On top of that it is lightweight and non-sticky, ahd provides high sun protection while feeling fresh on the skin.
Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Gel SPF50+ PA++++ 70ml, $11.20, Buy it now
These iconic sunglasses are both stylish and functional, providing UV protection and comfort. They’re a staple accessory for anyone heading to the races.
Ray-Ban Wayfarers, $133.66, Buy it now
The classic Ray-Ban Aviators provide unmatched style and sun protection. Their sleek design and high-quality lenses make them a must-have for any F1 race day outfit.
Ray-Ban Aviators, $149.90, Buy it now
Breaksun Retro Oval Sunglasses 2-Pack
Get two stylish sunglasses at a great price (this makes them $11 each!). These retro oval frames provide UV protection and a timeless look, perfect for the fashion-conscious race fan.
Breaksun Retro Oval Sunglasses 2-Pack, $22.46, Buy it now
Shield your eyes from the sun while keeping your style on point with these classic round sunglasses. They offer UV protection and look great with any outfit.
Polaroid Round Sunglasses, $32.90, Buy it now
Fossil Women's Cat Eye Sunglasses
Add a touch of vintage glam with these cat-eye sunglasses. They’re chic, affordable, and offer full UV protection.
Fossil Women's Cat Eye Sunglasses, $29.15, Buy it now3. Plan for all-weather conditions
While we can't predict the weather with precision, we can prepare for unexpected rain showers. Slip a compact, stylish rain poncho into your bag to ensure your fashion-forward outfit remains untouched by the elements. It's a lifesaver for those sudden downpours — yes, we speak from experience.
Ponchos & umbrellas
5PCS Waterproof Mini Card Raincoat
Get a pack of five for only over $2. It’s an economical option especially if you are going to watch the races with a group of friends. Slim and compact, it doesn’t even take up a lot of space in your bag.
5PCS Waterproof Mini Card Raincoat, $2.07, Buy it now
Want to look a little bit more stylish in the rain? This maxi poncho provides maximum coverage so your clothes stay super dry – but it also comes in an array of cool patterns and colours that aren’t boring. Every minute at this huge event is an opportunity for a fashion statement!
Reisenthel Mini Maxi Poncho, $29.97, Buy it now
Keep it classic and bring along a small umbrella instead. The ten-rib umbrella is a little more sturdy and windproof than your usual foldable umbrella.
Travel Umbrella Compact, $19.82, Buy it now
4. Show your team pride
Everyone knows the real F1 fans get their merch way before the Grand Prix itself – plus it’s really so expensive if you buy from the booths. Unless you don't mind spending $90 on a cap at the races, you can rock up ready to cheer on your team with a tee or a cap you got beforehand… there are also flags if you want to get noticed.
Team merch
Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula One Team T-Shirt
Support the Mercedes team with this comfortable and simple t-shirt. We believe in keeping it simple because it’s going to be hot or wet weather all day.
Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula One Team T-Shirt, $43.82, Buy it now
Show your love for F1 with this shiny race car keychain. Hang it on your small bag or keys while at the races.
F1 Race Car Keychain, $13.57, Buy it now
Stay cool and stylish with the official F1 Tech Collection Cap. It’s perfect for shading your face from the sun while repping your favourite sport.
Formula 1 Tech Collection Cap, $33.06, Buy it now
Wave this vibrant Red Bull Racing Flag to show your support for Max and Checo – plus they need that push at this stage…
Red Bull Racing Flag, $18.51, Buy it now
Carry your essentials in style with this Circuit Track Tote Bag. With a unique design inspired by F1 tracks, it's perfect for race day and grocery runs.
Circuit Track Tote Bag, $23.48, Buy it now
Puma Scuderia Ferrari Classic Cap
Ferrari fans might be bold and loud but you can also stand out with this classic Ferrari cap by Puma that is simple and will keep you protected from the sun.
Puma Scuderia Ferrari Classic Cap, $68.27, Buy it now
5. Earplugs for ultimate comfort
The sounds of roaring engines are exhilarating, but they can be deafening and detrimental too. Slip a pair of high-quality earplugs into your bag to protect your ears without missing any of the heart-pounding action. Not sure what to get? We’ve got you covered (8Days' pick: Check out the best earplugs you can get).
Ear protection
You can have your moment of peace even in the middle of a race. Perfect for blocking out the roaring sounds of F1 cars, Loop Quiet earplugs provide noise reduction while remaining comfortable. Ideal for those looking to enjoy the races without the overwhelming noise.
Loop Quiet, $27.95, Buy it now
If you still want to hear the cheers and the engines but at a safe level, the Loop Experience is what you need. These earplugs reduce noise without sacrificing sound quality, making them perfect for concert lovers and F1 fans alike who want to enjoy the race atmosphere without hurting their ears.
Loop Experience, $42.95, Buy it now
For those seeking versatility, the Loop Switch Earplugs offer adjustable noise reduction, making them ideal for different noise levels at the race tracks.
Loop Switch Earplugs, $79.95, Buy it now6. Portable phone charger to last the day
Let me tell you that your trusty smartphone is going to be tanking the whole day. From navigating around the circuit and checking notifications on the race to communicating with friends on your whereabouts and all the videos and photos you are going to be taking of the zoom-y cars and perhaps Charles Leclerc’s face, you will need backup in the form of a compact, portable charger that carries more charge than 5,000mAh. Keep that phone charged and you will have lots of fun, we promise.
Power banks & portable chargers
Mini Powerbank 10000mAh with 2-in-1 Cable
Stay charged throughout the day with this compact power bank. It comes with a 2-in-1 cable and has enough capacity to charge your devices multiple times.
Mini Powerbank 10000mAh with 2-in-1 Cable, $20.17, Buy it now
Anvers Power Bank 20000mAh with Built-in Cable
With a high capacity and built-in cable, this power bank ensures your phone or camera never runs out of battery during the races. At this price, it’s a steal.
Anvers Power Bank 20000mAh with Built-in Cable, $14.86, Buy it now
Mini Powerbank Fast Charging 10000mAh
This fast-charging power bank is compact yet powerful, providing quick and reliable charges for your devices. Ideal for long days out at the track.
Mini Powerbank Fast Charging 10000mAh, From $18.29, Buy it now7. Handheld fans to beat the heat
Did you know drivers lose up to three to four kilograms of weight when racing in the Singapore Grand Prix? Well, lucky for us who are not in the hot seat, portable handheld fans are allowed so remember to pack one because you are going to need one all-day.
Handheld fans
JISULIFE Portable Handheld Fan
Lightweight and foldable, the JISULIFE Portable Handheld Fan is easy to carry and provides a powerful breeze. It also doubles as a power bank, ensuring you stay cool and charged throughout the races.
JISULIFE Portable Handheld Fan, From $29, Buy it now Our articles may contain affiliate links. If you buy through these links, we may earn a small commission. Prices are correct at time of publishing.
