Congratulations! The hard work is already done—you’ve set your intention on attending yoga teacher training, now you just need sort out the gear. Here is Manduka’s guide on what to pack if you are heading to a YTT so that you can focus on learning and making the most of the experience.
The Essentials: Yoga Mats & Towels
If you choose to attend a YTT at a studio or center like Vikasa, which is a Manduka partner, you won’t need to worry about whether the yoga mats are high-quality and able to be hygienically cleaned between uses. Regardless of what is offered for training, many yogis still prefer to bring their own mat for comfort, familiarity or just to have a second option.
If you're packing a mat, choose one that's lightweight, compact, and easy to travel with. Bringing your own mat also means you can take your practice outside the shala and anywhere that inspires you.
Travel Yoga Mat Options:
- PRO Travel Mat: A thin 2mm version of the iconic PRO, with high-density stability and performance. Weighs just over 1kg.
- eKO® Superlite Travel Mat: Made from natural rubber with textured grip. Ultra-thin (1.5mm) and lightweight at 1kg. Note: Not ideal for hot or tropical climates, as heat may degrade natural rubber faster.
- GRP® Adapt Travel Mat: Highly absorbent and built for serious grip, GRP Adapt Travel is perfect for sweaty flows. Thin (1.5mm), smooth, satin finish.
- Shala Yoga Rug: A 5mm handwoven cotton mat made from upcycled materials. Folds flat, machine washable, and perfect for layering. Weighs just over 1kg.
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Don’t Forget Your Towel
Perfect for intense, sweaty sessions, a yoga towel is a great addition to your YTT kit. It wicks moisture, prevents slipping and adds a layer of comfort. Plus, our towels are made to stand up to frequent washing and dry quickly, so they can be line dried and ready for the next day’s class after a quick evening wash.
Choose from:
- yogitoes® Hot Yoga Towel: Ultra-absorbent with silicone nubs that prevent slipping. Made from recycled plastic bottles and available in a variety of bold prints and colors.
- eQua® Hot Yoga Towel: Soft, suede-like microfiber with serious absorption properties, this towel is versatile and extremely durable.
The Enhancements: Accessories That Elevate
Props, cushions and bolsters will be provided by the YTT center but you may consider bringing a few small extras:
- Mini Foam Blocks: The more portable (but still dense and durable) version of the standard foam block, weighing in at only 200 grams.
- Straps: Add length, leverage, or a deeper stretch. Manduka’s AligN and UnfolD straps come in several sizes and widths.
- Mat Cleaner: After a sweaty morning flow, you’re going to want to clean your mat, whether it’s your own or a loaner. Water sprays are usually supplied but it might not be enough to clean the mat properly. Bring a travel-sized Mat Wash & Refresh Travel Spray to keep any mat clean, fresh, and ready for use.
- Water Bottle: You’ll need to hydrate more than usual. A reusable bottle helps reduce waste and keeps water within reach.
- Tote Bag: Easy to carry, easy to pack. Great for travel days, excursions, or organizing your essentials in one spot.
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The Attire: Apparel, Footwear & Layers
Bringing two or three complete performance outfits to your training is usually perfect, just be sure to take a small amount of laundry detergent with you for easy sink washing. In making the choice of what to bring, remember that comfort is critical! It may not be the best time to test a new pair of leggings or switch up what is already working for you—pick the pieces that you love and those that will support you without unnecessary pulling and tugging that may distract and take away from your practice.
Think about the expected ambient temperature and what you feel most comfortable in—tight fits, looser fits, or a combination? With that in mind, we have some suggestions:
- Performance Tops: Supportive bras, tanks, and lightweight, quick-drying tops like the those in the Dhara collection or the Vinyasa tee. Looser tops make great post-practice layers.
- Performance Bottoms: Shorts, capris, leggings, or relaxed-fit pants—whatever supports your movement best. In addition to options in the Dhara collection, there are lightweight shorts and pants in CNTR and Tenzin styles tailored for men.
- Casual Wear: For downtime, dinners, or rest days, select cozy, non-restrictive pieces. Manduka’s CAS Collection offers zero-waste options in organic cotton and hemp.
- Scarf or Shawl: Perfect for meditation, chilly plane rides, and in settings where one needs to show a level of cultural awareness, it is easy to throw over your head and shoulders or wrap around the waist.
- Footwear: Flip-flops for walking to and from the Shala, lightweight trainers for excursions or longer walks.
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The Extras: Comfort, Clarity & Connection
These small additions can make a big impact:
- Journal and Pen: Capture insights, reflect on your practice, or simply document the experience.
- Essential Oil or Fragrance: A familiar scent can ground and soothe you—ideal for travel days or before sleep.
- Reading Material: A good book can be a great companion during quiet moments or long hours in transit.
- Crystals or Talismans: Pack whatever brings you comfort, inspiration, or grounding.
- Intention: This doesn’t take up space in your bag—but it sets the tone for your entire trip. Whether you’re seeking clarity, healing, or inspiration, carry a purpose with you and take time to remind yourself why you’ve taken the step to attend yoga teacher training.
Final Thoughts
We support and appreciate everyone that has taken the meaningful step to become a yoga teacher. Attending a YTT is not always easy—it can be costly, takes time away from family and friends, and can be physically and mentally exhausting. Yet it is often in these challenges that the most meaningful growth arises. A YTT offers space to deepen your practice, discover your strengths, and carry its lessons into every part of life.
Manduka's Yoga Teacher Training Packing List
- Yoga mat
- Yoga towel
- Mini foam block
- Strap
- Mat cleaner
- Reusable water bottle
- Tote bag
- Yoga apparel (tops, bottoms, bras)
- Casual wear
- Shawl or scarf
- Sandals or flip-flops
- Sneakers or trainers
- Toiletries (plus laundry detergent)
- Journal and pen(s)
- Essential oils or scent
- Reading material
- Crystals, charms, or talismans
- Your intention
