Ultimate Loretta Lynn MX Packing List – Know What You Need
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Congratulations!! You’ve earned your famous ticket to the Loretta Lynn MX AMA Amateur National Championship! But the question still remains …what all do you need to take?
After a couple trips to “Lorettas”, I realized that it would be to my benefit to keep my packing list. And now I’m going to share it with you! Join me while I go over the ultimate Loretta Lynn Mx packing list.
About Loretta Lynn Mx
Anyone who knows anything about dirt bike racing has heard of the Loretta Lynn Amateur National Championship. But few get to actually participate in the annual race held at Loretta Lynn’s ranch in Hurricane Mills, Tennessee. As a matter of fact, only 42 participants in each of the 37 classes get an invitation to go to the national.
The first Loretta Lynn MX Amateur National Championship race was held in 1982. Loretta Lynn’s track is only used twice a year (LLMX Amateur National & the AMA Motocross ATV National) ensuring that no one has the “hometown advantage”. One of the key takeaways regarding the track are the ruts …there are lots of deep, gnarly ruts!
If you have a son or daughter and you’re curious about getting them into racing, check out Dirtbikes for Kids – the Ultimate Picks!!
Loretta Lynn MX Packing List & Tips
Before you start planning your packing list for Lorettas, you need to know the rules and how things work at the ranch. Go to the MxSports website and review all of the information they provide. As we go through the packing list, I will touch on some of this information but you need to read the details for yourself.
1. Directions to the Track
First things first. You need to make sure you have proper directions to the track. Sometimes your GPS will take you in the “back way” so you need to make sure you know where you’re going. Believe me …you don’t want to take your rig in the back way.
2. Cell Phone Signal Booster
Loretta Lynn MX – Click pic for more info
I hate to be the one to break this to you, but you will most likely not have cell phone service or internet at the ranch.
Although they do offer wifi for a fee, you’ll probably have to go for a drive to get cell service (or certain locations on the property where your service somehow picks up). If cell service is a necessity, you probably want to invest in a cell phone signal booster before you go.
3. Pit Bike or Golf Cart
Loretta Lynn’s ranch is huge and you’re going to want to bring some transportation.
For a fee, you can bring a pit bike, golf cart, moped, scooter or mule. Only those over 16 years old are allowed to have a pit bike permit and they do check your license before issuing.
If you don’t own a pit bike or golf cart, that’s ok! Golf cart rentals are available at the track, although I would suggest pre-registering (it’s cheaper and guaranteed). It’s always fun to have some music kicking while you ride around too!
Loretta Lynn MX – Click pic for more info
4. Laundry Detergent & Quarters
It’s extremely difficult to pack riding gear, clothes, towels, etc. for an entire week (or more) without the need to do laundry. You’re in luck though because there is an onsite laundromat at Lorettas.
Don’t forget to bring your detergent, fabric softener and lots of quarters. The laundromat at Lorettas is just as competitive as the race track so don’t be surprised if you have to wait for a washer.
If you don’t want the hassle of doing laundry, there is a laundry service offered for a fee. You drop off your laundry and pick it back up washed, dried and folded.
5. Prescriptions & Other Medications
This one is kind of a big deal.
Don’t forget your prescription medications and make sure your cabinet is stocked with various other medications you may need such as:
- Ibuprofen (for swelling & pain) and/or Acetaminophen – Children’s too if it applies
- Calamine Lotion or Anti-Itch Cream
- Alcohol and Peroxide
- Antihistamines or other Allergy Medication
- Prescription Medications
TIP: If you have children racing at Lorettas, make sure you contact his/her pediatrician in advance and let them know where you will be traveling and why. I’ve known numerous kids (including my own) that have come down with one thing or another while at the track. There is a chance that your child will need a prescription medication. In this situation, it’s nice to have your doctor on board if you need an antibiotic or refill. There is a Walmart not far from the track that prescriptions can be sent to.
6. Other Medicine Cabinet Items
Other situations may occur that you need to prepare for as well …twisted ankles or wrists, monkey butt (aka swamp ass) or achy muscles. Some items you can come prepared with include:
- Anti-Monkey Butt Powder or Baby Powder
Loretta Lynn MX – Click pic for more info
Loretta Lynn MX – Click pic for more info
- Biofreeze or Other Topical Pain Reliever
Loretta Lynn MX – Click pic for more info
7. Weather Related Items
Prepare yourself for varying weather conditions when you pack for the ranch. The weather in Hurricane Mills can be brutal for those that aren’t used to it. Comparatively, the humidity is high and more than likely it will rain (maybe a lot). Some of the following items will help you come prepared for the weather.
- Umbrellas – aren’t just for the rain. The sun will be very hot and you will be in staging for a while. Make sure you pack a couple of umbrellas as cover from both the rain and the sun. Vendors at the track will always have moto style umbrellas for sale. Nevertheless, don’t come unprepared.
- Rain Coats – Although my racers don’t personally wear a rain coat while they race, it’s very important to keep them dry until they start. And I’m assuming every one in your family will want to stay dry as well.
