The Ultimate Track Day Checklist: What to Bring & Prepare
A track day isn’t just about turning up and going flat-out—it’s about preparation. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned track addict, having everything in order makes the difference between a thrilling, stress-free day and a frustrating one.
To help you your time on the tarmac, here’s the ultimate track day checklist—covering car prep, essential gear, and what you need to bring for a smooth experience.
1. Car Preparation: Get Track-Ready
Before you even think about heading to the circuit, your car needs to be in top shape. A poorly maintained car isn’t just slow, it’s less fun and certainly could be dangerous.
Tyres & Wheels
Tread Depth & Condition – Ensure your tyres are road-legal (if driving home) and in good condition. Worn or old tyres can overheat quickly.
Pressures – Track sessions can heat up tyres fast, so reduce pressures slightly when the rubber is cold.
Torque Wheel Nuts – Loose wheels can ruin your day—double-check torque settings before heading out and repeat throughout the day
Brakes
Brake Pads & Discs – Standard road pads can fade fast under track conditions. Ensure you have at least 50% pad life left. It might be worth considering higher performance pads being fitted.
Brake Fluid – Fresh DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 high-temperature brake fluid is a must. Old or regular fluid boils quickly, causing the brakes to fade.
Test Brakes –When you first venture onto the circuit be sure to warm the brakes for the first laps, gradually increasing the pressure to sense if these are any issues.
Fluids & Cooling
Engine Oil – Top up if needed and ensure it’s fresh. Low oil or poor lubrication can lead to catastrophic failures. Again, double check through the day. Older high revving engines can consume more oil.
Coolant Levels – Track driving is intense, and overheating is a common issue. Ensure your cooling system is in top shape. Check the water levels through the day – BUT remember hot water under pressure can scald, so maybe check after an hours break and before your next assault on the track.
Fuel – You will probably consume an entire tank of petrol on a full track day and some circuits don’t have on-site fuel stations, and track driving guzzles petrol—arrive with a full tank or bring extra.
General Car Checks
Remove Unnecessary Weight – Take out floor mats, loose items, and unnecessary clutter. Anything not bolted down is a hazard at high speeds. It is amazing how loose objects always find themselves behind the brake pedal.
Secure Battery – A loose battery can cause electrical failure or worse, a fire.
Wipers & Screenwash – Visibility is key, especially if conditions are damp.
2. Essential Gear to Bring
Even if your car is ready, you still need the right personal gear to make the most of your day.
Mandatory Track Day Equipment
Helmet – A properly fitting full-face or open-face helmet (Snell or ECE-rated) is usually required.
Long-Sleeved Clothing – Most track days require full-length sleeves and trousers for safety.
Driving Licence – A full UK driving licence is required at all track events.
Highly Recommended Gear
Racing Gloves – Protect your hands and improve grip on the wheel.
Racing Shoes or Thin-Soled Footwear – Better pedal feel for precision braking and throttle control.
GoPro or Dash Cam – Great for recording your laps and improving your driving.
Other Handy Items
Duct Tape & Cable Ties – The ultimate quick-fix tools for unexpected car issues.
Tyre Pressure Gauge & Pump – Adjust pressures accurately for better grip and safety.
Basic Toolkit – Spanners, screwdrivers, socket set—just in case.
Jack & Wheel Brace – Ideal if you need to swap tyres at the track.
Spare Oil & Brake Fluid – Topping up between sessions can be a lifesaver.
Fuel Can – If you're pushing hard, you might need extra fuel before the day is over.
Balaclava. You might be surprised just how hot and sweaty you become as you focus your attention on that one special lap.
3. Track Day Comfort & Extras
It’s easy to overlook the little things that keep you comfortable throughout the day.
Camping Chair – Sitting on a cold pit garage floor isn’t fun between sessions.
Food & Water – Some circuits have cafes, but bringing your own snacks and drinks saves time and money. Staying hydrated is crucial!
Weather Gear – In the UK, we can have all four seasons in one afternoon, so come prepared with everything from a waterproof jacket, extra clothing, sunglasses, and even sunscreen if it’s sunny.
Earplugs – Tracks are loud, and long exposure to noise can be tiring.
Notebook & Pen – Useful for jotting down of changes and checks to the car, setup changes, and track conditions.
4. On the Day: Track Arrival & Setup
Pre-Session Checks
Arrive Early – This gives you time for sign-on, scrutineering, and a track walk if available.
Attend the Drivers’ Briefing – Important safety and track-specific details are covered here. Don’t skip it! You may have been 100 times to the track but there may be new hazards such as new track surface or oil spillage following a race meeting the day before. You will get no prizes for crashing on your out lap – it does happen !
Check Your Car Again – Last-minute issues can arise—check fluids, tyre pressures, and wheel nuts before heading out.
Start Slow & Warm Up – Get a feel for the track, tyres, and brakes before pushing hard.
During the Day
Cool-Down Laps – After a hot session, drive a lap at lower speeds to let brakes and tyres cool down gradually. When you stop always leave the handbrake OFF and leave the car in gear.
Monitor Tyres & Pressures – Adjust as needed after each session for optimal performance.
Take Breaks – Fatigue leads to mistakes. Rest, eat, and rehydrate between stints. Don’t be afraid to let your mind “reset” and absorb the laps you have done and give yourself time to think about where and why you feel unsure about certain parts of the track.
End of the Day
Check Your Car Before Driving Home – Make sure everything is still tight and secure.
Reinflate Tyres – If you lowered pressures for the track, pump them back up before hitting the motorway.
Reflect & Review – think about what went well, and plan improvements for next time.
Final Thoughts: Be Prepared, Have Fun & Stay Safe!
A well-prepared track day is a fun track day. By ensuring your car is in top condition, bringing the right gear, and staying organised, you’ll maximise your time on the circuit and avoid unnecessary stress. Stress will distract you from getting the best out of yourself so prepare, prepare and prepare.
Whether you’re chasing personal improvements or just out to enjoy your car in a new habitat, preparation is key. Tick off this checklist, hit the track, and have an epic day!