Loretta Lynn MX – Click pic for more info
- Sunscreen
- Bug Spray (including spray for your pits) …the mosquitos are bad!
- Hats
- Sunglasses
8. Items for Small Child or Baby
Obviously, you need to take whatever personal items are necessary to take care of your small child or baby. I’m going to go over some other options that will make your trip to Lorettas a little easier.
- Stroller – based upon the terrain and the amount of walking you’ll probably be doing, I would recommend an off road or jogging type stroller.
Loretta Lynn MX – Click pic for more info
- Portable High Chair – when my youngest was little, we had a portable high chair and it was a life saver! Surprisingly, these awesome high chairs fold up like a camping chair and fit into a bag. Without a doubt they also clean up very easily.
Loretta Lynn MX – Click pic for more info
- Outdoor Play Yard – another great idea is the packable outdoor play yard. Indeed, these also fold up to be transported very easily in the carry bag and are larger than a typical pack n play.
Loretta Lynn MX – Click pic for more info
9. Activity List & Loretta Lynn MX Facility Map
Without a doubt, there are many different activities going on a the Loretta Lynn MX Amateur National. Manufacturers and vendors offer various things to do from track walks and dinners to autograph sessions with pros. Also, craft sessions are offered for kids as well as various other programs.
The Activity List and Facility Map will be posted on the Mx Sports website. Print it off and take it with you!
10. Water Shoes & Boots
In addition to your regular walking/running shoes, you’ll definitely want to bring boots just in case it rains. Also, if you or your children will be swimming/wading in the creek, you’ll want to have water shoes. By all means, you definitely don’t need your racer getting a cut from walking barefoot through murky waters.
Loretta Lynn MX – Click pic for more info
11. Boot Dryer
Undoubtedly, a boot dryer is an item I always pack when we go to Lorettas. Whether it be from rain, washing or something else, riding boots and shoes always get wet. Pack that boot dryer away somewhere just in case (unless you prefer stinky, wet boots).
Loretta Lynn MX – Click pic for more info
12. Propane
Don’t forget to add propane to your list. Of course, you’ll want to fill up your camper or motorhome propane tank if you plan on using gas for your appliances. Also don’t forget the propane canisters for your grill or fire pit (no real fires are allowed).
13. Innertube, Beach Toys and Lifejackets
When you go to the Loretta Lynn MX National you will most likely spend some time swimming in the creek or pool. Without a doubt, you or your kids will want to have an innertube or other floatation device and some beach toys. Also a beach chair is a great option if you plan on sunbathing in the creek.
TIP: Your little racer will probably want to swim in the creek or pool all day. Consequently, with the heat and humidity, their energy will be easily drained. If your kid races in the afternoon, you might want to have them refrain from swimming all day.
Loretta Lynn MX – Click pic for more info
14. Transponder & Charger
If you bought your own escore transponder, don’t forget to bring it , as well as your charger. Before you leave, double check that the middle light is green when your charging. When the light is red, that means that your subscription needs renewed. Generally, it’s best to do this before you leave for the ranch.
15. Pet Products
Per the ground rules provided by MxSports, small, friendly pets are allowed at the National. Additional rules apply regarding your pets, so make sure you check them out.
If you do decide to bring your pet, make sure you pack all the necessities. Such as …food, water and food dishes, leash, etc.
16. Pressure Washer & Bike Soap
Loretta Lynn MX – Click pic for more info
Although there will be a bike wash available at the track, it is crowded and pretty messy by the end of the week to be honest. If you’re bringing a generator, an electric pressure washer is a good option as it takes up a lot less room than the gas models.
Regardless of whether you use the bike wash or bring your own pressure washer, don’t forget your bike soap. You want your racer to look clean and professional.
17. Camper Essentials
If you’re bringing your camper or motorhome, there are certain things you’ll need to consider. At the track, trucks will do regular laps around the facility pumping out camper waste and offering fresh water fill up for campers. Keep in mind that these are for an additional fee.
Some essentials you’ll want to have include camper toilet paper and the fluid you put in your “black” tank to keep the smell at bay (we call it the blue stuff). A camper mat will keep mud and sand from being tracked in.
Loretta Lynn MX – Click pic for more info
18. Flyswatter & Ant Traps
For your own sanity, bring a fly swatter, fly strips, ant traps and anything else to keep the bugs gone. In fact, some brands make a spray that you spray on the ground to keep the bugs away. Mosquitos are viscous at the ranch!
19. Goggle Tearoffs
Whichever style or brand of goggle you use, it’s a good idea to purchase your tearoffs before you head to the ranch. In general, the vendors will have tearoffs but you will pay a premium.
20. Fishing Poles & Gear
If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the crowd, you can step out for a while and do some fishing. Remember to bring your fishing poles and tackle. The store across the street has live bait.
Loretta Lynn MX – Click pic for more info
21. Camping Chairs and Foldable Table
Loretta Lynn MX – Click pic for more info
Remember to bring your camping chairs so you’ll have a place to chill out during your downtime. A foldable table is also nice. You can use them for a place to put your food during meals or use them as a place to easily find your gear, helmets, goggles, etc.
22. Bicycles and Toys
Bring a bicycle for you and the kids. They provide a great way to get around if you don’t want to use your pit vehicle. Also, don’t forget toys for the little ones and the necessary amount of bicycle helmets for your crew.
23. Grill & Grilling Utensils
Even if your camper or motorhome has a stove, oven and microwave, it is still a really good idea to take a grill. Grills clean up so much easier than the camper stoves plus you get to enjoy cooking outdoors. Don’t forget your grilling spatula and tongs!
We personally have a Napoleon Travel Grill (like the one shown below) and a griddle type grill. I love the griddle type grills because of the easy clean up. However, the Napoleon is a very nice size grill yet compact enough to store away easily.
Loretta Lynn MX – Click pic for more info
24. Backpack
Definitely bring a backpack when you come to the Loretta Lynn MX National. You will be spending a fair amount of time in staging and traveling the facility itself. Overall, just make sure you have bottled water, extra goggles, extra tearoffs, a cool towel or small fan for hot days and any other items you might need to keep your racer happy before the gate drops.
Loretta Lynn MX – Click pic for more info
25. BLING
Yes, you read it right …bring your bling! While the Loretta Lynn MX National is basically the biggest amateur race of the year, it’s also a show for the spectators and factory sponsors. All of the biggest name sponsors will be at Lorettas watching your racer. You may be an amateur but you want to look like a professional at this race.
There are several options when it comes to customized bling …t-shirts, sweatshirts, banners, flags, graphics, umbrellas, mechanics shirts, canopies and the list goes on. We use Defiance Lifestyle for all of our customizations.
26. Extra Cash
Go through the MX Sports website to check out some of the things that you have to pay an extra fee for …sewage pump from your camper, fresh water for your camper, pit bike passes, extra vehicle passes, beer tent money, ice cream stand money, etc.
27. Tools, Oils, Sprays, Gas, Etc.
Certainly be sure to get your trailer prepped with all the supplies you’ll need to keep your racer’s bike running. Gas, oils, air filters, sprays, parts and all of the necessary items you use. Don’t forget a bike stand or triangle!
Loretta Lynn MX – Click pic for more info
28. Food & Common Paper Goods
Remember you’re going to be at the ranch for a week, if not more. The store across the street from the facility has groceries and some awesome hot food for sale.
It’s pretty difficult to pack enough food for a week in a camper refrigerator, especially with a large family. That being said, plan your meals ahead of time.
- Freeze some of your meat and unthaw when you’re ready to prepare it.
- Using canned food will save fridge space.
- Your microwave also works really well for traveling with cakes or other baked goods.
- Pre-make meals to store or freeze until you’re ready to eat
- Spaghetti is a great meal idea for your racer plus it’s easy to make and store
It’s good to note that there is a Walmart (which has a pharmacy) not far down the road, a liquor store as well as various other merchants.
Even if you drove a motorhome to the ranch, you will likely be able to find someone to go to the store with (or even let you borrow their ride). MX families are really good about that kind of stuff.
Some other common items to include are:
- Paper towels / napkins
- Paper plates
- Plastic silverware
- Cooking utensils
- Pots & Pans
- Colander
- Dish soap & sponges
29. Clothes & Riding Gear
As far as clothes go, I try to take a little bit of everything but focus on hot weather clothing. Specifically, tanks and shorts, bathing suits, sweatshirts, jeans and t-shirts are all items you’ll want to take. Also, don’t forget lots of extra shoes, sandals and boots.
Once again, you’re going to be at the ranch for a week. Therefore, try to pack in a compact fashion. I’ve found that rolling your clothes allows them to fit better in luggage. Blankets can also be rolled (I use shoestrings to tie them so they don’t unroll).
Thankfully there is a laundromat on site. Keep in mind that you will have additional time there waiting in line for a washer.
And don’t forget your riding gear!! Generally include items such as:
- Jersey/Pants
- Knee Braces
- Boots
- Chest Protector
- Neckbrace
- Gloves
- Helmet
- Goggles
- Elbow Protection
- GoPro
30. Linens
Don’t forget to pack the necessary linens. Towels, beach towels, wash rags and dish rags will need to be packed and ready to go.
31. Cleaning Supplies
If you’re used to traveling to races with your camper or motorhome, you more than likely know what cleaning supplies you need to take. Clorox wipes, baby wipes, window cleaner, shower cleaner, toilet brush, etc. are all items you will probably need.
32. DVD Player / Gaming Console
It’s always nice to have something to keep everyone occupied inside, especially if it rains. DVD players and gaming consoles are definitely something to think about bringing. Just remember that there is very little (if any) internet service, which means that some gaming consoles won’t work.
33. Personal Items
Personal items are just that …personal items. Particularly, some things in this category would include makeup products, lotions, fingernail clippers, soaps, shampoos, hair products, acne products, tampons, Q-tips, hair dryer or straightener. Also, make sure you bring extra contact lenses, glasses and glasses cases, contact cases and contact solution.
34. And the most important thing of all …don’t forget to bring your RACER!!
If you’ve enjoyed reading this article, you might be interested in Simple Food Ideas to Take to the Race Track!
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